JP7789441B2 - gaming machines - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an amusement machine.

Among conventional pachinko gaming machines, there are gaming machines in which a player is granted a bonus when the conditions for granting the bonus are met after the player has earned the right to receive the bonus. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a gaming machine in which a player can earn the right to receive a bonus by winning a small prize in a winning lottery, and then, when the conditions for granting the bonus are met by the game ball passing through a specific area during the small prize game, a bonus bonus game is executed.

JP 2014-079427 A

In such gaming machines, if a player is granted the right to receive a bonus and the conditions for receiving the bonus are not met, the player loses the right to receive the bonus. Furthermore, if the appropriate effects are not implemented in such a situation, there is a risk that the player's interest will decrease.

A gaming machine that solves the above problem allows a player to obtain the right to acquire a bonus depending on the result of a winning lottery, and the bonus is granted when the conditions for granting the bonus are met after the player has obtained the right to acquire the bonus. The gaming machine is equipped with a bonus granting means that grants the bonus, a performance execution means that executes a performance, a performance control means that controls the performance execution means, and a state control means that controls the state. The state includes a specific state, and there are a first situation in which the conditions for granting the bonus are fulfilled after the player has obtained the right to acquire the bonus in the specific state, and a second situation in which the conditions for granting the bonus are not fulfilled and the player loses the right to acquire the bonus. The same specific performance can be executed when the conditions for granting the bonus are fulfilled when the player newly obtains the right to acquire the bonus after passing through the first situation, and when the conditions for granting the bonus are fulfilled when the player newly obtains the right to acquire the bonus after passing through the second situation. In the specific state, when the right to acquire the privilege is acquired, there is a specific situation in which the right to acquire the privilege is further acquired; the specific situations include a first specific situation in which the condition for acquiring the previous privilege is met after the right to acquire the previous privilege is acquired, and a second specific situation in which the right to acquire the previous privilege is lost without the condition for acquiring the previous privilege being met after the right to acquire the previous privilege is acquired; in the first specific situation and the second specific situation, a predetermined effect can be executed that makes it clear that the right to acquire the privilege will be further acquired; when the predetermined effect is executed, if the right to acquire the next privilege is acquired after the first specific situation but the condition for acquiring the next privilege is not met and the right to acquire the next privilege is lost, an effect can be executed that includes a left-hit effect that encourages a left-hit; and when the right to acquire the previous privilege is lost in the second specific situation, an effect can be executed without the left-hit effect.

This invention can prevent a decline in interest.

FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine. FIG. 2 is a front view of the game board. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing the passage inside the second large prize opening. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of a pachinko gaming machine. 5(a) to 5(d) are explanatory diagrams illustrating an example of the presentation mode of the normal winning presentation. 6(a) to 6(d) are explanatory diagrams illustrating an example of the presentation mode of the specific winning presentation. 7(a) to 7(f) are explanatory diagrams illustrating an example of how a specific winning effect is executed in a specific state. 8(a) to 8(f) are explanatory diagrams illustrating an example of how a specific winning effect is executed in a specific state. 9(a) to 9(f) are explanatory diagrams illustrating an example of how a normal winning effect is executed in a specific state. 10(a) to 10(f) are explanatory diagrams illustrating an example of how a normal winning effect is executed in a specific state.

An example of an embodiment of a pachinko gaming machine will be described below.
In this specification, up, down, left, right, front (front), and back (back) indicate the respective directions as seen by the player.

As shown in FIG. 1, a pachinko gaming machine 10, which is an example of a gaming machine, is a non-enclosed type in which the player can touch the gaming balls (held balls). In a non-enclosed type pachinko gaming machine 10, when the conditions for prize ball payout are met, the prize balls are actually paid out. The pachinko gaming machine 10 may also be an enclosed type in which the gaming balls are stored and managed internally and the player cannot touch the gaming balls (held balls). In an enclosed type pachinko gaming machine 10, even if the conditions for prize ball payout are met, the number of gaming balls stored internally increases, but the gaming balls are not actually paid out. In this specification, "paying out prize balls" is not limited to actually paying out gaming balls, but is intended to include increasing the number of gaming balls stored internally.

The pachinko gaming machine 10 comprises a frame 11 and a game board 20. The frame 11 supports the game board 20. A game area 20a is formed on the front side of the game board 20, into which game balls can flow. The frame 11 comprises an outer frame 11a, a middle frame 11b, and a front frame 11c. The middle frame 11b is supported so as to be openable and closable relative to the outer frame 11a. The front frame 11c is supported so as to be openable and closable relative to the middle frame 11b. The outer frame 11a is fixed to the island equipment using fasteners such as nails. The middle frame 11b has a portion to which the game board 20 is attached, and holds the game board 20 attached to that portion. An opening 11d is formed in the front frame 11c. The front frame 11c is provided with transparent protective glass (not shown). The protective glass seals the opening 11d. When the game board 20 is held in the middle frame 11b, the game area 20a is aligned with the opening 11d and is visible through the protective glass via the opening 11d.

The pachinko gaming machine 10 is equipped with an audio output device 13. As an example, the audio output device 13 is a speaker provided on the front frame 11c. The audio output device 13 is capable of executing effects that output predetermined sounds (hereinafter referred to as audio effects). For example, the predetermined sounds include sound effects, dialogue, and music (BGM). The pachinko gaming machine 10 is equipped with a decorative light-emitting device 14. As an example, the decorative light-emitting device 14 is provided on the front side of the front frame 11c and on the gaming board 20. The decorative light-emitting device 14 is capable of executing effects (hereinafter referred to as light-emitting effects) by lighting, flashing, and extinguishing light-emitting elements (not shown). As an example, the light-emitting elements provided in the decorative light-emitting device 14 are LEDs.

The pachinko gaming machine 10 is equipped with a launch handle 18. The launch handle 18 is configured to allow operation to instruct the launch of a gaming ball. The launch handle 18 is located in the lower right corner of the front frame 11c. The pachinko gaming machine 10 may also be equipped with a lending button to instruct the lending of a gaming ball, and an end button to instruct the end of play.

The game board 20 will now be described.
1 and 2, a play area 20a having a substantially circular shape in a front view is defined on the front surface of the game board 20. That is, the game board 20 has the play area 20a through which game balls can flow. A display window 20b is formed in the approximate center of the play area 20a. An inlet 20c is formed in the upper left of the play area 20a, through which game balls launched by operating the launch handle 18 flow into the play area 20a.

The pachinko gaming machine 10 is equipped with an effect display device 15. As an example, the effect display device 15 has an image display device capable of displaying images. The effect display device 15 is attached to the game board 20 so that the display area 15a of the image display device is visible through the display window 20b. As an example, the effect display device 15 is a liquid crystal display device. The effect display device 15 is capable of executing an effect that displays a predetermined image (hereinafter referred to as a display effect). For example, the predetermined image is an image such as an effect pattern, character, landscape, letter, number, or symbol. In the following description, when these characters, etc. are simply referred to as "displaying," it means that these characters, etc. are displayed as an image. As an example, the audio output device 13, decorative light-emitting device 14, and effect display device 15 are each effect devices capable of executing effects, and form an effect execution device group 16 including multiple effect devices. The effect execution device group 16 is an example of an effect execution means that executes effects. As an example, the audio output device 13, decorative light emitting device 14, and performance display device 15 are each notification devices capable of issuing notifications, and can be said to form a notification execution device group including multiple notification devices. In other words, the performance execution device group 16 can also be said to be a notification device group.

As shown in FIG. 2, the gaming board 20 is equipped with a first special symbol display device 19a. The first special symbol display device 19a is capable of executing a symbol change game (hereinafter referred to as the first special game) in which a predetermined symbol is displayed in a variable manner and a special symbol is ultimately displayed in a static manner. The gaming board 20 is equipped with a second special symbol display device 19b. The second special symbol display device 19b is capable of executing a symbol change game (hereinafter referred to as the second special game) in which a predetermined symbol is displayed in a variable manner and a special symbol is ultimately displayed in a static manner. The special symbol is a symbol used to notify the result of a special symbol winning lottery. The special symbol winning lottery is an example of an internal lottery. As an example, the special symbol is displayed in a static manner for the special stop time. As an example, the special stop time is 0.5 seconds. Hereinafter, when the first special game and the second special game are not distinguished, they may be collectively referred to as "special games."

The special symbols include at least a jackpot symbol as a jackpot display result, a small jackpot symbol as a small jackpot display result, and a loss symbol as a loss display result. In the pachinko gaming machine 10, if a jackpot is won in the special symbol winning lottery, the jackpot symbol is statically displayed in a special game. After that, after the special game ends, a jackpot game that is advantageous to the player is played. Details of the jackpot game will be described later. In the pachinko gaming machine 10, if a small jackpot is won in the special symbol winning lottery, the small jackpot symbol is statically displayed in a special game. After that, after the special game ends, a small jackpot game that is advantageous to the player is played. Details of the small jackpot game will be described later. In the pachinko gaming machine 10, if a jackpot or small jackpot is not won in the special symbol winning lottery, a loss symbol is statically displayed in a special game. If a losing symbol is displayed in a special game, the big win game and small win game will not be executed. Hereinafter, when there is no distinction between big win game and small win game, they may be collectively referred to as "winning game." A special game in which a big win symbol is displayed in a stopped state may be referred to as a "big win special game." A special game in which a small win symbol is displayed in a stopped state may be referred to as a "small win special game." A special game in which a losing symbol is displayed in a stopped state may be referred to as a "losing special game."

The game board 20 is equipped with a first special hold display device 19c. The first special hold display device 19c displays information that can identify the number of first special games whose execution has been put on hold because the hold conditions have been met but the start conditions have not been met (hereinafter referred to as the first special hold number). The first special hold number has an upper limit. As an example, the upper limit for the first special hold number is 4. The game board 20 is equipped with a second special hold display device 19d. The second special hold display device 19d displays information that can identify the number of second special games whose execution has been put on hold because the hold conditions have been met but the start conditions have not been met (hereinafter referred to as the second special hold number). The second special hold number has an upper limit. As an example, the upper limit for the second special hold number is 4.

The game board 20 is equipped with a normal symbol display device 19e. The normal symbol display device 19e is capable of executing a symbol variation game (hereinafter referred to as the normal game) in which predetermined symbols are displayed in a variable manner and ultimately a normal symbol is statically displayed. The normal symbol is a symbol for announcing the result of a normal symbol winning lottery. The normal symbol winning lottery is an example of an internal lottery. As an example, the normal symbol is displayed for the normal stop time. As an example, the normal stop time is 0.004 seconds. The normal symbols include at least a normal winning symbol and a normal losing symbol. In the pachinko gaming machine 10, if the normal symbol winning lottery is won, the normal winning symbol is statically displayed in the normal game. Thereafter, after the normal game ends, the normal winning game is executed. In the pachinko gaming machine 10, if the normal symbol winning lottery is not won, the normal losing symbol is statically displayed in the normal game. When a normal losing symbol is displayed in a normal game, a normal winning game is not executed. The game board 20 is equipped with a normal hold display device 19f. The normal hold display device 19f displays information that can identify the number of normal games whose execution has been suspended because the hold conditions have been met but the start conditions have not (hereinafter referred to as the normal hold number). There is an upper limit to the normal hold number. As an example, the upper limit for the normal hold number is 4. The game board 20 may also be equipped with a right-hit display device that displays information instructing a right hit, as described below, and a round display device that notifies the upper limit for the number of rounds of play, as described below.

The game board 20 is formed with multiple winning holes that open into the game area 20a. The multiple winning holes are holes through which game balls can enter. The multiple winning holes include at least a first start hole 22, a second start hole 23, a first large prize hole 24, a second large prize hole 25, and a regular prize hole 30. The first start hole 22 is a winning hole through which game balls can enter to satisfy the payout conditions for prize balls and the start conditions for the first special game. As an example, the first start hole 22 is located below the effect display device 15 and is always open so that game balls can enter. The game board 20 is equipped with a first start sensor SE1 that detects game balls that have entered the first start hole 22 (see Figure 4).

The second starting opening 23 is a winning opening through which game balls are inserted to satisfy the payout conditions for prize balls and the start conditions for the second special game. The second starting opening 23 is located to the right of the first starting opening 22. The second starting opening 23 is equipped with an opening/closing piece 23a, which is, for example, plate-shaped. The second starting opening 23 is closed and opened by the opening/closing piece 23a. In other words, the opening/closing piece 23a can be in a closed state or an open state. The second starting opening 23 is opened when a normal winning game is being played. The second starting opening 23 can insert game balls when it is open. The second starting opening 23 is closed when a normal winning game is not being played. When the second starting opening 23 is closed, game balls cannot be inserted, or when it is closed, it is more difficult to insert game balls than when it is open. As an example, the second starting opening 23 is always open to the left. As an example, the opening/closing piece 23a is buried in the game board 20 when in the closed state. As an example, when the opening/closing piece 23a is in the open state, game balls can flow down the upper surface. As an example, the opening/closing piece 23a is configured so that the upper surface is inclined downward and to the right. As an example, game balls flowing down the upper surface of the opening/closing piece 23a when the opening/closing piece 23a is in the open state are guided to the second starting hole 23. In other words, when the opening/closing piece 23a is in the open state, game balls flow down the upper surface of the opening/closing piece 23a and enter the second starting hole 23. As an example, the opening/closing piece 23a allows game balls to flow down the upper surface of the opening/closing piece 23a during at least a portion of the period while the opening/closing piece 23a is transitioning from the open state to the closed state. Therefore, game balls can enter the second starting hole 23 even while the opening/closing piece 23a is transitioning from the open state to the closed state. The game board 20 is equipped with a normal solenoid SL1 (see Figure 4) as a means for opening and closing the opening/closing piece 23a of the second starting opening 23. The game board 20 is equipped with a second starting sensor SE2 (see Figure 4) that detects a game ball that has entered the second starting opening 23. The opening/closing piece 23a of the second starting opening 23 is a so-called "normal electric device."

