JP7783038B2 - gaming machines - Google Patents

Description

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

Conventional gaming machines have been proposed that display decorative symbols when indicating that a game is in a favorable state. (For example, see Patent Document 1.)

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-233467

There was room for improvement in the way the decorative image displayed when notifying the player that a jackpot state has been reached.

The present invention therefore provides a gaming machine that can emphasize the decorative symbols displayed when announcing that control to an advantageous state will occur in a special state in which the variable display period until control to an advantageous state is shorter than in the normal state.

(A) A gaming machine that can perform variable display and control to an advantageous state that is advantageous to the player,
A display means is provided,
The game is controllable into a normal state and a special state that is more easily controlled to the advantageous state than the normal state,
a variable display time of the variable display determined to be controlled to the advantageous state in the special state is shorter than a variable display time of the variable display determined to be controlled to the advantageous state in the normal state;
The display means
during a variable display in which it has been determined that the display will be controlled to the advantageous state in the normal state, decorative identification information is enlarged to a first size in an advantageous manner that notifies the user that the display will be controlled to the advantageous state over a first enlargement period , and then the decorative identification information in the advantageous manner at the first size can be displayed over a first display period;
During the variable display determined to be controlled to the advantageous state in the special state, the decorative identification information can be enlarged to a second size in the advantageous manner over a second enlargement period , and then the decorative identification information in the advantageous manner at the second size can be displayed over a second display period that is longer than the first display period, and during the second display period, the decorative identification information can be displayed accompanied by a special action that is not accompanied when the decorative identification information is displayed during the first display period ,
The display positions of the decorative identification information displayed when notifying that the game will be controlled to the advantageous state in the normal state are different from the display positions of the decorative identification information displayed when notifying that the game will be controlled to the advantageous state in the special state.
It is characterized by:

With these features, in special states with short fluctuation times, the player is likely to be controlled to an advantageous state, and there is no need to use decorative identification information to hype them up. However, to emphasize that the player has been controlled to an advantageous state, the decorative identification information can be enlarged for a longer period of time and vibrated, making it more noticeable to the player.

1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine according to this embodiment. FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram showing various control boards and the like installed in a pachinko gaming machine. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a game control main process. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a timer interrupt process for game control. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a special symbol process. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a performance control main process. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a performance control process. A front view of a pachinko gaming machine in characteristic part 010IW. An explanatory diagram showing an example configuration of a special variable winning ball device in feature part 010IW. This is a configuration diagram showing various control boards and the like in characteristic part 010IW. An explanatory diagram showing examples of a big hit determination table and a small hit determination table. An explanatory diagram showing a big hit type determination table and a small hit type determination table. This is an explanatory diagram to explain the opening pattern of small hit game. An explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a fluctuation pattern table in feature section 010IW. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the content of a performance control command. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the content of a performance control command. A flowchart showing an example of special pattern process processing in feature section 010IW. 10 is a flowchart showing the start winning determination process. 10 is a flowchart showing normal processing of special symbols. 10 is a flowchart showing a variation pattern setting process. 10 is a flowchart showing a special symbol variation process. 10 is a flowchart showing a special symbol stopping process. This is a flowchart showing the processing before the small win is released. This is a flowchart showing the processing during small win release. This is a flowchart showing the processing after the small hit is closed. A flowchart showing the jackpot end processing. FIG. 10 is a state transition diagram for explaining state transitions in the characteristic part 010IW. 10 is a flowchart showing a specific example of a command analysis process. 10 is a flowchart showing a specific example of a command analysis process. 10 is a flowchart showing a specific example of a command analysis process. 10 is a flowchart showing a variable display start setting process. 10 is a flowchart showing a variable display effect process. This is a flowchart showing the special winning waiting process. An explanatory diagram to explain the presentation mode when controlled to special presentation mode in the first high base state. An explanatory diagram to explain the presentation mode when controlled to a specific presentation mode in the second high base state. An explanatory diagram to explain the presentation mode when controlled to a specific presentation mode in the second high base state. An explanatory diagram to explain the presentation mode when controlled to a specific presentation mode in the second high base state. This is an explanatory diagram to explain the presentation mode when a small hit B occurs during the second high base state. This is an explanatory diagram to explain the presentation mode when a small hit B occurs during the second high base state. This is an explanatory diagram to explain the presentation mode when a small hit A occurs during the second high base state and a presentation is executed to switch from a specific presentation mode to a special presentation mode. This is an explanatory diagram to explain the presentation mode when a small hit A occurs during the second high base state and a presentation is executed to switch from a specific presentation mode to a special presentation mode. This is an explanatory diagram to explain the presentation mode when a small hit B occurs during the second high base state and there is a big hit or small hit A among the remaining reserves at the start of the small hit B fluctuation. This is an explanatory diagram to explain the presentation mode when a small hit B occurs during the second high base state and there is a big hit or small hit A among the remaining reserves at the start of the small hit B fluctuation. This is an explanatory diagram to explain the presentation mode when a small hit B occurs during the second high base state, and a remaining hold occurs that becomes a new big hit or small hit A after the start of the small hit B fluctuation. This is an explanatory diagram to explain the presentation mode when a small hit B occurs during the second high base state, and a remaining hold occurs that becomes a new big hit or small hit A after the start of the small hit B fluctuation. This is an explanatory diagram to explain the presentation mode when the remaining reserves after the end of the first high base state result in a big hit or a small hit. This is an explanatory diagram to explain the presentation mode when the remaining reserves after the end of the first high base state result in a big hit or a small hit. An explanatory diagram showing a table of the jackpot determination values for the first special pattern and the second special pattern and the small jackpot determination value for the second special pattern in pachinko machine 1 with feature sections 1144SKY to 1148SKY. This is an explanatory diagram showing a table showing the judgment values for the types of big hits and small hits in pachinko machine 1 with feature sections 1144SKY to 1148SKY. An explanatory diagram showing a table of the variation patterns when the first special pattern and the second special pattern are variably displayed. An explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of a performance control command sent to the performance control CPU 120. An explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of a performance control command sent to the performance control CPU 120. This is a flowchart showing an example of special pattern process processing in feature sections 1144SKY to 1148SKY. This is a flowchart showing the start winning determination process (step 010IWS101). 10 is a flowchart showing a variation pattern setting process. 10 is a flowchart showing a special symbol stopping process. This is a flowchart showing the processing after the small hit is closed. A flowchart showing the jackpot end processing. This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a presentation when, in a normal state, the variable display of the decorative pattern has reached a reach state and then a super reach α presentation is executed. This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the presentation when the game medium enters the second start winning port when controlled to a high base state, and after the variable display is executed, the game medium is controlled to a small win state. This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the presentation when the high base state is controlled to a small win state and the special winning port opens. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a performance when a "Bow and Arrow Chance" performance is executed. This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a presentation up to the point where a rescue presentation is executed based on receiving a variation pattern command corresponding to variation pattern PE1-3. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a comparison between when a three-count effect is executed and when a bow and arrow chance is executed. An explanatory diagram showing the timing at which a definitive notification is executed in a three-count presentation when the state is controlled to a jackpot state in which a high base state is granted. This is an explanatory diagram showing a pattern in which the decorative pattern "666" is displayed as a jackpot display result in the normal state. This is an explanatory diagram showing a pattern in which the decorative pattern "666" is displayed as a jackpot display result in a high base state. This is an explanatory diagram showing the different output sounds depending on the number when the decorative pattern "666" is displayed as a jackpot display result in a high base state. An explanatory diagram showing a comparison of the expansion period of decorative patterns in a normal state and a high base state. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a comparison of the period before the decorative pattern in the normal state and the high base state is enlarged and displayed. An explanatory diagram showing the effect execution period and changes in the effect mode of the three-count effect. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing the pattern of the three-count effect. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a table of three-count effect selection patterns. This is an explanatory diagram showing a gathering effect that, when executed after a three-count effect, controls the state to a jackpot and confirms that the high base state will continue.

(Feature 1144 SKY form) The gaming machine of form 1-1 is,
A gaming machine that can be controlled to an advantageous state (jackpot state) that is advantageous to a player,
A performance execution means (for example, a performance control CPU 120, etc.) capable of executing a performance is provided,
After being controlled to the advantageous state, it is possible to control it to a special state (for example, a high base state) that is more easily controlled to the advantageous state than a normal state,
The advantageous state includes a first advantageous state (for example, a small win A shown in FIG. 9-2) that is controlled to the advantageous state and then controlled to the special state, and a second advantageous state (for example, a small win B shown in FIG. 9-2) that is not controlled to the special state after being controlled to the advantageous state,
The performance execution means
In the special state, the first performance (the three-count performance shown in FIG. 9-13(C) to FIG. 9-13(E)) can be executed,
In the special state, the second performance (the bow and arrow chance shown in FIG. 9-15(A) to FIG. 9-15(D)) can be executed,
In the special state, when it is determined that the game is controlled to the first advantageous state, it is possible to execute either the first effect or the second effect;
In the special state, when it is determined that the game is controlled to the second advantageous state, the second performance can be executed, but the first performance cannot be executed;
In the special state, when it is determined that the game is not controlled to either the first advantageous state or the second advantageous state, the first performance can be executed but the second performance cannot be executed;
In the special state, when it is determined that the game will be controlled to the first advantageous state, the second effect has a higher execution rate than the first effect (in the variation pattern selection rate shown in FIG. 9-3 (D), the rate at which small hit A is executed is higher for PC3-2 than for PC3-6).
It is characterized by the following.

This feature means that the notification effect after the first effect will likely notify players that the special state will continue, increasing the opportunities to excite players and heightening their sense of excitement about whether or not the special state will continue after the advantageous state has been achieved.

The gaming machine of form 1-2 is the gaming machine according to form 1-1, which is capable of executing a notification effect after the first effect, and in the notification effect, there are a plurality of periods for notifying whether the special state will continue, and the periods for notifying that the special state will continue are a first notification period (for example, as shown in Figures 9-14(C) to 9-14(H), a period for notifying that a win has been made in Figure 9-14(G) and that the continuation has been confirmed) and a second notification period which occurs before the first notification period (for example, as shown in Figures 9-16(A) to 9-16(C), a period for notifying that a win has been made in Figure 9-16(C) and that the continuation has been confirmed). and a third notification period in which, after notifying that the special state will not continue during the notification effect, it is notified that the continuation is confirmed as a relief effect (for example, as shown in Figures 9-16(D) to 9-16(G), after notifying a miss result in Figure 9-16(F), it is notified that the continuation of the special state is confirmed in Figure 9-16(G)). When the special state continues, the probability of notifying that the continuation is confirmed is higher in the third notification period than in the second notification period.
It is characterized by the following.

This feature means that there is a high probability that continuation will be announced in the latter half of the notification effect, keeping the player in a sense of anticipation until the very end of the notification effect.

A gaming machine according to aspect 1-3 is the gaming machine according to aspect 1-1,
The execution period of the first effect (for example, the countdown effect shown in Figures 9-13(C) to (E)) is composed of at least a first period (for example, the portion displaying the count "three" shown in Figure 9-13(C)), a second period that follows the first period (for example, the portion displaying the count "two" shown in Figure 9-13(D)), and a third period that follows the second period (for example, the portion displaying the count "one" shown in Figure 9-13(E)). The execution period from the first period to the third period can be in a normal mode (for example, in the case of a three-count effect of 6,000 ms as shown in Figure 9-17) or in a special mode that has a longer execution period than the normal mode (for example, in the case of a three-count effect of 10,000 ms, although not shown), and the advantageous state is more easily controlled when the special mode is used than when the normal mode is used.
It is characterized by the following.

This feature makes the first effect more noticeable to players than the usual first effect.

The gaming machine of form 1-4 is a modified example of form 1-1,
In the performance when a special state (for example, a high base state) continues, there are a notification performance that can be executed after the first performance (for example, a performance that notifies the player that the high base state will continue next time when the high base state is in a high base state as shown in FIG. 9-14), a second performance (for example, a bow and arrow chance as shown in FIG. 9-15), and a third performance that can be executed after the first performance (for example, a gathering performance executed during the "Aim for V" period as shown in FIG. 9-27, which indicates the next high base state), and the notification performance has a higher execution rate than the second performance and the third performance.
It is characterized by the following.

This feature can reassure players by increasing the number of presentation patterns that confirm the special state, and by having the most presentation patterns that notify players of continuation through notification presentations, it can entertain players by teasing them as to whether the next special state will be controlled to the normal state or continue.

The gaming machine of form 1-5 is a gaming machine according to any one of forms 1-1 to 1-4,
The execution period of the second effect (for example, the bow and arrow chance shown in FIG. 9-15) is longer than the execution period of the first effect (for example, the 3-count effect shown in FIG. 9-13(C) to FIG. 9-13(E)).
It is characterized by the following.

With this feature, the second effect can be controlled to an advantageous state or can be variably displayed again in a special state. Therefore, even when the second effect is executed, it will not be controlled to the normal state. This allows players to anticipate whether it will be controlled to an advantageous state over time, heightening the player's sense of excitement.

(SKY1145SKY form) Form 2-1 gaming machine is,
A gaming machine that can be controlled to an advantageous state that is advantageous to a player,
Equipped with a performance execution means (for example, a performance control CPU 120, etc.) capable of executing a performance,
After being controlled to the advantageous state, it is possible to control it to a special state (for example, a high base state) that is more easily controlled to the advantageous state than a normal state,
The advantageous state includes a first advantageous state (for example, a small win A shown in FIG. 9-2) that is controlled to the advantageous state and then controlled to the special state, and a second advantageous state (for example, a small win B shown in FIG. 9-2) that is not controlled to the special state after being controlled to the advantageous state,
The performance execution means
In the special state, the first effect (for example, the default three-count effect shown in FIG. 9-24(A)) can be executed,
In the special state, a second effect (for example, a three-count effect of the chance-up pattern of FIG. 9-25(D) to FIG. 9-25(F)) having a higher expectation of being controlled to the first advantageous state than when the first effect is executed can be executed,
During the first advantageous state, after the end of the first advantageous state, it is possible to execute an effect that notifies the player that the player will be controlled to the special state in one of the following patterns: a normal pattern (for example, an effect shown in FIGS. 9-14(C) to 9-14(H) in which the player wins against an enemy character in a battle effect during a round and notifies the player that the time-shortened state will continue); and a rescue pattern that is different from the normal pattern and first notifies the player that the player will not be controlled to the special state (for example, after displaying a result display screen shown in FIG. 9-16(F)), and then notifies the player that the player will be controlled to the special state (for example, a pattern in which the player is defeated by an enemy character in a battle effect shown in FIGS. 9-16(D) to 9-16(G) and then displays a result display screen, and then executes a rescue effect that notifies the player that the time-shortened state will continue).
During the second advantageous state, after the end of the second advantageous state, it is possible to execute a performance that notifies the player that the game will not be controlled to the special state,
When it is determined that control will be made to the first advantageous state and the first effect is taken, the execution rate of the rescue pattern during the first advantageous state is higher than when it is determined that control will be made to the first advantageous state and the second effect is taken (for example, as shown in FIG. 9-3(D) , the rate at which a rescue effect is executed after a default three-count effect is taken is higher than the rate at which a rescue effect is executed after a three-count effect with a chance up is taken).
It is characterized by the following.

With these features, by executing a first effect where it is unknown whether the game will be controlled to an advantageous state and a second effect where it is certain that the game will be controlled to an advantageous state, the effect configuration is simple and light, but by making the occurrence rate of rescue patterns from the first effect higher than that of rescue patterns from the second effect, the appearance of the first and second effects is maintained and the period from an advantageous state to the next advantageous state can be lengthened, thereby reducing the tendency for speculation.

The gaming machine of form 2-2 is the gaming machine according to form 2-1,
The first effect (for example, a performance pattern that notifies that the high base state will continue during the round performance after the three-count performance, as shown in Figures 9-14(C) to 9-14(G)) is executed more frequently than a rescue pattern that first notifies that the player will not be controlled to the special state and then notifies that the player will be controlled to the special state (for example, a performance pattern that executes a round performance after the three-count performance, as shown in Figures 9-16(D) to 9-16(G), shows that the round performance has finished, and then displays the word "Congratulations" to notify that the high base state will continue).
It is characterized by the following.

With these features, even if the number of times control is placed in an advantageous state increases, multiple patterns can be selected while emphasizing the speed of the balls being dispensed, making it possible to adjust the presentation time and reduce the tendency for gambling.

The gaming machine of form 2-3 is the gaming machine according to form 2-1 to form 2-2,
The first pattern (for example, as shown in Figures 9-14(C) to 9-14(G), a presentation pattern that notifies that a high base state will continue during a round presentation after a three-count presentation) is executed more frequently than the second pattern (for example, as shown in Figure 9-24(B), a presentation pattern that notifies that a high base state will continue during a round presentation after a three-count presentation of a chance-up pattern).
It is characterized by the following.

This feature allows players to emphasize the ball-dispensing speed when controlled in an advantageous state.

(SKY1146SKY form) Form 3-1 gaming machine is,
A gaming machine that can perform variable display and be controlled to an advantageous state (for example, a jackpot state) that is advantageous to a player,
A display means is provided,
It is possible to control it into a normal state and a special state (for example, a time-saving state) that is more easily controlled to the advantageous state than the normal state,
The variable display time of the variable display determined to be controlled to the advantageous state in the special state (for example, the variable period of 7000 ms in the time-saving state shown in FIG. 9-22) is shorter than the variable display time of the variable display determined to be controlled to the advantageous state in the normal state (for example, the variable period of 200000 ms in the normal state shown in FIG. 9-22),
The display means
During the variable display in which it has been determined that the display will be controlled to the advantageous state in the normal state, the decorative identification information can be enlarged and displayed over a first period in a manner that notifies the user that the display will be controlled to the advantageous state (for example, the maximum decorative pattern enlargement period in the time chart T3 in the normal state shown in FIG. 9-23 ),
During the variable display determined to be controlled to the advantageous state in the special state, it is possible to enlarge and display the decorative identification information in a manner that notifies the user that the display will be controlled to the advantageous state for a second period longer than the first period (for example, the maximum decorative pattern enlargement period of the time chart T9 in the time-shortened state shown in Figure 9-23), and during the second period, it is possible to enlarge and display the decorative identification information with a special action that is not accompanied when the decorative identification information is enlarged and displayed during the variable display determined to be controlled to the advantageous state in the normal state (for example, it is possible to represent a state in which the pattern vibrates when enlarged and displayed as shown in Figure 9-20 (B)).
It is characterized by the following.

With these features, in special states with short fluctuation times, the player is likely to be controlled to an advantageous state, and there is no need to use decorative identification information to hype them up. However, to emphasize that the player has been controlled to an advantageous state, the decorative identification information can be enlarged for a longer period of time and vibrated, making it more noticeable to the player.

The gaming machine of form 3-2 is the gaming machine of form 3-1,
The display positions of the decorative identification information displayed when notifying that the game will be controlled to a jackpot state in the normal state (for example, as shown in Figure 9-19 (C), the left, center, and right decorative symbols are enlarged at equal intervals) are different from the display positions of the decorative identification information displayed when notifying that the game will be controlled to a jackpot state in the special state (for example, as shown in Figure 9-20 (B), the left, center, and right decorative symbols are enlarged and overlapped).
It is characterized by the following.

This feature allows the decorative identification information to be highlighted to the player.

The gaming machine of form 3-3 is the gaming machine according to form 3-1 or 3-2,
When the decorative identification information is enlarged and displayed from the period before the decorative pattern enlargement in a special state (for example, a time-saving state), a vibration display is performed (for example, a vibration or swinging movement is performed when the decorative pattern is enlarged and displayed as shown in FIG. 9-20(C)).
It is characterized by the following.

This feature allows the decorative identification information to be highlighted to the player.

The gaming machine of form 3-4 is the gaming machine according to form 3-1 to form 3-3,
The display mode of the decorative identification information displayed when controlled to the normal state (for example, the decorative pattern with an ally character depicted as shown in Figures 9-19(A) to 9-19(F)) and the display mode of the decorative identification information displayed when controlled to the special state (for example, the decorative pattern without an ally character depicted as shown in Figures 9-20(A) to 9-20(F)) are at least partially common display modes (the shape of the numbers in the decorative pattern is common).
It is characterized by the following.

This feature makes it easier for players to see decorative identification information when it is highlighted in a special state.

(SKY1147SKY form) Form 4-1 gaming machine is,
A gaming machine that can perform variable display and be controlled to an advantageous state (for example, a jackpot state) that is advantageous to a player,
A display means is provided,
It is possible to control it into a normal state and a special state (for example, a time-saving state) that is more easily controlled to the advantageous state than the normal state,
The variable display time of the variable display determined to be controlled to the advantageous state in the special state (for example, the variable period of 7000 ms in the time-saving state shown in FIG. 9-22) is shorter than the variable display time of the variable display determined to be controlled to the advantageous state in the normal state (for example, the variable period of 200000 ms in the normal state shown in FIG. 9-22),
The display means
During the variable display in which it has been determined that the normal state will be controlled to the advantageous state, it is possible to enlarge and display the decorative identification information in a manner that notifies the user that the normal state will be controlled to the advantageous state, and after a first period of pre-enlargement display from the start of the enlarged display (for example, the period from T1 to T2 in the normal state time chart shown in Figure 9-23), it is possible to enlarge and display the decorative identification information at its maximum size (for example, the period T3 in the normal state time chart shown in Figure 9-23),
During the variable display in which it has been determined that the special state will be controlled to the advantageous state, it is possible to enlarge and display the decorative identification information in a manner that notifies the user that the special state will be controlled to the advantageous state, and after a pre-enlargement period of a second period that is shorter than the first period from the start of the enlargement display (for example, a period T2 in the normal state shown in Figure 9-23 and a period T8 in the special state that is shorter than T2), it is possible to enlarge and display the decorative identification information at its maximum size.
It is characterized by the following.

This feature increases the probability of being controlled to an advantageous state in a special state, and by shortening the period before the decorative identification information is highlighted, it is possible to prevent the dramatic effect from being impaired.

Aspect 4-2 is the gaming machine according to aspect 4-1,
The decorative identification information includes first decorative identification information (for example, the "6" located on the left side of the three decorative patterns as shown in Figure 9-19 (A)), second decorative identification information (for example, the "6" located on the right side of the three decorative patterns as shown in Figure 9-19 (A)), and third decorative identification information located between the first decorative identification information and the second decorative identification information (for example, the "6" located in the middle of the three decorative patterns as shown in Figure 9-19 (A)).When the decorative identification information is enlarged and displayed in the normal state, the third decorative identification information is displayed in a state where it is partially visible from the display means, and when the decorative identification information is enlarged and displayed in the special state, the third decorative identification information is displayed in a state where it is partially visible.
It is characterized by the following.

This feature makes it easier for players to see decorative identification information when it is highlighted in a special state.

(SKY1148SKY form) Form 5-1 gaming machine is,
A gaming machine that can be controlled to an advantageous state (for example, a jackpot state) that is advantageous to a player,
Equipped with a performance execution means (for example, a performance control CPU 120, etc.) capable of executing a performance,
The performance execution means
It is composed of at least a first period (for example, a period in which the count "three" is displayed as shown in FIG. 9-24(A)), a second period executed after the first period (for example, a period in which the count "two" is displayed as shown in FIG. 9-24(A)), and a third period executed after the second specific period (for example, a period in which the count "one" is displayed as shown in FIG. 9-24(A)), and is capable of executing a specific effect (a three-count effect as shown in FIG. 9-24(A)) that can notify that control will be made to the advantageous state,
The advantageous state includes a first advantageous state (for example, a small win A shown in FIG. 9-2) and a second advantageous state (for example, a small win B shown in FIG. 9-2) that is less advantageous than the first advantageous state,
The specific effects include a normal mode and a specific mode (for example, a time-saving mode) that has a higher expectation of being controlled to the first advantageous state than the normal mode,
The execution pattern of the specific effect when it is determined to be controlled to the first advantageous state includes a first execution pattern in which the specific mode is used in the first period and also in the second and third periods (for example, a chance-up pattern in which the background and number colors are displayed in a mode different from the default pattern in Figs. 9-25(A) to 9-25(C) for "三", "弐", and "一" shown in Figs. 9-25(D) to 9-25(F)), and a second execution pattern in which the normal mode is used in the first and second periods and the specific mode is used in the third period (for example, a pattern in which the mode is changed to a chance-up mode different from the default during the "一" period for "三", "弐", and "一" as shown in Figs. 9-25(J) to 9-25(L)).
When it is determined that the vehicle is controlled to the first advantageous state, the second execution pattern has a higher execution rate than the first execution pattern.
A gaming machine characterized by:
It is characterized by the following.

With this feature, by increasing the rate at which the special effect changes to a special form in the third period compared to when it changes to a special form in the first period, it is possible to keep the player's attention until the latter half of the special effect.

Aspect 5-2 is the gaming machine according to aspect 5-1,
In a specific effect (for example, the three-count effect shown in Figure 9-24(A)), the rate at which a specific mode occurs is higher in the first period (for example, the period displaying the count "three" shown in Figure 9-24(A)) and the third period (for example, the period displaying the count "one" shown in Figure 9-24(A)) than in the second period (for example, the period displaying the count "two" shown in Figure 9-24(A)).
It is characterized by the following.

These features can add excitement to specific performances.

(Basic explanation)
First, the basic configuration and control of the pachinko gaming machine 1 (which also applies to the configuration and control of a general pachinko gaming machine) will be described.

(Configuration of Pachinko Game Machine 1, etc.)
1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine 1, showing the layout of the main components. The pachinko gaming machine (gaming machine) 1 is broadly composed of a gaming board (gauge board) 2 that forms the gaming board surface, and a gaming machine frame (base frame) 3 that supports and fixes the gaming board 2. A gaming area is formed on the gaming board 2, and gaming balls, which serve as gaming media, are launched into this gaming area by a predetermined ball launching device.

A first special symbol display device 4A and a second special symbol display device 4B are provided at predetermined positions on the game board 2 (to the right of the play area in the example shown in Figure 1), which perform a variable display (also called a special symbol game) of special symbols (also called special symbols) as multiple types of special identification information. Each of these consists of a 7-segment LED or the like. Special symbols are represented by numbers from "0" to "9" or lighting patterns such as "-". Special symbols may also include a pattern in which all LEDs are turned off.

Note that "variable display" of special symbols refers to, for example, the variable display of multiple types of special symbols (the same applies to other symbols described below). Variations include updating the display of multiple symbols, scrolling multiple symbols, transforming one or more symbols, and enlarging/reducing one or more symbols. When special symbols or the normal symbols described below vary, multiple types of special symbols or normal symbols are updated and displayed. When decorative symbols described below vary, multiple types of decorative symbols are scrolled or updated, or one or more decorative symbols are transformed or enlarged/reduced. Note that variations also include the display of a certain symbol flashing. At the end of the variable display, a specified special symbol is displayed stationary (also called derived or derived display) as the display result (the same applies to the variable display of other symbols described below). Note that variable display is sometimes referred to as variable display or variation.

The special pattern variably displayed on the first special pattern display device 4A is also referred to as the "first special pattern," and the special pattern variably displayed on the second special pattern display device 4B is also referred to as the "second special pattern." A special pattern game using the first special pattern is also referred to as the "first special pattern game," and a special pattern game using the second special pattern is also referred to as the "second special pattern game." There may be only one type of special pattern display device that variably displays special patterns.

An image display device 5 is provided near the center of the play area on the game board 2. The image display device 5 is composed of, for example, an LCD (liquid crystal display) or organic EL (electroluminescence) display, and displays various effect images. The image display device 5 may also be composed of a projector and a screen. Various effect images are displayed on the image display device 5.

For example, on the screen of the image display device 5, in synchronization with the first special symbol game or the second special symbol game, a variable display of multiple types of decorative symbols (such as symbols showing numbers, etc.) as decorative identification information different from the special symbols is performed. Here, in synchronization with the first special symbol game or the second special symbol game, decorative symbols are variably displayed (for example, scrolled up and down or updated) in the "left," "center," and "right" decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R. The synchronously executed special symbol games and variable display of decorative symbols are collectively referred to simply as variable display.

The screen of the image display device 5 may be provided with a display area for displaying a pending display corresponding to a variable display whose execution is pending, and an active display corresponding to a variable display that is currently being executed. The pending display and active display are collectively referred to as a variable display-compatible display corresponding to a variable display.

The number of reserved variable displays is also referred to as the reserved memory number. The reserved memory number corresponding to the first special game is also referred to as the first reserved memory number, and the reserved memory number corresponding to the second special game is also referred to as the second reserved memory number. The sum of the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number is also referred to as the total reserved memory number.

In addition, a first hold indicator 25A and a second hold indicator 25B, each of which includes multiple LEDs, are provided at predetermined positions on the game board 2. The first hold indicator 25A displays the number of first hold memories using the number of lit LEDs, and the second hold indicator 25B displays the number of second hold memories using the number of lit LEDs.

Below the image display device 5, a winning ball device 6A and a variable winning ball device 6B are provided.

The winning ball device 6A forms a first starting winning opening that is always kept open to allow game balls to enter, for example, by a specified ball receiving member. When a game ball enters the first starting winning opening, a specified number of prize balls (for example, three) are paid out and the first special game can be started.

The variable ball entry device 6B (a standard electric device) forms a second start entry opening that changes between a closed and an open state due to the solenoid 81 (see Figure 2). The variable ball entry device 6B, for example, comprises an electric tulip-type device with a pair of movable wings. When the solenoid 81 is off, the movable wings are positioned vertically, bringing the tips of the movable wings close to the ball entry device 6A, creating a closed state in which game balls cannot enter the second start entry opening (also referred to as the second start entry opening being in a closed state). On the other hand, when the solenoid 81 is on, the movable wings of the variable ball entry device 6B are tilted, creating an open state in which game balls can enter the second start entry opening (also referred to as the second start entry opening being in an open state). When a game ball enters the second start entry opening, a predetermined number of prize balls (e.g., three) are paid out, and the second special game can be initiated. The variable winning ball device 6B may be any device that can change between a closed state and an open state, and is not limited to devices equipped with an electric tulip-type device.

General winning openings 10 are provided at predetermined positions on the game board 2 (in the example shown in Figure 1, four locations at the bottom left and right of the game area), and are always kept in a constant open state by predetermined ball receiving members. In this case, when a ball enters one of the general winning openings 10, a predetermined number of game balls (for example, 10) are paid out as prize balls.

Below the winning ball device 6A and the variable winning ball device 6B, a special variable winning ball device 7 with a large winning opening is provided. The special variable winning ball device 7 has a large winning opening door that is driven to open and close by a solenoid 82 (see Figure 2), and the large winning opening door forms the large winning opening as a specific area that can be switched between an open state and a closed state.

As an example, in the special variable prize ball device 7, when the solenoid 82 for the large prize door (for the special electric device) is in the off state, the large prize door closes the large prize door, preventing game balls from entering (passing through) the large prize door. On the other hand, in the special variable prize ball device 7, when the solenoid 82 for the large prize door is in the on state, the large prize door opens the large prize door, making it easier for game balls to enter the large prize door.

When a gaming ball enters the large prize opening, a predetermined number of gaming balls (for example, 14) are paid out as prize balls. When a gaming ball enters the large prize opening, more prize balls are paid out than when a gaming ball enters, for example, the first start prize opening, the second start prize opening, or the general prize opening 10.

When a game ball enters any of the prize slots, including the general prize slot 10, it is also referred to as a "win." In particular, a win at a start slot (first start slot, second start slot) is also referred to as a start slot.

A normal symbol display 20 is provided at a predetermined position on the gaming board 2 (to the left of the gaming area in the example shown in Figure 1). As an example, the normal symbol display 20 is made up of a 7-segment LED or the like, and displays a variety of normal symbols as normal identification information that differs from special symbols. The normal symbols are represented by numbers from "0" to "9" or lighting patterns such as "-". The normal symbols may also include a pattern in which all LEDs are turned off. This type of variable display of normal symbols is also called a normal symbol game.

A passing gate 41 through which the game ball can pass is provided to the left of the image display device 5. When the game ball passes through the passing gate 41, a regular game is executed.

Above the normal symbol display 20, there is a normal symbol pending display 25C. The normal symbol pending display 25C is configured to include, for example, four LEDs, and displays the normal symbol pending memory count, which is the number of normal symbol games pending execution, by the number of lit LEDs.

In addition to the above features, the surface of the game board 2 is equipped with windmills that change the direction and speed of the game balls as they flow down, as well as numerous obstacle nails. At the bottom of the game area, there is an outlet that takes in game balls that do not enter any of the winning holes.

Speakers 8L and 8R for playing and outputting sound effects and the like are provided at the upper left and right positions of the gaming machine frame 3, and gaming effect lamps 9 for gaming effects are provided around the periphery of the gaming area. The gaming effect lamps 9 are composed of LEDs.