The first large prize opening 24 is an opening into which game balls are admitted to satisfy the conditions for the payout of prize balls. The first large prize opening 24 is located to the right of the effect display device 15. The first large prize opening 24 is located above the second starting opening 23. The first large prize opening 24 is equipped with an opening/closing piece 24a, which is, for example, teardrop-shaped. The first large prize opening 24 is closed and opened by the opening/closing piece 24a. In other words, the opening/closing piece 24a can be in a closed state or an open state. The first large prize opening 24 is opened when a jackpot game is played. When open, the first large prize opening 24 can admit game balls. The first large prize opening 24 is closed when a jackpot game is not played. When closed, the first large prize opening 24 cannot admit game balls. As an example, the opening/closing piece 24a rotates approximately one-quarter of a turn to the left from the closed state around the lower part to the open state. In other words, when the first large prize opening 24 is open, the gaming ball flows down the inner wall surface (top surface) of the opening/closing piece 24a and then enters the first large prize opening 24. The gaming board 20 is equipped with a first special solenoid SL2 (see FIG. 4) as a means for opening and closing the opening/closing piece 24a of the first large prize opening 24. The gaming board 20 is equipped with a first count sensor SE3 (see FIG. 4) that detects gaming balls that have entered the first large prize opening 24. The opening/closing piece 24a of the first large prize opening 24 is a so-called "special electric device."

The second large prize opening 25 is an opening through which game balls are admitted to satisfy the conditions for the payout of prize balls. The second large prize opening 25 is located at the lower right of the effect display device 15. The second large prize opening 25 is located below the first large prize opening 24. The second large prize opening 25 is located below the second starting opening 23. The second large prize opening 25 is equipped with an opening/closing piece 25a, which is, for example, plate-shaped. The second large prize opening 25 is closed and opened by the opening/closing piece 25a. In other words, the opening/closing piece 25a can be in a closed state or an open state. The second large prize opening 25 is opened when a small prize game is played. When open, the second large prize opening 25 can admit game balls. The second large prize opening 25 is closed when a small prize game is not played. When closed, the second large prize opening 25 cannot admit game balls. As an example, the second large prize opening 25 opens upward when the opening/closing piece 25a is in the open state. As an example, when the opening/closing piece 25a is in the closed state, game balls can flow down the top surface. As an example, when the opening/closing piece 25a is in the open state, the opening/closing piece 25a is submerged in the game board 20. In other words, when the opening/closing piece 25a is in the closed state, game balls flowing down the top surface of the opening/closing piece 25a enter the second large prize opening 25 when the opening/closing piece 25a is in the open state. The game board 20 is equipped with a second special solenoid SL3 (see FIG. 4) as a means for opening and closing the opening/closing piece 25a of the second large prize opening 25. The game board 20 is equipped with a second count sensor SE4 (see FIG. 4) that detects game balls that have entered the second large prize opening 25. The opening/closing piece 25a of the second large prize opening 25 is a so-called "special electric device."

As shown in FIG. 3, the gaming board 20 has a passage 26 through which a gaming ball that has entered the second large winning opening 25 can pass. The passage 26 is arranged to branch into a first passage 26a and a second passage 26b at a branching section 27. The pachinko gaming machine 10 has a distribution shutter 28. The distribution shutter 28 is arranged at the branching section 27. The distribution shutter 28 can be in a first state and a second state. A gaming ball that has entered the second large winning opening 25 is distributed to the first passage 26a when the distribution shutter 28 is in the first state. A gaming ball that has entered the second large winning opening 25 is distributed to the second passage 26b when the distribution shutter 28 is in the second state. The game board 20 is equipped with a distribution solenoid SL4 as a means for operating the distribution shutter 28 so that it can be in the first state and the second state (see Figure 4).

The gaming board 20 is equipped with a specific sensor SE5 that detects a gaming ball passing through a specific area within the first passage 26a. In this embodiment, the specific area is the so-called "V area." As an example, if the second large prize opening 25 is opened by the execution of a small prize game, and the gaming ball that entered the second large prize opening 25 passes through the specific area, a jackpot game is executed in response to the gaming ball passing through the specific area. In other words, the pachinko gaming machine 10 in this embodiment is a gaming machine (a so-called "type 1/type 2 hybrid machine") that has a jackpot game that is executed in response to a jackpot win in a prize lottery, and a jackpot game that is executed in response to a small prize win in a prize lottery.

The game board 20 has a gate 29. The gate 29 is located in the upper right corner of the effect display device 15. The gate 29 is located above the second start opening 23, the first large prize opening 24, and the second large prize opening 25. The gate 29 has a gate opening 29a that is always open so that game balls can enter. The game board 20 has a gate sensor SE6 that detects game balls that enter the gate opening 29a and pass through the gate 29 (see Figure 4). The gate 29 is an opening through which game balls can enter to satisfy the conditions for starting a normal game. The gate 29 is an opening through which the conditions for paying out prize balls are not satisfied even if game balls enter.

Normal winning opening 30 is an opening through which game balls are admitted to satisfy the conditions for prize ball payout. As an example, normal winning opening 30 is located below performance display device 15. As an example, normal winning opening 30 is located below second start opening 23, first large winning opening 24, second large winning opening 25, and gate 29. Normal winning opening 30 is always open so that game balls can be admitted. Game board 20 is equipped with normal sensor SE7 that detects game balls that have entered normal winning opening 30 (see Figure 4). Game board 20 is equipped with outlet 31 at the bottom of game area 20a for discharging game balls that have not entered first start opening 22, second start opening 23, first large winning opening 24, second large winning opening 25, or normal winning opening 30 from game area 20a.

In the pachinko gaming machine 10, the player can adjust the firing strength of the gaming ball by operating the firing handle 18, and hit the gaming ball into either the left area to the left of the display window 20b or the right area to the right of the display window 20b. For example, if the gaming ball is fired with a stronger firing strength (hereinafter referred to as a right hit), the gaming ball is more likely to flow down into the right area. When the gaming ball flows down the right area, it can enter the second starting opening 23, the first large winning opening 24, the second large winning opening 25, the gate 29, and the regular winning opening 30. Because a right hit requires the gaming ball to be fired with force to reach the right area, the firing strength is adjusted to maximum strength or slightly weaker than maximum strength.

On the other hand, if the game ball is launched with a weaker launch strength (hereinafter referred to as a left-handed hit), the game ball is more likely to flow down into the left area. If the game ball flows down the left area, it may enter the first starting hole 22. When the game ball is launched from the left, it does not need to be launched with as much force as when the game ball is launched from the right, so the strength is adjusted so that the launched game ball does not reach the right area. In the pachinko game machine 10, when the game ball is hit from the right, a flow path for the game ball is formed by game components such as game nails so that the game ball cannot enter the first starting hole 22. The game components may be arranged to restrict the ball from entering the first starting hole 22 when the game ball is hit from the right, or may be arranged to make it more difficult for the ball to enter the first starting hole 22 compared to when the game ball is hit from the left.

The left area is the area located to the left of the center line CL, which bisects the play area 20a left and right when the play board 20 is viewed from the front. The right area is the area located to the right of the center line CL when the play board 20 is viewed from the front. A game ball launched by operating the launch handle 18 is guided to the inlet 20c located at the upper left of the play area 20a and flows into the play area 20a. In other words, the left area is also the area closer to the inlet 20c. And the right area is also the area farther from the inlet 20c. A game ball guided down the left area passes to the left of the effect display device 15 located in the center of the play area 20a when viewed from the front. The game ball then heads toward the outlet 31 located at the bottom of the play area 20a. A game ball guided down the right area passes to the right of the effect display device 15 located in the center of the play area 20a when viewed from the front. The game ball then heads towards the outlet 31.

Next, the gaming state of the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described.
The pachinko gaming machine 10 has multiple states (hereinafter referred to as ball entry rate states) with different ball entry rates into the second starting hole 23. The multiple ball entry rate states include a low ball entry rate state and a high ball entry rate state in which the ball entry rate into the second starting hole 23 is higher than in the low ball entry rate state. The high ball entry rate state is advantageous for the player because it is a state in which the probability of a game ball entering the second starting hole 23 is high and it is easy for game balls to enter the second starting hole 23 (easy ball entry state). The high ball entry rate state can also be said to be an electric support state that supports balls entering the second starting hole 23, which is a normal electric device.

The high ball entry rate state is achieved by implementing normal symbol fluctuation time reduction control, which shortens the fluctuation time of the normal game (e.g., average fluctuation time) compared to the low ball entry rate state; opening time extension control, which lengthens the total opening time of the second start port 23 in one normal win game (e.g., average total opening time) compared to the low ball entry rate state; and normal symbol probability fluctuation control, which increases the probability of winning the normal win lottery (normal win probability) compared to the low ball entry rate state. As an example, the normal symbol fluctuation time reduction control can be achieved by differentiating at least some of the fluctuation patterns that define the fluctuation time of the normal game between the low ball entry rate state and the high ball entry rate state. As an example, the opening time extension control is at least one of control to increase the number of times the second start port 23 is opened in one normal win game compared to the low ball entry rate state and control to lengthen the opening time of one opening of the second start port 23 in a normal win game compared to the low ball entry rate state. As one example, the opening time extension control can be achieved by differentiating at least some of the opening patterns that determine the opening manner of the second start opening 23 in normal winning games between low and high winning rate states. As one example, the opening pattern determines the number of times the second start opening 23 opens, the opening time, and the opening timing (closing timing). As one example, the probability fluctuation control can be achieved by differentiating the normal winning probability between low and high winning rate states.

As an example, the high winning rate state is achieved by combining the fourth control, which will be explained below. The fourth control is special symbol fluctuation time reduction control, which shortens the fluctuation time of the special game (for example, the average fluctuation time) compared to the low winning rate state. As an example, special symbol fluctuation time reduction control can be achieved by making at least some of the fluctuation patterns that determine the fluctuation time of the special game different between the low winning rate state and the high winning rate state. Details of the fluctuation patterns will be described later. When special symbol fluctuation time reduction control is performed, the high winning rate state becomes a special symbol fluctuation time reduction state (hereinafter referred to as the "time reduction state"), and the low winning rate state becomes a special symbol non-fluctuation time reduction state (hereinafter referred to as the "non-time reduction state").

Next, we will explain the types of small wins and small win games.
The small win game is executed according to the type of small win. The type of small win is determined by the type of small win symbol (special symbol). In other words, the small win game is executed according to the type of special symbol. There may be one type of small win, or multiple types. Each small win symbol of the special symbol includes one or multiple types of special symbols. As an example, there is one type of small win. In other words, there is one type of small win game. As an example, there is one type of small win symbol for the special symbol. In the following explanation, for the sake of convenience, the winning lottery for the special symbol may be simply referred to as the winning lottery.

In small win games, a predetermined effect is first played for a predetermined time (hereinafter referred to as the small win opening time). For example, the predetermined effect is an opening effect that allows the player to recognize the start of small win games. In small win games, after the small win opening time has elapsed, one round of play is played to open the second large prize opening 25.

In small win games, a round of play ends when a number condition is met: a predetermined maximum number of game balls enter the ball slot; a time condition is met when a predetermined maximum time has elapsed; or a jackpot condition is met when game balls pass through a specific area. As an example, the maximum number is 10 balls. In other words, in small win games, a round of play ends when the number condition is met by 10 game balls entering the ball slot. As an example, the maximum time is 4.252 seconds. In other words, in small win games, a round of play ends when the time condition is met by 4.252 seconds having elapsed. Note that the maximum number may differ depending on the type of small win game. The maximum time may differ depending on the type of small win game.

In small win games, the second large prize opening 25 opens in a predetermined opening pattern during round play. As an example, in small win games, the second large prize opening 25 opens for 0.028 seconds, then closes for 0.5 seconds, repeating this cycle nine times, before opening again for 4 seconds. In other words, in small win games, the second large prize opening 25 opens ten times during round play. As described above, while the second large prize opening 25 is closed, game balls flow down the top surface of the opening/closing piece 25a. Therefore, even if the second large prize opening 25 is only open for a short time of 0.028 seconds, the opening of the second large prize opening 25 causes game balls that were flowing down the top surface of the opening/closing piece 25a to enter the second large prize opening 25. With this configuration, when a player hits the reel from the right, there is a 100% or nearly 100% chance that the maximum number of game balls will enter the reel during a small win.

Furthermore, in small win games, the distribution shutter 28 operates in a predetermined distribution manner (distribution pattern) during round play. As an example, in small win games, the distribution shutter 28 assumes the second state when round play begins. Thereafter, the distribution shutter 28 assumes the first state when a specific number of game balls enter the second large prize opening 25 during round play. A specific number is set for small win games. As an example, the specific number is four. As described above, game balls that enter the second large prize opening 25 can pass through a specific area of the first passage 26a when the distribution shutter 28 assumes the first state. In other words, in small win games, the conditions for awarding a jackpot game can be met when a specific number of game balls enter the second large prize opening 25 during round play. When a player hits from the right, there is a 100% or nearly 100% probability that the maximum number of game balls will enter the slot in a small win game. Therefore, when a player hits from the right, there is a 100% or nearly 100% probability that the conditions for winning a big win game will be met in a small win game.

In round play, a predetermined effect is performed. For example, the predetermined effect is a round effect that makes it possible to recognize that a round of small win play is being played. In small win play, when the round play ends, a predetermined effect is performed for a predetermined time (hereinafter referred to as the small win ending time). For example, the predetermined effect is an ending effect that makes it possible to recognize that the small win play has ended. The small win play ends as the small win ending time passes. In small win play, when the round play ends because the conditions for granting a big win game are met, the big win game is executed after the small win game ends.

Next, the types of jackpots and jackpot games will be explained.
The jackpot game is executed according to the type of jackpot and the type of minor jackpot. The type of jackpot is determined by the type of jackpot symbol (special symbol). In other words, the jackpot game is executed according to the type of special symbol.

As an example, jackpot games include a first jackpot game and a second jackpot game. The first jackpot game is a jackpot game that is executed when a jackpot is won in a lottery. As an example, there is one type of jackpot. As an example, there is one type of special jackpot symbol. The second jackpot game is a jackpot game that is executed when the conditions for granting a jackpot game are met in a small jackpot game. In other words, the second jackpot game is a jackpot that is triggered by winning a small jackpot in a lottery.

In a jackpot game, a predetermined effect is first performed for a predetermined time (hereinafter referred to as the jackpot opening time). For example, the predetermined effect is an opening effect that allows the player to recognize the start of a jackpot game. In a jackpot game, after the jackpot opening time has elapsed, a predetermined number of rounds of play are played to open the first large prize opening 24. As an example, the maximum number of rounds of play for both the first jackpot game and the second jackpot game is 10. Here, in a second jackpot game that is executed when the conditions for awarding a jackpot game are met in a small jackpot game, one round of play in the small jackpot game is included in the maximum number of rounds. In other words, the number of rounds of play to open the first large prize opening 24 in a second jackpot game is effectively 9. In addition, in the second jackpot game, which is executed when the conditions for granting a jackpot game are met in the small jackpot game, the round game may start without the jackpot opening time having elapsed.

In jackpot play, one round of play ends when the number condition is met, that is, a predetermined maximum number of game balls enter the reel, or the time condition is met, that is, a predetermined maximum time has passed. As an example, the maximum number is 10 balls. In other words, one round of play ends when the number condition is met, that is, 10 game balls enter the reel. As an example, the maximum time is 25 seconds. In other words, one round of play ends when the time condition is met, that is, 25 seconds have passed.

In round play, the first large prize opening 24 opens in a predetermined opening manner (opening pattern). In round play, a predetermined effect is performed. For example, the predetermined effect is a round effect that allows the player to recognize that a round of jackpot play is being played. In jackpot play, when the final round of play ends, a predetermined effect is performed for a predetermined time (hereinafter referred to as the jackpot ending time). For example, the predetermined effect is an ending effect that allows the player to recognize that the jackpot play has ended. The jackpot play ends with the passage of the jackpot ending time. Note that in the following explanation, when distinguishing between opening effects in small jackpot play and opening effects in jackpot play, they are referred to as small jackpot opening effect and jackpot opening effect, respectively. Furthermore, when distinguishing between round effects in small jackpot play and round effects in jackpot play, they are referred to as small jackpot round effect and jackpot round effect, respectively. Furthermore, when distinguishing between ending effects in small win games and ending effects in big win games, they will be referred to as small win ending effects and big win ending effects, respectively.

As such, the first jackpot game and the second jackpot game are both set to have 10 rounds of play. Furthermore, the number condition for each round of play is that 10 game balls enter the first major prize slot 24 or the second major prize slot 25, and the time condition is that 25 seconds must pass. Therefore, in the first jackpot game and the second jackpot game, a total of 100 game balls (10 times x 10 balls) can be expected to enter the first major prize slot 24 and the second major prize slot 25. Here, if the number of prize balls set for the first major prize slot 24 and the second major prize slot 25 is 15, the number of prize balls that can be expected to be awarded in the first jackpot game and the second jackpot game (hereinafter referred to as the expected number of balls) is 1,500. The jackpot game is an example of a bonus. The awarding of a small win game during which the conditions for awarding a big win game may be met is an example of gaining the right to win a bonus.

This section explains the effects that the pachinko gaming machine 10 can execute. Effects can be executed by one of the multiple effect execution devices that make up the effect execution device group 16, or by having multiple effect execution devices work together.

The display effects in the effect display device 15 include a symbol-changing game (hereinafter referred to as the effect game) using effect symbols (decorative symbols). The effect display device 15 is capable of displaying multiple symbol rows. Each symbol row is composed of multiple effect symbols and is also referred to as a reel. Each of the multiple effect symbols includes the numbers "1" through "8" as identification information for identifying the results of a winning lottery. As an example, the effect symbol is an Arabic numeral "1" through "8" decorated with characters, patterns, etc., and is used to diversify the display effects. In the effect game, the effect symbols are displayed in a variable manner in each of the multiple symbol rows, and then the effect symbols are displayed in a static manner in each of the multiple symbol rows, thereby displaying a static combination of effect symbols (hereinafter referred to as the symbol combination). In other words, in the effect game, the identification information in multiple columns is displayed in a variable manner, and then the identification information in multiple columns is displayed in a static manner. As an example, the effect game is played by displaying (scrolling) the effect symbols in the left, middle, and right rows in a predetermined direction.

As an example, an effect game starts and ends together with a special game. In an effect game, a symbol combination corresponding to the special symbol displayed in the special game is displayed. For example, in an effect game, when a jackpot symbol is displayed in a special game, the jackpot symbol combination is displayed in a stopped state. As an example, a jackpot symbol combination is a combination such as [777] in which the identification information (numbers) of the effect symbols in all symbol rows are the same (so-called symbol alignment). For example, in an effect game, when a small win symbol is displayed in a special game, a small win symbol combination is displayed in a stopped state. As an example, a small win symbol combination is a combination such as [777] in which the identification information (numbers) of the effect symbols in all symbol rows are the same. For example, in an effect game, when a losing symbol is displayed in a special game, a losing symbol combination is displayed in a stopped state. As an example, a losing symbol combination is one in which the identification information (numbers) of the effect symbols in all symbol rows are not the same, such as [787] and [468]. Special games and effect games executed in response to those special games are examples of variable games.

A presentation game may include a reach effect. A reach effect is an effect that forms a reach and ultimately displays a predetermined symbol combination. Hereinafter, the state in which a reach effect has been formed may be referred to as the reach state. A reach effect is the state just before a winning symbol combination is formed, or the state just before a symbol combination for a second normal win is formed (so-called "tenpai"). For example, a reach effect is a state in which a presentation symbol is displayed in a variable manner in any symbol row (e.g., a middle symbol row), such as [7↓7], and presentation symbols containing the same identification information (numbers) are displayed in multiple symbol rows different from that symbol row (hereinafter referred to as reach formation rows, for example, the symbol rows to the left and right). Reach effects include normal reach effects (hereinafter referred to as N reach effects), and super reach effects (hereinafter referred to as SP reach effects), which have a higher expectation of winning in the current presentation game (hereinafter referred to as "win expectation rate") than an N reach effect.

The electrical configuration of the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described.
As shown in Figure 4, the pachinko gaming machine 10 is equipped with a main board 80 and an auxiliary board 90 on the back side (rear) of the gaming board 20. The main board 80 and the auxiliary board 90 are connected so that various control commands (control signals) can be output in one direction from the main board 80 to the auxiliary board 90. The main board 80 executes predetermined processing and outputs control signals to the auxiliary board 90. The auxiliary board 90 executes predetermined processing based on the control commands input from the main board 80.

The main board 80 will now be described.
The main board 80 includes a main control CPU 81, a main control ROM 82, a main control RWM 83, and a random number generation circuit 84. The main control CPU 81 executes a main control program to perform processing related to the progress of the game. The main control ROM 82 stores the main control program, judgment values used for various judgments and lotteries, tables, and the like. The main control ROM 82 stores multiple types of fluctuation patterns. As an example, the fluctuation patterns include a fluctuation pattern for special symbols and a fluctuation pattern for normal symbols. The fluctuation pattern for special symbols is information that can identify the fluctuation time from the start to the end of a special game. The fluctuation pattern for special symbols is information that can identify the fluctuation content of the special game. As an example, the fluctuation pattern for special symbols can identify the presentation time of a presentation game and some or all of the presentation content.

There are three types of fluctuation patterns for special symbols: big hit fluctuation patterns, small hit fluctuation patterns, time-saving trigger fluctuation patterns, and miss fluctuation patterns. In a presentation game based on a big hit fluctuation pattern, the big hit symbol combination is stopped and displayed after going through a reach effect. In a presentation game based on a small hit fluctuation pattern, the small hit symbol combination is stopped and displayed after going through a reach effect. In a presentation game based on a time-saving trigger fluctuation pattern, the time-saving trigger symbol combination is stopped and displayed after going through a reach effect. In a presentation game based on a miss fluctuation pattern, the miss symbol combination is stopped and displayed after going through a reach effect or without going through a reach effect.

The normal symbol fluctuation pattern is information that can identify the fluctuation time from the start to the end of the normal game. The normal symbol fluctuation pattern is information that can identify the fluctuation content of the normal game. The normal symbol fluctuation patterns include a normal miss fluctuation pattern and a normal win fluctuation pattern. The main control RWM 83 stores various information that is rewritten depending on the processing results of the main control CPU 81. For example, the information stored by the main control RWM 83 includes flags, counters, and timers. The random number generation circuit 84 generates hardware random numbers. The main board 80 may be configured to be able to generate software random numbers through the random number generation process by the main control CPU 81.

The main board 80 is connected to each of the sensors SE1 to SE7. The main control CPU 81 can input the detection signals output by each of the sensors SE1 to SE7 when they detect a gaming ball. The main board 80 is connected to each of the display devices 19a to 19e. The main control CPU 81 can control the display content of each of the display devices 19a to 19e. The main board 80 is connected to each of the solenoids SL1 to SL4. The main control CPU 81 can control the opening state of the second start opening 23, the first large winning opening 24, and the second large winning opening 25 by controlling the operation of each of the solenoids SL1 to SL3. The main control CPU 81 can control the distribution state of the distribution shutter 28 by controlling the operation of the distribution solenoid SL4.

Next, the sub-board 90 will be described.
The sub-board 90 includes a sub-control CPU 91, a sub-control ROM 92, and a sub-control RWM 93. The sub-control CPU 91 executes a sub-control program to perform processing related to presentation. The sub-control CPU 91 executes a sub-control program to perform processing related to notifications. The sub-control ROM 92 stores the sub-control program and determination values used for predetermined lotteries. The sub-control ROM 92 stores display presentation data used for display presentation, light-emitting presentation data used for light-emitting presentation, and audio presentation data used for audio presentation. The sub-control RWM 93 stores various information that is rewritten during operation of the pachinko gaming machine 10. For example, the information stored in the sub-control RWM 93 includes flags, counters, and timers. The sub-board 90 is configured to be able to generate software random numbers through a random number generation process performed by the sub-control CPU 91. The sub-board 90 may also be equipped with a random number generation circuit to generate hardware random numbers.

The sub-board 90 is connected to the performance display device 15. The sub-control CPU 91 is capable of controlling the display content of the performance display device 15. The sub-board 90 is connected to the audio output device 13. The sub-control CPU 91 is capable of controlling the output content of the audio output device 13. The sub-board 90 is connected to the decorative light emitting device 14. The sub-control CPU 91 is capable of controlling the light emitting mode of the decorative light emitting device 14. The sub-control CPU 91 is an example of a performance control means that controls the performance execution device group 16 as a performance execution means.

Next, various processes performed by the main control CPU 81 of the main board 80 will be described.
The special input process will now be described.
The main control CPU 81 executes a special input process as one of the timer interrupt processes performed every predetermined control period (e.g., 4 ms). In the special input process, the main control CPU 81 determines whether a game ball has entered the first start hole 22 based on whether a detection signal has been input from the first start sensor SE1. When a game ball has entered the first start hole 22, the main control CPU 81 determines whether the first special hold number stored in the main control RWM 83 is less than the upper limit number. If the first special hold number is less than the upper limit number, the main control CPU 81 updates the first special hold number by adding 1. The main control CPU 81 controls the first special hold display device 19c to display information that can identify the updated first special hold number. In other words, the hold condition for the first special game is satisfied when a game ball is detected by the first start sensor SE1 when the first special hold number is less than the upper limit number.

Next, the main control CPU 81 acquires the random number generated by the random number generation circuit 84 and stores first random number information based on the acquired random number in the main control RWM 83. For example, the random numbers may be winning random numbers used in the lottery to determine whether a special symbol will win, symbol random numbers used to determine winning symbols, and variation pattern random numbers used to determine variation patterns. The first random number information is stored so that it is possible to identify that it is information for the first special game and its storage order. The first random number information may be the acquired random number itself, or may be information obtained by processing the random number using a predetermined method. By storing the first random number information in the main control RWM 83, the pachinko gaming machine 10 can suspend execution of the first special game until the start conditions are met.

When the main control CPU 81 stores the first random number information in the main control RWM 83, if the gaming ball has not entered the first start port 22 and if the first special reserved number is not less than the upper limit, the main control CPU 81 determines whether the gaming ball has entered the second start port 23 based on whether a detection signal has been input from the second start sensor SE2. If the gaming ball has entered the second start port 23, the main control CPU 81 determines whether the second reserved number stored in the main control RWM 83 is less than the upper limit. If the second reserved number is less than the upper limit, the main control CPU 81 updates the second reserved number by adding 1. The main control CPU 81 controls the second special reserved display device 19d to display information that can identify the second reserved number after the addition. The reserved condition for the second special game is satisfied when the gaming ball is detected by the second start sensor SE2 when the second special reserved number is less than the upper limit.

Next, the main control CPU 81 acquires the random number generated by the random number generation circuit 84 and stores second random number information based on the acquired random number in the main control RWM 83. The second random number information is stored so that it is possible to identify that it is information to be used in the second special game and its storage order. The second random number information may be the acquired random number itself, or may be information that has been processed using a predetermined method. By storing the second random number information in the main control RWM 83, the pachinko gaming machine 10 can suspend execution of the second special game until the conditions for starting the second special game are met.