A movable body 32 that moves according to the performance is provided at a predetermined position on the game board 2 (not shown in Figure 1).

A ball-hitting operation handle (operation knob) 30 is provided at the lower right position of the gaming machine frame 3. The ball-hitting operation handle (operation knob) 30 is operated by the player or the like to launch gaming balls toward the gaming area using the ball-hitting device.

At a predetermined position in the gaming machine frame 3 below the gaming area, a ball supply tray (upper tray) is provided to hold (store) gaming balls dispensed as prize balls or gaming balls loaned from a designated ball loaning machine so that they can be supplied to the ball launching device. Below the upper tray, a ball supply tray (lower tray) is provided from which prize balls are dispensed when the upper tray is full.

A stick controller 31A that can be held and tilted by a player is attached to a predetermined position on the gaming machine frame 3 below the playing area. The stick controller 31A is provided with a trigger button that can be pressed by a player. Operation of the stick controller 31A is detected by the controller sensor unit 35A (see Figure 2).

A push button 31B is provided at a predetermined position on the gaming machine frame 3 below the gaming area, which the player can press to issue a specific command. Operation of the push button 31B is detected by a push sensor 35B (see Figure 2).

In the pachinko gaming machine 1, a stick controller 31A and a push button 31B are provided as detection means for detecting the player's actions (operations, etc.), but other detection means may also be provided.

(Outline of game progress)
The game ball is launched toward the game area by the player rotating the ball-hitting operation handle 30 provided on the pachinko game machine 1. When the game ball passes through the passing gate 41, a normal game is started by the normal symbol display 20. If the game ball passes through the passing gate 41 while the previous normal game is being played (if the game ball passes through the passing gate 41 but the normal game based on that passage cannot be played immediately), the normal game based on that passage is put on hold up to a predetermined upper limit (for example, 4).

In this normal game, if a specific normal symbol (a normal winning symbol) is displayed, the normal symbol display result will be "normal winning." On the other hand, if a normal symbol other than a normal winning symbol (a normal losing symbol) is displayed as a confirmed normal symbol, the normal symbol display result will be "normal losing." When a "normal winning" occurs, opening control is performed to keep the variable winning ball device 6B open for a predetermined period of time (the second starting winning port is opened).

When a game ball enters the first start winning hole formed in the winning ball device 6A, the first special symbol game is started by the first special symbol display device 4A.

When a game ball enters the second start winning hole formed in the variable winning ball device 6B, the second special symbol game is started by the second special symbol display device 4B.

In addition, if a game ball enters (wins) the start winning hole during the period when a special game is being played or during the period when the game is controlled to a big win game state or small win game state (a start winning occurs but the special game based on that start winning cannot be played immediately), the execution of the special game based on that entry will be suspended up to a specified upper limit (for example, 4).

In special symbol games, if a specific special symbol (a jackpot symbol, for example, "7"; the actual symbol varies depending on the type of jackpot, as described below) is displayed as the confirmed special symbol, it is a "jackpot," and if a specific special symbol different from the jackpot symbol (a small jackpot symbol, for example, "2") is displayed as the confirmed special symbol, it is a "small jackpot." Also, if a special symbol different from the jackpot or small jackpot symbol (a losing symbol, for example, "-") is displayed as the confirmed special symbol, it is a "loss."

After the display result in the special game becomes "big hit," the game state is controlled to a big hit game state, which is advantageous for the player. After the display result in the special game becomes "small hit," the game state is controlled to a small hit game state.

In the jackpot game state, the large prize opening formed by the special variable prize ball device 7 is opened in a predetermined manner. This open state continues until either a predetermined period of time (for example, 29 seconds or 1.8 seconds) has elapsed, or the number of game balls entering the large prize opening reaches a predetermined number (for example, 9), whichever comes first. The predetermined period is the maximum period during which the large prize opening can be opened in one round, and is hereinafter referred to as the maximum opening period. This cycle in which the large prize opening is opened is called a round (round game). In the jackpot game state, the round can be repeated until the predetermined maximum number of times (15 times or 2 times) is reached.

In the jackpot gaming state, the player can win prize balls by making the gaming ball enter the big prize opening. Therefore, the jackpot gaming state is advantageous to the player. The more rounds played in the jackpot gaming state, and the longer the maximum opening period, the more advantageous it is for the player.

A "jackpot" has a set type of jackpot. For example, there are multiple types of opening modes for the jackpot slot (number of rounds or maximum opening period) and game states after a jackpot game state (normal state, time-saving state, probability variable state, etc., as described below), and the jackpot type is set accordingly. There may be jackpot types that offer many prize balls, and jackpot types that offer few or no prize balls.

In the small win game state, the large prize opening formed by the special variable prize ball device 7 opens in a predetermined opening mode. For example, in the small win game state, the large prize opening opens in the same opening mode as the large prize game state for certain large win types (the number of times the large prize opening opens is the same as the number of rounds mentioned above, and the timing of closing the large prize opening is also the same, etc.). Note that, like the large win types, small win types may also be set for "small wins."

After the jackpot game state ends, the game may enter a time-saving state or a special state depending on the type of jackpot mentioned above.

In the time-saving state, control (time-saving control) is executed to shorten the average fluctuation time (the period during which the special symbol fluctuates) compared to the normal state. In the time-saving state, control (high opening control, high base control) is also executed to make it easier for the game ball to enter the second start winning slot by shortening the average normal symbol fluctuation time (the period during which the normal symbol fluctuates) compared to the normal state and by increasing the probability of a "normal symbol hit" in the normal symbol game compared to the normal state. The time-saving state is advantageous to the player because it improves the efficiency of fluctuation of special symbols (especially the second special symbol).

In the probability variable state (probability variable state), in addition to time-saving control, probability variable control is implemented, which increases the probability that the display result will be a "jackpot" compared to the normal state. The probability variable state is an even more advantageous state for players, as it not only improves the efficiency of special symbol fluctuations, but also makes it easier to win a "jackpot."

The time-saving state or the probability variation state will continue until one of the following conditions is met: a predetermined number of special games have been played, or the next jackpot game state has begun. A state in which the condition for the special game to end is played a predetermined number of times is also called a count-cut state (count-cut time-saving state, count-cut probability variation state, etc.).

The normal state refers to a gaming state other than advantageous states such as a jackpot gaming state that are advantageous to the player, and special states such as a time-saving state and a probability variable state. It is a state in which the pachinko gaming machine 1, such as the probability that the displayed result in a normal game will be a "normal hit" and the probability that the displayed result in a special game will be a "jackpot," is controlled in the same way as the initial setting state of the pachinko gaming machine 1 (for example, when a system reset is performed and the specified recovery process is not executed after power is turned on).

A state in which probability variable control is being executed is also called a high probability state, and a state in which probability variable control is not being executed is also called a low probability state. A state in which time-saving control is being executed is also called a high base state, and a state in which time-saving control is not being executed is also called a low base state. Combining these, the time-saving state is also called a low probability high base state, the probability variable state is a high probability high base state, and the normal state is a low probability low base state. A high probability state and a low base state are also called a high probability low base state.

After the small win game state ends, the game state will not change, and the game state will continue to be controlled as it was before the special game display result became "small win" (however, if the special game when the "small win" occurs is the special game for the specified number of times in the above-mentioned number cut, the game state will naturally change). Note that the special game display result does not have to be "small win".

The game state may change based on the game ball passing through a specific area (e.g., a specific area within the jackpot opening) during the jackpot game state. For example, when the game ball passes through a specific area, the game state may be controlled to a special state after the jackpot game state.

(Progression of the production, etc.)
In the pachinko gaming machine 1, various effects (such as notifying the progress of the game or adding excitement to the game) are executed according to the progress of the game. These effects are described below. Note that these effects are executed by displaying various effect images on the image display device 5, but in addition to or instead of these displays, they may also be executed by audio output from the speakers 8L and 8R, and/or by turning on/off the game effect lamp 9, operating the movable body 32, etc.

As an effect that is executed in accordance with the progress of the game, the "left," "center," and "right" decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R provided on the image display device 5 begin to display variable decorative symbols in response to the start of the first or second special symbol game. When the display result (also called the confirmed special symbol) in the first or second special symbol game is statically displayed, the confirmed decorative symbol (a combination of three decorative symbols) that is the display result of the variable display of the decorative symbols is also statically displayed (derived).

During the period from when the variable display of the decorative symbols begins to when it ends, the variable display of the decorative symbols may assume a predetermined reach state (a reach is achieved). Here, a reach state refers to a state in which decorative symbols that have not yet been stopped and displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 continue to be variable displayed when the decorative symbols that have not yet been stopped and displayed form part of a jackpot combination, as described below.

In addition, when the above-mentioned reach mode is reached during the variable display of decorative symbols, a reach effect is executed. Pachinko gaming machine 1 executes multiple types of reach effects, with different rates (also called jackpot reliability or jackpot expectation) of the display result (the display result of the special game or the display result of the variable display of decorative symbols) becoming a "jackpot" depending on the effect mode. Reach effects include, for example, normal reach and super reach, which has a higher jackpot reliability than normal reach.

When the display result of the special game is a "jackpot," a fixed decorative pattern that is a predetermined jackpot combination is displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 as the display result of the variable display of decorative patterns (the display result of the variable display of decorative patterns is a "jackpot"). As an example, the same decorative pattern (for example, "7") is displayed stopped and aligned on a predetermined effective line in the "left," "center," and "right" decorative pattern display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R.

In the case of a "probability jackpot" where the game state is controlled to a probability jackpot after the jackpot gaming state ends, odd-numbered decorative symbols (e.g., "7") are displayed in a line-up, and in the case of a "non-probability jackpot (regular jackpot)" where the game state is not controlled to a probability jackpot after the jackpot gaming state ends, even-numbered decorative symbols (e.g., "6") may be displayed in a line-up. In this case, odd-numbered decorative symbols are also called probability jackpot symbols, and even-numbered decorative symbols are also called non-probability jackpot symbols (regular symbols). After a reach state is reached with non-probability jackpot symbols, a promotion effect may be executed that ultimately results in a "probability jackpot."

When the display result of the special game is a "small win," a fixed decorative pattern (e.g., "1 3 5") that is a predetermined small win combination is displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 as the display result of the variable display of decorative patterns (the display result of the variable display of decorative patterns is a "small win"). As an example, decorative patterns that form chance eyes are displayed stationary on predetermined effective lines in the "left," "center," and "right" decorative pattern display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R. Note that a common fixed decorative pattern may be displayed when the display result of the special game is a "jackpot" for certain jackpot types (jackpot types in jackpot game states that are similar to small win game states) and when it is a "small win."

When the display result of the special game is a "miss," the state of the variable display of the decorative symbols does not become a reach state, and the display result of the variable display of the decorative symbols may display a fixed decorative symbol of a non-reach combination (also called a "non-reach miss") (the display result of the variable display of the decorative symbols may be a "non-reach miss"). Also, when the display result is a "miss," after the state of the variable display of the decorative symbols becomes a reach state, the display result of the variable display of the decorative symbols may display a fixed decorative symbol of a predetermined reach combination (also called a "reach miss") that is not a jackpot combination (the display result of the variable display of the decorative symbols may be a "reach miss").

The effects that the pachinko gaming machine 1 can execute include displaying the variable display compatible display (reserved display or active display) described above. Other effects, such as preview effects that predict the jackpot reliability, are executed during the variable display of decorative symbols. Preview effects include preview effects that predict the jackpot reliability in the currently executing variable display, and pre-read preview effects that predict the jackpot reliability in the variable display before execution (variable display whose execution is reserved). A pre-read preview effect may be executed that changes the display mode of the variable display compatible display (reserved display or active display) to a mode that is different from normal.

In addition, the image display device 5 may temporarily stop the decorative symbols while they are being displayed in a variable manner, and then resume the variable display, thereby executing a pseudo-consecutive effect that makes a single variable display appear as multiple variable displays.

Even during a jackpot gaming state, a jackpot effect is executed to notify the player of the jackpot gaming state. The jackpot effect may include an effect announcing the number of rounds or an upgrade effect indicating that the value of the jackpot gaming state is increasing. Also, during a small jackpot gaming state, a small jackpot effect is executed to notify the player of the small jackpot gaming state. It is possible to prevent the player from knowing whether they are currently in a small jackpot gaming state or a jackpot gaming state by executing a common effect during a small jackpot gaming state and a jackpot gaming state for some jackpot types (jackpot types in a jackpot gaming state similar to a small jackpot gaming state, for example, a jackpot type that sets the subsequent gaming state to a high-probability state). In such cases, it is possible to prevent the player from knowing whether they are currently in a small jackpot gaming state or a jackpot gaming state by executing a common effect after the end of the small jackpot gaming state and the end of the jackpot gaming state.

Also, for example, when a special game or the like is not being played, a demo image is displayed on the image display device 5 (a customer waiting demo effect is executed).

(Board configuration)
2, the pachinko gaming machine 1 is equipped with a main board 11, a performance control board 12, a sound control board 13, a lamp control board 14, a relay board 15, etc. In addition, various boards such as a payout control board, an information terminal board, a firing control board, a power supply board, etc. are arranged on the back of the pachinko gaming machine 1.

The main board 11 is the main control board and has the function of controlling the progress of the above-mentioned games in the pachinko gaming machine 1 (execution of special games (including reserved game management), execution of regular games (including reserved game management), big win game status, small win game status, game status, etc.). The main board 11 has a game control microcomputer 100, a switch circuit 110, a solenoid circuit 111, etc.

The game control microcomputer 100 mounted on the main board 11 is, for example, a single-chip microcomputer, and includes a ROM (Read Only Memory) 101, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 102, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 103, a random number circuit 104, and an I/O (Input/Output port) 105.

The CPU 103 executes the program stored in ROM 101 to control the progress of the game (processing that realizes the functions of the main board 11). At this time, various data stored in ROM 101 (such as data on fluctuation patterns, performance control commands, and tables referenced when making various decisions) is used, and RAM 102 is used as the main memory. RAM 102 serves as backup RAM, where the stored contents are preserved for a predetermined period of time even if part or all of the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is stopped. Note that all or part of the program stored in ROM 101 may be deployed to RAM 102 and executed on RAM 102.

The random number circuit 104 counts updatable numerical data indicating various random number values (gaming random numbers) used to control the progress of the game. The gaming random numbers may be updated by the CPU 103 executing a specified computer program (updated by software).

The I/O 105 is configured to include, for example, an input port into which various signals (detection signals described below) are input, and an output port for transmitting various signals (signals that control (drive) the first special symbol display device 4A, second special symbol display device 4B, normal symbol display device 20, first hold display device 25A, second hold display device 25B, normal symbol hold display device 25C, etc., and solenoid drive signals).

The switch circuit 110 receives detection signals (such as detection signals indicating that a game ball has passed or entered and the switch has been turned on) from various switches used to detect game balls (gate switch 21, start port switches (first start port switch 22A and second start port switch 22B), and count switch 23), and transmits them to the game control microcomputer 100. The transmission of the detection signal indicates that the game ball has passed or entered.

The solenoid circuit 111 transmits solenoid drive signals (such as signals to turn on solenoid 81 or solenoid 82) from the game control microcomputer 100 to the solenoid 81 for the normal electric device and the solenoid 82 for the large prize opening door.

As part of its control of the game's progress, the main board 11 (game control microcomputer 100) supplies presentation control commands (commands that specify (notify) the game's progress, etc.) to the presentation control board 12 in accordance with the progress of the game. The presentation control commands output from the main board 11 are relayed by the relay board 15 and supplied to the presentation control board 12. These presentation control commands include, for example, commands that specify various decisions made by the main board 11 (e.g., the display results of the special game (including the type of jackpot), the variable patterns used when executing the special game (details will be described later)), the game status (e.g., the start and end of the variable display, the opening status of the jackpot slot, the occurrence of a win, the number of reserved memories, the game status), the occurrence of an error, etc.

The performance control board 12 is a sub-control board independent of the main board 11, and has the function of receiving performance control commands and executing performances (various performances according to the progress of the game, including various notifications such as driving the movable body 32, error notifications, and notifications of power outage recovery) based on the received performance control commands.

The performance control board 12 is equipped with a performance control CPU 120, ROM 121, RAM 122, display control unit 123, random number circuit 124, and I/O 125.

The performance control CPU 120 executes programs stored in ROM 121, and performs processing to execute performances together with the display control unit 123 (processing to realize the above-mentioned functions of the performance control board 12, including determining the performance to be executed). During this processing, various data (such as data from various tables) stored in ROM 121 is used, and RAM 122 is used as the main memory.

The effect control CPU 120 may instruct the display control unit 123 to execute an effect based on detection signals from the controller sensor unit 35A and push sensor 35B (signals that are output when an operation by the player is detected and that appropriately indicate the operation content).

The display control unit 123 includes a VDP (Video Display Processor), CGROM (Character Generator ROM), VRAM (Video RAM), etc., and executes presentations based on instructions to execute presentations from the presentation control CPU 120.

The display control unit 123 displays a performance image on the image display unit 5 by supplying the image display unit 5 with a video signal corresponding to the performance to be executed based on a performance execution instruction from the performance control CPU 120. The display control unit 123 also supplies a sound designation signal (a signal that designates the sound to be output) to the audio control board 13 and a lamp signal (a signal that designates the lamp on/off state) to the lamp control board 14 in order to output sound synchronized with the display of the performance image and turn the game effect lamp 9 on/off. The display control unit 123 also supplies a signal that operates the movable body 32 to the movable body 32 or to the drive circuit that drives the movable body 32.

The audio control board 13 is equipped with various circuits that drive the speakers 8L and 8R, and drives the speakers 8L and 8R based on the sound designation signal, causing the speakers 8L and 8R to output the sound designated by the sound designation signal.

The lamp control board 14 is equipped with various circuits that drive the game effect lamp 9, and drives the game effect lamp 9 based on the lamp signal, turning the game effect lamp 9 on and off in the manner specified by the lamp signal. In this way, the display control unit 123 controls the audio output and the on/off of the lamp.

Note that the performance control CPU 120 may be configured to perform control of audio output, turning on/off of lamps (such as supplying sound designation signals and lamp signals), and control of the movable body 32 (such as supplying signals to operate the movable body 32).

The random number circuit 124 counts updatable numerical data indicating various random number values (performance random numbers) used to execute various performances. The performance random numbers may be updated by the performance control CPU 120 executing a specific computer program (updated by software).

The I/O 125 mounted on the performance control board 12 includes an input port for receiving performance control commands transmitted from, for example, the main board 11, and an output port for transmitting various signals (video signals, sound designation signals, lamp signals).

Boards other than the main board 11, such as the performance control board 12, sound control board 13, and lamp control board 14, are also called sub-boards. As with pachinko gaming machine 1, multiple sub-boards may be provided for different functions, or one sub-board may be configured to have multiple functions.

(operation)
Next, the operation (action) of the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be described.

(Major operations of the main board 11)
First, we will explain the main operations of the main board 11. When power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 starts, the game control microcomputer 100 starts up and the game control main process is executed by the CPU 103. Figure 3 is a flowchart showing the game control main process executed by the CPU 103 on the main board 11.

In the game control main processing shown in Figure 3, the CPU 103 first disables interrupts (step S1). Next, it performs the necessary initial settings (step S2). These initial settings include setting the stack pointer, register settings for built-in devices (CTC (counter/timer circuit), parallel input/output port, etc.), and making RAM 102 accessible.

Next, it is determined whether the output signal from the clear switch is on (step S3). The clear switch is mounted, for example, on a power supply board. When the power is turned on with the clear switch in the on state, the output signal (clear signal) is input to the game control microcomputer 100 via the input port. If the output signal from the clear switch is on (step S3; Yes), initialization processing (step S8) is executed. In the initialization processing, the CPU 103 performs a RAM clear process to clear flags, counters, and buffers stored in RAM 102, and sets initial values in the working area.

The CPU 103 also sends a presentation control command to the presentation control board 12 to instruct initialization (step S9). Upon receiving the presentation control command, the presentation control CPU 120 displays a screen on, for example, the image display device 5 to notify the user that the control of the gaming machine has been initialized.

If the output signal from the clear switch is not ON (Step S3; No), it is determined whether backup data is stored in RAM 102 (backup RAM) (Step S4). When the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is stopped due to an unexpected power outage or the like (power interruption), the CPU 103 executes power supply interruption processing immediately before the machine becomes inoperable due to the power supply interruption. This power supply interruption processing includes processing to turn on a backup flag indicating that data is being backed up in RAM 102 and processing to protect data in RAM 102. The data protection processing includes adding error detection codes (checksums, parity bits, etc.) and backing up various data. The backed up data includes various data for progressing the game (including the status of various flags and various timers, etc.), as well as the status of the backup flag and the error detection code. In Step S4, it is determined whether the backup flag is ON. If the backup flag is OFF and no backup data is stored in RAM 102 (Step S4; No), initialization processing (Step S8) is executed.

If backup data is stored in RAM 102 (Step S4: Yes), CPU 103 performs a data check of the backed up data (using an error detection code) to determine whether the data is normal (Step S5). In Step S5, it determines whether the data in RAM 102 matches the data at the time of power outage, for example, using a parity bit or checksum. If it is determined that they match, it determines that the data in RAM 102 is normal.

If it is determined that the data in RAM 102 is not normal (step S5; No), the internal state cannot be restored to the state it was in when power was stopped, so initialization processing (step S8) is performed.

If it is determined that the data in RAM 102 is normal (Step S5: Yes), the CPU 103 performs a recovery process (Step S6) to return the internal state of the main board 11 to the state it was in when power was stopped. During the recovery process, the CPU 103 sets up a working area based on the contents of RAM 102 (the contents of the backed-up data). This restores the game state to the state it was in when power was stopped, and if a special symbol was changing, the game control timer interrupt process, described below, is executed to resume the change of the special symbol from the state before recovery.

The CPU 103 then transmits a presentation control command to the presentation control board 12 instructing recovery from the power outage (step S7). In conjunction with this, a presentation control command specifying the backed-up game state before the power outage, or, if a special symbol game was being played, a presentation control command specifying the display result of the currently playing special symbol game, may be transmitted. These commands can be the same as the commands transmitted and set in the special symbol process described below. When the presentation control CPU 120 receives a presentation control command specifying the time of recovery from the power outage, it displays a screen on the image display device 5, for example, to notify players that recovery from the power outage has been achieved or that recovery from the power outage is in progress. The presentation control CPU 120 may display an appropriate screen based on the presentation control command.

After completing the recovery or initialization process and sending a performance control command to the performance control board 12, the CPU 103 executes a random number circuit setting process to initialize the random number circuit 104 (step S10). Then, it sets the register of the CTC built into the game control microcomputer 100 so that a timer interrupt occurs periodically at a predetermined time interval (e.g., every 2 ms) (step S11), and enables the interrupt (step S12). After that, it enters a loop process. Thereafter, an interrupt request signal is sent from the CTC to the CPU 103 at predetermined time intervals (e.g., every 2 ms), allowing the CPU 103 to periodically execute timer interrupt processing.

After executing this game control main processing, the CPU 103 receives an interrupt request signal from the CTC and accepts the interrupt request, and then executes the game control timer interrupt processing shown in the flowchart of FIG. 4. When the game control timer interrupt processing shown in FIG. 4 begins, the CPU 103 first executes a predetermined switch processing to determine whether or not detection signals have been received from various switches, such as the gate switch 21, the first start port switch 22A, the second start port switch 22B, and the count switch 23, via the switch circuit 110 (step S21). Next, the CPU 103 executes a predetermined main error processing to diagnose abnormalities in the pachinko gaming machine 1 and, if necessary, issue a warning based on the diagnosis results (step S22). After this, the CPU 103 executes a predetermined information output processing to output data such as jackpot information (information indicating the number of jackpots), start information (information indicating the number of start wins), and probability fluctuation information (information indicating the number of times the game has entered a probability variable state) to a hall management computer installed outside the pachinko gaming machine 1 (step S23).

Following the information output process, a game random number update process is executed to update at least a portion of the game random numbers used on the main board 11 by software (step S24). After this, the CPU 103 executes a special symbol process process (step S25). By executing the special symbol process process at each timer interrupt, the CPU 103 manages the execution and reservation of special symbol games, controls the big hit game state and small hit game state, and controls the game state (details will be described later).

Following the special symbol process, the normal symbol process is executed (step S26). By the CPU 103 executing the normal symbol process at each timer interrupt, it is possible to manage the execution and reservation of the normal symbol game based on the detection signal from the gate switch 21 (based on the game ball passing through the passage gate 41), and to control the opening of the variable winning ball device 6B based on a "normal symbol win." The normal symbol game is executed by driving the normal symbol display 20, and the number of reserved normal symbols is displayed by lighting the normal symbol reservation display 25C.

After executing the normal symbol process processing, as part of the game control timer interrupt processing, processing when a power outage occurs, processing for paying out prize balls, etc. may be performed. Then, the CPU 103 executes command control processing (step S27). The CPU 103 may set a presentation control command to be sent during each of the above processes. In the command control processing of step S27, the presentation control command that has been set to be sent is transmitted to a sub-side control board such as the presentation control board 12. After executing the command control processing, the interrupt is permitted and then the game control timer interrupt processing is terminated.

Figure 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the special symbol process executed in step S25 shown in Figure 4. In this special symbol process, the CPU 103 first executes a start winning determination process (step S101).

The start winning determination process detects the occurrence of a start winning, stores pending information in a specified area of RAM 102, and updates the number of pending memories. When a start winning occurs, a random number value is extracted to determine the display result (including the type of jackpot) and variation pattern, and this is stored as pending information. A process may also be executed to predict the display result and variation pattern based on the extracted random number value. After the pending information and number of pending memories are stored, transmission settings are made to send a performance control command to the performance control board 12 to specify the determination results, such as the occurrence of a start winning, the number of pending memories, and the predictive determination. The performance control command thus transmitted and set for the start winning is transmitted from the main board 11 to the performance control board 12, for example, after the special symbol process is completed, by executing the command control process of step S27 shown in Figure 4.

After executing the start winning determination process in S101, the CPU 103 selects and executes one of the processes in steps S110 to S120 depending on the value of the special symbol process flag stored in RAM 102. Note that in each step of the special symbol process (steps S110 to S120), transmission settings are made to transmit the effect control commands corresponding to each step to the effect control board 12.

The normal special symbol processing in step S110 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is "0" (initial value). This normal special symbol processing determines whether to start the first or second special symbol game based on the presence or absence of pending information. Furthermore, the normal special symbol processing determines (predetermines) whether the display result of the special symbol or decorative symbol is a "jackpot" or a "small jackpot," and if a "jackpot" is selected, the type of jackpot, based on a random number value used to determine the display result, before the display result is derived and displayed. Furthermore, the normal special symbol processing determines a fixed special symbol (either a jackpot symbol, a small jackpot symbol, or a losing symbol) to be displayed in the special symbol game in accordance with the determined display result. The value of the special symbol process flag is then updated to "1," and the normal special symbol processing ends. The special symbol game using the second special symbol may be executed with priority over the special symbol game using the first special symbol (also known as special symbol 2 priority consumption). Additionally, the order in which game balls enter the first and second starting winning slots may be stored, and the conditions for starting the special game may be met in the order in which they enter (also known as winning order consumption).

When making various decisions based on random number values, various tables stored in ROM 101 (tables in which the decision value compared with the random number value is assigned to the decision result) are referenced. The same applies to other decisions on the main board 11 and various decisions on the performance control board 12. On the performance control board 12, various tables are stored in ROM 121.

The fluctuation pattern setting process of step S111 is executed when the value of the special chart process flag is "1". This fluctuation pattern setting process includes a process of using a random number value for determining the fluctuation pattern to determine one of several types of fluctuation pattern based on the results of a pre-determined decision on whether the display result will be a "big hit" or a "small hit". In the fluctuation pattern setting process, when a fluctuation pattern is determined, the value of the special chart process flag is updated to "2" and the fluctuation pattern setting process ends.

The variable pattern specifies the execution time (variable time) of the special game (which is also the execution time of the variable display of the decorative symbols), the manner in which the variable display of the decorative symbols is performed (whether or not there is a reach, etc.), and the content of the presentation during the variable display of the decorative symbols (type of reach presentation, etc.), and is also called the variable display pattern.

The special symbol variation process of step S112 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is "2". This special symbol variation process includes processes for making settings to vary the special symbols on the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B, and processes for measuring the elapsed time since the special symbol began to vary. It also determines whether the measured elapsed time has reached the variation time corresponding to the variation pattern. Then, when the elapsed time since the special symbol began to vary reaches the variation time, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to "3", and the special symbol variation process ends.

The special symbol stop process of step S113 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is "3." This special symbol stop process includes settings to stop the variation of special symbols on the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B and to stop and display (derive) the confirmed special symbol that results in the display of the special symbol. If the display result is a "jackpot," the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to "4." On the other hand, if the jackpot flag is off and the display result is a "small hit," the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to "8." If the display result is a "miss," the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to "0." If the display result is a "small hit" or "miss," the game state is also updated if the game is in a time-saving state or a special probability state and the end of the number-cutting period is confirmed. Once the value of the special symbol process flag is updated, the special symbol stop process ends.

The pre-jackpot opening process in step S114 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is "4." This pre-jackpot opening process includes processing to start the execution of a round in the jackpot game state and set the large prize opening to an open state, based on factors such as the display result being "jackpot." When the large prize opening is set to an open state, a process is executed to supply a solenoid drive signal to the solenoid 82 for the large prize opening door. At this time, the maximum open period for the large prize opening to be set and the maximum number of rounds to be executed are set, depending on, for example, the type of jackpot. Once these settings are complete, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to "5," and the pre-jackpot opening process ends.

The jackpot opening process of step S115 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is "5." This jackpot opening process includes processes such as measuring the time elapsed since the large prize opening was opened, and determining whether it is time to return the large prize opening from an open state to a closed state based on the measured elapsed time and the number of game balls detected by the count switch 23. When the large prize opening is to be returned to a closed state, processes such as stopping the supply of a solenoid drive signal to the solenoid 82 for the large prize opening door are executed, and then the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to "6," and the jackpot opening process ends.

The post-jackpot release process of step S116 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is "6." This post-jackpot release process includes a process for determining whether the number of rounds that open the large prize slot has been executed has reached the set upper limit, and a process for making settings to end the jackpot game state when the upper limit has been reached. If the number of rounds executed has not reached the upper limit, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to "5." However, if the number of rounds executed has reached the upper limit, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to "7." Once the value of the special symbol process flag has been updated, the post-jackpot release process ends.

The jackpot end process of step S117 is executed when the value of the special chart process flag is "7." This jackpot end process includes processes such as waiting until a waiting time corresponding to the period during which an ending presentation, which serves as a presentation operation to notify players of the end of the jackpot game state, has elapsed, and making various settings to initiate variable rate control or time-saving control in response to the end of the jackpot game state. When these settings are made, the value of the special chart process flag is updated to "0," and the jackpot end process ends.

The pre-processing for opening a small win in step S118 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is "8." This pre-processing for opening a small win includes processing to set the large prize opening to an open state in the small win game state based on the display result being "small win." At this time, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to "9," and the pre-processing for opening a small win ends.

The small win opening process in step S119 is executed when the value of the special prize process flag is "9". This small win opening process includes processes for measuring the time elapsed since the large prize opening was opened, and determining whether it is time to return the large prize opening from an open state to a closed state based on the measured elapsed time. When the large prize opening is returned to a closed state and it is time to end the small win game state, the value of the special prize process flag is updated to "10", and the small win opening process ends.

The small win end process of step S120 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is "10." This small win end process includes waiting until a waiting time corresponding to the period during which the presentation operation announcing the end of the small win game state is executed has elapsed. Here, when the small win game state ends, the game state of the pachinko gaming machine 1 prior to the small win game state is continued. When the waiting time at the end of the small win game state has elapsed, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to "0," and the small win end process ends.

(Major operations of the performance control board 12)
Next, the main operations of the performance control board 12 will be described. When the performance control board 12 receives a supply of power voltage from a power supply board or the like, the performance control CPU 120 starts up and executes the performance control main process as shown in the flowchart of Fig. 6. When the performance control main process shown in Fig. 6 starts, the performance control CPU 120 first executes a predetermined initialization process (step S71), clearing RAM 122, setting various initial values, and setting registers for the CTC (counter/timer circuit) mounted on the performance control board 12. It also executes an initial operation control process (step S72). In the initial operation control process, control is executed to perform the initial operation of the movable body 32, such as control to drive the movable body 32 to return it to its initial position and control to perform predetermined operation checks.