The main control CPU 81 executes a look-ahead process based on the various random numbers for the second special game that have been acquired. In the look-ahead process, the main control CPU 81 determines in advance the variable content of the second special game. As an example, the main control CPU 81 determines whether the value of the acquired winning random number is a value that will result in a winning lottery. In the look-ahead process, the main control CPU 81 may determine which winning pattern the value of the winning symbol random number will result in. In the look-ahead process, the main control CPU 81 may determine which variable pattern the value of the variable pattern random number will result in. The main control CPU 81 stores control information (hereinafter referred to as a look-ahead command) that can identify the variable content of the second special game that has been looked up in advance in the output buffer.

The first special start process will be described.
The main control CPU 81 executes a first special start process as one of the timer interrupt processes. The main control CPU 81 determines whether the start conditions of the first special game are met. The main control CPU 81 determines that the start conditions of the first special game are met when a jackpot game is not being played and the first special game is not being executed. On the other hand, the main control CPU 81 determines that the start conditions of the special game are not met when a jackpot game is being played or the first special game is being executed. If the start conditions of the first special game are not met, the main control CPU 81 terminates the first special start process. If the start conditions of the first special game are met, the main control CPU 81 determines whether the first special reserved number is greater than zero. If the first special reserved number is zero, the main control CPU 81 terminates the first special start process.

If the first special hold number is greater than zero, the main control CPU 81 updates the first special hold number by subtracting 1. The main control CPU 81 controls the first special hold display device 19c to display information that can identify the first special hold number after subtraction. Next, the main control CPU 81 acquires the earliest stored information from the main control RWM 83. The main control CPU 81 uses the winning random number identified from the acquired first random number information to conduct a jackpot lottery (jackpot determination) to determine whether or not a jackpot has been won as a special pattern winning lottery. The main control CPU 81 conducts the jackpot lottery with a predetermined jackpot probability. As an example, the jackpot probability is 1/300.

If a jackpot is won, the main control CPU 81 performs jackpot variation processing. In the jackpot variation processing, the main control CPU 81 performs a first special pattern lottery using a pattern random number that can be identified from the first random number information, and determines the jackpot pattern of the special pattern to be stopped and displayed in the first special game. As an example, the main control CPU 81 determines one type of jackpot pattern in the first special pattern lottery, regardless of the value of the pattern random number. Note that the main control CPU 81 may determine one type of jackpot pattern without performing a first special pattern lottery. The main control CPU 81 performs a variation pattern determination lottery using a variation pattern random number that can be identified from the first random number information, and determines a variation pattern from among multiple jackpot variation patterns. After that, the main control CPU 81 ends the first special start processing.

If a jackpot is not won, the main control CPU 81 performs a loss variation process. In the loss variation process, the main control CPU 81 performs a second special pattern lottery using a pattern random number that can be identified from the first random number information, and determines the losing special pattern to be stopped and displayed in the first special game. As an example, the main control CPU 81 determines one type of losing pattern in the second special pattern lottery, regardless of the value of the pattern random number. Note that the main control CPU 81 may also determine one type of losing pattern without performing a second special pattern lottery. The main control CPU 81 performs a variation pattern determination lottery using a variation pattern random number that can be identified from the first random number information, and determines the variation pattern from multiple loss variation patterns with or without a reach. The main control CPU 81 then terminates the first special start process.

The second special start process will be described.
The main control CPU 81 executes a second special start process as one of the timer interrupt processes. The main control CPU 81 determines whether the start conditions of the second special game are met. The main control CPU 81 determines that the start conditions of the second special game are met when a jackpot game is not being played and the second special game is not being executed. On the other hand, the main control CPU 81 determines that the start conditions of the special game are not met when a jackpot game is being played or the second special game is being executed. If the start conditions of the second special game are not met, the main control CPU 81 terminates the second special start process. If the start conditions of the second special game are met, the main control CPU 81 determines whether the second special reserved number is greater than zero. If the second special reserved number is zero, the main control CPU 81 terminates the second special start process.

If the second special reserve number is greater than zero, the main control CPU 81 updates the second special reserve number by subtracting 1. The main control CPU 81 controls the second special reserve display device 19d to display information that can identify the second special reserve number after subtraction. Next, the main control CPU 81 acquires the earliest stored information from the main control RWM 83 among the second random number information. The main control CPU 81 uses the winning random number identified from the acquired second random number information to conduct a jackpot lottery (jackpot determination) to determine whether or not a jackpot has been won as a special pattern winning lottery. The main control CPU 81 conducts the jackpot lottery with a predetermined jackpot probability.

If a jackpot is won, the main control CPU 81 performs jackpot variation processing. In the jackpot variation processing, the main control CPU 81 performs a third special pattern lottery using a pattern random number that can be identified from the second random number information, and determines the jackpot pattern of the special pattern to be stopped and displayed in the second special game. As an example, the main control CPU 81 determines one type of jackpot pattern in the third special pattern lottery, regardless of the value of the pattern random number. Note that the main control CPU 81 may determine one type of jackpot pattern without performing a third special pattern lottery. The main control CPU 81 performs a variation pattern determination lottery using a variation pattern random number that can be identified from the second random number information, and determines a variation pattern from among multiple jackpot variation patterns. The main control CPU 81 then terminates the second special start processing.

If the big win is not won, the main control CPU 81 uses the winning random number identified from the acquired second random number information to conduct a small win lottery (small win determination) to determine whether or not a small win will be won as a special pattern winning lottery. The main control CPU 81 conducts the small win lottery with a predetermined small win probability. As an example, the small win probability is 1/4.

If a small win is won, the main control CPU 81 performs small win variation processing. In the small win variation processing, the main control CPU 81 performs a fourth special pattern lottery using a pattern random number identifiable from the second random number information, and determines the small win pattern of the special pattern to be stopped and displayed in the second special game. As an example, the main control CPU 81 determines one type of small win pattern in the fourth special pattern lottery, regardless of the value of the pattern random number. Note that the main control CPU 81 may determine one type of small win pattern without performing a fourth special pattern lottery. The main control CPU 81 performs a variation pattern determination lottery using a variation pattern random number identifiable from the second random number information, and determines a variation pattern from among multiple small win variation patterns. After that, the main control CPU 81 ends the second special start processing.

If the small win is not won, the main control CPU 81 performs a loss variation process. In the loss variation process, the main control CPU 81 performs a fifth special pattern lottery using a pattern random number that can be identified from the second random number information, and determines the losing special pattern to be stopped and displayed in the second special game. As an example, the main control CPU 81 determines one type of losing pattern in the fifth special pattern lottery, regardless of the value of the pattern random number. Note that the main control CPU 81 may also determine one type of losing pattern without performing a fifth special pattern lottery. The main control CPU 81 performs a variation pattern determination lottery using a variation pattern random number that can be identified from the second random number information, and determines the variation pattern from among multiple loss variation patterns with or without a reach. The main control CPU 81 then terminates the second special start process.

The main control CPU 81 outputs a fluctuation start command and a special pattern command to the sub-board 90 during the jackpot fluctuation process, small jackpot fluctuation process, and loss fluctuation process. The fluctuation start command is a control command that can identify the fluctuation pattern determined in each fluctuation process in the special start process and the start of the fluctuation game. The special pattern command is a control command that can identify the special pattern (jackpot pattern, small jackpot pattern, or loss pattern) determined in each fluctuation process. Note that the fluctuation start command and special pattern command are different control commands when the first special game fluctuation process is executed and when the second special game fluctuation process is executed.

In this way, in the first special start process, it is possible to win a big prize in the winning lottery. On the other hand, in the first special start process, it is not possible to win a small prize in the winning lottery. In the second special start process, it is possible to win both a small prize and a big prize in the winning lottery.

When the first special start process and the second special start process are completed, the main control CPU 81 executes the first special game or the second special game through a process separate from the first special start process and the second special start process. Specifically, when the main control CPU 81 completes the first special start process, it executes the first special game. When executing the first special game, the main control CPU 81 controls the first special pattern display device 19a to begin the variable display of a predetermined pattern. The main control CPU 81 measures the variable time set in the variable pattern. When the variable time set in the variable pattern has elapsed, the main control CPU 81 controls the first special pattern display device 19a to statically display the special pattern determined in the special start process. Furthermore, when the variable time set in the variable pattern has elapsed, the main control CPU 81 outputs a control command (hereinafter referred to as the variable end command) capable of specifying the end of the variable game to the sub-board 90.

When the main control CPU 81 has finished the second special start process, it executes a second special game. When executing the second special game, the main control CPU 81 controls the second special pattern display device 19b to start the variable display of a predetermined pattern. The main control CPU 81 measures the variable time set in the variable pattern. When the variable time set in the variable pattern has elapsed, the main control CPU 81 controls the second special pattern display device 19b to statically display the special pattern determined in the special start process. Furthermore, when the variable time set in the variable pattern has elapsed, the main control CPU 81 outputs a variable end command to the sub-board 90. The main control CPU 81 is an example of a variable game control means that controls the execution of a variable game.

The small win game processing will be explained.
The small win game processing is processing for executing a small win game. The main control CPU 81 executes the small win game after the special game in which the small win symbol is statically displayed ends. As an example, the main control CPU 81 executes the small win game by operating the opening/closing piece 25a of the second large prize opening 25 according to a predetermined operation pattern. Specifically, the main control CPU 81 specifies the type of small win game based on the small win symbol (type of small win) determined in the second special start processing. The main control CPU 81 executes the specified type of small win game.

First, the main control CPU 81 outputs a control command (hereinafter referred to as the small win opening command) capable of identifying the start of the small win opening time to the sub-board 90. When the small win opening time has elapsed, the main control CPU 81 executes a round of play. The main control CPU 81 outputs a control command (hereinafter referred to as the small win round command) capable of identifying the start of a round of play for a small win game to the sub-board 90. The main control CPU 81 controls the second special solenoid SL3 using the opening control data corresponding to the identified small win game, and controls the opening mode of the second large prize opening 25. After the round of play begins, the main control CPU 81 controls the second special solenoid SL3 to close the second large prize opening 25 when the number of game balls detected by the second count sensor SE4 reaches the upper limit, when a game ball is detected by the specific sensor SE5, or when the upper limit time for the round of play has elapsed. In other words, the main control CPU 81 ends the round of play. When a game ball is detected by the specific sensor SE5, that is, when the conditions for awarding a jackpot game are met, the main control CPU 81 outputs a control command (hereinafter referred to as a V winning command) that can identify that the conditions for awarding a jackpot game have been met to the sub-board 90. When the round of play ends, the main control CPU 81 outputs a control command (hereinafter referred to as a small win ending command) that can identify the start of the small win ending time to the sub-board 90. When the small win ending time has elapsed, the main control CPU 81 ends the small win game.

The jackpot game processing will now be described.
The jackpot game processing is processing for executing a jackpot game. The main control CPU 81 executes a jackpot game after the end of a special game in which a jackpot symbol is statically displayed, or after the end of a small jackpot game in which the round game ends due to the satisfaction of the conditions for awarding a jackpot game. As an example, the main control CPU 81 executes a jackpot game by operating the opening/closing piece 24a of the first large prize opening 24 according to a predetermined operation pattern. Specifically, when executing a jackpot game after the end of a special game in which a jackpot symbol is statically displayed, the main control CPU 81 identifies the type of jackpot game based on the jackpot symbol (type of jackpot) determined in the first special start processing and the second special start processing. On the other hand, when the main control CPU 81 executes a jackpot game after the completion of a small jackpot game in which the round game has ended due to the satisfaction of the conditions for granting the jackpot game, the main control CPU 81 specifies the type of jackpot game based on the small jackpot symbols (type of small jackpot) determined in the first special start process and the second special start process. The main control CPU 81 executes the specified type of jackpot game.

First, the main control CPU 81 outputs a control command (hereinafter referred to as the jackpot opening command) capable of specifying the start of the jackpot opening time to the sub-board 90. Once the jackpot opening time has elapsed, the main control CPU 81 executes a round of play. Specifically, the main control CPU 81 controls the first special solenoid SL2 using the opening control data corresponding to the specified jackpot game, thereby controlling the opening mode of the first large prize opening 24. After the round of play begins, the main control CPU 81 controls the first special solenoid SL2 to close the first large prize opening 24 when the number of game balls detected by the first count sensor SE3 reaches the upper limit or the upper limit time for the round of play has elapsed. In other words, the main control CPU 81 ends the round of play. The main control CPU 81 repeatedly performs this process of executing a round of play until the upper limit number of rounds specified for the jackpot game has been played. Each time a round of jackpot play starts, the main control CPU 81 outputs a control command (hereinafter referred to as a jackpot round command) capable of specifying the start of the round of jackpot play to the sub-board 90. When the final round of play ends, the main control CPU 81 outputs a control command (hereinafter referred to as a jackpot ending command) capable of specifying the start of the jackpot ending time to the sub-board 90. When the jackpot ending time has elapsed, the main control CPU 81 ends the jackpot play. The main control CPU 81 is an example of a bonus granting means that grants a jackpot play as a bonus.

The game state transition process for transitioning the game state will be described.
The main control CPU 81 controls the game state by storing information such as flags in the main control RWM 83.

When a jackpot game ends, the main control CPU 81 controls the game state according to the type of jackpot game. As an example, the main control CPU 81 controls the game state to the time-shortened state after the first jackpot game ends and after the second jackpot game ends. When controlling the game state to the time-shortened state after the first jackpot game ends or after the second jackpot game ends, the main control CPU 81 updates the time-shortened state flag so that it can specify that the game state will be controlled to the time-shortened state.

When the main control CPU 81 is in the time-shortened state and an end condition is met, it switches to the non-time-shortened state. As an example, when the main control CPU 81 is in the time-shortened state, it determines that the end condition for the first time-shortened state has been met if the total number of times the first special game has been played and the number of times the second special game has been played after control has been placed in the time-shortened state reaches a predetermined first upper limit. As an example, the first upper limit is five times. As an example, when the main control CPU 81 is in the time-shortened state, it determines that the end condition for the time-shortened state has been met if the total number of times the second special game has been played after control has been placed in the time-shortened state reaches a predetermined second upper limit. As an example, the second upper limit is one time.

When the conditions for ending the time-shortened state are met, the main control CPU 81 controls the state to a non-time-shortened state and updates the time-shortened state flag stored in the main control RWM 83 so that the game state after control to the non-time-shortened state can be identified. In other words, when controlling the state to a non-time-shortened state, the main control CPU 81 updates the time-shortened state flag so that it can be identified that the state will be controlled to a non-time-shortened state.

As an example, when the game state changes, the main control CPU 81 stores a control command (hereinafter referred to as a state designation command) capable of identifying the current game state in the output buffer. State designation commands include a state designation command capable of identifying a non-time-shortened state and a state designation command capable of identifying a time-shortened state. As an example, when power supply is started, the main control CPU 81 stores a state designation command capable of identifying the current game state in the output buffer. The main control CPU 81 is an example of a state control means for controlling the state.

The normal input process will now be described.
The main control CPU 81 executes normal input processing as part of the timer interrupt processing. When the main control CPU 81 receives a detection signal from the gate sensor SE6, it determines whether the normal reserved number stored in the main control RWM 83 is less than the upper limit. If the normal reserved number is not less than the upper limit, the main control CPU 81 terminates the normal input processing. If the normal reserved number is less than the upper limit, the main control CPU 81 updates the normal reserved number by adding one. Next, the main control CPU 81 acquires a random number generated by the random number generation circuit 84 and stores normal random number information based on the acquired random number in the main control RWM 83. For example, the random number may be a normal winning random number used to draw a winning normal symbol, a normal symbol random number used to determine the normal winning symbol, and a normal variable pattern random number used to determine the variable pattern for the normal symbol. Then, the main control CPU 81 terminates the normal input processing.

The normal start process will now be described.
The main control CPU 81 executes a normal start process as one of the timer interrupt processes. The main control CPU 81 determines whether or not the start conditions for the normal game are met. The main control CPU 81 makes a positive determination when the normal win game is not being played and the normal game is not being executed, and makes a negative determination when the normal win game is being played or the normal game is being executed. If the start conditions for the normal game are not met, the main control CPU 81 ends the normal start process. If the start conditions for the normal game are met, the main control CPU 81 determines whether or not the normal reserved number is greater than zero. If the normal reserved number is zero, the main control CPU 81 ends the normal start process.

If the normal hold number is not zero, the main control CPU 81 updates the normal hold number by subtracting 1. The main control CPU 81 controls the normal hold display device 19f to display information that can identify the normal hold number after subtraction. The main control CPU 81 acquires the earliest stored information from the normal random number information from the main control RWM 83. The main control CPU 81 uses the normal win random number identified from the acquired normal random number information to conduct a normal win lottery (normal win determination) to determine whether or not a normal win will be determined as a winning lottery for a normal pattern. As an example, the main control CPU 81 conducts a normal win lottery with a normal win probability that corresponds to the current game state. As an example, the normal win probability is zero when the current game state is not in a time-saving state. As an example, the normal win probability is 1 (100%) when the current game state is in a time-saving state. Furthermore, if the normal win probability is zero, or if the normal win probability is 1 (100%), the main control CPU 81 does not need to conduct a normal win lottery.

If a normal win has been won, the main control CPU 81 performs normal win variation processing. In the normal win variation processing, the main control CPU 81 performs a first normal pattern lottery using a normal pattern random number that can be identified from the normal random number information, and determines the normal winning pattern of the normal pattern to be stopped and displayed in the normal game. As an example, there is one type of normal winning pattern of the normal pattern that can be stopped and displayed in the normal game. In other words, the main control CPU 81 determines one type of normal winning pattern in the first normal pattern lottery, regardless of the value of the normal pattern random number. Note that the main control CPU 81 may determine one type of normal winning pattern without performing the first normal pattern lottery. The main control CPU 81 performs a normal variation pattern determination lottery using a normal variation pattern random number that can be identified from the normal random number information, and determines the variation pattern from one or more normal win variation patterns.

If the normal win is not won, the main control CPU 81 performs normal loss variation processing. In normal loss variation processing, the main control CPU 81 conducts a second normal pattern lottery using a normal pattern random number that can be identified from the normal random number information, and determines the normal loss pattern of the normal pattern to be stopped and displayed in the normal game. As an example, there is one type of normal loss pattern. In other words, the main control CPU 81 determines one type of normal loss pattern in the second normal pattern lottery, regardless of the value of the normal pattern random number. Note that the main control CPU 81 may determine one type of normal loss pattern without conducting a second normal pattern lottery. The main control CPU 81 conducts a normal variation pattern determination lottery using a normal variation pattern random number that can be identified from the normal random number information, and determines the variation pattern from one or more normal loss variation patterns.

In the normal fluctuation pattern determination lottery, the main control CPU 81 determines a normal fluctuation pattern so that the average fluctuation time is longer in the non-time-shortened state than in the time-shortened state. In other words, in the normal fluctuation pattern determination lottery, the main control CPU 81 determines a normal fluctuation pattern so that the average fluctuation time is shorter in the time-shortened state than in the non-time-shortened state. As a result, in the time-shortened state, the fluctuation time of the normal game is shorter than in the non-time-shortened state, and the number of normal games executed per unit time is greater than in the non-time-shortened state.

Once the normal symbol variation pattern is determined, the main control CPU 81 causes the normal symbol display device 19e to start a normal game. Thereafter, the main control CPU 81 causes a normal symbol corresponding to the result of the normal symbol lottery to be displayed statically when the variation time specified in the determined normal symbol variation pattern has elapsed. In other words, when a normal win has been won, the main control CPU 81 causes a normal win symbol to be displayed statically when the variation time specified in the determined normal symbol variation pattern has elapsed. On the other hand, when a normal win has not been won, the main control CPU 81 causes a normal loss symbol to be displayed statically when the variation time specified in the determined normal symbol variation pattern has elapsed. Note that, if the game is configured not to perform a normal win lottery, the main control CPU 81 may cause a normal symbol corresponding to the current game state to be displayed statically when the variation time specified in the determined normal symbol variation pattern has elapsed. In other words, when the game is in a non-time-saving mode, the main control CPU 81 may cause a normal loss symbol to be displayed statically when the variation time specified in the determined normal symbol variation pattern has elapsed. On the other hand, when in the time-saving mode, the main control CPU 81 may stop the display of the normal winning symbol when the change time set in the determined normal symbol change pattern has elapsed.

The normal winning game process will be explained.
When a normal win is won, the main control CPU 81, after the normal game ends, operates the opening/closing piece 23a of the second start opening 23 according to a predetermined operation pattern, thereby executing a normal win game. As an example, the main control CPU 81 operates the opening/closing piece 23a of the second start opening 23 according to an operation pattern according to the type of normal win, thereby executing a normal win game. In other words, a normal win game is executed according to the type of normal win. As an example, the type of normal win is determined by the type of normal win symbol. In other words, a normal win game is executed according to the type of normal symbol. As an example, the normal win game includes a normal win game based on one type of normal win symbol.

As an example, during normal winning games, the main control CPU 81 controls the normal solenoid SL1 so that the opening pattern is one in which the reel opens for the normal opening time and then closes for the normal closing time. As an example, the normal opening time is the time during which a game ball can easily enter the second starting hole 23 while it is open. As an example, the normal opening time is 5.4 seconds. As an example, the normal closing time is 0.008 seconds.

As such, in the non-time-saving state, a normal win will not occur, and the game ball will not enter the second starting hole 23, or the game ball will not enter the second starting hole 23 at all. For this reason, it is recommended to play with a left-handed shot in the non-time-saving state. On the other hand, in the time-saving state, a normal win will occur, and the game ball may enter the second starting hole 23. For this reason, it is recommended to play with a right-handed shot in the time-saving state, so that the game ball will enter the second starting hole 23.

Next, various processes executed by the sub-control CPU 91 will be described.
The effect game processing will now be described.
The effect game processing is a processing for executing an effect game as one of the display effects related to the special game during execution of the special game. When the sub-control CPU 91 inputs a variation start command and a special symbol command, it controls the effect execution device group 16 including the effect display device 15 to execute the effect game.

The sub-control CPU 91 determines the pattern combination to be stopped and displayed in the effect game based on the special pattern command. The sub-control CPU 91 determines the jackpot pattern combination when a jackpot pattern can be identified from the special pattern command. As an example, a jackpot pattern combination is a pattern combination in which multiple effect patterns are the same. The sub-control CPU 91 determines the small win pattern combination when a small win pattern can be identified from the special pattern command. As an example, a small win pattern combination is a pattern combination in which multiple effect patterns are the same. The sub-control CPU 91 determines the losing pattern combination when a losing pattern can be identified from the special pattern command. When determining the losing pattern combination, the sub-control CPU 91 determines the losing pattern combination including a reach if the conditions for executing a reach effect (hereinafter referred to as the reach conditions) are met. As an example, a losing symbol combination that includes a reach is a symbol combination in which, among multiple effect symbols, the effect symbols in the left and right columns are the same, but the effect symbol in the middle column is different. When determining a losing symbol combination, the sub-control CPU 91 determines a losing symbol combination that does not include a reach if the reach condition is not met. As an example, a losing symbol combination that does not include a reach is a symbol combination in which multiple effect symbols are different from one another. As an example, the sub-control CPU 91 determines whether the reach condition is met based on a variation pattern that can be identified from the input variation start command.

The sub-control CPU 91 determines the specific variation content (performance content) of the performance game based on the variation pattern. Based on the determined variation content, the sub-control CPU 91 controls the performance display device 15 to start displaying the variation of the performance symbols in each symbol row. In other words, the sub-control CPU 91 starts the performance game.

After the start of the presentation game, the sub-control CPU 91 temporarily displays the symbol combination when a predetermined timing arrives. The sub-control CPU 91, upon input of a variation end command, causes the symbol combination to be temporarily displayed in a confirmed state. The sub-control CPU 91 may also cause the symbol combination to be temporarily displayed in a confirmed state upon the passage of a variation time set in the variation pattern. In this case, the variation end command may be omitted.

Next, an example of a winning effect that can be executed during a winning game among various effects that can be executed in the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described.
As an example, the winning effect includes a normal winning effect and a specific winning effect that is different from the normal winning effect. As an example, the specific winning effect is an effect that can be executed after a small winning variable game has been executed and when another small winning variable game is on hold. As an example, the normal winning effect is an effect that can be executed after a small winning variable game has been executed or after a big winning variable game has been executed. As an example, the normal winning effect is an effect that can be executed both when a small winning variable game is on hold and when a small winning variable game is not on hold.

As shown in FIG. 5(a), in a normal win presentation, when a small win game starts, a normal small win opening presentation starts. In other words, the normal small win opening presentation is executed when the right to win a bonus is obtained. As an example, the normal small win opening presentation is a presentation that allows the player to recognize that a small win game has started. As an example, the normal small win opening presentation is a presentation that presents the conditions for winning a big win game or allows the player to recognize the conditions for winning a big win game. As an example, the normal small win opening presentation may include a display presentation that displays a normal small win opening image sog1 on the presentation display device 15. As an example, the normal small win opening image sog1 is an image that allows the player to recognize that a small win game has started. As an example, the normal small win opening image sog1 is an image that allows the player to recognize the conditions for winning a big win game. As an example, the normal small win opening image sog1 may include an image that resembles the string of characters "Hit right and aim for V!" As one example, the normal small win opening image sog1 may include an image that resembles a right-pointing arrow. As one example, the normal small win opening effect continues to be executed even after a round of small win gameplay has begun. As one example, the normal small win opening effect ends when the round of small win gameplay ends. In other words, the normal small win opening effect is not only a small win opening effect, but also a small win round effect.

As shown in FIG. 5(b), in a normal win presentation, if a round of small win play ends without the conditions for awarding a jackpot game being met, a small win ending presentation according to the first mode is executed. In other words, in a normal win presentation, the small win ending presentation according to the first mode is executed when the right to win a jackpot game as a special bonus is lost. As an example, the small win ending presentation according to the first mode is a presentation that allows the player to recognize that a small win game has ended. As an example, the small win ending presentation according to the first mode is a presentation that allows the player to recognize that a small win game has ended without the conditions for awarding a jackpot game being met. In other words, the small win ending presentation according to the first mode is a presentation that allows the player to recognize that the right to win a jackpot game as a special bonus has been lost. As an example, the small win ending presentation according to the first mode may include a display presentation that displays a first small win ending image seg1 on the presentation display device 15. As one example, the first small win ending image seg1 is an image that allows the player to recognize that the small win game has ended. As one example, the first small win ending image seg1 is an image that allows the player to recognize that the small win game has ended without the conditions for awarding a big win game being met. In other words, the first small win ending image seg1 is an image that allows the player to recognize that the right to win a big win game as a bonus has been lost. As one example, the first small win ending image seg1 may include an image that resembles the character string "Sorry." As one example, the first small win ending image seg1 may include an image that resembles a character with a disappointed expression. As one example, in a normal win effect, if a round of small win game play ends without the conditions for awarding a big win game being met, a left-hit effect may be executed. As one example, the left-hit effect may include a display effect that displays a left-hit image hg. As one example, the left-hit image hg is an image that suggests or notifies the player that a left-hit is recommended. As an example, the left-handed hit image hg is an image that resembles a left-pointing arrow.