Then, it is determined whether the timer interrupt flag is on (step S73). The timer interrupt flag is set to the on state every time a predetermined time (e.g., 2 milliseconds) elapses, for example, based on the register settings of the CTC. If the timer interrupt flag is off at this time (step S73; No), the process of step S73 is repeatedly executed and the process waits.

In addition, on the performance control board 12 side, in addition to the timer interrupt that occurs every time a predetermined time has elapsed, an interrupt occurs to receive performance control commands from the main board 11. This interrupt occurs, for example, when the performance control INT signal from the main board 11 turns on. When an interrupt occurs due to the performance control INT signal turning on, the performance control CPU 120 automatically disables the interrupt. However, if a CPU that does not automatically disable interrupts is used, it is desirable to issue an interrupt disable command (DI command). In response to the interrupt due to the performance control INT signal turning on, the performance control CPU 120 executes, for example, a specified command reception interrupt process. In this command reception interrupt process, the performance control command is captured from a specified input port included in the I/O 125 that receives the control signal transmitted from the main board 11 via the relay board 15. The captured performance control command is stored in a performance control command reception buffer, for example, provided in RAM 122. The performance control CPU 120 then enables interrupts and ends the command reception interrupt process.

If the timer interrupt flag is on in step S73 (step S73; Yes), the timer interrupt flag is cleared to an off state (step S74), and a command analysis process is executed (step S75). In the command analysis process, for example, various effect control commands transmitted from the game control microcomputer 100 on the main board 11 and stored in the effect control command reception buffer are read, and then settings and controls corresponding to the read effect control commands are performed. For example, the read effect control command may be stored in a specified area of RAM 122, or a reception flag provided in RAM 122 may be turned on, so that the effect control process process can confirm which effect control command was received and the content specified by the effect control command. Furthermore, if the effect control command specifies the game status, the display control unit 123 may be instructed to display a background corresponding to the game status.

After executing the command analysis process in step S75, the performance control process is executed (step S76). The performance control process controls the operation of various performance devices, such as the display of performance images in the display area of the image display device 5, the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R, the lighting of decorative light-emitting elements such as the game effect lamp 9 and decorative LEDs, and the driving of the movable body 32. In addition, the control content of performance operations using the various performance devices is judged, determined, and set in accordance with the performance control commands sent from the main board 11.

Following the performance control process in step S76, a performance random number update process is executed (step S77), and at least a portion of the performance random numbers used on the performance control board 12 is updated by software. Then, processing returns to step S73. Other processing may be executed before returning to step S73.

Figure 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing executed in step S76 of Figure 6 as the performance control process. In the performance control process shown in Figure 7, the performance control CPU 120 first executes a pre-reading notice setting process (step S161). In the pre-reading notice setting process, for example, judgments, decisions, and settings are made to execute a pre-reading notice performance based on the performance control command sent from the main board 11 at the time of the initial winning. In addition, processing is executed to display a hold display based on the number of hold memories identified from the performance control command.

After executing the processing of step S161, the performance control CPU 120 selects and executes one of the following processing steps S170 to S177, depending on the value of a performance process flag stored in RAM 122, for example.

The variable display start waiting process of step S170 is executed when the value of the effect process flag is "0" (initial value). This variable display start waiting process includes a process of determining whether to start variable display of decorative patterns on the image display device 5 based on whether a command specifying the start of variable display has been received from the main board 11. If it is determined that variable display of decorative patterns on the image display device 5 should be started, the value of the effect process flag is updated to "1" and the variable display start waiting process ends.

The variable display start setting process of step S171 is executed when the value of the effect process flag is "1". In this variable display start setting process, the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern (confirmed decorative pattern), the mode of the variable display of the decorative pattern, whether or not various effects such as reach effects and various preview effects will be executed, their mode, and the start timing of execution are determined based on the display result and variation pattern specified by the effect control command. Then, a performance control pattern (a collection of control data for instructing the display control unit 123 to execute an effect) that reflects the determined results is set. Thereafter, based on the set performance control pattern, the display control unit 123 is instructed to start execution of the variable display of the decorative pattern, the value of the effect process flag is updated to "2", and the variable display start setting process is terminated. In response to the instruction to start execution of the variable display of the decorative pattern, the display control unit 123 starts the variable display of the decorative pattern on the image display device 5.

The variable display effect processing of step S172 is executed when the effect process flag value is "2." In this variable display effect processing, the effect control CPU 120 instructs the display control unit 123 to display an effect image based on the effect control pattern set in step S171 on the display screen of the image display device 5, drive the movable body 32, output audio and sound effects from the speakers 8L and 8R in response to a command (sound effect signal) to the audio control board 13, and turn on/off/blink the game effect lamp 9 and decorative LEDs in response to a command (illumination signal) to the lamp control board 14. After performing these effect controls, the CPU 120 displays the fixed decorative pattern, which is the result of the display of the decorative pattern, in a static state, for example, in response to reading an end code indicating the end of the variable display of the decorative pattern from the effect control pattern or receiving a command from the main board 11 specifying the static display of the fixed decorative pattern. When the final decorative pattern is displayed in a static state, the value of the effect process flag is updated to "3" and the variable display effect processing ends.

The special symbol win wait process of step S173 is executed when the value of the presentation process flag is "3." During this special symbol win wait process, the presentation control CPU 120 determines whether a presentation control command specifying the start of a big hit game state or a small hit game state has been received from the main board 11. Then, when a presentation control command specifying the start of a big hit game state or a small hit game state is received, if the command specifies the start of a big hit game state, the value of the presentation process flag is updated to "6." On the other hand, if the command specifies the start of a small hit game state, the value of the presentation process flag is updated to "4," which corresponds to the small hit presentation process. Furthermore, if a command specifying the start of a big hit game state or a small hit game state has not been received and the waiting time for receiving the command has elapsed, the display result in the special symbol game is determined to be a "miss," and the value of the presentation process flag is updated to its initial value of "0." Once the value of the performance process flag is updated, the special drawing hit waiting process will end.

The small win presentation processing in step S174 is executed when the presentation control process flag value is "4". In this small win presentation processing, the presentation control CPU 120 sets a presentation control pattern, etc., corresponding to the presentation content in the small win gaming state, and executes various presentation controls in the small win gaming state based on the set content. In addition, in the small win presentation processing, for example, in response to receiving a command from the main board 11 specifying the end of the small win gaming state, the value of the presentation process flag is updated to "5", which corresponds to the small win end presentation, and the small win presentation processing is terminated.

The small win end presentation process in step S175 is executed when the presentation control process flag value is "5". In this small win end presentation process, the presentation control CPU 120 sets a presentation control pattern corresponding to, for example, the end of the small win game state, and executes various presentation controls at the end of the small win game state based on the settings. The presentation process flag value is then updated to its initial value of "0", and the small win end presentation process is terminated.

The jackpot presentation processing of step S176 is executed when the presentation process flag value is "6." In this jackpot presentation processing, the presentation control CPU 120 sets a presentation control pattern, etc., corresponding to the presentation content in the jackpot gaming state, and executes various presentation controls in the jackpot gaming state based on the set content. Furthermore, in the jackpot presentation processing, for example, in response to receiving a command from the main board 11 specifying the end of the jackpot gaming state, the value of the presentation control process flag is updated to "7," which corresponds to the ending presentation processing, and the jackpot presentation processing ends.

The ending presentation process of step S177 is executed when the presentation process flag value is "7". In this ending presentation process, the presentation control CPU 120 sets a presentation control pattern corresponding to, for example, the end of a jackpot gaming state, and executes various presentation controls for the ending presentation at the end of the jackpot gaming state based on the settings. The presentation process flag value is then updated to its initial value of "0", and the ending presentation process is terminated.

(Variations of the basic explanation)
This invention is not limited to the pachinko gaming machine 1 described in the basic explanation above, and various modifications and applications are possible within the scope that does not deviate from the spirit of the present invention.

The pachinko gaming machine 1 described above is a payout gaming machine that pays out a predetermined number of gaming media as prizes when a prize is won, but it may also be an enclosed gaming machine that encloses gaming media and awards points when a prize is won.

Only one type of symbol (for example, a symbol showing "-") may be displayed during the variable display of the special symbol, and the variable display may be achieved by repeatedly displaying and extinguishing that symbol. Furthermore, even if the symbol is displayed during the variable display, that symbol may not be displayed when the variable display is stopped (the display result may not show the symbol showing "-").

In the above basic explanation, a pachinko gaming machine 1 was shown as the gaming machine, but the present invention can also be applied to slot machines (for example, slot machines equipped with one or more of big bonus, regular bonus, RT, AT, ART, CZ (hereinafter referred to as bonus, etc.)) that can play a game in which medals are inserted and a predetermined bet amount is set, multiple types of symbols are rotated in response to the player's operation of the control lever, and when the symbols are stopped in response to the player's operation of the stop button, a specific combination of symbols is formed, and a predetermined number of medals is paid out to the player.

The programs and data for realizing the present invention are not limited to being distributed or provided to the computer device included in the pachinko gaming machine 1 via a removable recording medium, but may also be distributed by being pre-installed on a storage device of the computer device. Furthermore, by providing a communications processing unit, the programs and data for realizing the present invention may also be distributed by being downloaded from another device on a network connected via a communications line, etc.

Games can be executed not only by inserting a removable recording medium, but also by downloading programs and data via a communication line, temporarily storing them in internal memory, or by directly executing the game using the hardware resources of another device on a network connected via a communication line. Furthermore, the game can also be executed by exchanging data with another computer device via a network.

In this specification, expressions used to compare various percentages, such as the execution rate of effects (such as "high," "low," and "different") may include cases where one is a "0%" percentage. For example, this also includes cases where one is a "0%" percentage and the other is a "100%" percentage or a percentage less than "100%."

(Explanation of characteristic part 010IW)
Next, the characteristic section 010IW of this embodiment will be described. In this characteristic section 010IW, the game state is controlled to either the normal state (non-high base state (low base state)) or the high base state. In this example, in the high base state, the average normal symbol fluctuation time is shortened compared to the normal state, and the probability of a "normal symbol win" in the normal symbol game is higher compared to the normal state. For example, while the normal symbol win probability is 10% in the normal state, in the high base state, the normal symbol win probability is increased to 90%, making it easier for the game ball to enter the variable prize ball device 6B (second start prize opening). However, this is not limited to such a configuration. For example, in the high base state, the opening time of the variable prize ball device 6B may be lengthened compared to the normal state, making it easier for the game ball to enter the variable prize ball device 6B (second start prize opening). In addition, in the high base state, the average fluctuation time may be shortened compared to the normal state, making it easier for game balls to enter the variable winning ball device 6B (second starting winning port).

In this example, the variable display of the second special symbol is likely to be executed in the high base state, but as will be described later, the system is configured so that a small win can only be determined when the variable display of the second special symbol is executed, so the high base state is likely to be controlled to a small win game state.

(Board configuration)
8-1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine with characteristic part 010IW. In the pachinko gaming machine 1 with characteristic part 010IW, in the gaming area, a first path among the paths along which gaming balls flow down is mainly provided in an area to the left of the image display device 5 when viewed from the front, and a second path among the paths along which gaming balls flow down, which is different from the first path, is mainly provided in an area to the right of the image display device 5 when viewed from the front.

Hitting a game ball into the left area (left game area) of the image display device 5 to make it flow down the first path is called a left hit. Hitting a game ball into the right area (right game area) of the image display device 5 to make it flow down the second path is called a right hit. The first path is a path that allows game balls to flow down by hitting the game ball into the left side of the game area, so it may also be called the left hit path. Furthermore, the second path is a path that allows game balls to flow down by hitting the game ball into the right side of the game area, so it may also be called the right hit path.

The first and second paths may be separate paths, or may share a portion of the path. The left and right play areas may be separated, for example, by the edge of the image display device 5 or the arrangement of the play pins within the play area.

When a gaming ball is launched from the ball launching device in response to operation of the ball operating handle 30 and hit into the gaming area, if it is guided to the left gaming area, it will be guided, for example, along the arrangement of gaming pins, making it impossible or difficult to guide it to the right gaming area. Furthermore, when a gaming ball is guided to the right gaming area, it will be guided, for example, along the arrangement of gaming pins, making it impossible or difficult to guide it to the left gaming area.

A winning ball device 6A, which constitutes the first starting winning hole, is provided as a structure through which game balls hit into the left game area of the game area can enter.

The structures through which game balls hit into the right game area can enter include a passing gate 41, a variable winning ball device 6B which constitutes the second start winning opening, a special variable winning ball device 010IW17 which constitutes the special winning opening, and a special variable winning ball device 7 which constitutes the large winning opening.

In the left play area, game nails are planted so that game balls are guided to the winning ball device 6A of the prize opening structure. Therefore, when aiming to have the game ball enter the winning ball device 6A, the player simply hits the game ball to the left. In the right play area, game nails are planted so that game balls are guided to the variable winning ball device 6B, passing gate 41, special variable winning ball device 010IW17, and special variable winning ball device 7 of the prize opening structure. Therefore, when aiming to have the game ball enter the variable winning ball device 6B, passing gate 41, special variable winning ball device 010IW17, and special variable winning ball device 7, the player simply hits the game ball to the right.

It is also possible for a game ball hit into the right game area to have the potential to enter the winning ball device 6A, but from a playability perspective, it is desirable that this possibility be extremely low compared to the possibility of a game ball hit into the left game area entering them. Conversely, it is also possible for a game ball hit into the left game area to have the potential to enter the passing gate 41 and the variable winning ball device 6B, but from a playability perspective, it is desirable that this possibility be extremely low compared to the possibility of a game ball hit into the right game area entering them.

The special variable winning ball device 010IW17 is a device that determines whether a game ball has entered the V-shaped area, which is a condition for generating a big win when a small win occurs.

(Special variable winning ball device)
FIG. 8-2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the configuration of the special variable winning ball device 010IW17 in this characteristic part 010IW. As shown in FIG. 8-2, the special variable winning ball device 010IW17 is provided with a plate-shaped bottom member 010IW17a formed as the bottom surface of the flow path through which the game ball flows. In a small win game state, the bottom member 010IW17a is moved forward from a closed state in which it is moved forward, and then the bottom member 010IW17a is moved backward to open the special winning port, which is the winning area. A game ball that enters the special winning port is detected by the special winning port switch 010IW24.

In this example, if a game ball enters the special variable prize ball device 7 (large prize opening) and is detected by the count switch 23, 15 prize balls will be awarded, whereas if a game ball enters the special variable prize ball device 010IW17 (special prize opening) and is detected by the special prize opening switch 010IW24, 3 prize balls will be awarded.

In addition, the bottom member 010IW17a is controlled from a closed state to an open state by the game control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the CPU 103) driving the solenoid 010IW83.

In this feature unit 010IW, as shown in Figure 8-2, a game ball that enters the special variable winning ball device 010IW17 (special winning port) is further guided to the guide path 010IW01 located to the right of the special variable winning ball device 010IW17. The guide path 010IW01 further branches into two paths 010IW02 and 03, and a game ball guided to the guide path 010IW01 is guided to the left path 010IW02 or the right path 010IW03. The left path 010IW02 is the V winning port, and a game ball that enters the V winning port is detected by the V winning port switch 010IW25.

As shown in Figure 8-2, a V entry opening/closing plate 010IW04 is provided near the entrance to the left path 010IW02 (V entry opening). When the V entry opening/closing plate 010IW04 is open, a game ball guided along the guide path 010IW01 enters the left path 010IW02 (V entry opening) and can win a V prize. Furthermore, when the V entry opening/closing plate 010IW04 is closed, a game ball guided along the guide path 010IW01 enters the right path 010IW03 and is ejected to the back of the game area.

The V winning opening opening/closing plate 010IW04 is controlled from a closed state to an open state by the game control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the CPU 103) driving the solenoid 010IW84.

Furthermore, when this feature unit 010IW is controlled to a small win gaming state, if a gaming ball enters the V winning slot 010IW02 during that small win gaming state and is detected by the V winning slot switch 010IW25, it will be controlled to a big win gaming state after the small win gaming state ends.

In addition, in this example, the special variable winning ball device 010IW17 is formed with multiple regulating pieces that slow the speed at which game balls flow down the bottom member 010IW17a. In this example, the provision of the regulating pieces in the special variable winning ball device 010IW17 changes the direction of the game balls flowing down from the upper right to the lower left, causing them to snake with a forward-backward component of movement, and the time it takes for the game balls to flow down is slower than if the regulating pieces were not present.

In this example, as shown in Figure 8-2, within the special variable winning ball device 010IW17 (special winning port), the special winning port switch 010IW24 is provided on the upstream side, and on the downstream side it branches into a V winning port and an outlet, with the V winning port switch 010IW25 provided on the V winning port side, but this is not limited to this configuration. For example, it may be configured so that the special variable winning ball device 010IW17 (special winning port) branches into a V winning port side and a general winning port side on the upstream side, with the V winning port switch 010IW25 provided on the V winning port side and the special winning port switch 010IW24 provided on the general winning port side.

(Board configuration)
8-3 is a configuration diagram showing various control boards and the like in the characteristic part 010IW. As shown in FIG. 8-3, in this characteristic part 010IW, the switch circuit 110 takes in detection signals (such as detection signals indicating that a game ball has passed or entered and the switch has been turned on) from the gate switch 21, the start port switch (first start port switch 22A and second start port switch 22B), the count switch 23, the special prize port switch 010IW24, and the V prize port switch 010IW25, and transmits them to the game control microcomputer 100. The transmission of the detection signals indicates that the game ball has passed or entered.

The solenoid circuit 111 transmits solenoid drive signals (for example, signals to turn on solenoid 81, solenoid 82, solenoid 010IW83, and solenoid 010IW84) from the game control microcomputer 100 to the solenoid 81 for the normal electric device, the solenoid 82 for the large prize opening door (special variable prize ball device 7), the solenoid 010IW83 for the special variable prize ball device 010IW17, and the solenoid 010IW84 for the V prize opening opening/closing plate 010IW04.

(Big hit determination table and small hit determination table)
8-4 is an explanatory diagram showing examples of a jackpot determination table and a small jackpot determination table. Of these, FIG. 8-4(A) shows an example of a jackpot determination table. In this example, as shown in FIG. 8-4, whether the first special symbol variable display or the second special symbol variable display is executed, it is determined that the probability of a jackpot is approximately 1/300.

Figure 8-4 (B) shows an example of a small win determination table when the first special symbol variable display is executed. Also, Figure 8-4 (C) shows an example of a small win determination table when the second special symbol variable display is executed. As shown in Figure 8-4 (B), in this example, when the first special symbol variable display is executed, the small win probability is 0%. Also, as shown in Figure 8-4 (C), in this example, when the second special symbol variable display is executed, it is determined that there is a small win probability of approximately 17.4%.

(Big hit type determination table, small hit type determination table)
8-5(A) and (B) are explanatory diagrams showing the jackpot type determination table stored in the ROM 101. Of these, FIG. 8-5(A) shows a specific example of the jackpot type determination table for the first special symbol. Also, FIG. 8-5(B) shows a specific example of the jackpot type determination table for the second special symbol.

As shown in Figure 8-5 (A), the jackpot type determination table for the first special symbol is a table that is referenced when a determination is made that the variable display result will be a jackpot symbol, to determine the type of jackpot as either "7R jackpot A" or "7R jackpot B" based on the random number used for type determination.

As shown in Figure 8-5 (B), the jackpot type determination table for the second special symbol is a table that is referenced when a determination is made that the variable display result will be a jackpot symbol, to determine the type of jackpot as either a "10R jackpot" or a "4R jackpot" based on the random number used for type determination.

"7R Jackpot A" is a jackpot that controls the game to a 7-round jackpot game state, and then transitions to a high base state after the jackpot game state ends. Once the game transitions to the high base state, the high base state will be maintained until the 99-time variable display ends or the next jackpot occurs.

"7R Jackpot B" is a jackpot that controls the game to a 7-round jackpot game state, and then transitions to a high base state after the jackpot game state ends. Once the game transitions to the high base state, the high base state is maintained until one variable display ends or the next jackpot occurs.

A "10R jackpot" is a jackpot that controls the game to a 10-round jackpot game state, and then transitions to a high base state after the jackpot game state ends. Once the game transitions to the high base state, the high base state will be maintained until the 99th or 4th variable display has ended, or until the next jackpot occurs.

A "4R jackpot" is a jackpot that controls the game to a 4-round jackpot game state, and then transitions to a high base state after the jackpot game state ends. Once the game transitions to the high base state, the high base state will be maintained until the 99th or 4th variable display has ended, or until the next jackpot occurs.

In this example, if a "10R jackpot" or "4R jackpot" occurs during normal mode, the four variable displays will end, or the high base state will be maintained until the next jackpot occurs. Also, if a "10R jackpot" or "4R jackpot" occurs during high base mode, the 99 variable displays will end, or the high base state will be maintained until the next jackpot occurs.

In this example, when controlled to a high base state, the high base count can be as low as 1 or 4, or as high as 99. A high base state with a low high base count of 1 or 4 is also referred to as the "first high base state," and a high base state with a high high base count of 99 is also referred to as the "second high base state."

In this example, when the variable display of the second special symbol is executed and a "10R jackpot" or "4R jackpot" occurs, the high base count is shown as either 4 or 99 depending on whether the state is normal or high base, but this is not limited to this. For example, when the variable display of the second special symbol is executed, a jackpot type may be set in which the high base count is uniformly 99 with a low probability.

As shown in Figure 8-5 (A), in this example, when the first special symbol variable display is executed and a jackpot occurs, there is a 5% probability that it will be determined as a "7R jackpot A," and a 95% probability that it will be determined as a "7R jackpot B." Also, as shown in Figure 8-5 (B), in this example, when the second special symbol variable display is executed and a jackpot occurs, there is a 50% probability that it will be determined as a "10R jackpot," and a 50% probability that it will be determined as a "4R jackpot."

Figure 8-5 (C) is an explanatory diagram showing the small win type determination table stored in ROM 101. In this example, a small win may occur only when the variable display of the second special symbol is executed, so the small win type determination table shown in Figure 8-5 (C) is used when the variable display of the second special symbol is executed.

As shown in Figure 8-5 (C), the small win type determination table for the second special symbol is a table that is referenced when a determination is made that the variable display result will be a small win symbol, to determine the type of small win as either "small win A" or "small win B" based on the random number used for type determination.

"Small Hit A" is a small hit that is configured to allow for a V win during small hit play. Provided that a V win occurs during small hit play (first round), the game is controlled to a big hit play state from rounds 2 to 10, and transitions to a high base state after the big hit play state ends. Once the game transitions to the high base state, the high base state is maintained until the 99th or 4th variable display has ended, or until the next big hit occurs.

In this example, after a "small hit A" occurs during normal mode, a V is won, and the jackpot game ends, the high base state is maintained until four variable displays end or the next jackpot occurs. Also, after a "small hit A" occurs during high base mode, a V is won, and the jackpot game ends, the high base state is maintained until 99 variable displays end or the next jackpot occurs.

A "small hit B" is a small hit that is configured so that a V entry is not possible during small hit play; V entry does not occur during small hit play, and there is no transition to a big hit play after the small hit play ends. However, if a small hit B occurs during the second high base state, the second high base state ends when the small hit play ends, and the state transitions to the normal state. Therefore, since a "small hit B" is also a condition for ending the second high base state, it is also called a "falling small hit."

As shown in Figure 8-5(C), in this example, of the 780 determination values for the type determination random number between "0" and "779," 640 are assigned to "small win A" and 140 are assigned to "small win B." As shown in Figure 8-4(C), in this example, the small win probability itself is approximately 17.4%, so the total probability of a "small win A" is 17.4 x 640/780, or approximately 1/7. Also, the total probability of a "small win B" is 17.4 x 140/780, or approximately 1/32.

(Small win game opening pattern)
Next, the opening pattern of the small win game will be explained. Figure 8-6 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the opening pattern of the small win game. As shown in Figure 8-6, after the small win game starts at timing S1, when 8 seconds have passed (timing S2), the V winning opening opening/closing plate 010IW04 is controlled to an open state, and thereafter, the V winning opening opening/closing plate 010IW04 continues to be open until 8 seconds have passed (see Figure 8-6 (D)).

In the event of a small win A, a period of 8 seconds is set as the pre-opening time (fanfare time) between the start of small win gameplay and the time the special variable winning ball device 010IW17 is controlled to the open state. The V winning opening opening/closing plate 010IW04 is controlled to the open state, and at the same time, the special variable winning ball device 010IW17 (special winning opening) is controlled to the open state. Also, as shown in Figure 8-6 (1), during the period in which the V winning opening opening/closing plate 010IW04 is controlled to the open state, the special winning opening is opened four times for 0.016 seconds each. Therefore, in the event of a small win A, the special winning opening is opened four times for 0.016 seconds each during the period in which a V winning is possible.

In this example, the opening time of each special winning port for small win A is an extremely short 0.016 seconds. However, as already explained, the special variable winning ball device 010IW17 is formed with multiple regulating pieces, and approximately 2 to 3 game balls snake down the bottom member 010IW17a of the special variable winning ball device 010IW17. Therefore, even if the opening time is short, if the bottom member 010IW17a is controlled to the open state, the game balls on the bottom member 010IW17a can fall into the special variable winning ball device 010IW17 and win a prize.

If a game ball enters the special winning opening and forms a V-win, after the final opening of the special winning opening, a predetermined period of closing time (interval time) and the end time of the small win (ending time) have passed, and then the game transitions to a big win game state, and the special variable winning ball device 7 is controlled to the open state from the second round to the tenth round, as shown in Figure 8-6 (2).

In this example, when the final opening of the special winning port during small win play is completed, the small win play ends based on the lapse of the closing time (interval time) and small win end time (ending time), but this is not limited to this configuration. For example, detection switches capable of detecting game balls may be provided in two locations, one upstream and one downstream, within the special variable winning ball device 010IW17 (special winning port), and after the final closing time (interval time) has elapsed, the system may wait until the detection numbers on the upstream detection switch and the downstream detection switch match (all game balls that entered the special winning port have been discharged) before transitioning to the small win end time (ending time), and the small win play ends when the small win end time (ending time) has elapsed.

On the other hand, in the case of a small win B, the time before the special winning opening is set to 3.8 seconds (fanfare time), and as shown in Figure 8-6 (3), the special variable winning ball device 010IW17 (special winning opening) is controlled to an open state for 1.6 seconds 3.8 seconds after the start of the small win game. Therefore, 5.4 seconds after the start of the small win game, the special winning opening is already in a closed state, and even if the V winning opening plate 010IW20 is controlled to an open state 8 seconds after the start of the small win game, V winning is not possible. Furthermore, in the case of a small win B, the V winning opening plate 010IW20 is controlled to a closed state after the closing time (interval time) after the special winning opening has finished opening and the small win end time (ending time) have passed, without waiting for the end of the 8-second opening time.

(Fluctuation pattern table)
FIG. 8-7 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a fluctuation pattern table in the feature part 010IW. Of these, FIG. 8-7(A) shows a specific example of a fluctuation pattern table for the first special symbol. Also, FIG. 8-7(B) shows a specific example of a fluctuation pattern table [for normal state] for the second special symbol. Also, FIG. 8-7(C) shows a specific example of a fluctuation pattern table [for first high base state] for the second special symbol. Also, FIG. 8-7(D) shows a specific example of a fluctuation pattern table [for second high base state] for the second special symbol.

First, using Figure 8-7(A), we will explain the fluctuation pattern of the first special symbol. As shown in Figure 8-7(A), in this example, when the fluctuation display of the first special symbol is executed, if a miss occurs during the normal state, the fluctuation pattern is determined to be one of fluctuation pattern PA1-1 (normal fluctuation), fluctuation pattern PA1-2 (shortened fluctuation), fluctuation pattern PA2-1 (normal reach), fluctuation pattern PA2-2 (super reach α), or fluctuation pattern PA2-3 (super reach β). Also, when the fluctuation display of the first special symbol is executed, if a miss occurs during the high base state (first high base state, second high base state), the fluctuation pattern is determined to be one of fluctuation pattern PA1-3 (shortened fluctuation), fluctuation pattern PA2-1 (normal reach), fluctuation pattern PA2-2 (super reach α), or fluctuation pattern PA2-3 (super reach β).

Also, as shown in Figure 8-7 (A), in this example, when the first special symbol fluctuation display is executed, if a jackpot occurs during the normal state, the fluctuation pattern is determined to be one of fluctuation pattern PB1-1 (normal reach), fluctuation pattern PB1-2 (super reach α), or fluctuation pattern PB1-3 (super reach β).Also, when the first special symbol fluctuation display is executed, if a jackpot occurs during the high base state, the fluctuation pattern is determined to be one of fluctuation pattern PB1-1 (normal reach), fluctuation pattern PB1-2 (super reach α), fluctuation pattern PB1-3 (super reach β), or fluctuation pattern PB1-4 (shortened fluctuation).

Next, we will explain the fluctuation pattern of the second special symbol using Figures 8-7 (B) to (D). As shown in Figure 8-7 (B), in this example, when the fluctuation display of the second special symbol is executed, if a miss occurs during normal operation, the fluctuation pattern is determined to be fluctuation pattern PA3-1. Also, as shown in Figure 8-7 (B), when the fluctuation display of the second special symbol is executed, if a big win occurs during normal operation, the fluctuation pattern is determined to be fluctuation pattern PB3-1. Also, as shown in Figure 8-7 (B), when the fluctuation display of the second special symbol is executed, if a small win occurs during normal operation, the fluctuation pattern is determined to be fluctuation pattern PC3-1.

Also, as shown in Figure 8-7 (C), in this example, when the second special symbol variable display is executed, if a miss occurs during the first high base state, the variable pattern is determined to be variable pattern PD1-1. In this example, during the first high base state, a special display mode is executed, and internally, one variable display is executed over a variable time of 300 seconds, but visually, 10 pseudo variable displays (hereinafter referred to as pseudo-variations) are executed during one variable display. The specific display content during the special display mode is determined by the display control CPU 120; for example, in the case of a big win variable or a small win A variable, a reach display is executed during the final pseudo-variation, and a display is executed in which the winning symbol is displayed stationary.

Also, as shown in Figure 8-7 (D), in this example, when the second special symbol variable display is executed, if a miss occurs during the second high base state, the variable pattern is determined to be variable pattern PD1-2 or variable pattern PD1-3. In this example, variable pattern PD1-2 is mainly selected during the second high base state, and a specific display mode is executed; internally, one variable display is executed over a variable time of 120 seconds, but visually, four pseudo-variations are executed during one variable display. The specific display content during the specific display mode is determined by the display control CPU 120; for example, in the case of a big win variable or a small win A variable, a reach display is executed during the last pseudo-variation, and an effect is executed in which the winning symbol is displayed stationary.

Also, as shown in Figure 8-7 (D), if a small hit B (small fall hit) occurs even during the second high base state, variation pattern PD1-3 is selected and the mode switches to special presentation mode, and internally one variation display is executed over a variation time of 400 seconds, but visually 10 pseudo-variations are executed during one variation display. Therefore, in this example, if the mode switches to special presentation mode during the specific presentation mode, a small hit B will occur, making the player aware that the second high base state may end.

In this example, as shown in Figures 8-7 (C) and (D), in the special presentation mode during the first high base state, variation pattern PD1-1 is selected and a 300-second presentation is executed internally, whereas when variation pattern PD1-3 is selected during the second high base and the mode switches to the special presentation mode, a 400-second presentation is executed internally. Therefore, in this example, in the special presentation mode during the first high base state, there is a higher probability of relatively short pseudo-variations, such as non-reach, being executed compared to when the mode switches to the special presentation mode during the second high base.

In addition, in this example, as shown in Figure 8-7 (D), even if a small hit A occurs during the second high base state, variation pattern PD1-3 may be selected and the game may switch to the special effect mode. Therefore, it is possible to create an unexpected effect in which the game switches to the special effect mode during the specific effect mode, making the player think that the second high base state may end, and then the game returns to a small hit A and transitions to a big hit game after a V win.

In this example, variation pattern PD1-2 is also selected in the case of a miss variation, but since the probability of a miss is overwhelmingly higher compared to a big hit or small hit, the probability of a small hit A is relatively higher when variation pattern PD1-3 is selected than when variation pattern PD1-2 is selected. Therefore, the reliability is higher when variation pattern PD1-3 is selected, switching from specific presentation mode to special presentation mode and resulting in a small hit A, than when variation pattern PD1-2 is selected and a hit occurs directly from specific presentation mode and resulting in a small hit A.

For example, if variation pattern PD1-3 is selected and the specific presentation mode switches to special presentation mode, resulting in small win A, the game may transition to a jackpot game with a larger number of rounds after winning a V, and a larger number of prize balls may be awarded, compared to when variation pattern PD1-2 is selected and the game goes straight from the specific presentation mode to a small win A.