As shown in FIG. 5(c), in a normal win presentation, when the conditions for awarding a jackpot game are met and the round of small win game play ends, a small win ending presentation according to the second mode is executed. In other words, in a normal win presentation, the small win ending presentation according to the second mode is executed when a jackpot game is awarded as a bonus. As an example, the small win ending presentation according to the second mode is a presentation that allows the player to recognize that a small win game play has ended. As an example, the small win ending presentation according to the second mode is a presentation that allows the player to recognize that a jackpot game play as a bonus has been awarded. As an example, the small win ending presentation according to the second mode is a presentation that allows the player to recognize that a jackpot game play as a bonus will be awarded. As an example, the small win ending presentation according to the second mode may include a display presentation that displays a second small win ending image seg2 on the presentation display device 15. As one example, the second small win ending image seg2 is an image that allows the player to recognize that the small win game is coming to an end. As one example, the second small win ending image seg2 is an image that allows the player to recognize that the conditions for awarding a big win game have been met, resulting in the small win game coming to an end. As one example, the second small win ending image seg2 is an effect that allows the player to recognize that the conditions for awarding a big win game as a bonus have been met. In other words, the second small win ending image seg2 is an image that allows the player to recognize that a big win game will be awarded as a bonus. As one example, the second small win ending image seg2 may include an image that resembles the letter "V." As one example, the second small win ending image seg2 may include an image that resembles a character with a happy expression.

As shown in FIG. 5(d), in a normal jackpot presentation, when the conditions for awarding a jackpot game are met or when a jackpot game is initiated due to a stopped display of a jackpot symbol, the normal jackpot presentation is executed. As an example, the normal jackpot presentation is composed of one or more of the normal jackpot opening presentation, normal jackpot round presentation, and normal jackpot ending presentation. As an example, the normal jackpot presentation is a presentation that allows the player to recognize that a jackpot game is being played. As an example, the normal jackpot presentation may include a display presentation that displays an image that allows the player to recognize that a jackpot game is being played.

As shown in FIG. 6(a), in the specific win presentation, when a small win game starts, a specific small win opening presentation starts. In other words, the specific small win opening presentation is executed when the right to win a bonus is obtained. As an example, the specific small win opening presentation is a presentation that allows the player to recognize that a small win game has started. As an example, the specific small win opening presentation is a presentation that allows the player to recognize that a small win variable game is on hold. As an example, the specific small win opening presentation is a presentation that presents the conditions for a big win game or allows the player to recognize the conditions for a big win game. As an example, the specific small win opening presentation may include a display presentation that displays a specific small win opening image sog2 on the presentation display device 15. As an example, the specific small win opening image sog2 is an image that allows the player to recognize that a small win game has started. As an example, the specific small win opening image sog2 is an image that allows the player to recognize that a small win variable game is on hold. As one example, the specific small win opening image sog2 is an image that allows the conditions for winning a big win to be recognized. As one example, the specific small win opening image sog2 may include an image that resembles the string "Hit Right." As one example, the specific small win opening image sog2 may include an image that resembles the string "3000." As one example, the specific small win opening image sog2 may include an image that resembles an arrow pointing right. As one example, the specific small win opening effect continues to be executed even after a round of small win play has begun. As one example, the specific small win opening effect ends when a round of small win play ends. In other words, the specific small win opening effect is not only a small win opening effect, but also a small win round effect.

As shown in Figures 6(b) and 6(c), in the specific win presentation, if the round of small win play ends without the conditions for awarding a jackpot game being met, the small win ending presentation according to the first mode is executed. In other words, in the specific win presentation, the small win ending presentation according to the first mode is executed when the right to win a jackpot game as a special bonus is lost. On the other hand, in the specific win presentation, if the round of small win play ends because the conditions for awarding a jackpot game are met, the small win ending presentation according to the second mode is executed. In other words, in the specific win presentation, the small win ending presentation according to the second mode is executed when the jackpot game as a special bonus is awarded. Note that in the specific win presentation, if the round of small win play ends without the conditions for awarding a jackpot game being met, the left-hit presentation is not executed.

As shown in FIG. 6(d), in the specific jackpot presentation, when the conditions for awarding a jackpot game are met and a jackpot game begins, the specific jackpot presentation is executed. As an example, the specific jackpot presentation is composed of one or more of the specific jackpot opening presentation, the specific jackpot round presentation, and the specific jackpot ending presentation. As an example, the specific jackpot presentation is a presentation that makes it clear that a jackpot game is in progress. As an example, the specific jackpot presentation is a presentation that makes it clear that a small jackpot game will be awarded when a pending variable game is played after the jackpot game has ended. As an example, the specific jackpot presentation may include a display presentation that displays an image that makes it clear that a jackpot game is in progress. As an example, the specific jackpot presentation may include a display presentation that displays an image that makes it clear that a small jackpot game will be awarded when a pending variable game is played after the jackpot game has ended.

In this way, normal hit effects can include normal small hit opening effects, small hit ending effects by the first mode, small hit ending effects by the second mode, left-hit effects, and normal big hit effects. On the other hand, specific hit effects can include specific small hit opening effects, small hit ending effects by the first mode, small hit ending effects by the second mode, and specific big hit effects. In other words, the small hit ending effects by the first mode and the small hit ending effects by the second mode are effects that can be executed in both normal hit effects and specific hit effects. On the other hand, the normal small hit opening effects, left-hit effects, normal big hit effects, specific small hit opening effects, and specific big hit effects are effects that can be executed in only one of normal hit effects and specific hit effects. Furthermore, the normal small win opening effect and the specific small win opening effect can be executed either when the conditions for awarding a jackpot are met during small win play, or when the small win play ends without the conditions for awarding a jackpot being met during small win play. On the other hand, the small win ending effect according to the first mode cannot be executed when the conditions for awarding a jackpot are met during small win play. Furthermore, the small win ending effect according to the second mode cannot be executed when the conditions for awarding a jackpot are met during small win play and the small win play ends without the conditions for awarding a jackpot being met during small win play.

A normal win effect comprising a small win ending effect according to the first mode, and a specific win effect comprising a small win ending effect according to the first mode, are examples of special effects. A normal small win opening effect and a specific small win opening effect are examples of a first special effect. A small win ending effect according to the first mode is an example of a second special effect. A normal win effect comprising a small win ending effect according to the second mode, and a specific win effect comprising a small win ending effect according to the second mode are examples of specific effects. A normal small win opening effect and a specific small win opening effect are examples of a first specific effect. A small win ending effect according to the second mode is an example of a second specific effect. A small win ending effect according to the second mode is an example of a special effect.

The various processes performed by the sub-control CPU 91 of the sub-board 90 to execute the above-mentioned effects will be explained.
When the sub-control CPU 91 inputs a look-ahead command, it stores information (hereinafter referred to as look-ahead information) that can identify the variable content of the second variation game that can be identified from the command in the sub-control RWM 93. The sub-control CPU 91 can identify the variable content of the second variation game that is on hold by referring to the look-ahead information stored in the sub-control RWM 93. As an example, the variable content that can be identified from the look-ahead information includes the result of a winning lottery. As an example, the variable content that can be identified from the look-ahead information may include the type of winning symbol or the type of variation pattern.

When the sub-control CPU 91 inputs a small win opening command, it references the advance reading information and determines whether a small win variable game is on hold. If a small win variable game is on hold, the sub-control CPU 91 executes a special win effect lottery. As an example, if the sub-control CPU 91 wins the special win effect lottery, it controls the effect execution device group 16 to execute the special win effect. In other words, the sub-control CPU 91 controls the effect execution device group 16 to execute a special small win opening effect. Thereafter, when the sub-control CPU 91 inputs a small win ending command without inputting a V winning command, it controls the effect execution device group 16 to execute a small win ending effect according to the first mode. On the other hand, when the sub-control CPU 91 inputs a V winning command and a small win ending command, it controls the effect execution device group 16 to execute a small win ending effect according to the second mode. Thereafter, when the sub-control CPU 91 inputs a big win opening command, it controls the effect execution device group 16 to execute a special big win effect.

On the other hand, if the specific win effect lottery has not been won, and if a small win variable game is not on hold, the sub-control CPU 91 controls the effect execution device group 16 to execute a normal win effect. In other words, the sub-control CPU 91 controls the effect execution device group 16 to execute a normal small win opening effect. Thereafter, if the sub-control CPU 91 inputs a small win ending command without inputting a V winning command, it controls the effect execution device group 16 to execute a small win ending effect according to the first mode. On the other hand, if the sub-control CPU 91 inputs a V winning command and a small win ending command, it controls the effect execution device group 16 to execute a small win ending effect according to the second mode. Thereafter, if the sub-control CPU 91 inputs a jackpot opening command, it controls the effect execution device group 16 to execute a normal jackpot effect. Note that if the sub-control CPU 91 inputs a jackpot opening command without inputting a V winning command, it controls the effect execution device group 16 to execute a normal jackpot effect.

In addition, if the sub-control CPU 91 determined to execute a special win effect when the previous small win opening command was input, it determines not to win the special win effect lottery regardless of the result of the special win effect lottery. As an example, if it determined to execute a special win effect when the previous small win opening command was input, it may determine to execute a normal win effect without executing the special win effect lottery.

A specific example of how various effects are executed in the pachinko gaming machine 10 configured as described above will be described.
First, a specific example of how a specific winning effect is executed will be described.

Here, in the time-saving state that is controlled after the end of a jackpot game that is triggered by a jackpot in a non-time-saving state, a second variable game for a small jackpot is executed, and the second variable game for a small jackpot is put on hold while the second variable game is being executed. The time-saving state that is controlled after the end of a jackpot game that is triggered by a jackpot in a non-time-saving state is an example of a specific state.

As shown in Figure 7(a), when the second variable game of the first small win ends, the first small win game begins. At this time, because the small win variable game is on hold, a specific small win opening effect is executed. By executing the specific small win opening effect, the player can recognize that in addition to the started small win game, the on-hold variable games include a small win variable game, meaning that another small win game will be executed.

Figure 7(b) shows a situation where, during the first small win game, the round of small win game play ends without the conditions for awarding a big win game being met. At this time, the small win ending presentation according to the first mode is executed because the round of small win game play ends without the conditions for awarding a big win game being met. By executing the small win ending presentation according to the first mode, the player can recognize that the round of small win game play has ended without the conditions for awarding a big win game being met. As described above, in this embodiment, the time-saving state ends with the execution of one second variable game. Therefore, when the round of small win game play ends without the conditions for awarding a big win game being met, a left-handed hit is recommended. On the other hand, it is assumed that the player is aware that another small win game will be played afterwards due to the specific win presentation. Therefore, by not executing the left-handed hit presentation, player confusion can be reduced.

As shown in Figure 7(c), when the second variable game of the second small win ends, the second small win game begins. At this time, because this is the second small win game after the specific win effect has been executed, the normal win effect is executed. In other words, when the second small win game begins, the normal small win opening effect is executed. As described above, in this embodiment, when a player hits the right side, the conditions for awarding a jackpot game are met with a 100% or nearly 100% probability in the small win game. Therefore, it is assumed that a situation in which the first small win game round ends without the conditions for awarding a jackpot game being met is a situation not intended by the player. For this reason, it is conceivable that the conditions for awarding a jackpot game will not be met even when the second small win game is being executed due to some problem not intended by the player remaining unresolved. In such a situation, by not executing the specific win effect, a decline in the player's interest can be prevented.

Figure 7 (d) shows the situation when, during the second small win game, the round of small win game play ends without the conditions for awarding a big win game being met. At this time, the small win ending presentation according to the first mode is executed because the round of small win game play ends without the conditions for awarding a big win game being met. By executing the small win ending presentation according to the first mode, the player can recognize that the round of small win game play has ended without the conditions for awarding a big win game being met. Furthermore, in addition to the small win ending presentation according to the first mode, a left-hit presentation is executed. This allows the player to recognize that the situation is such that hitting left is recommended.

Figure 7 (e) shows a situation in which the conditions for awarding a jackpot are met during the second small jackpot game. At this time, the conditions for awarding a jackpot are met and the round of small jackpot game ends, resulting in the execution of the small jackpot ending presentation in the second mode. By executing the small jackpot ending presentation in the second mode, the player can recognize that the conditions for awarding a jackpot game have been met, i.e., that a jackpot game will be awarded.

As shown in Figure 7 (f), when a jackpot game starts, a normal jackpot effect is executed. This allows the player to recognize that a jackpot game has started. As mentioned above, in this embodiment, after the jackpot game ends, the game is controlled to a time-saving state. Therefore, when the normal jackpot effect is executed, the player can recognize that the game is being controlled to a time-saving state.

Figures 8(a) and 8(b) show the situation when a specific small win opening presentation is executed upon the start of the first small win game, and then the conditions for awarding a big win game are met during the first small win game. At this time, the conditions for awarding a big win are met and the round of small win game play ends, and the small win ending presentation according to the second mode is executed. By executing the small win ending presentation according to the second mode, the player can recognize that the conditions for awarding a big win game have been met, i.e., that a big win game will be awarded.

As shown in Figure 8 (c), when a jackpot game starts, a specific jackpot effect is executed. This allows the player to recognize that a jackpot game has started. The player can also recognize that the pending variable game includes a small jackpot variable game, meaning that another small jackpot game will be executed after the jackpot game ends.

As shown in Figure 8 (d), when the second variable game of the second small win ends, the second small win game begins. At this time, because this is the second small win game after the specific win effect has been executed, the normal win effect is executed. In other words, when the second small win game begins, the normal small win opening effect is executed. For this reason, the player cannot tell from the presentation mode of the win effect whether the small win variable game is on hold.

Figure 8 (e) shows the situation when, during the second small win game, the round of small win game play ends without the conditions for awarding a big win game being met. At this time, the small win ending presentation according to the first mode is executed because the round of small win game play ends without the conditions for awarding a big win game being met. By executing the small win ending presentation according to the first mode, the player can recognize that the round of small win game play has ended without the conditions for awarding a big win game being met. Furthermore, in addition to the small win ending presentation according to the first mode, a left-hit presentation is executed. This allows the player to recognize that the situation is such that hitting left is recommended.

Figure 8 (f) shows a situation in which the conditions for awarding a jackpot are met during the second small jackpot game. At this time, the conditions for awarding a jackpot are met and the round of small jackpot game ends, resulting in the execution of the small jackpot ending presentation in the second mode. By executing the small jackpot ending presentation in the second mode, the player can recognize that the conditions for awarding a jackpot game have been met, i.e., that a jackpot game will be awarded. After that, when the jackpot game begins, the normal jackpot presentation is executed.

As such, after a small win is awarded in a specific state, there are two situations: a first situation in which the conditions for awarding a jackpot are met, and a second situation in which the small win ends without the conditions for awarding a jackpot. Ending a small win without the conditions for awarding a jackpot is an example of losing the right to acquire a bonus without the conditions for awarding a jackpot being met. Here, after passing through the first situation and the second situation, a small win may be awarded again, after which the conditions for awarding a jackpot are met, or a small win may be awarded again, after which the conditions for awarding a jackpot are not met and the small win ends. In other words, when the execution of a variable game is suspended in the first situation, the execution of that variable game may trigger the award of a new small win after passing through the first situation. Similarly, when the execution of a variable game is suspended in the second situation, the execution of that variable game may trigger the award of a new small win after passing through the second situation.

The same presentation can be executed when the conditions for awarding a jackpot game are met when a new small win is awarded after the first situation, and when the conditions for awarding a jackpot game are met when a new small win is awarded after the second situation. On the other hand, when a new small win is awarded after the first situation and the small win game ends without the conditions for awarding a jackpot game being met, a presentation different from the presentation executed when the conditions for awarding a jackpot game are met when a new small win is awarded after the first situation, and when the conditions for awarding a jackpot game are met when a new small win is awarded after the second situation, can be executed. Similarly, if a new small win is awarded after the second situation and the small win game ends without the conditions for awarding a jackpot being met, a different presentation can be executed than when a new small win is awarded after the first situation and the conditions for awarding a jackpot are met, and when a new small win is awarded after the second situation and the conditions for awarding a jackpot are met. Furthermore, if a new small win is awarded after the second situation and the small win game ends without the conditions for awarding a jackpot being met, the same presentation can be executed as when a new small win is awarded after the first situation and the small win game ends without the conditions for awarding a jackpot being met.

The same presentation can be executed when a new small win is awarded after the first situation and the small win game ends without the conditions for awarding a jackpot being met, and when a new small win is awarded after the second situation and the small win game ends without the conditions for awarding a jackpot being met. When the conditions for awarding a jackpot are met in the first situation, the same presentation can be executed as when a new small win is awarded after the first situation and the conditions for awarding a jackpot are met. The same presentation can be executed when a small win game ends without the conditions for awarding a jackpot being met in the second situation and when a new small win is awarded after the second situation and the small win game ends without the conditions for awarding a jackpot being met.

Next, a specific example of how a normal winning effect is executed will be described.
Here, similar to the explanation of a specific example of the execution mode of a specific hit presentation, in the time-saving state that is controlled after the end of the big hit game that was granted as a result of a big hit in the non-time-saving state, a second variable game with a small hit is executed, and the second variable game with a small hit is put on hold while the second variable game is being executed.

As shown in Figure 9(a), when the second variable game of the first small win ends, the first small win game begins. At this time, even though the small win variable game is on hold, the specific win effect lottery was not won, so the normal small win opening effect is executed. For this reason, the player cannot tell from the presentation mode of the win effect whether the small win variable game is on hold or not.

Figure 9(b) shows the situation when, during the first small win game, the round of small win game play ends without the conditions for awarding a big win game being met. At this time, the small win ending presentation according to the first mode is executed because the round of small win game play ends without the conditions for awarding a big win game being met. By executing the small win ending presentation according to the first mode, the player can recognize that the round of small win game play has ended without the conditions for awarding a big win game being met. Furthermore, in addition to the small win ending presentation according to the first mode, a left-hit presentation is executed. This allows the player to recognize that the situation is such that hitting left is recommended.

As shown in Figure 9(c), when the second variable game of the second small win ends, the second small win game begins. At this time, the normal win effect is executed because the variable game is not on hold. In other words, the normal small win opening effect is executed when the second small win game begins. For this reason, the player cannot tell from the presentation mode of the win effect whether the small win variable game is on hold.

Figure 9 (d) shows the situation when, during the second small win game, the round of small win game play ends without the conditions for awarding a big win game being met. At this time, the small win ending presentation according to the first mode is executed because the round of small win game play ends without the conditions for awarding a big win game being met. By executing the small win ending presentation according to the first mode, the player can recognize that the round of small win game play has ended without the conditions for awarding a big win game being met. Furthermore, in addition to the small win ending presentation according to the first mode, a left-hit presentation is executed. This allows the player to recognize that the situation is such that hitting left is recommended.

Figure 9 (e) shows a situation in which the conditions for awarding a jackpot are met during the second small jackpot game. At this time, the conditions for awarding a jackpot are met and the round of small jackpot game ends, resulting in the execution of the small jackpot ending presentation in the second mode. By executing the small jackpot ending presentation in the second mode, the player can recognize that the conditions for awarding a jackpot game have been met, i.e., that a jackpot game will be awarded.

As shown in Figure 9 (f), when a jackpot game starts, a normal jackpot effect is executed. This allows the player to recognize that a jackpot game has started. As mentioned above, in this embodiment, after the jackpot game ends, the game is controlled to a time-saving state. Therefore, when the normal jackpot effect is executed, the player can recognize that the game is being controlled to a time-saving state.

Figures 10(a) and 10(b) show the situation when the normal small win opening presentation is executed when the first small win game is started, and then the conditions for awarding a big win game are met during the first small win game. At this time, the conditions for awarding a big win are met and the round of small win game play ends, and the small win ending presentation according to the second mode is executed. When the small win ending presentation according to the second mode is executed, the player can recognize that the conditions for awarding a big win game have been met, in other words, that a big win game will be awarded.

As shown in Figure 10(c), when a jackpot game starts, a normal jackpot effect is executed. This allows the player to recognize that a jackpot game has started. As mentioned above, in this embodiment, after the jackpot game ends, the game is controlled to a time-saving state. Therefore, when the normal jackpot effect is executed, the player can recognize that the game is being controlled to a time-saving state.

As shown in Figure 10(d), when the second variable game of the second small win ends, the second small win game begins. At this time, the variable game is not on hold, so the normal win effect is executed. In other words, when the second small win game begins, the normal small win opening effect is executed. For this reason, the player cannot tell from the presentation mode of the win effect whether the small win variable game is on hold.

Figure 10 (e) shows the situation when, during the second small win game, the round of small win game play ends without the conditions for awarding a big win game being met. At this time, the small win ending presentation according to the first mode is executed because the round of small win game play ends without the conditions for awarding a big win game being met. By executing the small win ending presentation according to the first mode, the player can recognize that the round of small win game play has ended without the conditions for awarding a big win game being met. Furthermore, in addition to the small win ending presentation according to the first mode, a left-hit presentation is executed. This allows the player to recognize that the situation is such that hitting left is recommended.

Figure 10 (f) shows a situation in which the conditions for awarding a jackpot are met during the second small jackpot game. At this time, the conditions for awarding a jackpot are met and the round of small jackpot game ends, resulting in the execution of the small jackpot ending presentation in the second mode. By executing the small jackpot ending presentation in the second mode, the player can recognize that the conditions for awarding a jackpot game have been met, i.e., that a jackpot game will be awarded. After that, when the jackpot game begins, the normal jackpot presentation is executed.

In this way, the same effect can be executed when the execution of the variable game is suspended in the first situation and when the execution of the variable game is not suspended in the first situation. Furthermore, the same effect can be executed when the execution of the variable game is suspended after the second situation and when the execution of the variable game is not suspended after the second situation. And, whether a specific win effect is executed in a specific state or a normal win effect is executed, the same effect can be executed when a new small win is awarded after the first situation and the conditions for awarding a jackpot game are met, and when a new small win is awarded after the second situation and the conditions for awarding a jackpot game are met. Furthermore, whether a specific win effect is executed in a specific state or a normal win effect is executed, the same effect can be executed when a new small win is awarded after the first state and the small win game ends without the conditions for awarding a big win being met, or when a new small win is awarded after the second state and the conditions for awarding a big win are not met and the small win game ends.

The effects of this embodiment will be described.
(1) In this embodiment, the same effects can be executed when the conditions for awarding a jackpot are met when a new small win is awarded after the first situation, and when the conditions for awarding a jackpot are met when a new small win is awarded after the second situation. In other words, even after the second situation, when the conditions for awarding a jackpot are met when a new small win is awarded, the same effects as after the first situation can be executed. In this way, by being able to execute effects according to the situation even after the second situation, a decline in interest can be suppressed.

(2) Furthermore, if a new small win is awarded after the first situation has passed and the round of small win play ends without the conditions for awarding a big win being met, it is possible to execute a different effect than when the conditions for awarding a big win are met. In this way, even after the first situation has passed, if a new small win is awarded and the round of small win play ends without the conditions for awarding a big win being met, it is possible to execute an effect appropriate to the situation, thereby preventing a decline in interest.

(3) Furthermore, in the first situation, the same effects can be executed when the execution of the variable game is suspended and when the execution of the variable game is not suspended, i.e., when a new small win is awarded after the first situation has passed and when a new small win is not awarded after the first situation has passed. In this way, by being able to execute effects according to the situation even in the first situation, it is possible to prevent a decline in interest.

(4) Furthermore, in the first situation, if a new small win is subsequently awarded, it is possible to execute the same effects as when the conditions for awarding a big win are met. In this way, even in the first situation, by being able to execute effects according to the situation, it is possible to prevent a decline in interest.

(5) In this embodiment, in the second situation, it is possible to execute some of the same effects as those executed when the conditions for awarding a jackpot are met when a new small jackpot is awarded after the first situation, and when the conditions for awarding a jackpot are met when a new small jackpot is awarded after the second situation. This makes it possible to suppress a decline in interest by executing effects that are appropriate for the situation, even in the second situation.

(6) In this embodiment, even in the first situation, if a new small win is awarded after the first situation has passed, it is possible to execute some of the same effects as those executed when a round of small win play ends without the conditions for awarding a big win being met. This makes it possible to suppress a decline in interest by executing effects appropriate to the situation, even in the first situation.

The above embodiment can be modified as follows: The above embodiment and the following modifications can be combined with each other within the scope of technical compatibility.
The specific state may be any state. For example, the specific state may be a non-time-shortening state, or a time-shortening state after the number of consecutive wins has reached a predetermined number. For example, the number of consecutive wins is information that can identify the number of jackpots during a consecutive win period. For example, the consecutive win period is the period from a jackpot in the non-time-shortening state to a state in which the second variation game is not being executed and the second variation game is not on hold in the non-time-shortening state.

After passing through the first situation and the second situation, the consecutive win period may end without the player being entitled to the special bonus.
The normal win effect and the specific win effect may be changed as desired. In other words, the specific effect may be any effect. The special effect may be any effect. The special effect may be any effect. As an example, the normal small win opening effect may include a display effect that presents the conditions for awarding a jackpot game. As an example, the specific small win opening effect may include a display effect that presents the conditions for awarding a jackpot game. As an example, the display effect that presents the conditions for awarding a jackpot game is an effect that displays an image that resembles the string of characters "Enter V for jackpot."

As an example, the same effect may be executed in the first situation and the second situation.
As an example, the same effect may be possible when a new small win game is awarded after the first situation has passed and the conditions for awarding a big win game are met, and when a new small win game is awarded after the second situation has passed and the small win game ends without the conditions for awarding a big win game being met.

- As an example, the same effect may be possible when a new small win is awarded after the second situation and the conditions for awarding a big win are met, and when a new small win is awarded after the first situation and the small win ends without the conditions for awarding a big win being met.

- The termination conditions for the time-shortened state may be changed as desired. For example, some or all of the termination conditions may be different between the time-shortened state after the first jackpot game ends and the time-shortened state after the second jackpot game ends. For example, the termination conditions may be easier or harder to fulfill in the time-shortened state after the first jackpot game ends than in the time-shortened state after the second jackpot game ends. For example, in the time-shortened state after the second jackpot game ends, instead of the number of times the second special game has been executed after control into the time-shortened state reaching a predetermined second upper limit, the termination condition may include the number of times the second special game has been executed reaching a third upper limit, which is greater than the second upper limit. For example, the time-shortened state after the second jackpot game ends may have fewer termination conditions than the time-shortened state when the first jackpot game ends.

- The conditions for executing the special win effect may be changed as desired. As one example, the special win effect may be executable consecutively in multiple small win games and in a big win game triggered by a small win game. As another example, the special win effect may be an effect that cannot be executed if the conditions for granting a big win game are not met in the immediately preceding small win game.

One or both of the main board 80 and the sub-board 90 may be equipped with a backup function. In other words, one or both of the main control RWM 83 and the sub-control RWM 93 may include information that can be retained when the power supply is stopped (hereinafter referred to as backup information). In this case, if the power supply is cut off after passing through the first situation and then started again, when a new small win is awarded and the conditions for awarding a jackpot game are met, it may be possible to execute the same effect (specific effect or special effect) as when the power supply is cut off after passing through the second situation and then started again, when a new small win is awarded and the conditions for awarding a jackpot game are met. Furthermore, if the power supply is cut off after passing through the first situation and then started again, and a new small win is awarded, and the small win ends without the conditions for awarding a big win, it may be possible to execute the same effect (special effect) as when the power supply is cut off after passing through the second situation and then started again, and a new small win is awarded, and the conditions for awarding a big win end.