In addition, in this example, in the normal symbol process processing (step S26), the CPU 103 determines whether the result of the normal symbol variable display is a win (normal symbol win), and controls the execution of the normal symbol variable display based on the result of that determination. In this example, in the normal state, it determines that there is a 10% probability of a normal symbol win, and in the high base state, it determines that there is a 90% probability of a normal symbol win. In addition, in the normal symbol process processing (step S26), the CPU 103 controls the variable winning ball device 6B (second starting winning port) to an open state based on the determination that there is a normal symbol win.

(Game flow)
Here, the flow of the game in this feature part 010IW will be explained. In this example, when the game state is in the normal state (normal state (non-high base state)), the player aims the game ball at the left side of the game area and performs the firing operation (so-called left shot). In this example, a game ball that enters the left area of the game area cannot or has difficulty entering the second start winning slot. Since the probability of a normal winning is low in the normal state, it is extremely rare for a game ball to enter the second start winning slot, and the variable display of the first special symbol is almost always executed. Therefore, in this example, small winnings rarely occur during the normal state.

Next, when a jackpot symbol is derived and displayed in the first special symbol variable display during normal mode, the game state is controlled to a jackpot game state (the so-called first jackpot game state). After the jackpot game state ends, the game state is controlled to a high base state, and since the probability of a 7R jackpot B is high at 95%, the high base state (first high base state) is generally maintained on the first jackpot until the first variable display ends (in the rare case of a 7R special jackpot A with a 5% probability, the first jackpot may immediately transition to a 99-time high base state (second high base state)).

In addition, if the transition to the second high base state occurs immediately upon the first hit, for example, the transition to the second high base state may not be announced during play of the initial jackpot, but instead the first variable display after the transition to the second high base state may intentionally execute a display corresponding to the same special display mode as the first high base state, and after it is announced that the first variable display will not result in a jackpot or small jackpot, it may be configured to announce that the player is in the second high base state and transition to the specific display mode. Also, for example, the configuration may be such that after the transition to the second high base state, a display corresponding to the special display mode is executed until the fifth variable display (i.e., one variable display in the first high base state and a number of variable displays corresponding to the four remaining reserved positions), and after it is announced that none of the variable displays until the fifth variable display result in a jackpot or small jackpot, it may be configured to announce that the player is in the second high base state and transition to the specific display mode.

When the game is controlled to the high base state (first high base state), the player aims the game ball to the right of the game area and launches it (a so-called right shot). In this example, a game ball that enters the right area of the game area cannot or will have difficulty entering the first start entry slot. Since the probability of a normal win is high in the high base state (and the variable display of the second special symbol is executed in priority over the variable display of the first special symbol), the variable display of the second special symbol will be executed in the first high base state. Furthermore, in this case, although the high base count itself is one, a maximum of four second reserve memories (hereinafter referred to as remaining reserves) can be stored during the first high base state. Therefore, a maximum of five variable displays of the second special symbol can be executed, combining one first high base state and the variable displays for the four remaining reserves. In this example, since the probability of hitting a small hit A is approximately 1/7 (see Figure 8-5 (C)), if a small hit A occurs during the five variable display of the second special symbol, the high base state can be continued. In this case, if a small hit A occurs during one first high base, the game will be controlled to the second high base state of 99 times after the big hit game after V is won, and if a small hit A occurs with the remaining reserve, the game state is already normal, so the game will be controlled to the first high base state of 4 times.

When controlled to the first high base state four times, the high base count itself is four, but since a maximum of four remaining reserves can be stored during the first high base state, the variable display of the second special symbol can be executed a maximum of eight times. In this case, if a small win A occurs during the four first high bases, the system will be controlled to the second high base state of 99 times after the big win game following the V win, and if a small win A occurs with the remaining reserves, the game state is already in the normal state, so the system will be controlled to the first high base state four times.

When controlled to the second high base state, the second high base state can be continued repeatedly as long as a small hit A occurs during that second high base state (consecutive win state). On the other hand, if a small hit B occurs during the second high base state, the second high base state ends and the game transitions to the normal state, even before the 99 variable displays have finished, without a V being won during small hit play. However, even in this case, since it is possible to accumulate up to four remaining reserves, if a small hit A occurs with the remaining reserves, the game can return to the first high base state again. If there are no remaining reserves that result in a small hit A, the game will return to the normal state and the consecutive win state will end.

Although the probability is low at approximately 1/300, a 10R or 4R jackpot may occur during a high base state or with remaining reserves, resulting in a continuation of the second high base state for 99 times or the first high base state for 4 times.

(Performance control command)
8-8 and 8-9 are explanatory diagrams showing an example of the content of a presentation control command sent to the presentation control CPU 120. In the example shown in FIGS. 8-8 and 8-9, command 80XX(H) is a presentation control command (variation pattern command) that specifies the variation pattern of the decorative symbols that are variably displayed on the image display device 5 in response to the variable display of the special symbols. Note that the presentation control command that specifies the variation pattern is also a command for specifying the start of variation. Therefore, when the presentation control CPU 120 receives any of commands 80XX(H), it controls the image display device 5 to start the variable display of the decorative symbols.

Command 9000 (H) is a performance control command (display result 1 specification command) (miss specification command) that specifies that the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern specified by the variable pattern command is a miss.

Command 9001 (H) is a presentation control command (display result 2 designation command (7R jackpot A designation command)) that specifies that the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern specified by the variation pattern command is a 7R jackpot A. Command 9002 (H) is a presentation control command (display result 3 designation command (7R jackpot B designation command)) that specifies that the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern specified by the variation pattern command is a 7R jackpot B. Command 9003 (H) is a presentation control command (display result 4 designation command (10R jackpot designation command)) that specifies that the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern specified by the variation pattern command is a 10R jackpot. Command 9004 (H) is a presentation control command (display result 5 designation command (4R jackpot designation command)) that specifies that the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern specified by the variation pattern command is a 4R jackpot.

Command 9005 (H) is a presentation control command (display result 6 designation command (small win A designation command)) that specifies that the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern specified by the variation pattern command is small win A. Command 9006 (H) is a presentation control command (display result 7 designation command (small win B designation command)) that specifies that the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern specified by the variation pattern command is small win B.

Command A000 (H) is a presentation control command (first pattern determination command) that can specify that the variable display of the first special pattern will be stopped. Command A100 (H) is a presentation control command (second pattern determination command) that can specify that the variable display of the second special pattern will be stopped.

Command B000 (H) is a presentation control command (jackpot start designation command: fanfare designation command) that specifies the start of jackpot play. Command B001 (H) is a presentation control command (jackpot end designation command: ending designation command) that specifies the end of jackpot play.

Command B1XX (H) is a presentation control command (large prize opening display command) that specifies the display during a round during jackpot play. The number of rounds to be displayed is set in "XX." Command B2XX (H) is a presentation control command (large prize opening display command) that specifies the display after a round during jackpot play (display of the interval between rounds).

Command B300 (H) is a presentation control command (small jackpot start command) that specifies the start of small jackpot play. Command B301 (H) is a presentation control command (small jackpot end command) that specifies the end of small jackpot play.

Note that while this example shows a case where a common small hit start command and small hit end command are sent regardless of whether it is small hit A or small hit B, this is not a limited configuration. For example, a small hit start command and small hit end command for small hit A may be sent, as well as a small hit start command and small hit end command for small hit B, and different commands may be sent depending on whether it is small hit A or small hit B. In this case, for example, in the case of small hit B, the small hit start period and small hit end period may be shortened compared to small hit A, so that the small hit game ends in a shorter period, and the presentation control CPU 120 may be configured to be able to identify the small hit presentation period depending on which small hit type the small hit start command and small hit end command corresponding to is received.

Command B400 (H) is a presentation control command (large prize entry designation command) that specifies that a game ball has entered the large prize entry port. Command B401 (H) is a presentation control command (special prize entry designation command) that specifies that a game ball has entered the special prize entry port. Command B402 (H) is a presentation control command (V prize entry designation command) that specifies that a game ball has entered the V prize entry port within the special prize entry port.

Command C000 (H) is a presentation control command (first pending memory number addition command) that specifies that the first pending memory number has increased by 1. Command C001 (H) is a presentation control command (second pending memory number addition command) that specifies that the second pending memory number has increased by 1. Command C100 (H) is a presentation control command (first pending memory number subtraction command) that specifies that the first pending memory number has decreased by 1. Command C101 (H) is a presentation control command (second pending memory number subtraction command) that specifies that the second pending memory number has decreased by 1.

Commands C4XX(H) and C6XX(H) are presentation control commands (prize winning judgment result designation commands) that indicate the content of the winning judgment results. Of these, command C4XX(H) is a presentation control command (symbol designation command) that indicates the judgment results of the winning judgment results, such as whether or not there will be a big win, a small win, the type of big win, and the type of small win. Furthermore, command C6XX(H) is a presentation control command (variation category command) that indicates the judgment results of the variation pattern or variation pattern type, among the winning judgment results.

Command E000 (H) is a presentation control command (normal state designation command) that specifies that the game state is controlled to the normal state. Command E001 (H) is a presentation control command (first high base state designation command) that specifies that the game state is controlled to the first high base state. Command E002 (H) is a presentation control command (second high base state designation command) that specifies that the game state is controlled to the second high base state.

When the presentation control CPU 120 (specifically, the presentation control CPU 120) mounted on the presentation control board 12 receives the above-mentioned presentation control command from the game control microcomputer 100 mounted on the main board 11, it changes the display state of the image display device 5 according to the contents shown in Figures 8-8 and 8-9, changes the display state of the lamps, and outputs sound number data to the sound control board 13. Presentation control commands other than those shown in Figures 8-8 and 8-9 are also transmitted from the main board 11 to the presentation control board 12. For example, more detailed presentation control commands related to jackpot games and presentation control commands indicating the game status (for example, a presentation control command indicating an initialization command) are also transmitted from the main board 11 to the presentation control board 12.

(Special pattern processing)
8-10 are flowcharts showing an example of special symbol processing in the feature unit 010IW. In this example, the start winning determination process (step 010IWS101) is generally similar to the start winning determination process (step S101) shown in FIG. 5. Also, the normal special symbol processing (step 010IWS110) to the special symbol stop processing (step 010IWS113) are generally similar to the normal special symbol processing (step S110) to the special symbol stop processing (step S113) shown in FIG. 5. However, in this example, when a small win symbol is derived and displayed, the process proceeds to small win release pre-processing (step 010IWS114). Also, when a jackpot symbol is derived and displayed (in the case of a so-called direct hit), the process proceeds to jackpot release pre-processing (step 010IWS117).

Pre-small win release processing (step 010IWS114): Executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 4. The game control microcomputer 100 executes processing to control the special variable winning ball device 010IW17 to the open state, and updates the internal state (specifically, the value of the special symbol process flag) to a value (5 in this example) corresponding to the small win release processing (step 010IWS115).

Processing during small win opening (step 010IWS115): Executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 5. If the opening time has elapsed while the special variable winning ball device 010IW17 is open, the special variable winning ball device 010IW17 is controlled to the closed state. If the closing time has elapsed while the special variable winning ball device 010IW17 is closed and there are still openings remaining, the special variable winning ball device 010IW17 is controlled to the open state. Also, when it is time to open the V winning opening plate 010IW04, the V winning opening plate 010IW04 is controlled to the open state. When it is time to close the V winning opening plate 010IW04, the V winning opening plate 010IW04 is controlled to the closed state. Also, it is checked whether the V winning opening switch 010IW25 is on, and if it is on, the V winning flag is set. When all the special variable winning ball devices 010IW17 have been opened and the closing time (interval time) has elapsed, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (6 in this example) corresponding to the small win closing post-processing (step 010IWS116).

Processing after closing small win (step 010IWS116): Executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 6. If the V prize flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to the value (7 in this example) corresponding to the processing before opening the big win (step 010IWS117). If the V prize flag is not set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to the value (0 in this example) corresponding to the normal processing of special symbols (step 010IWS110).

The process from the pre-jackpot release process (step S10IWS117) to the jackpot end process (step S10IWS120) is generally similar to the process from the pre-jackpot release process (step S114) to the jackpot end process (step S117) shown in Figure 5.

In this example, the game immediately transitions to jackpot play after a jackpot has been determined and the jackpot/small jackpot symbols are derived and displayed, or after a V win occurs during small jackpot play and the small jackpot play ends, but this is not the only possible configuration. For example, rather than immediately transitioning to jackpot play, the game may be configured to transition to jackpot play only when the game ball passes through an operating gate (which may also serve as passing gate 41) provided in the play area.

(Starting winning judgment process)
8-11 is a flowchart showing the start winning determination process (step 010IWS101). In the start winning determination process, the game control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the CPU 103) first checks whether the first start port switch 22A is on (step 010IWS1211). If the first start port switch 22A is not on, the process proceeds to step 010IWS1221. If the first start port switch 22A is on, the CPU 103 checks whether the first reserved memory count has reached its upper limit (specifically, whether the value of the first reserved memory count counter for counting the first reserved memory count is 4) (step 010IWS1212).

If the first reserved memory count has not reached the upper limit, CPU 103 increments the value of the first reserved memory count counter by 1 (step 010IWS1213). CPU 103 also increments the value of the combined reserved memory count counter, which counts the total of the first reserved memory count and the second reserved memory count, by 1 (step 010IWS1214). Next, CPU 103 extracts values from the counters used to generate random numbers such as the random number for determining a win, the random number for determining the type, and the random number for determining a variation pattern, and stores these values in a storage area in the first reserved memory buffer (step 010IWS1215). A storage area corresponding to the upper limit of the first reserved memory count (4 in this example) is secured in the first reserved memory buffer and is formed in RAM 102.

Next, CPU 103 executes a win determination process to determine in advance at the time of the start win the result of the change display and the change pattern that will occur when a change based on the detected start win is subsequently executed (step 010IWS1216). CPU 103 then controls the transmission of a pattern designation command to performance control CPU 120 based on the determination result of the win determination process (step 010IWS1217), and also controls the transmission of a change category command to performance control CPU 120 (step 010IWS1218). CPU 103 also controls the transmission of a first pending memory count addition designation command to performance control CPU 120 (step 010IWS1219). Then, the process proceeds to step 010IWS1221.

Next, the CPU 103 checks whether the second start port switch 22B is on (step 010IWS1221). If the second start port switch 22B is not on, the process ends. If the second start port switch 22B is on, the CPU 103 checks whether the second reserved memory count has reached the upper limit (specifically, whether the value of the second reserved memory count counter for counting the second reserved memory count is 4) (step 010IWS1222).

If the second reserved memory count has not reached the upper limit, CPU 103 increments the value of the second reserved memory count counter by 1 (step 010IWS1223). CPU 103 also increments the value of the total reserved memory count counter by 1 (step 010IWS1224). Next, CPU 103 extracts values from the counters used to generate random numbers such as the random number for determining a win, the random number for determining the type, and the random number for determining the variation pattern, and stores these values in a storage area in the second reserved memory buffer (step 010IWS1225). Note that a storage area corresponding to the upper limit of the second reserved memory count (4 in this example) is secured in the second reserved memory buffer and is formed in RAM 102.

Next, CPU 103 executes a winning determination process (step 010IWS1226). Then, based on the determination result of the winning determination process, CPU 103 controls the transmission of a pattern designation command to presentation control CPU 120 (step 010IWS1227), and also controls the transmission of a variable category command to presentation control CPU 120 (step 010IWS1228). CPU 103 also controls the transmission of a second pending memory count addition designation command to presentation control CPU 120 (step 010IWS1229). Then, the start winning determination process ends.

(Normal processing of special patterns)
FIG. 8-12 is a flowchart showing the normal special symbol processing (step 010IWS110) in the special symbol process processing. In the normal special symbol processing, the CPU 103 checks the value of the total reserved memory count (step 010IWS51). Specifically, it checks the count value of the total reserved memory count counter, which counts the total number of the first reserved memory count and the second reserved memory count. If the total reserved memory count is not zero, the CPU 103 checks whether the second reserved memory count is zero (step 010IWS52). Specifically, it checks whether the value of the second reserved memory count counter, which counts the second reserved memory count, is zero. If the second reserved memory count is not zero, the CPU 103 sets the special symbol pointer (a flag indicating whether the special symbol process processing is being performed for the first special symbol or the second special symbol) to data indicating "second" (step 010IWS53). If the second reserved memory number is 0 (i.e., if only the first reserved memory number is accumulated), the CPU 103 sets data indicating "first" to the special pattern pointer (step 010IWS54).

In this feature section 010IW, steps 010IWS52 to 010IWS54 are executed, so that the display of the second special symbol changes takes priority over the display of the first special symbol changes. In other words, the second start condition for starting the display of the second special symbol changes is controlled to take priority over the first start condition for starting the display of the first special symbol changes.

In addition, the present invention is not limited to the configuration shown in this example, and may be configured, for example, to execute the variable display of the first special symbol and the variable display of the second special symbol in the order in which the game balls enter the first start winning slot and the second start winning slot.

Next, CPU 103 reads out each random number stored in the storage area in RAM 102 corresponding to the reserved memory number = 1 indicated by the special symbol pointer, and stores them in the random number buffer area of RAM 102 (step 010IWS55). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates "1", CPU 103 reads out each random number stored in the storage area in the first reserved memory number buffer corresponding to the first reserved memory number = 1, and stores them in the random number buffer area of RAM 102. Furthermore, when the special symbol pointer indicates "2", CPU 103 reads out each random number stored in the storage area in the second reserved memory number buffer corresponding to the second reserved memory number = 1, and stores them in the random number buffer area of RAM 102.

Then, the CPU 103 subtracts one from the count value of the reserved memory number counter indicated by the special symbol pointer, and shifts the contents of each storage area (step 010IWS56). Specifically, if the special symbol pointer indicates "first," the CPU 103 subtracts one from the count value of the first reserved memory number counter, and shifts the contents of each storage area in the first reserved memory number buffer. Furthermore, if the special symbol pointer indicates "second," the CPU 103 subtracts one from the count value of the second reserved memory number counter, and shifts the contents of each storage area in the second reserved memory number buffer.

In other words, when the special symbol pointer indicates "1," the CPU 103 stores each random number stored in the storage area in the first reserved memory number buffer of RAM 102 corresponding to first reserved memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) in the storage area corresponding to first reserved memory number = n-1. Also, when the special symbol pointer indicates "2," the CPU 103 stores each random number stored in the storage area in the second reserved memory number buffer of RAM 102 corresponding to second reserved memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) in the storage area corresponding to second reserved memory number = n-1.

Therefore, the order in which the random number values stored in the respective storage areas corresponding to each first pending memory number (or each second pending memory number) are extracted will always match the order of the first pending memory number (or second pending memory number) = 1, 2, 3, 4.

Then, the CPU 103 decrements the value of the total number of pending memories by 1. That is, it decrements the count value of the total number of pending memories counter by 1 (step 010IWS57). The CPU 103 also stores the value of the total number of pending memories counter before the count value was decremented by 1 in a specified area of the RAM 102.

Next, the CPU 103 reads the random number for hit determination from the random number buffer area (step 010IWS58) and executes the jackpot determination module (step 010IWS59). In this case, the CPU 103 reads the random number for hit determination extracted in the start winning determination process (step 010IWS101) and stored in advance in the first reserved memory buffer or the second reserved memory buffer, and performs a jackpot determination. The jackpot determination module is a program that executes processing to compare a predetermined jackpot determination value (see Figure 8-4 (A)) with the random number for hit determination, and determines that a jackpot has occurred if they match. In other words, it is a program that executes the jackpot determination process. If the value of the random number for hit determination matches one of the jackpot determination values, the CPU 103 determines that a jackpot has occurred for the special symbol. If a jackpot has been determined (Y in step 010IWS60), the process proceeds to step 010IWS61. On the other hand, if it is decided not to result in a jackpot (N in step 010IWS60), the process proceeds to step 010IWS63. Note that deciding whether to result in a jackpot means deciding whether to transition to a jackpot gaming state, but also deciding whether to set the stopped symbol on the special symbol display as a jackpot symbol.

In step 010IWS61, CPU 103 sets a jackpot flag indicating a jackpot. Then, CPU 103 determines the type of jackpot (7R jackpot A, 7R jackpot B, 10R jackpot, 4R jackpot) corresponding to the value that matches the value of the type-determining random number stored in the random number buffer area (step 010IWS62). In this case, CPU 103 reads the type-determining random number extracted in the start-up winning determination process (step 010IWS101) and stored in advance in the first reserved memory buffer or the second reserved memory buffer, and determines the type of jackpot. Then, it proceeds to step 010IWS68.

Meanwhile, in step 010IWS63, the CPU 103 selects the small win determination table indicated by the special symbol pointer. In this case, if the value of the special symbol pointer indicates "1," the small win determination table for the first special symbol is selected, and if the value of the special symbol pointer indicates "2," the small win determination table for the second special symbol is selected. The CPU 103 then uses the selected small win determination table to perform a lottery process based on the win determination random number and determine whether or not a small win has occurred (step 010IWS64). Note that in this example, as shown in Figures 8-4 (B) and (C), a small win is not determined when the variable display of the first special symbol is executed, but a small win is determined with a probability of approximately 17.4% when the variable display of the second special symbol is executed.

In this example, a small win may be determined only when the second special symbol is displayed, but it may also be configured so that a small win can be determined with a low probability when the first special symbol is displayed.

If it is determined that a small win has occurred (Y in step 010IWS65), the CPU 103 sets a small win flag indicating that it has occurred (step 010IWS66). The CPU 103 then determines the type of small win (small win A or small win B) corresponding to the value that matches the value of the type-determining random number stored in the random number buffer area (step 010IWS67). In this case, the CPU 103 reads the type-determining random number extracted in the start-up winning determination process (step 010IWS101) and stored in advance in the second reserved memory buffer, and determines the type of small win. Then, the process proceeds to step 010IWS68.

Next, the CPU 103 determines the stopping symbol of the special symbol depending on the results of the determination of whether it will be a big hit or a small hit, the type of big hit, and the type of small hit (step 010IWS68). In this case, for example, if it is determined to be a 7R big hit A, the stopping symbol of the special symbol is determined to be "3," if it is determined to be a 7R big hit B, the stopping symbol of the special symbol is determined to be "5," if it is determined to be a 10R big hit, the stopping symbol of the special symbol is determined to be "7," if it is determined to be a 4R big hit, the stopping symbol of the special symbol is determined to be "9," if it is determined to be a small hit A, the stopping symbol of the special symbol is determined to be "1," if it is determined to be a small hit B, the stopping symbol of the special symbol is determined to be "2," and if it is determined to be a miss, the stopping symbol of the special symbol is determined to be "-." The CPU 103 also stores the determined special symbol stop pattern in the stop symbol storage area provided in the RAM 102 (step 010IWS69).

Then, the CPU 103 updates the value of the special pattern process flag to a value corresponding to the variable pattern setting process (step 010IWS111) (step 010IWS70).

(Variation pattern setting process)
8-13 is a flowchart showing the variable pattern setting process (step 010IWS111) in the special symbol process. In the variable pattern setting process, the game control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the CPU 103) first checks whether the value of the special symbol pointer is a value indicating "second" (step 010IWS1701). If the value of the special symbol pointer is not a value indicating "second" (i.e., if the variable display of the first special symbol is to be executed), the CPU 103 selects the variable pattern table for the first special symbol shown in FIG. 8-7 (A) as a table for determining the variable pattern (step 010IWS1702).

If the value of the special symbol pointer indicates "second" (i.e., if the variable display of the second special symbol is to be executed), the CPU 103 checks whether the first high base flag, indicating the first high base state, is set (step 010IWS1703). If the first high base flag is set (i.e., if the first high base state is in effect), the CPU 103 selects the variable pattern table for the second special symbol [for first high base state] shown in Figure 8-7 (C) as the table for determining the variable pattern (step 010IWS1704).

If the first high base flag is not set, the CPU 103 checks whether the second high base flag, which indicates the second high base state, is set (step 010IWS1705). If the second high base flag is set (i.e., the second high base state), the CPU 103 selects the fluctuation pattern table for the second special symbol [for second high base state] shown in Figure 8-7 (D) as the table for determining the fluctuation pattern (step 010IWS1706).

If the second high base flag is also not set (i.e., in the normal state), the CPU 103 selects the fluctuation pattern table for the second special symbol [for normal state] shown in Figure 8-7 (B) as the table for determining the fluctuation pattern (step 010IWS1707).

Next, the CPU 103 determines which of the fluctuation patterns shown in Figure 8-7 to use based on the fluctuation pattern table determined to be used in steps S010IWS1702, S1704, S1706, and S1707 and the fluctuation pattern determination random numbers stored in the first and second reserved memory buffers (step S010IWS1708). In this example, the fluctuation pattern is determined to determine the fluctuation time of the first special symbol and the second special symbol. Note that after determining the fluctuation time, the fluctuation pattern to which the determined fluctuation time is set may be selected from multiple fluctuation patterns.

Once the variation pattern is determined, the CPU 103 performs control to send a variation pattern command indicating the determined variation pattern to the performance control CPU 120 (step 010IWS1709).

Furthermore, once the fluctuation time (fluctuation pattern) of the first special symbol or second special symbol is determined in step 010IWS1708, the CPU 103 sets the fluctuation time data indicating the determined fluctuation time in the fluctuation time timer and begins measuring the fluctuation time (step 010IWS1710), and begins displaying the fluctuation of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display device 4A or the fluctuation of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display device 4B (step 010IWS1711). The CPU 103 then updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol fluctuation processing (step 010IWS1712).

(Special pattern variation processing)
8-14 is a flowchart showing the special symbol variation process (step 010IWS112) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol variation process, the game control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the CPU 103) first controls the transmission of one of the display result designation commands (display result 1 designation command to display result 7 designation command) to the presentation control CPU 120 based on the determination result of whether or not to determine a big win, the determination result of whether or not to determine a small win, the determination result of the big win type, and the determination result of the small win type, if they have not been transmitted yet (step 010IWS1121).

Next, the CPU 103 decrements the variable time timer by 1 (step 010IWS1122). When the variable time timer times out (step 010IWS1123), it sets a value corresponding to the pattern determination period (e.g., 0.5 seconds) to a pattern determination period timer, which measures the determined display period of the stopped first special pattern and second special pattern (step 010IWS1124). The CPU 103 also controls the transmission of a pattern determination command indicated by the special pattern pointer to the performance control CPU 120 (step 010IWS1125). In this case, if the value of the special pattern pointer indicates "first," it controls the transmission of a first pattern determination command, and if the value of the special pattern pointer indicates "second," it controls the transmission of a second pattern determination command.

Then, the CPU 103 updates the value of the special pattern process flag to a value corresponding to the special pattern stop processing (step 010IWS113) (step 010IWS1126).

(Special symbol stop processing)
8-15 is a flowchart showing the special symbol stop process (step 010IWS113) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol stop process, the CPU 103 first subtracts 1 from the value of the symbol determination period timer (step 010IWS131), and then checks whether the value of the symbol determination period timer after the subtraction is 0 (step 010IWS132).

If the value of the pattern determination period timer after subtraction is not 0 (i.e., the determined display period for the stopped patterns of the first special pattern and the second special pattern has not yet ended), the special pattern stop processing ends. If the value of the pattern determination period timer after subtraction is 0 (i.e., the determined display period for the stopped patterns of the first special pattern and the second special pattern has ended), the CPU 103 checks whether the jackpot flag is set (step 010IWS133).

If the jackpot flag is set, the CPU 103 checks whether the first high base flag or the second high base flag is set (step 010IWS134). If the first high base flag or the second high base flag is set, the CPU 103 sets a high base memory flag indicating that a high base state was in effect at the start of the jackpot (step 010IWS135). If set, the CPU 103 also resets the first high base flag, the second high base flag, and a high base count counter for counting the number of times the variable display was executed during the high base state (step 010IWS136).

Next, the CPU 103 controls the transmission of a jackpot start command to the presentation control CPU 120 (step 010IWS137). Next, the CPU 103 sets a timer for the time before the large prize opening to measure the time before the large prize opening (fanfare time) until the special variable prize ball device 7 is controlled to the open state (step 010IWS138). The CPU 103 then updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the jackpot opening pre-processing (step 010IWS139).

If the jackpot flag is not set (N in step 010IWS133), the CPU 103 checks whether the value of the high base count counter, which counts the number of times the variable display is executed during the high base state, is 0 (step 010IWS140). If the value of the high base count counter is not 0, the CPU 103 subtracts 1 from the value of the high base count counter (step 010IWS141) and checks whether the value of the high base count counter after the subtraction is 0 (step 010IWS142). If the value of the high base count counter after the subtraction is 0, the CPU 103 resets the first high base flag or second high base flag that has been set (step 010IWS143) and ends the high base state. The CPU 103 also controls the transmission of a normal state designation command to the performance control CPU 120 (step 010IWS144).

Next, the CPU 103 checks whether the small win flag is set (step 010IWS145). If the small win flag is set, it controls the transmission of a small win start command to the presentation control CPU 120 (step 010IWS146). Next, the CPU 103 sets a value corresponding to the fanfare time for the small win (8 seconds in this example) to the special prize opening pre-opening timer, which measures the time before the special prize opening is opened (fanfare time) until the special variable prize ball device 010IW17 is controlled to the open state (step 010IWS147). The CPU 103 then updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the small win pre-opening processing (step 010IWS114) (step 010IWS148).

If the small win flag is not set either (i.e., if it is a miss), the CPU 103 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the normal special symbol processing (step 010IWS110) (step 010IWS149).

(Pre-processing before small hit opening)
8-16 is a flowchart showing the pre-opening process for small wins (step 010IWS114) in the special symbol process. In the pre-opening process for small wins, the CPU 103 first checks whether the timer for the time before the special prize opening has timed out (step 010IWS401). If the timer for the time before the special prize opening has not timed out (i.e., if the fanfare time has not elapsed), the process ends.

If the special prize opening pre-opening timer has timed out (i.e., the fanfare time has elapsed), the CPU 103 starts driving the solenoid 010IW83, controlling the special variable prize ball device 010IW17 to an open state (step 010IWS402). The CPU 10103 also sets the opening time timer to a value equivalent to the first opening time of the special prize opening (step 010IWS403). In this case, if the small prize A is won, the opening time timer is set to a value equivalent to 0.016 seconds (see Figure 8-6 (1)). If the small prize B is won, the opening time timer is set to a value equivalent to 1.6 seconds (see Figure 8-6 (3)).

Then, the CPU 103 updates the value of the special pattern process flag to a value corresponding to the small win release processing (step 010IWS115) (step 010IWS404).

(Processing during small hit opening)
8-17 is a flowchart showing the small win opening process (step 010IWS115) in the special symbol process. In the small win opening process, the CPU 103 first checks whether the special win opening switch 010IW24 is on (step 010IWS421). If the special win opening switch 010IW24 is on (i.e., if a game ball has entered the special win opening), the CPU 103 controls the transmission of a special win opening entry designation command to the presentation control CPU 120 (step 010IWS422).

Next, the CPU 103 checks whether the V entry port switch 010IW25 is turned on (step 010IWS423). If the V entry port switch 010IW25 is turned on (i.e., if a game ball has been detected entering the V entry port), the CPU 103 controls the transmission of a V entry port entry designation command to the presentation control CPU 120 (step 010IWS424). The CPU 103 also sets a V entry flag indicating that a V entry has occurred (step 010IWS425).

Next, the CPU 103 checks whether it is time to open the V prize opening/closing plate 010IW04 (step 010IWS426). Whether it is time to open the V prize opening/closing plate 010IW04 can be determined, for example, by setting a timer when the small win game starts and checking whether a predetermined time (8 seconds in this example) has elapsed since the start of the small win game. If it is time to open the V prize opening/closing plate 010IW04, the CPU 103 starts driving the solenoid 010IW84, controlling the V prize opening/closing plate 010IW04 to the open state (step 010IWS427).

Next, the CPU 103 checks whether it is time to close the V prize opening/closing plate 010IW04 (step 010IWS428). Whether it is time to close the V prize opening/closing plate 010IW04 can be determined, for example, by setting a timer when the V prize opening/closing plate 010IW04 begins to open, and checking whether a predetermined time (8 seconds in this example) has elapsed since the V prize opening/closing plate 010IW04 began to open. If it is time to close the V prize opening/closing plate 010IW04, the CPU 103 stops driving the solenoid 010IW84 and controls the V prize opening/closing plate 010IW04 to a closed state (step 010IWS429).

Next, the CPU 103 checks whether the value of the open time timer, which measures the open time of the special winning opening, is 0 (step 010IWS430). If the value of the open time timer is not 0 (i.e., if the special winning opening is currently open), the CPU 103 subtracts 1 from the value of the open time timer (step 010IWS431) and checks whether the value of the open time timer after subtraction is 0 (step 010IWS432). If the value of the open time timer is 0, the CPU 103 stops driving the solenoid 010IW83 and controls the special variable winning ball device 010IW17 to a closed state (step 010IWS433). The CPU 103 also sets a value equivalent to a predetermined closing time (interval time) to the closing time timer, which measures the closing time after the special winning opening is opened (step 010IWS434). Processing then ends.