- Various effects may be executed by one or more of the effect execution device group 16. In other words, some or all of the various display effects may be realized by sound effects, or light-emitting effects, and may include either or both of sound effects and light-emitting effects in addition to the display effects. As an example, the effect execution device group 16 may include a movable body capable of performing a specified operation.

- Various effects may be executable as notifications.
There may be multiple types of small wins. When multiple types of small wins are provided, there may be multiple types of small win games. In this case, the upper limit number may differ depending on the type of small win game. Also, the upper limit time may differ depending on the type of small win game. Also, the specific number may differ depending on the type of small win game. The jackpot game that is executed when the conditions for granting a jackpot game are met in a small win game may differ depending on the type of small win (small win game).

The first special game and the second special game may be executed in the order of winning at the first start slot 22 and the second start slot 23 .
One of the first special game and the second special game may be executed with priority over the other special game.

The pachinko gaming machine 10 may be equipped with a probability variable function. For example, a pachinko gaming machine 10 equipped with a probability variable function may be designed to provide a high probability state until the next jackpot game, a high probability state until a drop lottery is won (a so-called drop machine), or a high probability state until a specified number of variable games have been completed (a so-called ST machine). Furthermore, a pachinko gaming machine 10 equipped with a probability variable function may be designed to provide a high probability state on the condition that the game ball passes through a specific area within the first large prize opening 24 or the second large prize opening 25 (a so-called V probability variable machine). The pachinko gaming machine 10 may be designed to combine the specifications of a drop machine and a V probability variable machine. When a V probability variable machine is employed, the high probability state is an example of a bonus. When a V probability variable machine is employed, the awarding of a jackpot game is an example of gaining the right to acquire a bonus.

- The pachinko gaming machine 10 may be of the second type, also known as a "wing type" or "airplane type." In this type of pachinko gaming machine, the opening and closing blades (opening and closing members) of the ball entry device (big prize entry port) open when a game ball enters the starting port, and the big win game is executed when the game ball that entered the ball entry device enters the special prize entry port.

The main control CPU 81, main control ROM 82, main control RWM 83, and random number generation circuit 84 may be configured on a single chip.
The specific configuration of the game board 20 may be changed as desired.

- The sub-substrate 90 may be a sub-general control substrate, and a display control substrate that specializes in controlling the performance display device 15, a light emission control substrate that specializes in controlling the decorative light emission device 14, and a sound control substrate that specializes in controlling the sound output device 13 may be provided separately from the sub-substrate 90. Such a sub-general control substrate and substrates that control other performances may also be combined to form a sub-substrate. In an embodiment, the main control CPU 81 and sub-control CPU 91 may be mounted on a single substrate. The display control substrate, light emission control substrate, and sound control substrate may be combined in any manner to form a single or multiple substrates.

The technical ideas that can be understood from the above-described embodiment and modified examples will be described.
Supplementary Note (i) A gaming machine in which a bonus is awarded when a granting condition is satisfied after the right to acquire the bonus is obtained, comprising a bonus awarding means for awarding the bonus, a performance execution means for executing a performance, a performance control means for controlling the performance execution means, and a state control means for controlling a state, wherein the state includes a specific state, and after the right to acquire the bonus in the specific state is acquired, there are a first situation in which the granting condition is satisfied, and a second situation in which the right to acquire the bonus is lost without the granting condition being satisfied, and wherein the gaming machine is capable of executing the same specific performance when the granting condition is satisfied when the right to acquire the bonus is newly acquired after passing through the first situation, and when the granting condition is satisfied when the right to acquire the bonus is newly acquired after passing through the second situation.

Supplementary Note (B) A gaming machine in which a bonus is awarded when a bonus condition is satisfied after the right to acquire the bonus is obtained, the gaming machine is equipped with a bonus awarding means for awarding the bonus, a performance execution means for executing a performance, a performance control means for controlling the performance execution means, a state control means for controlling a state, and a variable game control means for controlling the execution of a variable game, the state including a specific state, and after the right to acquire the bonus in the specific state, there are a first situation in which the bonus condition is satisfied, and a second situation in which the right to acquire the bonus is lost without the bonus condition being satisfied, and the execution of the variable game in the first situation When the variable game is on hold, the player can acquire the right to receive the bonus after passing through the first situation, triggered by the execution of the variable game; the same specific effect can be executed when the conditions for granting the bonus are met when the player newly acquires the right to receive the bonus after passing through the first situation, and when the conditions for granting the bonus are met when the player newly acquires the right to receive the bonus after passing through the second situation; and the same specific effect can be executed when the variable game is on hold in the first situation and when the variable game is not on hold in the first situation.

Appendix (C) A gaming machine in which a bonus is awarded when a bonus condition is satisfied after the right to acquire the bonus is obtained, the gaming machine comprising: a bonus awarding means for awarding the bonus; a bonus execution means for executing an effect; a bonus control means for controlling the effect execution means; and a state control means for controlling a state, wherein the state includes a specific state, and after the right to acquire the bonus in the specific state is acquired, there are a first situation in which the bonus condition is satisfied and a second situation in which the right to acquire the bonus is lost without the bonus condition being satisfied; the same specific effect can be executed when the bonus condition is satisfied when the right to acquire the bonus is newly acquired after passing through the first situation, and when the bonus condition is satisfied when the right to acquire the bonus is newly acquired after passing through the second situation; and when the bonus condition is satisfied in the first situation, the gaming machine can execute the same specific effect as when the bonus condition is satisfied when the right to acquire the bonus is newly acquired after passing through the first situation.

Appendix (D) A gaming machine as set forth in any one of appendices (A), (B), and (C), wherein the specific effects include a first specific effect and a second specific effect, the first specific effect being an effect that can be executed in the second situation, and the second specific effect being an effect that cannot be executed in the second situation.

A gaming machine described in any one of Supplementary Notes (A), (B), (C), and (D), in which the special effects in Supplementary Notes (E) include a first special effect that is executed when the right to acquire the bonus is obtained.

Appendix (F) A gaming machine described in any one of appendices (A), (B), (C), (D), and (E), wherein the special effect includes a second special effect that is executed when the bonus is awarded.

Appendix (G) A gaming machine described in any one of appendix (A), appendix (B), appendix (C), appendix (D), appendix (E), and appendix (F), wherein the specific effect includes a first specific effect that presents the condition for awarding or makes the condition for awarding recognizable.

Note (H): A gaming machine described in any one of Notes (A), (B), (C), (D), (E), (F), and (G), in which the specific effect includes a second specific effect that allows recognition that the conditions for granting the special effect have been met.

Appendix (Ri) A gaming machine described in any one of Appendices (A), (B), (C), (D), (E), (F), (G), and (H), which is capable of executing the same special effects when, after passing through the first situation, the player newly acquires the right to obtain the bonus but loses the right to obtain the bonus because the conditions for obtaining the bonus are not met, and when, after passing through the second situation, the player newly acquires the right to obtain the bonus but loses the right to obtain the bonus because the conditions for obtaining the bonus are not met.

Appendix (J) A gaming machine described in any one of appendix (A), appendix (B), appendix (C), appendix (D), appendix (E), appendix (F), appendix (G), appendix (H), and appendix (I) that is capable of executing the same special effect when the execution of the variable game is suspended when the second state is reached and when the execution of the variable game is not suspended when the second state is reached.

Note (k) A gaming machine described in any one of Notes (a), (b), (c), (d), (e), (f), (g), (h), (i), (i), and (j), which is capable of executing the same special effects when the right to acquire the bonus is lost because the conditions for granting the bonus are not met in the second situation, and when the right to acquire the bonus is newly acquired after the second situation, but the conditions for granting the bonus are not met and the right to acquire the bonus is lost.

Note (L): A gaming machine as set forth in any one of Notes (A), (B), (C), (D), (E), (F), (G), (H), (I), (IJ), (IK), and (K), which is capable of executing an effect different from that executed when the right to acquire the bonus is newly acquired after the first situation and the granting condition is fulfilled, and when the right to acquire the bonus is newly acquired after the second situation and the granting condition is fulfilled, if the right to acquire the bonus is lost because the granting condition is not fulfilled after the second situation.

Addendum (W): A gaming machine in which a bonus is awarded when a bonus condition is satisfied after the right to acquire the bonus is obtained, the gaming machine comprising: a bonus awarding means for awarding the bonus; an effect execution means for executing an effect; an effect control means for controlling the effect execution means; and a state control means for controlling a state, wherein the state includes a specific state, and after the right to acquire the bonus in the specific state is acquired, there are a first state in which the bonus condition is satisfied and a second state in which the right to acquire the bonus is lost without the bonus condition being satisfied; the same special effect can be executed when the right to acquire the bonus is newly acquired after passing through the first state and the bonus condition is satisfied, and when the right to acquire the bonus is newly acquired after passing through the second state and the bonus condition is satisfied; and when the right to acquire the bonus is newly acquired after passing through the first state and the bonus condition is not satisfied and the right to acquire the bonus is lost, a special effect different from the special effect can be executed.

Appendix (F) A gaming machine as described in Appendix (W) in which the special effects include a first special effect and a second special effect, the first special effect being an effect that can be executed in the first situation, and the second special effect being an effect that cannot be executed in the first situation.

Supplementary Note (Yo): A gaming machine as described in Supplementary Note (Wa) or Supplementary Note (Ka), wherein the special effects include effects that are executed when the bonus is granted.
Supplementary Note (Ta): A gaming machine described in any one of Supplementary Notes (Wa), (Ka), and (Yo), wherein the special effect includes an effect that allows the player to recognize that the conditions for granting the special effect have been met.

Note (R): A gaming machine described in any one of Notes (Wa), (K), (Yo), and (T), in which the special effect is executed when the player loses the right to obtain the special benefit.

Note (R): A gaming machine as set forth in any one of Notes (Wa), (K), (Yo), (T), and (R), which is capable of executing the same special effect as when the right to acquire the bonus is newly acquired after the second situation and the right to acquire the bonus is lost because the conditions for granting the bonus are not met, and the right to acquire the bonus is lost because the conditions for granting the bonus are not met, when the right to acquire the bonus is newly acquired after the first situation and the right to acquire the bonus is lost because the conditions for granting the bonus are not met.

Note (Tsu): A gaming machine described in any one of Notes (Wa), (K), (Yo), (Ta), (R), and (So) that is capable of executing the same special effects when the execution of the variable game is suspended when the second state is reached and when the execution of the variable game is not suspended when the second state is reached.

Note (N): A gaming machine described in any one of Notes (Wa), (K), (Yo), (T), (R), (So), and (Tsu), which is capable of executing the same special effects when the right to acquire the bonus is lost because the conditions for granting the bonus are not met in the second situation, and when the right to acquire the bonus is newly acquired after the second situation, but the conditions for granting the bonus are not met and the right to acquire the bonus is lost.

CL...center line hg...left hit image SE1...first start sensor SE2...second start sensor SE3...first count sensor SE4...second count sensor SE5...specific sensor SE6...gate sensor SE7...normal sensor seg1...first small win ending image seg2...second small win ending image SL1...normal solenoid SL2...first special solenoid SL3...second special solenoid SL4...distribution solenoid sog1...normal small win opening image sog2...specific small win opening image 10...pachinko game machine 11...frame body 11a...outer frame 11b...middle frame 11c...front frame 11d...opening 13...sound output device 14...decorative light emitting device 15...effect display device 15a...display area 16...effect execution device group 18...Launch handle 19a...First special symbol display device 19b...Second special symbol display device 19c...First special hold display device 19d...Second special hold display device 19e...Normal symbol display device 19f...Normal hold display device 20...Game board 20a...Game area 20b...Display window 20c...Inlet 22...First start port 23...Second start port 23a...Opening/closing piece 24...First large prize port 24a...Opening/closing piece 25...Second large prize port 25a...Opening/closing piece 26...Passage 26a...First passage 26b...Second passage 27...Branch 28...Distribution shutter 29...Gate 29a...Gate port 30...Normal prize port 31...Outlet 80...Main board 81...Main control CPU 82...Main control ROM 83...Main control RWM 84... Random number generation circuit 90... Sub-board 91... Sub-control CPU 92... Sub-control ROM 93... Sub-control RWM

Claims (1)

In a gaming machine in which it is possible to obtain the right to acquire a privilege according to the result of a winning lottery, and the privilege is granted when a granting condition is satisfied after the right to acquire the privilege is obtained,
A reward granting means for granting the reward;
a performance execution means for executing a performance;
a performance control means for controlling the performance execution means;
and a state control means for controlling the state,
The state includes a specific state,
There are a first situation in which the granting condition is satisfied after the right to acquire the benefit is obtained in the specific state, and a second situation in which the right to acquire the benefit is lost without the granting condition being satisfied,
The same specific performance can be executed when the granting condition is satisfied in a case where the right to acquire the benefit is newly obtained after passing through the first situation, and when the granting condition is satisfied in a case where the right to acquire the benefit is newly obtained after passing through the second situation,
There is a specific situation in which the right to acquire the benefit is further acquired when the right to acquire the benefit is acquired in the specific state,
The specific situation includes a first specific situation in which the granting condition is satisfied after the right to acquire the previous benefit is obtained, and a second specific situation in which the right to acquire the previous benefit is lost without the granting condition being satisfied after the right to acquire the previous benefit is obtained,
In the first specific situation and the second specific situation, a predetermined effect can be executed that allows the player to recognize that the right to acquire the benefit can be further obtained,
This gaming machine is characterized in that when the predetermined effect is executed, if the player has obtained the right to acquire the next benefit after passing through the first specific situation but loses the right to acquire the next benefit without satisfying the granting conditions, it can execute an effect accompanied by a left-hit effect encouraging a left-hit, and when the player loses the right to acquire the previous benefit in the second specific situation, it can execute an effect without the left-hit effect.