If the open time timer is 0 in step 010IWS430 (i.e., if the special prize opening is currently closed), CPU 103 subtracts 1 from the value of the close time timer (step 010IWS435) and checks whether the value of the close time timer after subtraction is 0 (step 010IWS436). If the value of the close time timer is 0, CPU 103 checks whether all of the special prize openings have already been opened (step 010IWS437). In this example, if the special prize openings have already been opened four times, step 010IWS437 returns Y and the process proceeds to step 010IWS440.

If all of the special winning ports have not been opened (i.e., if the second through tenth openings remain), the CPU 103 starts driving the solenoid 010IW83 and controls the special variable winning ball device 010IW17 to an open state (step 010IWS438). The CPU 103 also sets the closing time timer to a value equivalent to the opening time (0.016 seconds in this example) (step 010IWS439). Processing then ends.

If all special winning slots have been opened (Y in step 010IWS437), the CPU 103 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the small win post-closure processing (step 010IWS116) (step 010IWS440).

(Processing after closing small hit)
8-18 is a flowchart showing the post-small win closing process (step 010IWS116) in the special symbol process. In the post-small win closing process, the CPU 103 checks whether the small win end display timer is set (step 010IWS451), and if the small win end display timer is set, proceeds to step 010IWS453. If the small win end display timer is not set, the CPU 103 sets the small win end display timer to a value corresponding to the display time corresponding to the time during which the small win end display is being displayed on the image display device 5 (small win end display time) (step 010IWS452), and ends the process.

In step 010IWS453, the CPU 103 subtracts 1 from the value of the small win end display timer. Then, the CPU 103 checks whether the value of the small win end display timer is 0, i.e., whether the small win end display time has elapsed (step 010IWS454). If it has not elapsed, the processing ends.

If the small win end display time has elapsed, CPU 103 checks whether the V prize flag is set (step 010IWS455). If the V prize flag is set, CPU 103 checks whether the first high base flag or the second high base flag is set (step 010IWS456). If the first high base flag or the second high base flag is set, CPU 103 sets the high base memory flag (step 010IWS457). If the flag is set, CPU 103 resets the first high base flag, the second high base flag, and the high base count counter (step 010IWS458).

Next, the CPU 103 resets the V prize flag (step 010IWS459). The CPU 103 also controls the transmission of a jackpot start command to the presentation control CPU 120 (step 010IWS460). The CPU 103 also sets the timer for the time before the jackpot opening (step 010IWS461).

Then, the CPU 103 updates the value of the special pattern process flag to a value corresponding to the pre-jackpot processing (step 010IWS117) (step 010IWS462).

If the CPU 103 determines in step 010IWS456 that the V prize flag is not set, it resets the small win flag (step 010IWS463). The CPU 103 also controls the transmission of a small win end command to the presentation control CPU 120 (step 010IWS464).

Next, the CPU 103 checks whether the second high base flag is set (step 010IWS465). If the second high base flag is set (i.e., if the second high base state is in progress), the CPU 103 checks whether it is time to end the small win game based on small win B (step 010IWS466). Whether it is a small win B can be determined, for example, by checking whether the stopped symbol of the special symbol stored in the stopped symbol memory area (see step 010IWS69) is the symbol "2" corresponding to small win B. If it is time to end the small win game based on small win B, the CPU 103 resets the set second high base flag (step 010IWS467) and ends the second high base state. The CPU 103 also controls the transmission of a normal state designation command to the presentation control CPU 120 (step 010IWS468).

As described above, in this example, by executing the processing of steps 010IWS465 to S468, if a small hit B occurs during the second high base state, the second high base state ends when the small hit game ends, and the game transitions to the normal state. Note that this is not limited to the processing mode shown in this example; for example, the processing of steps 010IWS465 to S468 may be configured to be executed during special symbol stop processing, and if a small hit B occurs during the second high base state, the second high base state may end and the game transitions to the normal state before the small hit game begins.

Then, the CPU 103 updates the value of the special pattern process flag to a value corresponding to the normal special pattern processing (step 010IWS110) (step 010IWS469).

(Jackpot end processing)
FIG. 8-19 is a flowchart showing the jackpot end process (step 010IWS121) in the special symbol process. In this process, the CPU 103 checks whether the jackpot end display timer is set (step 010IWS531). If the jackpot end display timer is set, the process proceeds to step 010IWS535. If the jackpot end display timer is not set, the CPU 103 resets the jackpot flag or the minor jackpot flag (step 010IWS532) and transmits a jackpot end command (step 010IWS533). The CPU 103 then sets the jackpot end display timer to a value corresponding to the display time during which the jackpot end display is being displayed on the image display device 5 (jackpot end display time) (step 010IWS534), and terminates the process.

In step 010IWS535, the CPU 103 subtracts 1 from the value of the jackpot end display timer. Then, the CPU 103 checks whether the value of the jackpot end display timer is 0, i.e., whether the jackpot end display time has elapsed (step 010IWS536). If it has not elapsed, the processing ends.

If the jackpot end display time has elapsed (Y in step 010IWS536), CPU 103 checks whether the jackpot that is ending this time is a 7R jackpot A (step 010IWS537). Whether it is a 7R jackpot A can be determined, for example, by checking the stopping pattern of the special pattern stored in the stopping pattern memory area in step 010IWS69. If it is a 7R jackpot A, CPU 103 sets the second high base flag and controls the game to the second high base state (step 010IWS538). CPU 103 also sets the high base count counter to "99" (step 010IWS539). CPU 103 also controls the transmission of a second high base state designation command to the performance control CPU 120 (step 010IWS540). Then, the game proceeds to step 010IWS552.

If it is not a 7R jackpot A, the CPU 103 checks whether the jackpot that will end this time is a 7R jackpot B (step 010IWS541). Whether it is a 7R jackpot B can be determined, for example, by checking the special symbol stopped in the stopped symbol memory area in step 010IWS69. If it is a 7R jackpot B, the CPU 103 sets the first high base flag and controls the first high base state (step 010IWS542). The CPU 103 also sets the high base count counter to "1" (step 010IWS543). The CPU 103 also controls the transmission of a first high base state designation command to the performance control CPU 120 (step 010IWS544). Then, the process proceeds to step 010IWS552.

If it is not a 7R jackpot B (i.e., if it is a jackpot based on a 10R jackpot, a 4R jackpot, or a small jackpot A resulting in a V win), CPU 103 checks whether the high base memory flag is set (step 010IWS545). If the high base memory flag is set (i.e., if the high base state was reached at the start of the jackpot), CPU 103 sets the second high base flag and controls the state to the second high base state (step 010IWS546). CPU 103 also sets the high base count counter to "99" (step 010IWS547). CPU 103 also controls the transmission of a second high base state designation command to the presentation control CPU 120 (step 010IWS548). Then, the process proceeds to step 010IWS552.

If the high base memory flag is not set (i.e., if the low base state was in effect when the jackpot began), the CPU 103 sets the first high base flag and controls the state to the first high base state (step 010IWS549). The CPU 103 also sets the high base count counter to "4" (step 010IWS550). The CPU 103 also controls the transmission of a first high base state designation command to the performance control CPU 120 (step 010IWS551). The process then proceeds to step 010IWS552.

Next, if the high base memory flag is set, the CPU 103 resets the high base memory flag (step 010IWS552). Then, the CPU 103 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the normal special symbol processing (step 010IWS110) (step 010IWS553).

Note that while this example shows a case where a single high base count counter is provided as a counter for counting the number of high base counts, this is not a limited configuration. For example, in this example, because the second special symbol variable display is primarily prioritized during the high base state, a counter (special symbol 2 high base count counter) may be provided to count only the number of times the second special symbol variable display is executed during the high base state, and a counter (total high base count counter) may be provided to count the total number of times the first special symbol variable display and the second special symbol variable display are executed during the high base state. Furthermore, in steps S10IWS140 to S144 of the special symbol stop processing, the special symbol 2 high base count counter and the total high base count counter may be updated, and the high base state may be terminated and the normal state may be transitioned to based on whichever value reaches 0 first.

(state transition)
Next, we will explain the state transition in this feature section 010IW. Figure 8-20 is a state transition diagram for explaining the state transition in this feature section 010IW. In a normal state (normal state with no remaining reserves) that is not a so-called consecutive win state, the variable display of the first special symbol is mainly executed, and the jackpot (so-called first win) may be a 7R jackpot A or a 7R jackpot B. As shown in Figure 8-20, if a 7R jackpot A occurs, the system is controlled to the second high base state (see step 010IWS538). Also, if a 7R jackpot B occurs, the system is controlled to the first high base state (see step 010IWS542).

As shown in Figure 8-20, during the first first high base state after the first win, the second special symbol variable display is primarily executed, and the first high base state continues until one variable display is completed (see step 010IWS543). If a small win A occurs during the first high base state and a V win occurs during that small win play, the system is controlled to the second high base state as shown in Figure 8-20 (see step 010IWS546). Furthermore, even if a 10R jackpot or 4R jackpot occurs during the first high base state, although this is a low probability, the system is also controlled to the second high base state as shown in Figure 8-20 (see step 010IWS546). On the other hand, if one variable display is completed without the occurrence of a small win A, a 10R jackpot, or a 4R jackpot, the system ends the first high base state and transitions to the normal state as shown in Figure 8-20 (see steps 010IWS140-S144).

As shown in Figure 8-20, during the second high base state, the variable display of the second special symbol is primarily executed, and the second high base state continues until a jackpot or small jackpot occurs or 99 variable displays are completed (see steps 010IWS539 and S547). If a small jackpot A occurs during the second high base state and a V prize occurs during the small jackpot game, the system is again controlled to the second high base state as shown in Figure 8-20 (see step 010IWS546). Furthermore, even if a 10R jackpot or a 4R jackpot occurs during the second high base state, although this is a low probability, the system is again controlled to the second high base state as shown in Figure 8-20 (see step 010IWS546). Furthermore, if a small jackpot B occurs during the second high base state, a V prize does not occur during the small jackpot game, and the system ends the second high base state and transitions to the normal state as shown in Figure 8-20 (see steps 010IWS465 to S468).

In addition, even if 99 variable displays end without any of the following occurring: small hit A, small hit B, 10R jackpot, or 4R jackpot, the second high base state ends and the system transitions to the normal state, as shown in Figure 8-20 (see steps 010IWS140-S144). However, in this example, small hit A occurs with a probability of approximately 1/7, and small hit B occurs with a probability of approximately 1/32, so it is rare for the system to transition to the normal state after 99 variable displays have ended during the second high base state.

During the first or second high base state, a maximum of four remaining reserves can be accumulated. Therefore, even after transitioning from the first or second high base state to the normal state, the second special symbol display will be primarily used for the remaining reserves while there are still remaining reserves. If a small win A occurs during the second special symbol display for these remaining reserves, and a V win occurs during the small win game, the system will be controlled back to the first high base state, as shown in Figure 8-20 (see step 010IWS549). Therefore, even after transitioning to the normal state, there is still room for the winning streak to continue due to the remaining reserves. Furthermore, even if a 10R or 4R jackpot occurs during the second special symbol display for these remaining reserves, which is a low probability, the system will be controlled back to the first high base state, as shown in Figure 8-20 (see step 010IWS549).

As shown in Figure 8-20, in the first high base state entered by the remaining reserve, the variable display of the second special symbol is mainly executed, and the first high base state continues until four variable displays are completed (see step 010IWS550). If a small win A occurs during the first high base state and a V win occurs during the small win game, the system is controlled to the second high base state as shown in Figure 8-20 (see step 010IWS546). Furthermore, even if a 10R jackpot or a 4R jackpot occurs during the first high base state, although this is a low probability, the system is also controlled to the second high base state as shown in Figure 8-20 (see step 010IWS546). On the other hand, if four variable displays are completed without the occurrence of a small win A, a 10R jackpot, or a 4R jackpot, the system ends the first high base state and transitions to the normal state as shown in Figure 8-20 (see steps 010IWS140 to S144). This will completely end the winning streak.

(Command analysis process)
8-21 to 8-23 are flowcharts showing a specific example of the command analysis process (step S75). The performance control commands received from the main board 11 are stored in the received command buffer, and in the command analysis process, the performance control CPU 120 checks the contents of the commands stored in the command receive buffer.

In the command analysis process, the performance control CPU 120 first checks whether a received command is stored in the command receive buffer (step 010IWS611). Whether a command is stored is determined by comparing the value of the command reception counter with the read pointer. If the two values match, no received command is stored. If a received command is stored in the command receive buffer, the performance control CPU 120 reads the received command from the command receive buffer (step 010IWS612). After reading, the read pointer value is incremented by 2 (step 010IWS613). The increment of 2 is because two bytes (one command) are read at a time.

If the received performance control command is a variation pattern command (step 010IWS614), the performance control CPU 120 stores the received variation pattern command in a variation pattern command storage area formed in RAM 122 (step 010IWS615). Then, it sets the variation pattern command reception flag (step 010IWS616).

If the received performance control command is a display result specification command (step 010IWS617), the performance control CPU 120 stores the received display result specification command in a display result specification command storage area formed in RAM 122 (step 010IWS618).

If the received effect control command is either a symbol confirmation command (first symbol confirmation command, second symbol confirmation command) (step 010IWS619), the effect control CPU 120 sets the confirmation command reception flag corresponding to the received symbol confirmation command (step 010IWS620). For example, if the first symbol confirmation command is received, the first confirmation command reception flag is set. Also, for example, if the second symbol confirmation command is received, the second confirmation command reception flag is set.

If the received presentation control command is a jackpot start command (step 010IWS621), the presentation control CPU 120 sets the jackpot start command reception flag (step 010IWS622). If the received presentation control command is a jackpot end command (step 010IWS623), the presentation control CPU 120 sets the jackpot end command reception flag (step 010IWS624).

If the received presentation control command is a command to designate a large prize slot winning (step 010IWS625), the presentation control CPU 120 sets the large prize slot winning designation command reception flag (step 010IWS626). If the received presentation control command is a command to designate a special prize slot winning (step 010IWS627), the presentation control CPU 120 sets the special prize slot winning designation command reception flag (step 010IWS628). If the received presentation control command is a command to designate a V prize slot winning (step 010IWS629), the presentation control CPU 120 sets the V prize slot winning designation command reception flag (step 010IWS630).

If the received effect control command is a symbol designation command (step 010IWS631), the effect control CPU 120 stores the received symbol designation command in the first available storage area in the start-up winning command storage area formed in RAM 122 (step 010IWS632).

If the received effect control command is one of the variable category commands (step 010IWS633), the effect control CPU 120 stores the received variable category command in the storage area of the start winning command storage area formed in RAM 122 where the latest pattern designation command is stored (step 010IWS634).

If the received effect control command is a first pending memory addition command (step 010IWS635), the effect control CPU 120 stores the received first pending memory addition command in a storage area in the start winning command storage area formed in RAM 122 that stores the latest pattern designation command and variable category command (step 010IWS636). The effect control CPU 120 also adds 1 to the value of the first pending memory count stored in RAM 122 (step 010IWS637). The effect control CPU 120 also updates the first pending memory display (a display that can identify the first pending memory count) displayed on the image display device 5 based on the value of the first pending memory count after the addition (step 010IWS638).

If the received effect control command is a second pending memory addition command (step 010IWS639), the effect control CPU 120 stores the received second pending memory addition command in a storage area in the start winning command storage area formed in RAM 122 that stores the latest pattern designation command and variable category command (step 010IWS640). The effect control CPU 120 also adds 1 to the value of the second pending memory count stored in RAM 122 (step 010IWS641). The effect control CPU 120 also updates the second pending memory display (a display that can identify the second pending memory count) displayed on the image display device 5 based on the value of the second pending memory count after the addition (step 010IWS642).

In this example, by executing the processing of steps 010IWS631 to S642, when a start win occurs, a pattern designation command, a variable category command, and a reserved memory addition designation command (first reserved memory addition designation command, second reserved memory addition designation command) are stored in association with each other in the start win command storage area.

It is also possible to configure the system to have a first start winning command storage area corresponding to the first reserved memory and a second start winning command storage area corresponding to the second reserved memory separately. In this case, the first start winning command storage area stores a corresponding symbol designation command, variable category command, and first reserved memory addition designation command, and the second start winning command storage area stores a corresponding symbol designation command, variable category command, and second reserved memory addition designation command.

If the received performance control command is a first pending memory subtraction command (step 010IWS643), the performance control CPU 120 subtracts 1 from the value of the first pending memory count stored in RAM 122 (step 010IWS644). The performance control CPU 120 also updates the first pending memory display displayed on the image display device 5 based on the value of the first pending memory count after subtraction (step 010IWS645).

If the received performance control command is a second pending memory subtraction command (step 010IWS646), the performance control CPU 120 subtracts 1 from the value of the second pending memory count stored in RAM 122 (step 010IWS647). The performance control CPU 120 also updates the second pending memory display displayed on the image display device 5 based on the value of the second pending memory count after subtraction (step 010IWS648).

If the received performance control command is a normal state designation command (step 010IWS649), the performance control CPU 120 controls the image display device 5 to switch to a background image corresponding to the normal state (for example, a blue background image corresponding to ocean mode) (step 010IWS650). The performance control CPU 120 also resets the high base state flag, which indicates that the high base state is in effect (step 010IWS651).

If the received performance control command is a first high base state designation command (step 010IWS652), the performance control CPU 120 controls the image display device 5 to switch to a background image corresponding to the first high base state (for example, a green background image corresponding to forest mode) (step 010IWS653). The performance control CPU 120 also sets the high base state flag (step 010IWS654).

If the received performance control command is a second high base state designation command (step 010IWS655), the performance control CPU 120 controls the image display device 5 to switch to a background image corresponding to the second high base state (for example, a yellow background image corresponding to sunset mode) (step 010IWS656). The performance control CPU 120 also sets the high base state flag (step 010IWS657).

If the received effect control command is any other command, the effect control CPU 120 executes processing to store the received effect control command and set a flag corresponding to the received effect control command (step 010IWS658). For example, if the received command is a command to specify the start of a small win, the small win start command reception flag is set. Also, for example, if the received command is a command to specify the end of a small win, the small win end command reception flag is set. Then, the process proceeds to step 010IWS611.

(Variable display start setting process)
Figure 8-24 is a flowchart showing the variable display start setting process (step S171) in the performance control process shown in Figure 7. In the variable display start setting process, the performance control CPU 120 first reads a variation pattern command from the variation pattern command storage area (step 010IWS801). Next, the performance control CPU 120 reads a display result designation command from the display result designation command storage area (step 010IWS802).

Next, the presentation control CPU 120 checks whether a winning symbol is being continuously displayed as a decorative symbol on the image display device 5 (step 010IWS803). If a winning symbol is being displayed, the process proceeds to step 010IWS811. If a winning symbol is not being displayed, the presentation control CPU 120 checks whether the variable display that is about to start will result in a big win or a small win A (step 010IWS804). Whether it is a big win or a small win A can be determined by checking the display result designation command read in step 010IWS802. If it is a big win or a small win A, the presentation control CPU 120 determines the winning symbol as the decorative symbol to be stopped (step 010IWS805). In this example, the winning symbol is determined to be a symbol combination in which the left, center, and right decorative symbols are all the same.

If it is neither a big win nor a small win A (i.e., a miss or a small win B), the presentation control CPU 120 checks whether the fluctuation pattern specified by the fluctuation pattern command read in step 010IWS801 is fluctuation pattern PD1-3 (step 010IWS806). If it is fluctuation pattern PD1-3, the presentation control CPU 120 reads each symbol designation command stored in the start winning command storage area (step 010IWS807). The presentation control CPU 120 then checks whether any of the read symbol designation commands indicate that there are remaining reserves that will result in a big win or a small win A (step 010IWS808). If there are remaining reserves that will result in a big win or a small win A, the presentation control CPU 120 determines the winning symbol as the decorative symbol to be stopped (step 010IWS809). Therefore, in this example, even if the special effect mode is switched to during the second high base state and a small win B occurs, the winning symbol may be displayed as a pre-emptive warning.

If the variation pattern is not PD1-3 (N in step 010IWS806), or if there are no remaining reserves that will result in a big win or small win A (N in step 010IWS808), the performance control CPU 120 determines a losing pattern (a pattern other than a winning pattern) as the decorative pattern to be stopped (step 010IWS810).

In steps S805, S809, and S810, the performance control CPU 120 extracts a random number to determine the stopping symbol, and determines the stopping symbol of the decorative symbol using a stopping symbol determination table in which data indicating combinations of decorative symbols are associated with numerical values. In other words, the stopping symbol is determined by selecting data indicating the combination of decorative symbols that corresponds to the numerical value that matches the extracted random number.

Next, the effect control CPU 120 checks whether the fluctuation pattern specified by the fluctuation pattern command read in step 010IWS801 is fluctuation pattern PD1-1 or fluctuation pattern PD1-3 (step 010IWS811). If it is fluctuation pattern PD1-1 or fluctuation pattern PD1-3, the effect control CPU 120 determines the effect pattern for the special effect mode, including pseudo-fluctuations (step 010IWS812). In this example, in the special effect mode, although a single fluctuation is displayed internally, an effect in which 10 pseudo-fluctuations are executed is executed visually. In this example, multiple effect patterns for the special effect mode are prepared, each configured to execute a normal fluctuation, a reach effect (normal reach, super reach), or various preview effects in each pseudo-fluctuation. In step 010IWS812, a lottery process based on random numbers is performed to determine which effect pattern will be used. Then, the process proceeds to step 010IWS816.

If neither variation pattern PD1-1 nor variation pattern PD1-3 is selected, the presentation control CPU 120 checks whether the variation pattern specified by the variation pattern command read in step 010IWS801 is variation pattern PD1-2 (step 010IWS813). If it is variation pattern PD1-2, the presentation control CPU 120 determines a presentation pattern for a specific presentation mode, including pseudo-variations (step 010IWS814). In this example, the specific presentation mode displays only one variation internally, but the appearance is that four pseudo-variations are executed. In this example, multiple presentation patterns for the specific presentation mode are prepared, each configured to execute a normal variation, a reach presentation (normal reach, super reach), or various preview presentations. In step 010IWS814, a random number-based lottery is performed to determine which presentation pattern will be selected. Then, the process proceeds to step 010IWS816.

In this example, multiple pseudo-fluctuations are performed in the special presentation mode and specific presentation mode, but the expectation (reliability) of a jackpot does not change depending on the number of pseudo-fluctuations. In this sense, the pseudo-fluctuations in the special presentation mode and specific presentation mode differ from so-called pseudo-consecutive wins, in which the reliability increases as the number of re-fluctuations increases.

If the variation pattern is not PD1-2, the performance control CPU 120 determines a performance pattern corresponding to the variation pattern (step 010IWS815). Then, the process proceeds to step 010IWS816.

In addition, in step 010IWS815, for example, when a change display is executed for the remaining reserves after a small hit B change occurs and the second high base state ends, and when a change display is executed for the remaining reserves that occurred after the small hit B change began, if the change display is a big hit or small hit A, a presentation pattern including a specified button presentation is determined (see Figure 8-38 (M)).

In addition, in step 010IWS815, when a change display is performed for the remaining reserves after the first high base state ends, a presentation pattern is determined that includes a presentation that appears as if the special presentation mode has been extended (see Figures 8-39 to 8-40).

Next, the performance control CPU 120 selects a process table corresponding to the performance pattern determined in steps S010IWS812, S814, and S815 (step S010IWS816). Next, the performance control CPU 120 starts the process timer for process data 1 of the process table selected in step S010IWS816 (step S010IWS817).

The process table is a table containing process data that the performance control CPU 120 references when controlling the performance device. In other words, the performance control CPU 120 controls the performance device (performance components) such as the image display device 5 according to the process data set in the process table. The process table is composed of multiple combinations of process timer setting values, display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data. The display control execution data contains data indicating the various modes of change that make up the change modes during the variable display time (variation time) of the variable display of the decorative pattern. Specifically, it contains data related to changes in the display screen of the image display device 5. The process timer setting value also sets the change time for that mode of change. The performance control CPU 120 references the process table and controls the display of the decorative pattern in the mode of change set in the display control execution data for the time set in the process timer setting value. The process table is also stored in ROM on the performance control board 80. Process tables are prepared for each change pattern.

The process table used when controlling the effects of a variation pattern that includes a reach effect contains process data indicating that the left symbol is to be displayed as a stopped symbol when a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the variation, and that the right symbol is to be displayed as a stopped symbol when a further predetermined time has elapsed. Instead of setting the symbols to be displayed as stopped symbols in the process table, images for displaying the symbols may be synthesized and generated according to the determined stopping symbols, or temporary stopping symbols in pseudo-consecutive or sliding effects.

The performance control CPU 120 also controls the performance devices (image display device 5 as a performance component, various lamps as performance components, and speakers 8L, 8R as performance components) in accordance with the contents of process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1) (step 010IWS818). For example, it outputs a command to the display control unit 123 to display an image corresponding to a fluctuation pattern on the image display device 5. It also outputs a control signal (lamp control execution data) to the lamp control board 14 to control the on/off of various lamps. It also outputs a control signal (sound number data) to the audio control board 13 to output sound from the speakers 8L, 8R.

In this feature section 010IW, the performance control CPU 120 controls the display of decorative patterns to vary according to a variation pattern that corresponds one-to-one with the variation pattern command, but the performance control CPU 120 may also select a variation pattern to use from multiple types of variation patterns that correspond to the variation pattern command.

Then, the performance control CPU 120 sets the variable time timer to a value equivalent to the variable time specified by the variable pattern command (step 010IWS819). Next, the performance control CPU 120 deletes the start winning commands (pattern designation command, variable category command, and reserved memory count addition designation command (first reserved memory count addition designation command, second reserved memory count addition designation command)) stored in the first storage area of the start winning command storage area, and shifts the contents of the start winning command storage area (step 010IWS820).

Then, the performance control CPU 120 sets the value of the performance control process flag to a value corresponding to the performance processing during variable display (step S172) (step 010IWS821).

(Variable display effect processing)
FIG. 8-25 is a flowchart showing the variable display effect processing (step S172) in the effect control process shown in FIG. 7. In the variable display effect processing, the effect control CPU 120 first subtracts 1 from the value of the process timer (step 010IWS831) and subtracts 1 from the value of the variable time timer (step 010IWS832). When the process timer times out (step 010IWS833), the effect control CPU 120 switches the process data. That is, it sets the process timer to the next process timer setting value in the process table (step 010IWS834). Furthermore, it changes the control state for the effect device based on the next set display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data (step 010IWS835).

Next, the performance control CPU 120 checks whether any of the pattern determination designation commands (first pattern determination designation command, second pattern determination designation command) has been received (step 010IWS836). If neither of the pattern determination designation commands has been received (N in step 010IWS836), the performance control CPU 120 checks whether the variable time timer has timed out (step 010IWS837). If the variable time timer has not timed out, processing ends.

If any of the symbol determination commands is received (Y in step 010IWS836), or if the variable time timer has timed out (Y in step 010IWS837), the performance control CPU 120 controls the image display device 5 to display the stopped decorative symbols (step 010IWS838). In this case, if the stopped decorative symbols are determined in steps 010IWS805, S809, and S810, the CPU 120 controls the display of the determined winning or losing symbol as the stopped decorative symbol. Furthermore, if a winning symbol is already displayed when the variable display begins (see Y in step 010IWS803), the CPU 120 controls the display of the displayed winning symbol to continue. Next, the performance control CPU 120 sets a value equivalent to the symbol determination period (e.g., 0.5 seconds) to a determined display period timer, which is used by the performance control means to measure the symbol determination period (step 010IWS839).

Then, the performance control CPU 120 updates the value of the performance control process flag to a value corresponding to the special winning wait process (step S173) (step 010IWS840).

(Waiting for special drawing)
Figure 8-26 is a flowchart showing the special symbol hit waiting process (step S173) in the effect control process shown in Figure 7. In the special symbol hit waiting process, the effect control CPU 120 first subtracts 1 from the value of the fixed effect period timer (step 010IWS8901), and then checks whether the value of the fixed effect period timer after the subtraction has timed out (step 010IWS8902). If the value of the fixed effect period timer after the subtraction has not timed out, the process ends.

If the value of the fixed presentation period timer after subtraction has timed out, the presentation control CPU 120 checks whether the stopped decorative pattern displayed on the image display device 5 is a winning pattern (step 010IWS8903). If a winning pattern is displayed, the presentation control CPU 120 checks whether the variable display that is ending this time will be a big win or a small win A (step 010IWS8904). Whether it is a big win or a small win A can be determined, for example, by checking the display result designation command stored in the display result designation command storage area (see step 010IWS618). If a losing symbol is displayed as a stopped symbol (N in step 010IWS8903), or if the variable display that will end this time is a big win or small win A (Y in step 010IWS8904), the performance control CPU 120 performs control to erase the stopped decorative symbol displayed on the image display device 5 (step 010IWS8905).

If the variable display ending this time in step 010IWS8904 is neither a big hit nor a small hit A (N in step 010IWS8904), the process proceeds directly to step 010IWS8906 without executing the processing of step 010IWS8905. In other words, since the variable display this time is not a big hit or a small hit A, but there is a big hit or a small hit A among the remaining reserves and the winning symbol is being displayed as a pre-reading notice, the winning symbol will not be erased and will continue to be displayed as is.

Next, the presentation control CPU 120 checks whether the currently ending variable display is a jackpot (step 010IWS8906). Whether or not it is a jackpot can be determined, for example, by checking the display result designation command stored in the display result designation command storage area (see step 010IWS618). If it is a jackpot variation, the presentation control CPU 120 checks whether or not it has received a jackpot start designation command (step 010IWS8907). Whether or not it has received a jackpot start designation command can be determined, for example, by checking whether or not the jackpot start designation command reception flag (see step 010IWS622) is set. If it has not received a jackpot start designation command, the processing ends.

If a jackpot start command has been received, the presentation control CPU 120 selects a process table corresponding to the presentation during the jackpot (step 010IWS8908). The presentation control CPU 120 then starts the process timer by setting the process timer setting value to the process timer (step 010IWS8909), and executes control of the presentation devices (image display device 5 as a presentation component, various lamps as presentation components, and speaker 27 as a presentation component) according to the contents of process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1) (step 010IWS8910).

Then, the effect control CPU 120 updates the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the effect processing during the jackpot (step 010IWS8911).

Next, the presentation control CPU 120 checks whether the currently ending variable display is a small win (small win A, small win B) (step 010IWS8912). Whether or not it is a small win can be determined, for example, by checking the display result designation command stored in the display result designation command storage area (see step 010IWS618). If it is a small win variable, the presentation control CPU 120 checks whether or not it has received a small win start designation command (step 010IWS8913). Whether or not it has received a small win start designation command can be determined, for example, by checking whether or not a flag indicating that a small win start designation command has been received is set in the command analysis process. If a small win start designation command has not been received, the process ends.

If a small win start command has been received, the presentation control CPU 120 selects a process table corresponding to the presentation during the small win (step 010IWS8914). The presentation control CPU 120 then starts the process timer by setting the process timer setting value to the process timer (step 010IWS8915), and executes control of the presentation devices (image display device 5 as a presentation component, various lamps as a presentation component, and speaker 27 as a presentation component) according to the contents of process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1) (step 010IWS8916).

Then, the effect control CPU 120 updates the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the effect processing during the small win (step 010IWS8917).

If it is not a small win variation (i.e., a miss variation), the presentation control CPU 120 updates the value of the presentation control process flag to a value corresponding to the variable display start waiting process (step S170) (step 010IWS8918).

(Example of performance)
Next, we will explain examples of various effects in this feature unit 010IW. First, we will explain the effect when the special effect mode is selected in the first high base state. Figure 8-27 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the effect when the special effect mode is selected in the first high base state. In the example shown in Figure 8-27, the effect screen transitions in the order of (A), (B), (C), etc. This also applies to Figure 8-28 and subsequent figures described below.

When a 7R jackpot B occurs in normal mode and becomes the first jackpot, control is placed into the first high base state after the first jackpot play ends (see step 010IWS542), and the special effect mode is entered. In the special effect mode during the first high base state, variation pattern PD1-1 is selected (see Figure 8-7(C)), and as shown in Figure 8-27(A), the image display device 5 displays a caption display 010IW30 containing text such as "Special Effect Time," indicating that the special effect mode is in effect. Also, in the special effect mode, as shown in Figure 8-27(A), the image display device 5 displays a gauge display 010IW33, indicating the remaining period of the special effect mode.

In addition, in the special effect mode, as shown in FIG. 8-27(A), in addition to the changing display of the decorative symbols 5L, 5C, and 5R on the left, center, and right, the small symbols 010IW31 on the left, center, and right are also changed. Also, as shown in FIG. 8-27(A), the image display device 5 is provided with a first reserved memory count display area 010IW40a that displays the first reserved memory count, and a second reserved memory count display area 010IW40b that displays the second reserved memory count. The example shown in FIG. 8-27(A) shows a case where the first reserved memory count is "3" and the second reserved memory count is still "0". Also, as shown in FIG. 8-27(A), the image display device 5 also displays a right-hit display 010IW32 that suggests a right-hit operation.

Note that the display is not limited to the format shown in this example; for example, the small pattern 010IW31 may be configured to be displayed in an inconspicuous manner, such as by displaying it semi-transparently.

In addition, although internally only one change is displayed, multiple pseudo-changes are executed in the special effect mode, and after each pseudo-change, the left, center, and right decorative symbols 5L, 5C, and 5R are displayed in a pseudo-temporary stop state, as shown in Figure 8-27(B), and then a pseudo-re-change is executed to the left, center, and right decorative symbols 5L, 5C, and 5R, as shown in Figure 8-27(C). Then, when the timing for the next pseudo-temporary stop arrives, the left, center, and right decorative symbols 5L, 5C, and 5R are again displayed in a pseudo-temporary stop state, as shown in Figure 8-27(D). In this example, in the special effect mode, 10 pseudo-changes are executed during one change display.

As shown in Figures 8-27(B) to (D), decorative symbols 5L, 5C, and 5R are pseudo-temporarily stopped and pseudo-re-changed with each pseudo-change, but because internally this is a single change display, the change display of small symbols 010IW31 on the left, center, and right continues without a temporary stop or re-change. As shown in Figures 8-27(B) to (D), gauge display 010IW33 is updated as the remaining time in the special effect mode decreases. Furthermore, when a right-hand hit operation is initiated during the special effect mode, a start win occurs in the second start win slot as needed, and Figure 8-27(B) shows the second reserved memory count increasing to "2," while Figure 8-27(D) shows the second reserved memory count increasing to the maximum of "4."

Next, we will explain the presentation mode when controlled to a specific presentation mode in the second high base state. Figures 8-28 to 8-30 are explanatory diagrams for explaining the presentation mode when controlled to a specific presentation mode in the second high base state.

During the second high base state, the special effect mode is activated. In the special effect mode during the second high base state, the variation pattern PD1-2 is primarily selected (see Figure 8-7 (D)), and as shown in Figure 8-28 (A), the image display device 5 displays a caption 010IW34 containing text such as "Special effect time," indicating that the special effect mode is active.

In addition, in the special presentation mode, as shown in FIG. 8-28(A), in addition to the changing display of the decorative symbols 5L, 5C, and 5R on the left, center, and right, the changing display of the small symbols 010IW31 on the left, center, and right is also executed. Also, as shown in FIG. 8-28(A), the image display device 5 is provided with a first reserved memory count display area 010IW40a that displays the first reserved memory count, and a second reserved memory count display area 010IW40b that displays the second reserved memory count. The example shown in FIG. 8-28(A) shows a case where the first reserved memory count is "3" and the second reserved memory count is already at the maximum of "4." Also, as shown in FIG. 8-28(A), the image display device 5 also displays a right-hit display 010IW32 that suggests a right-hit operation.

In addition, although internally only one change is displayed, multiple pseudo-changes are executed in the specific presentation mode, and after each pseudo-change, as shown in Figure 8-28(B), the left, center, and right decorative symbols 5L, 5C, and 5R are pseudo-temporarily displayed, and then, as shown in Figure 8-28(C), a pseudo-re-change is executed on the left, center, and right decorative symbols 5L, 5C, and 5R. Note that although the example shown in Figure 8-28 is simplified, in this example, in the specific presentation mode, four pseudo-changes are executed during one change display.

Also, as shown in Figures 8-28 (B) and (C), decorative symbols 5L, 5C, and 5R are pseudo-temporarily stopped and pseudo-re-changed for each pseudo-change, but since internally this is a single change display, the change display of small symbols 010IW31 on the left, center, and right continues without being temporarily stopped or changed again.

Next, for example, if a presentation pattern that executes a shutter effect during the final pseudo-fluctuation in one display variation is selected, when the timing for executing the shutter effect arrives, an effect is executed on the image display device 5 in which shutter images 010IW35a, 35b close from above and below, as shown in Figure 8-28 (D).

Next, in the case of a big win or small win A variation, as shown in Figure 8-29(E), the image display device 5 displays an effect in which the upper and lower shutter images 010IW35a, 35b open, and as shown in Figure 8-29(F), the image display device 5 displays the word "Congratulations" 010IW36 after the shutter opens. Then, when the pattern determination period begins, as shown in Figure 8-29(G), winning patterns (in this example, the "666" pattern combination) are displayed as decorative patterns 5L, 5C, and 5R on the left, center, and right, and winning patterns (in this example, the "666" pattern combination) are displayed as small patterns 010IW31 on the left, center, and right.

In addition, in this example, if a loss occurs during the second high base state, the loss symbol will generally be displayed stationary in the final pseudo-variation, and the second high base state will continue as is. However, even if a loss occurs during the second high base state, there is a low probability that a shutter effect will be executed.

When a shutter effect is executed due to a losing variation, as shown in Figure 8-30(E), an effect is executed in which the upper and lower shutter images 010IW35a, 35b open on the image display device 5, and as shown in Figure 8-30(F), the image display device 5 displays the text display "Continue!" 010IW46 after the shutter is released. Then, when the pattern confirmation period begins, as shown in Figure 8-30(G), losing patterns are displayed as stopped decorative patterns 5L, 5C, and 5R on the left, center, and right, and losing patterns are displayed as stopped small patterns 010IW31 on the left, center, and right.

As shown in Figure 8-30, if a miss occurs during the second high base state, the game state does not change and the second high base state itself continues, so as shown in Figure 8-30 (F), a presentation is executed suggesting that the second high base state will continue.

On the other hand, if a small hit B occurs during the second high base state, the second high base state will end. Figures 8-31 and 8-32 are explanatory diagrams for explaining the presentation mode when a small hit B occurs during the second high base state.

In the case of a small win B variation, variation pattern PD1-3 is selected, and the shutter effect begins in a manner similar to that shown in Figure 8-28(D). After that, as shown in Figure 8-31(E), the image display device 5 displays an effect in which the upper and lower shutter images 010IW35a and 35b open, as shown in Figure 8-31(E). Next, as shown in Figure 8-31(F), after the shutter opens, the image display device 5 displays a caption display 010IW30 containing text such as "Special Effect Time," indicating that the mode has switched from specific effect mode to special effect mode. Furthermore, as a result of the switch to special effect mode, as shown in Figure 8-31(F), the image display device 5 displays a gauge display 010IW33, indicating the remaining time in special effect mode.

In this case, since the small hit B fluctuation has started and one second reserved memory has been consumed, the number of second reserved memories shown in the second reserved memory number display area 010IW40b is "3," as shown in Figure 8-31 (F). Therefore, to suggest that the remaining reserves should be accumulated to the maximum of four, a text display 010IW37 such as "Charge!" is displayed on the image display device 5, as shown in Figure 8-31 (F).

Next, as shown in Figures 8-31(G) to 8-32(I), during the special effect mode, a pseudo-temporary stop display and pseudo-re-change of the left, center, and right decorative symbols 5L, 5C, and 5R are repeatedly performed, and the gauge display 010IW33 is updated as the remaining time in the special effect mode decreases. Note that, when the remaining reserves reach a maximum of four, the text display 010IW37, such as "Charge!", may be erased, as shown in Figure 8-31(H).

Then, as shown in Figure 8-32 (J), in the final pseudo-variation, the decorative symbols 5L, 5C, and 5R on the left, center, and right ultimately display as missing symbols, and the small symbols 010IW31 on the left, center, and right also display as missing symbols, confirming a small win B. Then, the second high base state ends and the state transitions to the normal state. If there are no remaining reserved symbols that result in a big win or small win A, the consecutive win state will end.

By executing the effects shown in Figures 8-31 and 8-32, if the specific effect mode is switched to the special effect mode, a small hit B may occur, creating a sense of crisis that the second high base state may end.

In addition, in this example, if the specific effect mode is switched to the special effect mode, it is not necessarily a small hit B, and there is also a possibility that it will be a small hit A. Figures 8-33 and 8-34 are explanatory diagrams for explaining the presentation mode when a presentation is executed to switch from the specific effect mode to the special effect mode when a small hit A is obtained during the second high base state.

If variation pattern PD1-3 is selected during a small win A variation, an effect similar to that shown in Figure 8-31 is executed, as if switching from specific to special mode. Next, for example, in the final pseudo-variation, as shown in Figure 8-33(I), the left and right decorative symbols 5L and 5R are temporarily stopped with the same symbol (in this example, the symbol "2"), and a reach state is entered. Furthermore, when a reach state is entered, as shown in Figure 8-33(I), a text display 010IW50 such as "STOP" is superimposed on the gauge display 010IW33, and an effect is executed in which the update display of the gauge display 010IW33 is temporarily suspended.

Next, for example, as shown in FIG. 8-33(J), a battle presentation is executed on the image display device 5 in which an ally character image 010IW51 and an enemy character image 010IW52 appear and engage in a battle, and as shown in FIG. 8-33(K), a presentation is executed in which the ally character image 010IW51 wins the battle, and a text display 010IW53 such as "WIN!" is displayed.

Next, as shown in Figure 8-33 (L), the image display device 5 displays the winning symbols (in this example, the symbol combination "222") as pseudo-temporarily stopped decorative symbols 5L, 5C, and 5R on the left, center, and right, and the updated display of the gauge display 010IW33 resumes. Then, when the symbol determination period begins, as shown in Figure 8-34 (M), the winning symbols are displayed as stopped decorative symbols 5L, 5C, and 5R on the left, center, and right, and the winning symbols are displayed as stopped small symbols 010IW31 on the left, center, and right.

By executing the effects shown in Figures 8-33 and 8-34, in this example, it is possible to switch from the specific effect mode to the special effect mode, making it appear as if the second high base state may end, and then finally displaying a stopped winning symbol, which makes it appear as if the winning symbol has returned and resulted in a big win or small win A.

In addition, even if a small hit B occurs during the second high base state and the second high base state ends, if there is a big hit or small hit A among the remaining reserves at the start of the small hit B fluctuation, the first high base state may be restored in a short period of time after the second high base state ends. Figures 8-35 and 8-36 are explanatory diagrams that explain the presentation mode when a small hit B occurs during the second high base state and there is a big hit or small hit A among the remaining reserves at the start of the small hit B fluctuation.

Even in the case of a small win B fluctuation, if there is a big win or small win A among the remaining reserves at the start of the small win B fluctuation, the winning symbol will be determined as the decorative symbol to be stopped based on whether the symbol designation command stored in the start winning command storage area indicates the winning result of a big win or small win A (see steps 010IWS806-S809). In this case, since the winning symbol has been determined, for example, in the last pseudo-fluctuation, as shown in Figure 8-35(I), the left and right decorative symbols 5L and 5R will be displayed as the same symbol (in this example, the symbol "2") and a reach state will be reached.

Next, as shown in Figure 8-35(J), the image display device 5 displays winning symbols (in this example, the symbol combination "222") as pseudo-temporarily stopped as a pre-reading notice, as decorative symbols 5L, 5C, and 5R on the left, center, and right. Then, when the symbol determination period begins, as shown in Figure 8-35(K), winning symbols are displayed as decorative symbols 5L, 5C, and 5R on the left, center, and right as a pre-reading notice. However, since this variable display does not result in a big win or small win A, as shown in Figure 8-35(K), losing symbols are displayed as small symbols 010IW31 on the left, center, and right.

Next, when the display of changes for the remaining reserved positions begins, as shown in Figure 8-35 (L), the image display device 5 again begins to display changes for the small left, center, and right symbols 010IW31, while the winning symbols displayed as the left, center, and right decorative symbols 5L, 5C, and 5R continue to be displayed in a smaller size than usual.

Next, when the display of remaining reserves that will result in a big win or small win A begins to change, the winning symbols displayed as decorative symbols 5L, 5C, and 5R on the left, center, and right gradually enlarge, as shown in Figures 8-36 (M) and (N). When the symbol determination period begins, the winning symbols are enlarged and highlighted and displayed as decorative symbols 5L, 5C, and 5R on the left, center, and right, and the winning symbols are displayed as small symbols 010IW31 on the left, center, and right.

Also, if a small hit B occurs during the second high base state and the second high base state ends, and there are no remaining reserves that will become a big hit or small hit A at the start of the small hit B fluctuation, new remaining reserves that appear after the start of the small hit B fluctuation may become a big hit or small hit A. Figures 8-37 and 8-38 are explanatory diagrams that explain the presentation mode when a small hit B occurs during the second high base state, and new remaining reserves that will become a big hit or small hit A appear after the start of the small hit B fluctuation.

In the case of a small win B variation, if there are no remaining reserves that could result in a big win or small win A when the small win B variation begins, it is not possible to display a winning symbol in advance. However, in this example, let's assume that a new entry into the second start entry slot occurs after the small win B variation begins, and the newly created remaining reserve (the fourth remaining reserve) is a big win or small win A. In this case, as shown in Figure 8-37 (I), in the last pseudo variation, losing symbols are displayed as pseudo-temporarily stopped as the decorative symbols 5L, 5C, and 5R on the left, center, and right, and when the symbol confirmation period begins, losing symbols are displayed as stopped as the decorative symbols 5L, 5C, and 5R on the left, center, and right, and a losing symbol is displayed as the small symbol 010IW31 on the left, center, and right, as shown in Figure 8-37 (J).

Next, when the display of changes to the remaining reserved items begins, as shown in Figure 8-37 (K), the image display device 5 again begins displaying the changes to the small left, center, and right symbols 010IW31, and also begins displaying the changes to the left, center, and right decorative symbols 5L, 5C, and 5R.

Next, as shown in Figure 8-37(L), when the variable display for the last remaining reserve (the fourth remaining reserve that will result in a big win or small win A) begins, and the timing for the button effect to start arrives, as shown in Figure 8-38(M), an image 010IW38 resembling the push button 31B is displayed on the image display device 5, and the button effect begins. When the player presses the push button 31B, for example, a winning symbol (in this example, the symbol combination "222") is temporarily displayed. Then, when the symbol determination period begins, as shown in Figure 8-38(N), the winning symbols are displayed as decorative symbols 5L, 5C, and 5R on the left, center, and right, and the winning symbols are displayed as small symbols 010IW31 on the left, center, and right.

Furthermore, Figures 8-35 to 8-38 show cases where the remaining reserves after the end of the second high base state result in a big hit or small hit A, but in this example, a different effect is executed if the remaining reserves after the end of the first high base state result in a big hit or small hit A. Figures 8-39 and 8-40 are explanatory diagrams for explaining the effect mode when the remaining reserves after the end of the first high base state result in a big hit or small hit.

When the final variable display during the first high base state is executed, as shown in Figure 8-39(I), the final pseudo-variation displays losing symbols as pseudo-temporarily stopped decorative symbols 5L, 5C, and 5R on the left, center, and right, and when the symbol confirmation period begins, as shown in Figure 8-39(J), losing symbols are stopped as decorative symbols 5L, 5C, and 5R on the left, center, and right, and losing symbols are stopped as small symbols 010IW31 on the left, center, and right. In this case, as shown in Figure 8-39(J), the caption display 010IW30, which includes text such as "Special Effect Time," is not erased, and text such as "FREEZE!" is displayed in the gauge display 010IW33, and an effect is executed in which the update display of the gauge display 010IW33 is temporarily suspended.

Next, when the display of changes to the remaining reserved positions begins, as shown in Figure 8-39 (K), the image display device 5 again begins displaying the small left, center, and right symbols 010IW31, and also begins displaying the decorative left, center, and right symbols 5L, 5C, and 5R. Also, as shown in Figure 8-39 (K), the caption display 010IW30 continues to be displayed, and the gauge display 010IW33, whose update display has been suspended, also continues to be displayed, creating an effect that appears as if the special effect mode is continuing.

In this example, it is assumed that the last remaining reserved ball is a big hit or small hit A. As shown in Figure 8-39 (L), when the variable display for the last remaining reserved ball begins, and the timing for the shutter effect to start arrives, an effect is executed on the image display device 5 in which shutter images 010IW35a, 35b close from above and below, as shown in Figure 8-40 (M).

Next, as shown in Figure 8-40(N), an effect is executed on the image display device 5 in which the upper and lower shutter images 010IW35a, 35b open, and, for example, winning symbols (in this example, the "222" symbol combination) appear temporarily frozen as decorative symbols 5L, 5C, and 5R on the left, center, and right, and the gauge display 010IW33 resumes updating. Then, when the symbol determination period begins, as shown in Figure 8-40(O), winning symbols are frozen as decorative symbols 5L, 5C, and 5R on the left, center, and right, and winning symbols are frozen as small symbols 010IW31 on the left, center, and right.

In addition, only if there are remaining reserves that will result in a big hit or small hit A at the start of the final fluctuation of the first high base state, a performance that extends the special effect mode as shown in Figures 8-39 and 8-40 may be executed as a pre-reading notice, or if the remaining reserves that occur after the start of the final fluctuation of the first high base state result in a big hit or small hit A, a performance that extends the special effect mode as shown in Figures 8-39 and 8-40 may be executed.

(Modification)
In the above-described feature 010IW, when a small hit B fluctuation occurs during the second high base state, the specific display mode is switched to the special display mode to execute a display accompanied by multiple pseudo fluctuations, but this is not limited to such a mode. For example, in the small hit B fluctuation during the second high base state, a short fluctuation (for example, 2 seconds) is displayed as a fluctuation display that is shorter than the normal fluctuation (for example, 12 seconds) of the miss fluctuation, and the small hit B fluctuation ends in an inconspicuous manner during the second high base state, and the second high base state ends.

As explained above, this characteristic part 010IW and its variations disclose the gaming machine configurations shown below in (Means A1) to (Means A8).

(Means A1) A gaming machine capable of playing games, comprising: a variable display execution means (for example, a part that executes steps 010IWS110 to S113 in the gaming control microcomputer 100) that can execute variable display of first identification information (for example, a first special symbol) and variable display of second identification information (for example, a second special symbol); a special state control means (for example, a part that executes steps 010IWS538, S542, S546, S549 in the gaming control microcomputer 100) that can control to a special state (for example, a high base state) that makes it easy to execute variable display of the second identification information; an advantageous state control means (for example, a part that executes steps 010IWS117 to S120 in the gaming control microcomputer 100) that can control to an advantageous state that is advantageous to the player (for example, a jackpot gaming state); and a special state (for example, and a presentation mode control means (for example, a portion in the presentation control CPU 120 that executes steps 010IWS812 and 010IWS814) that is controllable to at least a special presentation mode (for example, a special presentation mode) and a specific presentation mode (for example, a specific presentation mode). When the variable display of the second identification information is executed, the special state control means is easier to control to a special state than when the variable display of the first identification information is executed (for example, as shown in Figures 8-4 (B) and (C) , the probability of a small win is 0% for the first special symbol and the probability of a small win is approximately 17.4% for the second special symbol), and as a special state, the special state control means controls the first special state in which the game medium (for example, the game ball) can easily pass through a specific area (for example, a V winning hole). When the variable display of the second identification information is executed, the first special state is controlled with a predetermined probability (for example, about 1/7), and the advantageous state control means controls the first special state based on the fact that the gaming medium has passed through the specific area when controlled in the first special state (for example, the game control microcomputer 100 executes steps S010IWS456 to S462 when Y in step S010IWS455), and the special state control means controls the first special state (for example, a first high base state) controlled for a variable display number less than the reciprocal value of the predetermined probability (for example, 1 time, 4 times), and the second special state (for example, a second high base state) controlled for a variable display number more than the reciprocal value of the predetermined probability (for example, 99 times). , and when controlled to the second special state while controlled to the second special state, ends the second special state (for example, the game control microcomputer 100 executes steps 010IWS465 to S468), the presentation mode control means is controllable to a special presentation mode when controlled to the first special state (see Figure 8-27), and controllable to a specific presentation mode when controlled to the second special state (see Figure 8-28), and when controlled to the second special state, is controllable from the specific presentation mode to the special presentation mode in a variable display controlled to the second special state (see Figures 8-31 and 8-32), and when controlled to the second special state, is controllable from the specific presentation mode to the special presentation mode in a variable display controlled to the first special state (see Figures 8-33 and 8-34). With this configuration, even in a special presentation mode that is less favorable than the specific presentation mode, control may be exercised to the first special state, creating a sense of anticipation, and suitable control can be exercised when controlling to the second special state and ending the special state.

In other words, when a special state such as the second special state continues for a long time, there is no element of impatience for the player and it lacks excitement, so it is possible to configure the game to have a second special state that ends the second special state, and it is possible to implement suitable control in such a configuration.

(Means A2) Means A1 may be configured to include pseudo-variable display execution means (for example, a part in step 010IWS812 in the performance control CPU 120 that determines the performance pattern for the special performance mode, including pseudo-variation, in step 010IWS812) that can execute pseudo-variable display from the start to the end of the variable display when the variable display controlled in the second special state is controlled from a specific performance mode to a special performance mode, and when the variable display controlled in the first special state is controlled from a specific performance mode to a special performance mode. With such a configuration, it can be made to appear as if the variable display is being executed multiple times in the special performance mode.

In other words, it makes it appear as if the special effect mode continues for as long as possible.

(Means A3) Means A1 or A2 may be configured to include a hold memory means (e.g., a first hold memory buffer, a second hold memory buffer) capable of storing information related to the variable display as hold memory, and a notification means (see Figures 8-35 and 8-36) that notifies the user that the special display mode will be controlled to the first special state when the variable display controlled to the second special state is controlled from a specific display mode to a special display mode and the hold memory stored in the hold memory means contains a hold memory corresponding to the variable display controlled to the first special state. With such a configuration, after the variable display controlled to the second special state, a notification can be made regarding the hold memory corresponding to the variable display controlled to the first special state.

(Means A4) Any of means A1 to A3 may be configured to include a hold memory means (e.g., a first hold memory buffer, a second hold memory buffer) capable of storing information related to the variable display as hold memory, and a special effect execution means (see, for example, Figures 8-37 and 8-38) that executes a special effect (e.g., a button effect) after the special effect mode ends when the variable display controlled to the second special state is controlled from a specific effect mode to a special effect mode and hold memory corresponding to the variable display controlled to the first special state is stored in the hold memory means during the special effect mode. With such a configuration, after the variable display controlled to the second special state, a notification can be preferably made regarding the hold memory corresponding to the variable display controlled to the first special state.

(Means A5) In any of means A1 to A4, if the special state control means is controlled to the second special state while being controlled to the second special state, it executes control to terminate the second special state (for example, the game control microcomputer 100 executes steps 010IWS466 to S468 when Y is selected in step 010IWS465), and if the special state control means is controlled to the second special state while being controlled to the first special state, it does not execute control to terminate the second special state (for example, the game control microcomputer 100 executes steps (If step S010IWS465 is N, steps S010IWS466 to S468 are not executed.) The variable display execution means may be configured to execute the variable display for a shorter variable display period when controlled to the second special state while controlled to the first special state than when controlled to the second special state while controlled to the second special state (for example, as shown in Figures 8-7 (C) and (D), the variable pattern PD1-1 selected in the first high base state has a shorter variable time than the variable pattern PD1-3 selected in the second high base state). With such a configuration, the variable display period can be used differently depending on the special state.

In other words, in the second special state, time can be secured to prompt the end of the second special state, and in the first special state, unnecessary long variable display can be prevented.

(Means A6) In any of means A1 to A5, the special state control means may be configured to execute control to terminate the second special state when controlled to the second special state while controlled to the second special state (for example, the game control microcomputer 100 executes steps 010IWS466 to S468 when step 010IWS465 is Y), and not execute control to terminate the second special state when controlled to the second special state while controlled to the first special state (for example, the game control microcomputer 100 does not execute steps 010IWS466 to S468 when step 010IWS465 is N), and the special state control means may be configured to control to the second special state with a lower probability even when controlled to the first special state (for example, as shown in Figure 8-5 (C), the probability of small hit A is approximately 1/7 and the probability of small hit B is approximately 1/32). With this configuration, the probability of being controlled to the second special state is lower, giving the player a sense of security while also allowing for conditions for ending the special state other than the variable display count to be set.

(Means A7) In any of means A1 to A6, in a specific presentation mode, a suggestive presentation execution means (see Figures 8-28 to 8-32) capable of executing suggestive presentations capable of displaying, as a presentation result, a first presentation result suggesting that the game will be controlled to the second special state (for example, as shown in Figures 8-31 and 8-32, after switching from the specific presentation mode to the special presentation mode, a stop display of a losing symbol) and a second presentation result suggesting that the game will be controlled to the first special state (for example, as shown in Figure 8-29, a stop display of a winning symbol), and a post-notification presentation execution means (see Figures 8-28 to 8-32) capable of controlling the game to the special presentation mode after displaying the first presentation result and executing a post-notification presentation that notifies the game will be controlled to the first special state after controlling to the special presentation mode (for example, as shown in Figures 8-33 and 8-34, after switching from the specific presentation mode to the special presentation mode, a stop display of a winning symbol). After switching to the special presentation mode, a jackpot symbol is displayed in a static display), and the degree of advantage differs between executing a suggestive presentation that displays the second presentation result and executing a post-notification presentation (for example, variation pattern PD1-2 is selected even in the case of a miss variation, but since the probability of a miss is overwhelmingly higher than that of a jackpot or small win, the probability of a small win A is relatively higher when variation pattern PD1-3 is selected than the probability of a small win A when variation pattern PD1-2 is selected. Therefore, the reliability is higher when variation pattern PD1-3 is selected, switching from the specific presentation mode to the special presentation mode, and a small win A, than when variation pattern PD1-2 is selected and a hit is made directly from the specific presentation mode, resulting in a small win A). Such a configuration can increase interest in the game.

(Means A8) In any of means A1 to A7, the variable display execution means may be configured to, when controlled to the second special state while in the second special state, execute the variable display for a shorter variable display period than when not controlled to the advantageous state or special state (for example, as shown in the modified example, for a small win B fluctuation during the second high base state, execute a variable display with a shortened fluctuation (e.g., 2 seconds) that is shorter than the normal fluctuation (e.g., 12 seconds) of a miss fluctuation). Such a configuration makes it possible to make the variable display controlled to the second special state in the second special state less noticeable.

Furthermore, this characteristic part 010IW and its variations disclose the gaming machine configurations shown below in (Means B1) to (Means B9).

(Means B1) A gaming machine capable of playing games, comprising: a reserve memory means (e.g., a first reserve memory buffer, a second reserve memory buffer) capable of storing information regarding variable display as reserve memory; a variable display execution means (e.g., a part that executes steps 010IWS110 to S113 in the gaming control microcomputer 100) capable of executing variable display of first identification information (e.g., a first special symbol) and variable display of second identification information (e.g., a second special symbol); a special state control means (e.g., a part that executes steps 010IWS538, S542, S546, S549 in the gaming control microcomputer 100) capable of controlling to a special state (e.g., a high base state) in which it is easy to execute variable display of second identification information; and an advantageous state control means (e.g., a game state) capable of controlling to an advantageous state that is advantageous to the player (e.g., a jackpot gaming state). The present invention is provided with a special state control means (for example, a part that executes steps S117 to S120 in the game control microcomputer 100), a special state control means (for example, a part that executes steps S114 to S116 in the game control microcomputer 100) that can control to a special state different from the advantageous state (for example, a small win game state), and a performance execution means (for example, a part that executes step S76 in the performance control CPU 120) that can execute a performance, and when variable display of the second identification information is executed, the special state control means is easier to control to a special state than when variable display of the first identification information is executed (for example, as shown in FIGS. 8-4(B) and (C), the small win probability is 0% for the first special symbol and the small win probability is about 17.4% for the second special symbol), and when the game medium (for example, a game ball) is in a specific area (for example, V When variable display of the second identification information is executed, the game medium is controlled to the first special state with a predetermined probability (for example, about 1/7), and the advantageous state control means controls the game medium to the advantageous state based on the game medium having passed through the specific area when controlled to the first special state (for example, the game control microcomputer 100 executes steps S010IWS456 to S462 when Y in step S010IWS455), and the special ...), and the special state control means controls the game medium to the advantageous state based on the game medium having passed through the specific area when controlled to the first special state (for example, the game control microcomputer 100 executes steps S010IWS456 to S A gaming machine characterized in that the gaming machine is controllable between a first special state (e.g., a second high base state) and a second special state (e.g., a second high base state) in which the first special state is entered, and when the second special state is entered while controlled in the second special state, the gaming machine terminates the second special state (e.g., the game control microcomputer 100 executes steps S465 to S468), and the effect execution means executes, in different effect modes, an effect to be executed after the first special state ends if the reserved memory stored in the reserved memory means at the time of terminating the first special state contains a reserved memory corresponding to a variable display controlled in the first special state (see FIGS. 8-39 and 8-40), and an effect to be executed after the second special state ends if the reserved memory stored in the reserved memory means at the time of terminating the second special state contains a reserved memory corresponding to a variable display controlled in the first special state (see FIGS. 8-35 to 8-38). This configuration allows the player to understand that the special state has been entered again after the second special state has ended, and appropriate control can be executed when the special state is terminated by controlling in the second special state.

(Means B2) Means B1 may be provided with a presentation mode control means (e.g., a part that executes steps 010IWS812, S814 in the presentation control CPU 120) that can be controlled to at least a special presentation mode (e.g., a special presentation mode) and a specific presentation mode (e.g., a specific presentation mode), and the presentation mode control means may be configured to be controllable to the special presentation mode when controlled to the first special state (see Figure 8-27), to be controllable to the specific presentation mode when controlled to the second special state (see Figure 8-28), to be controllable from the specific presentation mode to the special presentation mode in a variable display controlled to the second special state when controlled to the second special state (see Figures 8-31 and 8-32), and to be controllable from the specific presentation mode to the special presentation mode in a variable display controlled to the first special state when controlled to the second special state (see Figures 8-33 and 8-34). With this configuration, even in a special presentation mode that is less favorable than the specific presentation mode, control may be made to the first special state, creating a sense of anticipation, and suitable control can be implemented when controlling to the second special state and ending the special state.

(Means B3) Means B2 may be configured to include pseudo-variable display execution means (for example, a part in step 010IWS812 in the performance control CPU 120 that determines the performance pattern for the special performance mode, including pseudo-variation, in step 010IWS812) that can execute pseudo-variable display from the start to the end of the variable display when the variable display controlled in the second special state is controlled from a specific performance mode to a special performance mode, and when the variable display controlled in the first special state is controlled from a specific performance mode to a special performance mode. With such a configuration, it can be made to appear as if the variable display is being executed multiple times in the special performance mode.

(Means B4) Means B2 or B3 may be configured to include notification means (see Figures 8-35 and 8-36) that notifies the user that control will be made to the first special state during the special effect mode if, in a variable display controlled to the second special state, control is made from a specific effect mode to a special effect mode and the hold memory stored in the hold memory means contains a hold memory corresponding to a variable display controlled to the first special state. With such a configuration, after the variable display controlled to the second special state, notification can be made about the hold memory corresponding to the variable display controlled to the first special state.

(Means B5) Any of means B2 to B4 may be configured to include special effect execution means (see, for example, Figures 8-37 and 8-38) that executes a special effect (e.g., button effect) after the special effect mode ends if, in a variable display controlled to the second special state, control is exercised from a specific effect mode to a special effect mode and a reserved memory corresponding to a variable display controlled to the first special state is stored in the reserved memory means during the special effect mode. With such a configuration, after the variable display controlled to the second special state, a notification can be issued for the reserved memory corresponding to the variable display controlled to the first special state.

(Means B6) In any of means B2 to B5, if the special state control means is controlled to the second special state while being controlled to the second special state, it executes control to terminate the second special state (for example, the game control microcomputer 100 executes steps 010IWS466 to S468 when Y is selected in step 010IWS465), and if the special state control means is controlled to the second special state while being controlled to the first special state, it does not execute control to terminate the second special state (for example, the game control microcomputer 100 executes steps (If step S010IWS465 is N, steps S010IWS466 to S468 are not executed.) The variable display execution means may be configured to execute the variable display for a shorter variable display period when controlled to the second special state while controlled to the first special state than when controlled to the second special state while controlled to the second special state (for example, as shown in Figures 8-7 (C) and (D), the variable pattern PD1-1 selected in the first high base state has a shorter variable time than the variable pattern PD1-3 selected in the second high base state). With such a configuration, the variable display period can be used differently depending on the special state.

(Means B7) In any of means B2 to B6, the special state control means may be configured to execute control to terminate the second special state when controlled to the second special state while controlled to the second special state (for example, the game control microcomputer 100 executes steps 010IWS466 to S468 when step 010IWS465 is Y), and not execute control to terminate the second special state when controlled to the second special state while controlled to the first special state (for example, the game control microcomputer 100 does not execute steps 010IWS466 to S468 when step 010IWS465 is N), and the special state control means may be configured to control to the second special state with a lower probability even when controlled to the first special state (for example, as shown in Figure 8-5 (C), the probability of small hit A is approximately 1/7 and the probability of small hit B is approximately 1/32). With this configuration, the probability of being controlled to the second special state is lower, giving the player a sense of security while also allowing for conditions for ending the special state other than the variable display count to be set.

(Means B8) In any of means B2 to B7, a suggestive effect execution means (see Figures 8-28 to 8-32) capable of executing suggestive effects that can display, as effect results, a first effect result suggesting that the game will be controlled to the second special state (for example, as shown in Figures 8-31 and 8-32, after switching from the specific effect mode to the special effect mode, a stop display of a losing symbol) and a second effect result suggesting that the game will be controlled to the first special state (for example, as shown in Figure 8-29, a stop display of a winning symbol), and a post-notification effect execution means (see Figures 8-28 to 8-32) capable of controlling the game to the special effect mode after displaying the first effect result and executing a post-notification effect that notifies the game will be controlled to the first special state after controlling to the special effect mode (for example, as shown in Figures 8-33 and 8-34, after switching from the specific effect mode to the special effect mode, a stop display of a losing symbol). After switching to the special presentation mode, a jackpot symbol is displayed in a static display), and the degree of advantage differs between executing a suggestive presentation that displays the second presentation result and executing a post-notification presentation (for example, variation pattern PD1-2 is selected even in the case of a miss variation, but since the probability of a miss is overwhelmingly higher than that of a jackpot or small win, the probability of a small win A is relatively higher when variation pattern PD1-3 is selected than the probability of a small win A when variation pattern PD1-2 is selected. Therefore, the reliability is higher when variation pattern PD1-3 is selected, switching from the specific presentation mode to the special presentation mode, and a small win A, than when variation pattern PD1-2 is selected and a hit is made directly from the specific presentation mode, resulting in a small win A). Such a configuration can increase interest in the game.

(Means B9) In any of means B1 to B8, the variable display execution means may be configured to, when controlled to the second special state while in the second special state, execute the variable display for a shorter variable display period than when not controlled to the advantageous state or special state (for example, as shown in the modified example, for a small win B fluctuation during the second high base state, execute a variable display with a shortened fluctuation (e.g., 2 seconds) that is shorter than the normal fluctuation (e.g., 12 seconds) of a miss fluctuation). With such a configuration, the variable display controlled to the second special state in the second special state can be made less noticeable.

(Explanation of the control aspects of feature 1144SKY to feature 1148SKY)
Next, the control aspects of the pachinko machine 1 of the characteristic parts 1144SKY to 1148SKY in this embodiment will be described. The control aspects of the characteristic parts 1144SKY to 1148SKY are mainly control that is an appropriate modification of part of the control of the above-mentioned characteristic part 010IW. The modified control and the specifications of the pachinko gaming machine resulting from such control will be described below. Note that parts that are not described as the control aspects of the characteristic parts 1144SKY to 1148SKY are assumed to be control equivalent to the characteristic part 1010IW. In Figures 9-1 to 9-11, each process will be described using the steps of "010IW" as in the characteristic part 010IW, but the content of the process may differ.

Figure 9-1 is a table of the jackpot determination values for the first and second special symbols and the small jackpot determination values for the second special symbol in pachinko machines 1 with feature parts 1144SKY to 1148SKY, with Figure 9-1(A) showing the jackpot determination values and Figure 9-1(B) showing the small jackpot determination values. The jackpot determination values are 0 to 217 out of 0 to 65535, meaning that there is approximately a 1 in 300 chance of a jackpot. The small jackpot determination values are 218 to 60472 out of 0 to 65535, meaning that there is approximately a 1 in 1.08 chance of a small jackpot. As can be seen from the embodiment of feature part 010IW, the variable display of the second special symbol is a special symbol that is variably displayed primarily in the time-saving mode. In feature areas 1144SKY to 1148SKY, the variable display of the second special symbol results in a small win at approximately 1 in 1.08, so in this situation, if the variable display of the second special symbol occurs during the time-saving state, it can be said that a small win is almost certain, and a small win will occur on the first variable display spin of almost every 100 times during the time-saving state described below.

Figure 9-2 is a table showing the judgment values for jackpot types and small jackpot types in pachinko machines 1 with feature parts 1144SKY to 1148SKY. Figure 9-2 (A) is a jackpot judgment value table for the first special symbol, which shows that there is a 50% probability of control to either a 7R jackpot A or a 7R jackpot B. After a 7R jackpot A is controlled to that jackpot, 100 high base (time-shortened state) counts are granted, and after a 7R jackpot B is controlled to that jackpot, no high base (time-shortened state) is granted and the machine is controlled to the normal state. Figure 9-2 (B) is a jackpot judgment value table for the second special symbol, which shows that there is control to either a 10R jackpot A or a 10R jackpot B. The 10R jackpot A has an 80% probability of winning, and after being controlled to the jackpot, 100 high base (time-saving state) counts are granted, and the 10R jackpot B has a 20% probability of winning, and after being controlled to the jackpot, the high base (time-saving state) is not granted, and it is controlled to the normal state. Furthermore, Figure 9-2 (C) is a small hit determination value table for the second special pattern, and it is shown that it is controlled to either small hit A or small hit B. Small hit A is won with an 80% probability, and after being controlled to the jackpot after winning the V via this small hit A, 100 high base (time-saving state) counts are granted, and small hit B has a 20% probability of winning, and after being controlled to the jackpot after winning the V via this small hit B, the high base (time-saving state) is not granted, and it is controlled to the normal state. In other words, when pachinko gaming machines 1 with feature sections 1144SKY to 1148SKY are controlled in the time-saving mode, the second special symbol is mainly displayed in a variable manner, and a small win occurs when the second special symbol is displayed in a variable manner on approximately the first spin, and the gameplay involves aiming to win the 80% small win A.

Furthermore, the conditions for terminating the time-saving mode in pachinko machines 1 with features 1144SKY to 1148SKY include "executing 100 variable displays" and "executing a small win variable display." Therefore, if a small win occurs while the machine is in the time-saving mode, as long as the machine continues to shoot game balls (so-called "right hits") into the right area (right game area) of the image display device 5 to cause the game ball to flow down the second path, the game medium will almost certainly enter the special variable winning ball device 010IW17 (special winning port). However, if the machine is controlled to a small win and the game medium does not enter the special variable winning ball device 010IW17, the time-saving mode ends with the variable display of the small win, so a big win via the small win does not occur, and the time-saving mode is not granted thereafter. In this embodiment, effects such as the "Bow and Arrow Chance" described below are implemented that allow the player to determine that the game will definitely be controlled to a time-saving state after a big win occurs while the variable display is running. However, when a small win occurs like this, a situation is created in which a loss is guaranteed unless the gaming medium is allowed to win in the special variable winning ball device 010IW17, preventing a situation in which the player intentionally takes aim.

Figure 9-3 uses a table to show the variation patterns (also called variable display patterns) when the first special symbol and second special symbol are variably displayed. Figure 9-3 (A) shows the variation pattern of the first special symbol, which is a variation pattern mainly used in the normal state. Even when the first special symbol is variably displayed in the time-saving state, a variation pattern is selected from a variation pattern table similar to the variation pattern table shown in Figure 9-3 (A). Figure 9-3 (B) shows the variation pattern of the second special symbol, which is a variation pattern table used when the second special symbol is variably displayed in the normal state. Figure 9-3 (C) shows the variation pattern table used when the second special symbol is variably displayed in the time-saving state, which is composed of six variation patterns, PC3-2 to PA4-1. PC3-2 is the "3-count effect (normal)," and this variation pattern is effectively the most likely to be selected in the time-saving state. This PC3-2 has a relatively short fluctuation time as shown in the fluctuation time, but in the pachinko gaming machine 1 with feature parts 1144SKY to 1148SKY, the variable display of the second special symbol in the time-saving state almost certainly leads to a jackpot, so players have the perception that "it's natural to hit the jackpot immediately in the time-saving state," and so conversely, if the fluctuation time is extended, it may feel annoying. In this case, there is no need to go to the trouble of lengthening the fluctuation time and creating a performance configuration that incites whether or not a jackpot (small jackpot) will occur, so this fluctuation time is used, and by using a simple performance configuration that does not incite whether or not a jackpot (small jackpot) will be controlled, like the 3-count performance described below, the performance is not redundant. When the variable pattern command of PC3-2 is received on the sub-board, a round effect (described later) is performed during the jackpot state after the variable display ends, suggesting whether the jackpot will be controlled to a time-saving state (i.e., the streak will continue). The player does not pay much attention to whether or not a jackpot will be won, but rather focuses primarily on the round effect indicating whether or not the streak will continue. The content of PC3-3 is a "3-count effect (rescue)." The basic effect configuration executed during the variable display is the same as when the aforementioned PD1-1 "3-count effect (normal)" is selected. However, when the variable pattern command indicated by PC3-3 is received on the sub-board, a notification is made that the jackpot state (round effect) controlled after the variable display of the variable pattern of PC3-3 ends will not be controlled to a time-saving state, and then a result display (described later) is displayed. The subsequent rescue effect is used to notify the player that the jackpot state will be controlled to a time-saving state (the streak will continue). During the round effect during a jackpot state, the player is informed that the time-saving state will not be restored, and then the player is informed that the time-saving state has been confirmed. This is why the term "rescue" is used to refer to this effect. The contents of PC3-4 and PC3-6 are "Yuya Chance (win)" and "Yuya Chance (lose)." First, PC3-6 is a variation pattern selected when the variable display of the second special symbol is executed and the player does not win the small win probability of 1/1.08, but instead wins a rare miss. When a variation pattern command indicating this PC3-6 is received by the sub-board, the Yuya Chance is executed during the variable display as a performance to suggest whether a jackpot (small win) or a miss will occur. The variation time for this PC3-6 variation pattern is longer than when the variation patterns PC3-2 and PC3-3 are selected, as shown in the variation time, and sufficient time is secured within the variation time to execute the Yuya Chance. Furthermore, for PC3-4, when the sub-board receives a variable pattern command indicating PC3-4, the bow and arrow chance is executed in a presentation pattern that indicates a jackpot. When the variable display of the second special symbol results in a jackpot during the time-saving state, one of the variable patterns PC3-2, PC3-3, or PC3-4 will be selected. However, the bow and arrow chance is a presentation designed to prevent players from feeling hopeful in the rare case where the player does not win the small win probability of 1/1.08 (and the jackpot probability of 1/300). In this embodiment of the pachinko machine, whose main presentation configuration is to encourage players to enter the time-saving state through the round presentation during the jackpot state from the three-count presentation performed during the original variable display, the probability of PC3-2 or PC3-3 being selected is set higher than the probability of PC3-4 being selected. This allows players to maintain the flow of the main presentation during the time-saving state while also maintaining a sense of anticipation in the rare event of a miss. Furthermore, PC3-4 is only selected when the small hit type is small hit A. Therefore, when the variable display in which the bow and arrow chance is executed is executed, the player can focus on the presentation with the understanding that "it is unclear whether it will be controlled to a big hit, but if it does hit (if a hit is announced in the bow and arrow chance), the continuation of the consecutive wins will be confirmed."

Figures 9-4 and 9-5 are explanatory diagrams showing an example of the content of a presentation control command sent to the presentation control CPU 120. In the example shown in Figures 9-4 and 9-5, command 80XX (H) is a presentation control command (variation pattern command) that specifies the variation pattern of the decorative symbols that are variably displayed on the image display device 5 in response to the variable display of the special symbols. Note that the presentation control command that specifies the variation pattern is also a command for specifying the start of variation. Therefore, when the presentation control CPU 120 receives any of commands 80XX (H), it controls the image display device 5 to begin the variable display of the decorative symbols.

Command 9000 (H) is a performance control command (display result 1 specification command) (miss specification command) that specifies that the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern specified by the variable pattern command is a miss.

Command 9001 (H) is a presentation control command (display result 2 specification command (7R jackpot A specification command)) that specifies that the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern specified by the variation pattern command is a 7R jackpot A. Command 9002 (H) is a presentation control command (display result 3 specification command (7R jackpot B specification command)) that specifies that the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern specified by the variation pattern command is a 7R jackpot B. Command 9003 (H) is a presentation control command (display result 4 specification command (10R jackpot A specification command)) that specifies that the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern specified by the variation pattern command is a 10R jackpot A. Command 9004 (H) is a presentation control command (display result 5 specification command (10R jackpot B specification command)) that specifies that the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern specified by the variation pattern command is a 10R jackpot B.

Command 9005 (H) is a presentation control command (display result 6 designation command (small win A designation command)) that specifies that the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern specified by the variation pattern command is small win A. Command 9006 (H) is a presentation control command (display result 7 designation command (small win B designation command)) that specifies that the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern specified by the variation pattern command is small win B.

Command A000 (H) is a presentation control command (first symbol determination command) that can specify that the variable display of the first special symbol will be stopped. Command A100 (H) is a presentation control command (second symbol determination command) that can specify that the variable display of the second special symbol will be stopped.

Command B000 (H) is a presentation control command (jackpot start designation command: fanfare designation command) that specifies the start of jackpot play. Command B001 (H) is a presentation control command (jackpot end designation command: ending designation command) that specifies the end of jackpot play.

Command B1XX (H) is a presentation control command (large prize opening display command) that specifies the display during a round during jackpot play. The number of rounds to be displayed is set in "XX." Command B2XX (H) is a presentation control command (large prize opening display command) that specifies the display after a round during jackpot play (display of the interval between rounds).

Command B300 (H) is a presentation control command (small jackpot start command) that specifies the start of small jackpot play. Command B301 (H) is a presentation control command (small jackpot end command) that specifies the end of small jackpot play.

Command B400 (H) is a presentation control command (large prize entry designation command) that specifies that a game ball has entered the large prize entry port. Command B401 (H) is a presentation control command (special prize entry designation command) that specifies that a game ball has entered the special prize entry port. Command B402 (H) is a presentation control command (V prize entry designation command) that specifies that a game ball has entered the V prize entry port within the special prize entry port.

Command C000 (H) is an effect control command (first reserved memory number addition command) that specifies that the first reserved memory number has increased by 1. Command C100 (H) is an effect control command (first reserved memory number subtraction command) that specifies that the first reserved memory number has decreased by 1. Note that in embodiments of feature sections 1144SKY to 1148SKY, there is no reserved memory corresponding to the variable display of the second special symbol. If a gaming medium enters the second start winning slot while the variable display of the second special symbol is already being executed, the winning will be considered an invalid start. In the start winning determination process described below, unlike the process when a winning symbol enters the first start winning slot, no determination is made as to whether the maximum number of reserved memories is reached, no update of the reserved memory number counter, and no random numbers are extracted (no random numbers are obtained when a winning symbol enters the second start winning slot). Therefore, there are no commands corresponding to the variable display of the second special symbol for the first reserved memory number addition command and the first reserved memory number subtraction command.

Commands C4XX(H) and C6XX(H) are presentation control commands (prize winning judgment result designation commands) that indicate the content of the winning judgment results. Of these, command C4XX(H) is a presentation control command (symbol designation command) that indicates the judgment results of the winning judgment results, such as whether or not there will be a big win, a small win, the type of big win, and the type of small win. Furthermore, command C6XX(H) is a presentation control command (variation category command) that indicates the judgment results of the variation pattern or variation pattern type, among the winning judgment results.

Command E000 (H) is a presentation control command (normal state designation command) that specifies that the game state is controlled to the normal state. Command E001 (H) is a presentation control command (high base state designation command) that specifies that the game state is controlled to the high base state of 100 plays.

When the presentation control CPU 120 (specifically, the presentation control CPU 120) mounted on the presentation control board 12 receives the above-mentioned presentation control command from the game control microcomputer 100 mounted on the main board 11, it changes the display state of the image display device 5 according to the contents shown in Figures 8-8 and 8-9, changes the display state of the lamps, and outputs sound number data to the sound control board 13. Presentation control commands other than those shown in Figures 8-8 and 8-9 are also transmitted from the main board 11 to the presentation control board 12. For example, more detailed presentation control commands related to jackpot games and presentation control commands indicating the game status (for example, a presentation control command indicating an initialization command) are also transmitted from the main board 11 to the presentation control board 12.

Figure 9-6 is a flowchart showing an example of special symbol processing in feature sections 1144SKY to 1148SKY. In this example, the start winning determination process (step 010IWS101) is generally similar to the start winning determination process (step S101) shown in Figure 5. Also, the normal special symbol processing (step 010IWS110) through the special symbol stop processing (step 010IWS113) are generally similar to the normal special symbol processing (step S110) through the special symbol stop processing (step S113) shown in Figure 5. However, in this example, if a small win symbol is derived and displayed, the process proceeds to pre-small win release processing (step 010IWS114). Also, if a big win symbol is derived and displayed (in the case of a direct win), the process proceeds to pre-big win release processing (step 010IWS117).

Pre-small win release processing (step 010IWS114): Executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 4. The game control microcomputer 100 executes processing to control the special variable winning ball device 010IW17 to the open state, and updates the internal state (specifically, the value of the special symbol process flag) to a value (5 in this example) corresponding to the small win release processing (step 010IWS115).

Small Win Opening Processing (Step 010IWS115): Executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 5. If the opening time has elapsed while the special variable winning ball device 010IW17 is open, the special variable winning ball device 010IW17 is controlled to the closed state. If the closing time has elapsed while the special variable winning ball device 010IW17 is closed and there are still openings remaining, the special variable winning ball device 010IW17 is controlled to the open state. Also, when it is time to open the V winning opening opening/closing plate 010IW04, the V winning opening opening/closing plate 010IW04 is controlled to the open state. When it is time to close the V winning opening opening/closing plate 010IW04, the V winning opening opening/closing plate 010IW04 is controlled to the closed state. Also, it is checked whether the V winning opening switch 010IW25 is on, and if it is on, the V winning flag is set. When all the special variable winning ball devices 010IW17 have been opened and the closing time (interval time) has elapsed, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (6 in this example) corresponding to the small win closing post-processing (step 010IWS116).

Processing after closing small win (step 010IWS116): Executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 6. If the V prize flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to the value (7 in this example) corresponding to the processing before opening the big win (step 010IWS117). If the V prize flag is not set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to the value (0 in this example) corresponding to the normal processing of special symbols (step 010IWS110).

The process from the pre-jackpot release process (step S10IWS117) to the jackpot end process (step S10IWS120) is generally similar to the process from the pre-jackpot release process (step S114) to the jackpot end process (step S117) shown in Figure 5.

In this example, the game immediately transitions to jackpot play after a jackpot has been determined and the jackpot/small jackpot symbols are derived and displayed, or after a V win occurs during small jackpot play and the small jackpot play ends, but this is not the only possible configuration. For example, rather than immediately transitioning to jackpot play, the game may be configured to transition to jackpot play only when the game ball passes through an operating gate (which may also serve as passing gate 41) provided in the play area.

Figure 9-7 is a flowchart showing the start winning determination process (step 010IWS101). In the start winning determination process, the game control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the CPU 103) first checks whether the first start opening switch 22A is on (step 010IWS1211). If the first start opening switch 22A is not on, the process proceeds to step 010IWS1221. If the first start opening switch 22A is on, the CPU 103 checks whether the first reserved memory count has reached its upper limit (specifically, whether the value of the first reserved memory count counter for counting the first reserved memory count is 4) (step 010IWS1212).

If the first reserved memory count has not reached the upper limit, CPU 103 increments the value of the first reserved memory count counter by 1 (step 010IWS1213). CPU 103 also increments the value of the combined reserved memory count counter, which counts the total of the first reserved memory count and the second reserved memory count, by 1 (step 010IWS1214). Next, CPU 103 extracts values from counters used to generate random numbers, such as random numbers for determining a win, random numbers for determining a type, and random numbers for determining a variation pattern, and stores these values in a storage area in the first reserved memory buffer (step 010IWS1215). A storage area corresponding to the upper limit of the first reserved memory count (5 in this example) is reserved in the first reserved memory buffer and is formed in RAM 102. The upper limit for the first reserved memory number for feature parts 1144SKY to 1148SKY is "5", which is because the storage area is divided into five areas for reserved memory number 0 to reserved memory number 4. The storage area for reserved memory number 0 is a storage area for storing each random number value extracted when a gaming medium enters the first start winning slot when the variable display is stopped and there is no reserved memory for the next variable display, and corresponds to the variable display (the so-called relevant variation) that starts immediately.

Next, CPU 103 executes a win determination process to determine in advance at the time of the start win the result of the change display and the change pattern that will occur when a change based on the detected start win is subsequently executed (step 010IWS1216). CPU 103 then controls the transmission of a pattern designation command to performance control CPU 120 based on the determination result of the win determination process (step 010IWS1217), and also controls the transmission of a change category command to performance control CPU 120 (step 010IWS1218). CPU 103 also controls the transmission of a first pending memory count addition designation command to performance control CPU 120 (step 010IWS1219). Then, the process proceeds to step 010IWS1221.

Next, CPU 103 checks whether second start port switch 22B is on (step 010IWS1221). If second start port switch 22B is not on, processing ends. If second start port switch 22B is on, CPU 103 checks whether the second reserved memory count has reached its upper limit (specifically, whether the value of the second reserved memory count counter for counting the second reserved memory count is 1) (step 010IWS1222). The upper limit of the second reserved memory count for feature units 1144SKY to 1148SKY is set to "1." This means that if a new winning entry into the second start winning entry occurs while the variable display of the second special pattern is already being executed, no reserved memory will be stored and the winning entry will be considered an invalid start winning entry.

If the second reserved memory count has not reached the upper limit, CPU 103 increments the value of the second reserved memory count counter by 1 (step 010IWS1223). CPU 103 also increments the value of the total reserved memory count counter by 1 (step 010IWS1224). Next, CPU 103 extracts values from the counters used to generate random numbers such as the random number for determining a win, the random number for determining the type, and the random number for determining the variation pattern, and stores these values in a storage area in the second reserved memory buffer (step 010IWS1225). Note that a storage area corresponding to the upper limit of the second reserved memory count (1 in this example) is secured in the second reserved memory buffer and is formed in RAM 102.

Next, CPU 103 executes a winning determination process (step 010IWS1226). Then, based on the determination result of the winning determination process, CPU 103 controls the transmission of a pattern designation command to presentation control CPU 120 (step 010IWS1227), and also controls the transmission of a variable category command to presentation control CPU 120 (step 010IWS1228). CPU 103 also controls the transmission of a second pending memory count addition designation command to presentation control CPU 120 (step 010IWS1229). Then, the start winning determination process ends.

After the initial winning determination is complete, the process transitions to the normal special symbol processing shown in Figure 8-12, just like feature unit 101IW. The normal special symbol processing in feature units 1144SKY to 1148SKY is generally the same as feature unit 010IW in Figure 8-12, so a detailed explanation will be omitted, but as mentioned above, the upper limit for the number of reserved memories corresponding to the variable display of the first special symbol is "5," and the upper limit for the number of reserved memories corresponding to the variable display of the first special symbol is "1," so processing is carried out in response to changes in these upper limits.

Next, the variable pattern setting process shown in Figure 9-8 is executed (step 010IWS111). The variable pattern setting process for feature parts 1144SKY to 1148SKY is generally the same as that for feature part 010IW in Figure 8-13, so a detailed explanation will be omitted. However, when comparing Figure 9-8 with Figure 8-13, in feature parts 1144SKY to 1148SKY, when the special symbol pointer is "2" and a variable pattern related to the variable display of the second special symbol is set, no processing according to the type of high base is required (there is only one type of high base) as shown in steps 0101IW1703 and 010IW1705. Therefore, after checking whether the high base flag is set (step 010IWS1710), if it is set, the variable pattern table for the second special symbol corresponding to the high base (time-saving state) shown in Figure 9-3 is selected.

Next, similar to feature part 010IW, the process moves to the special symbol variation process shown in Figure 8-14. The special symbol variation process for feature parts 1144SKY to 1148SKY is the same as that for feature part 010IW, so further illustrations and explanations will be omitted.

Then, the process proceeds to the special symbol stop process shown in Figure 9-9. The CPU 103 first subtracts 1 from the value of the symbol determination period timer (step 010IWS131), and then checks whether the value of the symbol determination period timer after the subtraction is 0 (step 010IWS132).

If the value of the pattern determination period timer after subtraction is not 0 (i.e., the determined display period for the stopped patterns of the first special pattern and the second special pattern has not yet ended), the special pattern stop processing ends. If the value of the pattern determination period timer after subtraction is 0 (i.e., the determined display period for the stopped patterns of the first special pattern and the second special pattern has ended), the CPU 103 checks whether the jackpot flag is set (step 010IWS133).

If the jackpot flag is set, the CPU 103 resets the high base flag and the high base count counter, which counts the number of times the variable display is executed during the high base state (step 010IWS150).

Next, the CPU 103 controls the transmission of a jackpot start command to the presentation control CPU 120 (step 010IWS137). Next, the CPU 103 sets a timer for the time before the large prize opening to measure the time before the large prize opening (fanfare time) until the special variable prize ball device 7 is controlled to the open state (step 010IWS138). The CPU 103 then updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the jackpot opening pre-processing (step 010IWS139).

If the jackpot flag is not set (N in step 010IWS133), the CPU 103 checks whether the value of the high base count counter, which counts the number of times the variable display is executed during the high base state, is 0 (step 010IWS140). If the value of the high base count counter is not 0, the CPU 103 subtracts 1 from the value of the high base count counter (step 010IWS141) and checks whether the value of the high base count counter after the subtraction is 0 (step 010IWS142). If the value of the high base count counter after the subtraction is 0, the CPU 103 resets the set high base flag (step 010IWS151) and ends the high base state. The CPU 103 also controls the transmission of a normal state designation command to the presentation control CPU 120 (step 010IWS144). Note that in this embodiment, the high base state is sometimes referred to as the time-saving state, which are synonymous.

Next, CPU 103 checks whether the small win flag is set (step 010IWS145). If the small win flag is set, it controls the transmission of a small win start command to the presentation control CPU 120 (step 010IWS146). Next, CPU 103 sets a value corresponding to the fanfare time for the small win to a special prize opening pre-opening timer, which measures the time before the special prize opening is opened (fanfare time) until the special variable prize ball device 010IW17 is controlled to the open state (step 010IWS147). Then, CPU 103 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the small win pre-opening processing (step 010IWS114) (step 010IWS148). In addition, in embodiments of features 1144SKY to 1148SKY, before step 010IWS146 is executed, a process is executed (step 1144SKY001) to turn off the high base flag in order to end the high base state (time-saving state) at the stage when the small hit result stops in the variable display, based on "execution of small hit variable display," which is one of the conditions for ending the high base state (time-saving state) described above.

If the small win flag is not set either (i.e., if it is a miss), the CPU 103 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the normal special symbol processing (step 010IWS110) (step 010IWS149).

Next, similar to feature unit 010IW, the process moves to the pre-small win release processing and the small win release processing shown in Figures 8-16 and 8-17. The pre-small win release processing and the small win release processing in feature units 1144SKY to 1148SKY are the same as those in feature unit 010IW, so further illustrations and explanations will be omitted.

Next, the process proceeds to the small win closure post-processing shown in Figures 9-10. The CPU 103 checks whether the small win end display timer is set (step 010IWS451), and if the small win end display timer is set, proceeds to step 010IWS453. If the small win end display timer is not set, the CPU 103 sets the small win end display timer to a value equivalent to the display time corresponding to the time during which the small win end display is being displayed on the image display device 5 (small win end display time) (step 010IWS452), and ends the process.

In step 010IWS453, the CPU 103 subtracts 1 from the value of the small win end display timer. Then, the CPU 103 checks whether the value of the small win end display timer is 0, i.e., whether the small win end display time has elapsed (step 010IWS454). If it has not elapsed, the processing ends.

If the small win end display time has elapsed, the CPU 103 checks whether the V prize flag is set (step 010IWS455). If the V prize flag is set, the V prize flag is reset (step 010IWS459). The CPU 103 also controls the transmission of a big win start command to the presentation control CPU 120 (step 010IWS460). The CPU 103 also sets a timer for the time before the big prize opening (step 010IWS461).

Then, the CPU 103 updates the value of the special pattern process flag to a value corresponding to the pre-jackpot processing (step 010IWS117) (step 010IWS462).

If it is confirmed in step 010IWS455 that the V prize flag is not set, the CPU 103 resets the small win flag (step 010IWS463). The CPU 103 also controls the transmission of a small win end command to the presentation control CPU 120 (step 010IWS464). The CPU 103 then controls the transmission of a normal state command to the presentation control CPU 120 (step 010IWS468).

Next, the jackpot end processing of Figures 9-11 is executed. It is checked whether the jackpot end display timer is set (step 010IWS531), and if the jackpot end display timer is set, the process proceeds to step 010IWS535. If the jackpot end display timer is not set, the CPU 103 resets the jackpot flag or small jackpot flag (step 010IWS532) and performs control to send a jackpot end designation command (step 010IWS533). The CPU 103 then sets the jackpot end display timer to a value equivalent to the display time during which the jackpot end display is being displayed on the image display device 5 (jackpot end display time) (step 010IWS534), and ends the process.

In step 010IWS535, the CPU 103 subtracts 1 from the value of the jackpot end display timer. Then, the CPU 103 checks whether the value of the jackpot end display timer is 0, i.e., whether the jackpot end display time has elapsed (step 010IWS536). If it has not elapsed, the processing ends.

If the jackpot end display time has elapsed (Y in step 010IWS536), CPU 103 checks whether the jackpot ending this time is a 7R jackpot A or a 10R jackpot A (step 010IWS537). Whether it is a 7R jackpot A or a 10R jackpot A can be determined, for example, by checking the stopping pattern of the special pattern stored in the stopping pattern memory area in step 010IWS69. In the case of a 7R jackpot A or a 10R jackpot A, CPU 103 sets the high base flag and controls the game to a high base state (step 010IWS560). CPU 103 also sets the high base count counter to "100" (step 010IWS561). CPU 103 also controls the transmission of a high base state designation command to the performance control CPU 120 (step 010IWS562). Then proceed to step 010IWS552.

If it is not a 7R jackpot A or a 10R jackpot A (i.e., a 7R jackpot B or a 10R jackpot B), the CPU 103 controls the transmission of a normal state designation command to the performance control CPU 120 (step 1144SKYS002), and updates the value of the special pattern process flag to a value corresponding to the normal special pattern processing (step 010IWS110) (step 010IWS553).

The above is an explanation of the control aspects of feature 1144SKY to feature 1148SKY.

(Explanation of the production aspects of feature parts 1144SKY to 1148SKY)
Next, we will explain the effects of the pachinko machine 1 in the characteristic parts 1144SKY to 1148SKY in this embodiment. The effects of the characteristic parts 1144SKY to 1148SKY are shown in Figures 9-12 to 9-27.

(Example of a performance when variable display is being performed in normal (low base) conditions)
9-12 is an example of a display when the Super Reach α display is executed after the variable display of the decorative symbols has reached a reach state in the normal state. This Super Reach α display is executed when a variation pattern command based on the variation pattern PA2-2 or the variation pattern PB1-2 is received. As shown in FIGS. 9-12(A) and 9-12(B), after the same numbers are stopped on the right decorative symbol 1144SKY001(a) and the left decorative symbol 1144SKY001(b) (the so-called reach state), the background image is switched to an image dedicated to the Super Reach α display, and a notification is given as to whether the variable display will be controlled to a jackpot state. This Super Reach α effect is an effect in which an ally character 1144SKY002 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as an ally character) and an enemy character 1144SKY003 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as an enemy character) fight, and if the ally character wins, it is announced that the game will be controlled to a jackpot state, and if the enemy character wins, it is announced that the game will not be controlled to a jackpot state. In this case, the ally characters and the characters displayed as decorative patterns in Figures 9-12 (A) are characters positioned as allies in the story and allies of the player in the pachinko gaming machines of feature parts 1144SKY to 1148SKY, and may also appear in other preview effects that suggest that the game will be controlled to a jackpot state regardless of the Super Reach α effect, and a favorable effect result for these characters is a good result in terms of the effect for the player (for example, an effect result that suggests that there is a high possibility of the game being controlled to a jackpot state or that the game will be controlled to a jackpot state). Figures 9-12(C) to 9-12(H) show examples of actual Super Reach α effects, in which an ally character attacks an enemy character, and as shown in Figure 9-12(E), the ally character wins, as indicated by the word WIN, and the player is then controlled to a jackpot state. In Figures 9-12(F) and 9-12(G), a decorative symbol in the form of a series of numbers "666" is displayed as a display result (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the jackpot display result) indicating that the player has been controlled to a jackpot state. This jackpot display result "666" is displayed in a manner that moves from the back to the front after the ally character wins in Figure 9-12(E). Displaying the jackpot display result in this manner can appeal to the player that the player has been controlled to a jackpot state with an impactful effect. Then, as shown in Figure 9-12(H), when the variable display stops, the jackpot display result, as shown in Figure 9-12(G), rapidly approaches the front, and the decorative symbols are displayed at a more easily visible size, instead of remaining extremely enlarged. At this time, the final decorative symbol "6" can be made larger than the decorative symbols on either side to emphasize its presence. After this, the game transitions from the normal state to the jackpot state. When the background image switches from the normal state (the background image in Figures 9-12(A) and 9-12(B)) to the Super Reach α effect, the display mode of the decorative symbols changes from a display mode consisting of character images and number images to a display mode consisting of number images only. Because the decorative symbols are displayed in a simplified manner during the Super Reach α effect, it is easy to recognize which numbers are in the reach state, and the effect of the Super Reach α effect is not disrupted by continuing to display decorative symbols with unnecessary information, allowing the player to focus on the image.

(Example of a three-count effect when the game is controlled from the normal state to the jackpot state and then to the high base state)
Figure 9-13 shows an example of the effect when the game medium enters the second start winning slot when the high base state (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the time-saving state) is in effect, and then the variable display is executed, followed by the small win state. Figure 9-13(A) shows the state immediately after the high base state is in effect, with the text image "Mumurush," the name of the high base state effect, displayed. At this time, the number of reserved memories is zero for both the variable display of the first special symbol and the variable display of the second special symbol, and the variable display has not yet been executed after the transition to the high base state. After this, the game medium enters the second start winning slot at the timing shown in Figure 9-13(B), and Figures 9-13(C) through 9-13(G) show the variable display of the second special symbol being executed. Figure 9-13(C) shows "3," Figure 9-13(D) shows "2," and Figure 9-13(E) shows "1," showing a three-count effect in which three, two, and one are displayed in succession. This three-count effect is executed when control to a small win state (i.e., control to an actual jackpot state) is confirmed. As mentioned above, pachinko gaming machines with features 1144SKY to 1148SKY employ a so-called two-type or feather gameplay in which a game medium is entered into a special winning slot opened by control to a small win state during a high base state, and a V entry is made to control to a jackpot state. In this embodiment, since the probability of a small win during a high base state is approximately 1/1.08, the variable display of the second special symbol during a high base state is controlled to a small win state, and ultimately to a jackpot state, with a probability of almost 100%. In such a situation where it is clear that "variable display = almost a jackpot," executing a Super Reach α effect in the same way as in the normal state would only result in redundant effects, so a simple effect configuration like this 3-count effect is used to indicate that the game will be controlled to a small jackpot state. The variable display time of the variable display during which the 3-count effect is executed is relatively short, shorter than the variable display time when the Super Reach α effect is executed in the normal state or the variable display time corresponding to the bow and arrow chance executed in the high base state described below. Furthermore, no prominent images are displayed other than the "3, 2, 1" images, resulting in an extremely simple variable display and effect. This prevents the player from feeling any redundancy in the presentation and ensures a lack of interest. Figures 9-13(C) to 9-13(E) show the 3-count display period during which the 3-count effect is executed. The presentation configuration for this period will be described in more detail below. Although not shown in the figure, the three-count effect has a default effect pattern (highest appearance rate) in which "three,""two," and "one" are displayed for the same display period, and multiple special effect patterns are provided in which the display periods of each number are different. In this embodiment, when the game is controlled to a high base state after being controlled to a jackpot state, the three-count effect is executed more frequently in the special effect pattern than in the default effect pattern. This allows the player to pay attention to which effect pattern will be used to execute the three-count effect, despite the simple effect configuration.

(Example of a special winning hole opening when the high base state is controlled to a small win state)
Figure 9-14 shows an example of the effect when the game is controlled to a small win state in a high base state and the special winning hole is opened. Figure 9-14 (A) is set as the "Aim for V notification period" described below, and after the special winning hole is opened, the text image "Aim for V" is displayed along with an arrow image pointing to the lower left side of the board where the special winning hole is located to encourage the player to place the gaming medium in the V winning hole (specific area) located within the special winning hole. Note that although not shown, an LED located within the special winning hole flashes to alert the player to the location of the special winning hole in addition to the text image and arrow image, allowing the player to reliably grasp the location of the special winning hole. Figure 9-14 (B) shows that the moment the gaming medium enters the V winning hole within the special winning hole, the text image "V" is displayed in the center of the display area to notify the player that the V winning hole has been successfully achieved. Figure 9-14(C) shows an example of a performance in which the game medium is controlled to a jackpot state based on a V-winning, and the round performance begins in the subsequent round (round 2). The round performance period shown in Figures 9-14(C) to 9-14(G) begins from round 2 onward, when the jackpot opening is opened. During the round performance, a performance is performed in which an ally character and an enemy character fight, and if the ally character wins, the game is controlled to a high base state after the jackpot state (i.e., the winning streak continues). Figure 9-14(C) displays three enemy characters: enemy character 1144SKY003, enemy character 1144SKY010, and enemy character 1144SKY011. This indicates that the ally character will fight one of the enemy characters after this timing, and the enemy character 1144SKY003 (Boingo) will be the opponent in the next round (round 3). The probability of being controlled to a high base state after a jackpot state varies depending on which of the three displayed enemy characters the ally character will fight, and the player will pay attention to which enemy character will be selected. As mentioned above, gaming machines with features 1144SKY to 1148SKY are recognized by players as "executing a variable display in a high base state = almost certain control of the jackpot state." Therefore, during the variable display, effects such as a three-count effect are used to create a sense of speed and a short-term win. However, once a jackpot state is achieved, a round effect is performed, focusing solely on whether or not control is achieved to a high base state, thereby effectively enticing the player. As shown in Figures 9-14(E) to 9-14(G), the ally character defeats the enemy character, and the player is notified that control will be achieved to a high base state after the jackpot state ends. Figure 9-14 (H) shows that in the final round (10th round) of this jackpot state, a time-saving state continuation notification is made to notify that the state will be controlled to Mumurash (high base state).

(Example of when the variable display during a high base state is a miss and the corresponding "Bow and Arrow Chance" effect is executed)
Figure 9-15 mainly shows an example of the "Yuya Chance" effect. This Yuya Chance effect is executed during the variable display when a variable pattern command corresponding to the variable patterns PC3-6 and PA4-1 selected during a high base state is received. As mentioned above, pachinko gaming machines with features 1144SKY to 148SKY are designed to occasionally result in a miss during a high base state. When this miss occurs, a three-count effect, which would otherwise guarantee control to a jackpot state, is not executed, and the Yuya Chance effect is executed. If this were executed solely as a miss effect, it would only reduce the player's interest in the game. Therefore, the Yuya Chance effect is executed in two cases: when the variable display has won a small win A and when it has failed. When the Yuya Chance occurs, the player is left wondering whether it will result in a miss or a jackpot state in which the high base state continues. Unlike when the three-count effect is executed, the player focuses on the effect, hoping for a jackpot result. In the feature section 1144SKY, the bow and arrow chance indicates the second effect. Figure 9-15(A) shows the title display at the beginning of the bow and arrow chance, and as the effect begins, the text image "Bow and Arrow Chance" and the ally character 1144SKY012 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the ally character) are displayed. This bow and arrow chance begins at approximately the same timing as the variable display of the variation patterns PC3-6 and PA4-1 begins. Next, Figure 9-15(B) shows a scene in which a roulette image 1144SKY013 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the roulette image) is rotating, and when the player presses the effect button, the ally character shoots the roulette image with a bow and arrow. As can be seen in Figures 9-15(C) and 9-15(E), which will be described later, this roulette image is composed of four options, including a "Congratulations" option and a "Miss" option. An ally character shoots an arrow through the spinning roulette image, indicating a "Congratulations" win or a "Miss" win. Figures 9-15(C) and 9-15(D) show the presentation mode when a jackpot is announced during this arrow chance. The announcement that a jackpot state has been reached is made when the arrow shot by the ally character hits the "Congratulations" win. Figure 9-15(D) shows the number "666" being stopped as the jackpot display result. While not shown, this is done in a manner that dynamically enlarges and displays "666," similar to the manner in which the number "666" is stopped as the jackpot display result in the countdown presentation shown in Figure 9-13(F) described above, creating an impactful announcement that a jackpot state has been reached. On the other hand, when announcing a loss as shown in Figures 9-15(E) and 9-15(F), "656" is displayed in Figure 9-15(F) in a manner that fades in from a transparent state, avoiding an overly dynamic presentation style that upsets the player. Furthermore, as mentioned above, the variable display in which the bow and arrow chance takes place has a longer variable display time than the variable display in which the three-count presentation is executed, and naturally, the presentation time of the bow and arrow chance itself is also longer than the presentation time of the three-count presentation. The bow and arrow chance is not a presentation that focuses solely on whether or not the machine is controlled to a high base state, as in the three-count presentation, but rather on whether or not the machine is controlled to a jackpot state, and so the purpose of extending the variable display time until announcing a jackpot or loss is to excite the player.

(Example of a special round effect and a relief effect when a small win occurs during a high base state)
Figure 9-16 primarily shows an example of the relief effect that is executed based on the reception of a variation pattern command corresponding to variation pattern PC3-4. Figures 9-16(A) through 9-16(C) show a special round effect pattern. As mentioned above, the round effect is an effect that notifies players whether or not a high base state will be reached after a jackpot. Figure 9-14 shows the default pattern for this round effect, which is the effect with the highest occurrence rate. In contrast, Figures 9-16(A) through 9-16(C) show a special pattern in which a different ally character appears at the third round and joins forces with an ally character already in battle. This special round effect is only executed when a high base state is reached; that is, the continuation of the winning streak is confirmed when the "Jam Joins the Battle" text image and ally character are displayed, as shown in Figure 9-16(A). This special pattern appears less frequently than the default pattern and is considered a rare effect. Figures 9-16(D) to 9-16(E) show an example of a round effect in which an ally character loses to an enemy character in the round effect, i.e., it is announced that the game will not be controlled to a high base state after the jackpot state. In Figure 9-16, a rescue effect is used to announce that the game will be controlled to a high base state after the jackpot state. However, if the game is actually controlled to a jackpot state that ends a winning streak, such as a small win B, a result display effect is then executed, as shown in Figure 9-16(F), which announces the number of balls won during the winning streak, and the game will be controlled to the normal state. In Figure 9-16, a rescue effect is executed while the result display effect is being executed, announcing that the game will be controlled to a high base state. As shown here, there are several types of timing at which it is definitively announced that the game will be controlled to a high base state after the round effect. The timing is when an ally character wins in the 9th round in the default pattern round presentation, when an ally character joins the battle in the 3rd round, which is significantly earlier than the default pattern round presentation in the special pattern round presentation, and victory is confirmed, and when a rescue effect is performed after all the round presentations have finished while the result display effect is being executed. Comparing the appearance rates of these, the default pattern round presentation > rescue effect > special pattern round presentation are set, so that the player will have a sense of anticipation for the winning streak to continue until the very end.

(Comparison between when the 3-count effect is executed and when the bow and arrow chance is executed)
Figure 9-17 compares the presentation configuration and timing of various presentation processes when the 3-count presentation is executed and when the Bow and Arrow Chance presentation is executed. The execution period of the 3-count presentation and the Bow and Arrow Chance presentation is approximately equal to the variable display time, and begins immediately after the gaming medium enters the second start winning slot. Features 1144SKY to 1148SKY are provided with a period of so-called normal variable display (normal fluctuation) in which decorative symbols are displayed variably in the normal state. However, in the high base state, even when variable display is initiated, typical variable display, such as scrolling decorative symbols downward, is not executed. As mentioned above, since the execution of variable display almost certainly leads to control of the jackpot state, a typical scrolling display is meaningless, and this avoids redundant presentation (note that although not shown in the figure, small symbols are displayed to visually indicate that they are being displayed variably). In pachinko gaming machines with features 1144SKY to 1148SKY, the probability of selecting variable pattern PC3-2 is highest in a high base state, so the main effect in a high base state is a round effect starting with a three-count effect to encourage a continuation of consecutive wins. This shortens the average variable display time during a high base state, thereby shortening the interval between jackpot states and promoting the speed of consecutive wins. Furthermore, if a miss is displayed, effects such as a bow and arrow chance are provided, and a variable display effect focusing on whether or not the jackpot state will be reached is also executed, allowing players to enjoy both the speed of the consecutive wins and the excitement of whether or not the jackpot state will be reached.

(Regarding the timing of the definitive notification in the three-count effect when the high base state is controlled to a jackpot state)
Figure 9-18 shows a comparison of the timing of notification that continuation is confirmed when the game is controlled to a high base state, i.e., when a winning streak continues. The second effect used in feature 1145SKY is a three-count chance up effect. As described above, the pattern referred to as the first pattern is the most common in feature 1144SKY to 1148SKY. After the three-count effect is executed, the allied character defeats the enemy character in nine rounds during the round effect, and a continuation notification of the time-saving state is made during the round effect. The pattern referred to as the second pattern is a pattern in which a CU (chance up effect) occurs during the three-count effect, the allied character defeats the enemy character in nine rounds during the round effect, and a continuation notification of the time-saving state is made during the round effect. Details of the three-count effect in which this CU occurs will be described later. The pattern referred to as the "third pattern" is a pattern in which, during the round presentation after the execution of the three-count presentation, the ally character is defeated by the enemy character in the ninth round, and after initially announcing the discontinuation of the time-saving state, the player is notified that the time-saving state will continue. The notification of the continuation of the time-saving state may be made in the ninth round or during the ending period after the end of the round presentation. In this embodiment, the timing of the definitive notification is divided into three main patterns: during variable display, when controlled to a jackpot state, and finally after a jackpot state, allowing the player to maintain a sense of anticipation for the presentation until the very end. Furthermore, the first to third patterns are executed at different rates in a high base state, with the execution rates being in the order of first pattern > third pattern > second pattern. This execution rate is primarily intended to prevent excessive gambling. As mentioned above, the first pattern is configured with a relatively short variable display time to create the impression of a rapid succession of consecutive wins. Since the subsequent round effects are the main effect in a high base state, it is the most frequently executed. However, if the first pattern occurs exclusively, it can create a sense of speed, but it can also become monotonous. Therefore, by including an effect pattern such as the second pattern, which provides a definitive notification at the fastest possible timing upon the occurrence of a CU, a decrease in interest is prevented. However, since the effect time (variable display time) remains relatively short in the first and second patterns, the control interval for the jackpot state is short, resulting in larger balls being won in a short period of time, which may lead to excessively high gambling. Therefore, by increasing the execution rate of the third pattern compared to the second pattern and separately executing the relief effect, the control interval for the jackpot state can be appropriately spaced, preventing excessive gambling.
Furthermore, for the second pattern described above, when the three-count effect is executed, it is determined that the time-saving state will continue, so there is no rescue pattern provided in which, during the subsequent round effect, a notification is given that the time-saving state will not continue and then that the time-saving state will continue. Since the player will know that the time-saving state will continue when the three-count effect with chance up is executed, and the player would find it annoying if it were to be delayed until the rescue pattern after the round effect, no rescue pattern is provided. As a variant, when the second pattern is selected, even when the three-count effect with chance up pattern is executed, rescue patterns may be provided to the extent that they do not exceed the proportion of rescue patterns executed in the third pattern.

(Regarding the pattern that displays the decorative symbol "666" as a jackpot display result under normal conditions)
Figure 9-19 shows a pattern in which the decorative symbol "666" is displayed as a jackpot result in the normal state. Figures 9-19(A) to 9-19(G) show a series of effects, depicting the state in which the decorative symbol "666" moves from the back of the screen to the front as a jackpot display result after an ally character wins. Figure 9-19(A) shows the state before the notification that the game is being controlled to an advantageous state (the advantageous state includes the fanfare period before the jackpot round starts, the jackpot round period, and the ending period after the jackpot round ends), and depicts the state before the decorative symbol is displayed. Figures 9-19(B) and (C) also show the decorative symbol "666" gradually moving to the front and expanding. Figure 9-19(D) shows the decorative symbol moving toward the front, with the "666" symbol enlarged to its maximum size, while the left, right, and center decorative symbols of the "666" symbol are cut off from the screen. By cutting off the decorative symbol screen from the screen, especially when enlarging the center decorative symbol, it is possible to emphasize that the jackpot state is being controlled. Figure 9-19(E) shows the "666" symbol, which has reached its maximum size in Figure 9-19(D), moving toward the back of the screen. Figure 9-19(F) shows the "666" symbol gradually shrinking from Figure 9-19(D). As shown in Figure 9-19(G), the decorative symbol moves toward the back while shrinking, indicating that the decorative symbol has stopped. Also, in Figures 9-19(A) to 9-19(G), the decorative symbol in the center is displayed larger than the decorative symbols on the left and right sides as it moves from the back of the screen to the front, expanding and contracting until it stops. Under normal circumstances, when the decorative symbols stop, they overlap with the decorative symbols in the center. Then, the game moves to the jackpot round A.

The patterns in Figures 9-19(H) to 9-19(M) show that the decorative pattern "666" rotates and expands as it moves from the back of the screen to the front. Figures 9-19(I) and 9-19(L) show the decorative pattern "666" changing, which indicates that the decorative pattern "666" rotates as it moves. The action of the decorative pattern "666" shown in Figures 9-19(G) to 9-19(L) moving from the back of the image to the front and expanding and shrinking is the same as in Figures 9-19(A) to 9-19(G), so it will not be repeated here.

(Regarding the pattern in which the decorative symbol "666" is displayed as a jackpot display result in a high base state)
Figure 9-20 shows a pattern in which the decorative symbol "666" is displayed as a jackpot result during the time-saving mode. Figures 9-20(A) through 9-20(G) show the sequence of effects. Figure 9-20(A) is the part before the notification that the game is being controlled to a favorable state, and represents the state before the decorative symbol is displayed. (Figure 9-20(A) is the period before the decorative symbol is expanded.) Figure 9-20(B) shows the decorative symbol "666" displayed in its maximum expanded state after the aforementioned three-count effect is executed. By moving (vibrating, swinging) the decorative symbol "666" when it is expanded, the player can see the decorative symbol display with impact. Figures 9-20(C), 9-20(D), and 9-20(E) show the decorative symbol "666" continuing to expand as it moves. Figure 9-20(F) shows the end of the decorative symbol "666" movement. Figure 9-20 (G) shows that the decorative symbol movement has ended, and the three "666" decorative symbols have stopped, each of the same size and spaced at equal intervals. The "666" decorative symbol then disappears, and the game moves to the "time-saving state BONUS notification period." In the normal state, when the "666" decorative symbol is enlarged, the center and left and right decorative symbols are cut off. However, when the "666" decorative symbol is enlarged in the time-saving state, it is cut off from the screen more than in the normal state and is vibrated, allowing the decorative symbol to be highlighted to the player more than in the normal state.

As a variation, in the decorative symbol display patterns of Figures 9-20(H) to 9-20(K), the decorative symbol "666" may be gradually enlarged, and in order to emphasize the enlargement, the decorative symbol may be cut off even in the time-saving state. By enlarging the decorative symbol "666" to its maximum size, erasing it without shrinking it, and transitioning to the "Aim for V notification period," the player can be entertained without losing the sense of speed in the presentation.

(Comparison of patterns that display the decorative symbol "666" as a jackpot display result in normal and high base states)
The special state refers to a high base state and represents a time-saving state.
The display mode of the decorative symbols in the normal state is such that ally characters are drawn within the numbers of the decorative symbols, as shown in Figure 9-19. On the other hand, the display mode of the decorative symbols displayed during the special state is composed of numbers only, and while the number-only mode is common, decorative symbols without ally characters are displayed during the special state. By doing this, when announcing that the special state will be controlled to the jackpot state, the player can easily see the decorative symbols, even if they are enlarged while performing a special action.

(Regarding the different sounds output depending on the number when the decorative symbol "666" is displayed as a jackpot display result in a high base state)
In Figures 9-21(A) to 9-21(F), when the decorative symbol "666" is displayed, it is displayed while performing a motion (vibration, swinging) as described above. While displayed in Figures 9-21(A) to 9-21(C), the first sound is output when the decorative symbol is an even number. Figures 9-21(G) to 9-21(L) show the state in which the decorative symbol "777" is enlarged and displayed. When the decorative symbol "777" is displayed, it is also displayed while performing a motion (vibration, swinging). Furthermore, when the decorative symbol "777" is displayed, a second sound is output, which is different from the first sound output when the decorative symbol "666" is displayed. By varying the output sound depending on the number, the decorative symbol can be emphasized not only by the enlarged display and motion, but also by the output sound.

(Comparison of fluctuation time in normal state, fluctuation time in high base state, and display time of decorative pattern)
9-22 shows the fluctuation period in the normal state and the fluctuation period in the time-saving state, and when comparing the reach effect period in the normal state with the 3-count effect period in the time-saving state, the reach effect period in the normal state is set longer. Also, when comparing the decorative pattern display period displayed to notify that the game will be controlled to the jackpot state in the normal state with the decorative pattern display period displayed to notify that the game will be controlled to the jackpot state in the time-saving state, the time-saving state is set longer.

Although not shown in the drawings, the fluctuation time when controlled for a special jackpot and when controlled for a loss is shorter than the fluctuation time when controlled for a normal hit and when controlled for a loss.

(Comparison of the fluctuation periods between normal and reduced hours)
Figure 9-22 is a time chart showing the fluctuation period between the normal state and the special state. As shown in the figure, the fluctuation period including the reach effect period and the decorative symbol display period in the normal state is longer than the fluctuation period including the 3-count effect period and the decorative symbol display period in the special state.

(Explanation of the period from when the normal decorative pattern is displayed until it stops)
1. T0...Start of the performance 2. T1...Period of performance scene change (Figure 9-19 (A))
3. T2: Period until the decorative pattern expands (Figure 9-19 (B) to Figure 9-19 (C))
4. T3: Maximum expansion period of decorative patterns (Figure 9-19 (D))
5. T4...Decorative pattern return period (Figure 9-19 (E) ~ Figure 9-19 (F))
6. T5...Pattern stop period (Figure 9-19 (G))
7. T6...Performance start point 8. T7...Performance scene switching period (Figure 9-20 (A))
9. T8...The period until the decorative pattern expands (the period between Figure 9-20 (A) and (B))
10. T9...Decorative pattern maximum expansion period (Figure 9-20 (B) to Figure 9-20 (E))
11. T10...Decorative pattern return period (Figure 9-20 (F))
12. T11...Pattern stop period (Figure 9-20 (G))
(Comparison of the period before the enlargement of the decorative patterns in the normal and high base states)
The first period of the pre-enlarged display period in the characteristic portion 1147SKY corresponds to the period from Figure 9-19(A) to Figure 9-19(C). The second period, which is shorter than the first period in the characteristic portion 1147SKY, corresponds to the period in Figure 9-20(A).
As shown in Figure 9-23, the comparison is made between the presentation scene switching period T1 and the period T2 before the decorative symbol "666" is displayed when notifying that the game will be controlled to a jackpot state during a change in the normal state, and the period T8 before the decorative symbol "666" is displayed when notifying that the game will be controlled to a jackpot state during a change in the special state. The period before the decorative symbol expansion in the normal state is the period from T1 to T2. The period before the decorative symbol expansion in the special state is the period from T7 to T8. The period during which the decorative symbol "666" is displayed at its largest size during the normal state, notifying that the game will be controlled to a jackpot state, is the decorative symbol maximum expansion period. The period during which the decorative symbol "666" is displayed at its largest size during the time-saving state, notifying that the game will be controlled to a jackpot state, is the decorative symbol maximum expansion period. As shown in the figure, in the time-saving mode, the period during which the decorative symbols displayed when informing the player of the jackpot state are enlarged to their maximum size is longer than the period during which the decorative symbols are enlarged to their maximum size in the normal mode. Furthermore, when comparing the periods T2 and T8, which are the periods before the decorative symbols are enlarged to their maximum size, the period T2 in the normal mode is shorter than the period T9 in the special mode. If the time before the decorative symbols are enlarged were longer than in the normal mode, it could prevent the player from experiencing the desired fast performance. To prevent this situation, the gaming machine shown in Figure 9-1 is designed to be controlled to the jackpot state immediately, even based on the jackpot determination value. Therefore, shortening the period before the decorative symbols are enlarged in the special mode can prevent the performance effect from being impaired.

Furthermore, after the T3 period in the normal state, there is a decorative symbol return period (T4, hereafter referred to as T4), and similarly in the special state, after the T9 period there is a decorative symbol return period (T10, hereafter referred to as T10). The T10 period is set to be shorter than the T4 period. This makes it possible to maintain the ball dispense speed in the time-saving state.

(Regarding the duration of the 3-count effect and changes in the effect format)
The first period in feature part 1148SKY indicates the period during which "3" of a specific effect (hereinafter referred to as the 3-count effect) is displayed, the second period indicates the period during which "2" of the 3-count effect is displayed, and the third period indicates the period during which "1" of the 3-count effect is displayed.
Figure 9-24 shows the execution period of the aforementioned three-count effect and the changes in the presentation style of the three-count effect. As shown in Figure 9-24(A), the three-count effect is composed of a first period in which "三" is displayed, a second period that follows the first period in which "弐" is displayed, and a third period in which "一" is displayed after the second period. The presentation style of the three-count effect can be changed between the first, second, and third periods. A mode in which the presentation style does not change is called the normal mode. When the presentation style changes, as shown in Figures 9-25(D) to 9-25(F) described below, the characters "三,""弐," and "壱" are displayed with a glossier appearance than normal characters, and the background color is displayed in a different color from the normal three-count effect (specific mode). Also, as shown in Figure 9-24(B), the rate of change in the presentation mode in the three-count presentation is set higher when the presentation mode changes in the third period (second execution pattern) than when the presentation mode changes in the first period (first execution pattern) (see the table of three-count presentation selection rates when controlled to a jackpot state in a special state described later in Figure 9-26(A)). This creates a sense of anticipation that the three-count presentation may change at the end, and keeps the player's attention until the latter half of the three-count presentation.

As shown in Figure 9-24 (C), the presentation style changes more frequently between the first and third periods than during the second period, which is the execution period of the three-count presentation. The high rate at which the presentation style changes between the first period, which is the beginning of the three-count presentation, and the third period, which is the final part, allows the viewer to focus on the presentation from the beginning to the latter half of the three-count presentation.

(About the 3-count performance pattern)
Figure 9-25 shows the pattern of the three-count effect, indicating whether the effect changes during the first, second, or third period. As a variation of Figures 9-25(J) to 9-25(L), Figures 9-25(M) to 9-25(O) show a three-count effect in which a character displayed against a background counts "three,""two," and "one" with his or her fingers. Also, Figure 9-25(O) shows a different character effect. A typical three-count effect uses only numbers, but using a character to perform a three-count effect can further enhance the three-count effect.
Also, although it is omitted in the drawing, when the execution period of the three-count effects of "3", "2", and "1" is 10,000 ms, which is longer than the usual 6,000 ms, the normal three-count effects are more likely to be controlled to an advantageous state than when they are executed.

Although not shown in the illustration, there are patterns in which the background changes for each period: the first period when "3" is displayed to execute the three-count effect, the second period when "2" is displayed, and the third period when "1" is displayed. For example, when "3" is displayed in Figure 9-25(A), the background is inspired by space, but when "2" is displayed, a pattern is set in which the background changes to an image of the sea. By changing the background for each period, the three-count effect can be further enhanced.

(Regarding the selection rate of the 3-count effect in special and normal states)
Figure 9-26(A) is a table showing the selection rate of the 3-count effect in a special state. 3CA-1 is the default 3-count effect (pattern 1), 3CA-2 is a pattern in which the effect mode changes at the timing of "Ichi" within the period of "Third,""Second," and "First" in the 3-count effect, 3CA-3 is a pattern in which the effect mode changes at the timing of "Ni" within the period of "Third,""Second," and "First" in the 3-count effect, and 3CA-4 is a pattern in which the effect mode changes at the timing of "Third" within the period of "Third,""Second," and "First" in the 3-count effect. 3CA indicates that the 3-count effect is a winning combination.

Figure 9-26 (B) is a table showing the selection rate of the 3-count effect when controlled to a miss state under normal conditions. 3CH-1 is the default 3-count effect. 3CA-1 and 3CH-1 are the same 3-count effects executed when controlled to a jackpot state and when controlled to a miss state.

(1144SKY Variation: Execution ratio of 1st, 2nd, and 3rd effects)
Figure 9-27 is a modified example of 1144SKY, which includes a round effect executed after a three-count effect in which it is not yet determined whether the game will be controlled to a jackpot state in a high base state, a bow and arrow chance effect in which the effect is successful and the game will be controlled to a jackpot state and the high base state will continue, and a gathering effect in which the game will be controlled to a jackpot state and the high base state will continue if the effect is successful, and a gathering effect in which the game will be controlled to a jackpot state and the high base state will continue if the effect is executed after a three-count effect. As shown in Figure 9-27(A), as an example of the gathering effect, the words "Aim for V and gather your friends" are written, and this is an effect executed during the "Aim for V notification period." As shown in Figure 9-27(B), before the game medium wins a V, the character is not clearly visible as shown in 1144SKY014, and Figure 9-27(C) shows that the game medium has won a V, and as shown in 1144SKY015, the character that was not clearly visible in Figure 9-27(B) becomes visible. The order of execution of the effects is 3-count effect > bow and arrow chance > gathering effect. By doing so, it is possible to show during the round whether or not the high base state will continue, which increases the player's sense of excitement, while providing multiple effect patterns in which the high base state will continue allows the player to feel at ease.

(Relevance and explanation of each term)
The first pattern is also called the normal pattern. It is the pattern with the highest occupancy rate and is called normal because it does not have any chance of increasing.
The third pattern is also called the rescue pattern. It is called rescue because after a loss, the character appears to revive or a character rescues the other character.
The first advantageous state is a state in which a variable display that has entered the second start winning slot during the time-saving state is controlled to the time-saving state.
The second advantageous state is a state in which the variable display that has entered the second start winning slot during the time-saving state is controlled to the normal state.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Pachinko gaming machine 2 ... Game board 3 ... Game machine frame 4A, 4B ... Special pattern display device 5 ... Image display device 6A ... Winning ball device 6B ... Variable winning ball device 7 ... Special variable winning ball device 8L, 8R ... Speaker 9 ... Game effect lamp 10 ... General winning port 11 ... Main board 12 ... Performance control board 13 ... Sound control board 14 ... Lamp control board 15 ... Relay board 20 ... Normal pattern display device 21 ... Gate switch 22A, 22B ... Start port switch 23 ... Count switch 30 ... Ball hitting operation handle 31A ... Stick controller 31B ... Push button 32 ... Movable body 100 ... Game control microcomputer 101, 121 ... ROM
102, 122...RAM
103...CPU
104, 124 ... Random number circuit 105, 125 ... I/O
120...Performance control CPU
123 ... Display control unit

Claims (1)

A gaming machine that can perform variable display and control to an advantageous state that is advantageous to a player,
A display means is provided,
The game is controllable into a normal state and a special state that is more easily controlled to the advantageous state than the normal state,
a variable display time of the variable display determined to be controlled to the advantageous state in the special state is shorter than a variable display time of the variable display determined to be controlled to the advantageous state in the normal state;
The display means
during a variable display in which it has been determined that the display will be controlled to the advantageous state in the normal state, decorative identification information is enlarged to a first size in an advantageous manner that notifies the user that the display will be controlled to the advantageous state over a first enlargement period , and then the decorative identification information in the advantageous manner at the first size can be displayed over a first display period;
During the variable display determined to be controlled to the advantageous state in the special state, the decorative identification information can be enlarged to a second size in the advantageous manner over a second enlargement period , and then the decorative identification information in the advantageous manner at the second size can be displayed over a second display period that is longer than the first display period, and during the second display period, the decorative identification information can be displayed accompanied by a special action that is not accompanied when the decorative identification information is displayed during the first display period ,
The display positions of the decorative identification information displayed when notifying that the game will be controlled to the advantageous state in the normal state are different from the display positions of the decorative identification information displayed when notifying that the game will be controlled to the advantageous state in the special state.
A gaming machine characterized by: