JP7794774B2 - gaming machines - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an amusement machine.

As shown in Patent Document 1, for example, a gaming machine is known that, when the RAM clear button is pressed and the power is turned on, can display a menu screen on which error history and other information can be checked.

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2022-100640

Menu screens like the one above are intended to be viewed only by arcade staff and other personnel. Therefore, if a player displays the menu screen, there is a risk of mischief or fraud.

The present invention aims to provide a gaming machine that can prevent mischief and fraud.

In order to solve the above problems, the gaming machine of the present invention comprises a main control unit that controls the progress of the game, a sub-control unit that controls the presentation based on commands sent from the main control unit, and a presentation operation unit that can accept operational inputs, and the sub-control unit comprises a predetermined state setting means that sets a predetermined state in which a predetermined screen that allows reference to model information can be displayed for a predetermined period of time after power is turned on, a predetermined screen management means that displays the predetermined screen when a display condition including an operation on the presentation operation unit is met during the predetermined state, and a predetermined state release means that releases the predetermined state when a release condition including receiving a predetermined command from the main control unit is met during the predetermined state, and the predetermined screen management means terminates the display of the predetermined screen when a termination condition is met, and continues displaying the predetermined screen when the release condition is met but the termination condition is not met .

This invention makes it possible to prevent mischief and fraud.

1 is a perspective view of the gaming machine showing the door in an open state. FIG. FIG. FIG. This is an oblique view of the front of the accessory unit, viewed diagonally from above. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the route that the game ball takes in the bonus unit. FIG. 1 is a first block diagram of the gaming machine. FIG. 2 is a second block diagram of the gaming machine. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a game ball lending device. This is an address map of the memory area used by the main CPU. 1A is a diagram illustrating a random number determination table for determining a small win for special 1, and FIG. 1B is a diagram illustrating a random number determination table for determining a small win for special 2. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a winning symbol random number determination table. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a reach group determination random number determination table. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a reach mode determination random number determination table. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a fluctuation pattern random number determination table. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a variable time determination table. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a special electric accessory operation ram set table. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a game status setting table for setting the game status after the end of a major winning game. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a winning determination random number determination table. 10A is a diagram illustrating a normal symbol fluctuation time data table, and FIG. 10B is a diagram illustrating an opening/closing control pattern table. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a CPU initialization process in the main control board. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a power-off evacuation process in the main control board. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a timer interrupt process in the main control board. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a switch management process in the main control board. 10 is a flowchart illustrating gate passage processing in the main control board. 10 is a flowchart illustrating the first starting port passing process in the main control board. 10 is a flowchart illustrating the second starting port passing process in the main control board. 10 is a flowchart illustrating the special pattern random number acquisition process on the main control board. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a specific area passing process in the main control board. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a special game management phase. 10 is a flowchart illustrating the special game management process on the main control board. 10 is a flowchart illustrating the special symbol change waiting process on the main control board. 10 is a flowchart illustrating the special pattern variable number determination process on the main control board. 10 is a flowchart explaining the processing during special pattern fluctuations on the main control board. 10 is a flowchart illustrating the special symbol stop symbol display process on the main control board. This is a flowchart explaining the processing before opening the large prize opening on the main control board. This is a flowchart explaining the large prize opening/closing switching process on the main control board. 10 is a flowchart explaining the control process for opening the large prize opening on the main control board. This is a flowchart explaining the large prize opening closure validity processing on the main control board. This is a flowchart explaining the large prize slot end wait processing on the main control board. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the normal game management phase. 10 is a flowchart illustrating the normal game management process on the main control board. 10 is a flowchart explaining the normal pattern change waiting process on the main control board. This is a flowchart explaining the processing during normal pattern fluctuations on the main control board. 10 is a flowchart illustrating the normal symbol stop symbol display process on the main control board. This is a flowchart explaining the pre-opening processing of a normal electric device winning slot on the main control board. This is a flowchart explaining the normal electric role winning opening/closing switching process on the main control board. This is a flowchart explaining the control process for opening the winning slot of a normal electric device on the main control board. This is a flowchart explaining the normal electric device winning opening closure validity processing on the main control board. This is a flowchart explaining the normal electric device winning slot end wait processing on the main control board. 10A is a diagram illustrating an example of a RAM clearing screen, FIG. 10B is a diagram illustrating an example of an administrator screen, and FIG. 10C is a diagram illustrating an error history confirmation screen. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a sub-CPU initialization process in the sub-control board. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a sub-timer interrupt process in the sub-control board. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a command reception process in a sub-control board. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a state management process for displaying an administrator screen on a sub-control board. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a screen management process during RAM clearing on the sub-control board. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an administrator screen management process in the sub-control board. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process during display of an administrator screen on a sub-control board.

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

To facilitate understanding of embodiments of the present invention, we will first provide a brief explanation of the mechanical and electrical configuration of the gaming machine, and then explain the specific processing on each board.

Figure 1 is a perspective view of the gaming machine 100, showing the door in an open state. As shown, the gaming machine 100 comprises an outer frame 102, whose four sides are assembled in a roughly rectangular shape to form an enclosed space, an inner frame 104 attached to the outer frame 102 by a hinge mechanism so as to be able to open and close freely, and a front frame 106 attached to the inner frame 104 by a hinge mechanism so as to be able to open and close freely.

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

Figure 2 is a front view of the gaming machine 100, and Figure 3 is a front view of the gaming board 108. However, Figure 2 shows the gaming board 108 removed.

As shown in Figure 2, an operating handle 112 that protrudes from the front side of the gaming machine 100 is provided at the bottom of the front frame 106. The operating handle 112 is provided so that it can be rotated by the player, and when the player rotates the operating handle 112 to perform a firing operation, a gaming ball is fired by a firing mechanism (not shown) with a strength that corresponds to the rotation angle of the operating handle 112.

The game ball launched in this manner rises between rails 114a and 114b provided on the game board 108 and is guided into the game area 116, as shown in Figure 3.

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

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

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

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

Two first starting openings 120 are provided at the bottom of the game area 116. Here, one first starting opening 120 is provided at a position where game balls flowing down the first game area 116a can enter, and one first starting opening 120 is provided at a position where game balls flowing down the second game area 116b can enter. In addition, the second starting opening 122 is located at a position where both game balls flowing down the first game area 116a and game balls flowing down the second game area 116b can enter.

This second starting opening 122 is configured as a variable starting opening (a variable starting winning device) with a movable piece 122b, allowing the ease with which the game ball can enter the second starting opening 122 to be varied.

The movable piece 122b is normally maintained in a closed state. When the movable piece 122b is in the closed state, a structure located vertically above the second starting hole 122 makes it impossible or difficult for a game ball to enter the second starting hole 122.

In contrast, when a gaming ball passes through gate 124 provided in first gaming area 116a, a decision is made as to whether or not to play an auxiliary game that will facilitate the entry of the gaming ball into second start opening 122. More specifically, provided that the gaming ball has passed through gate 124, a lottery for a normal symbol, described below, is held, and if a winning symbol is selected in this normal symbol lottery, movable piece 122b is controlled to an open state for a predetermined period of time. When movable piece 122b is in the open state, it functions as a tray that guides the gaming ball to second start opening 122, making it easier for the gaming ball to enter second start opening 122.

Furthermore, a first large prize opening 126 is located below the second starting opening 122. A movable piece 126b is provided in the first large prize opening 126 so that it can be opened and closed. Normally, the movable piece 126b closes the first large prize opening 126, preventing game balls from entering the first large prize opening 126. When the major prize game described below begins, the movable piece 126b is opened, allowing game balls to enter the first large prize opening 126.

A role unit U is provided approximately in the center of the gaming board 108. The role unit U includes a second large prize opening 128. A movable piece 128b is provided in the second large prize opening 128 so that it can be opened and closed. Normally, the movable piece 128b closes the second large prize opening 128, preventing game balls from entering the second large prize opening 128.

When a small win game, described below, is executed, the movable piece 128b is opened, allowing the game ball to enter the second large prize opening 128. An outlet 130 is provided at the bottom of the game board 108, and game balls that do not enter any of the general prize openings 118, first start opening 120, second start opening 122, first large prize opening 126, or second large prize opening 128 are ejected from the outlet 130 to the outside of the game area 116.

Figure 4 is a front view of the reel unit U, Figure 5 is a perspective view of the front of the reel unit U seen from diagonally above, and Figure 6 is a diagram explaining the path of the game ball through the reel unit U. As shown in Figure 4, a pair of movable pieces 128b are provided at the top of the reel unit U, spaced apart on the left and right. In addition, a structure 129 is provided above the pair of movable pieces 128b. The space partitioned by the pair of movable pieces 128b, the structure 129, and the partition wall that constitutes the reel unit U forms the second large winning opening 128.

As shown in Figure 4, when the pair of movable pieces 128b are closed, the gap between the movable pieces 128b and the structure 129 is small, making it impossible for a gaming ball to enter the second large winning opening 128. Thus, when the second large winning opening 128 is closed, a gaming ball flowing down the playing area 116 collides with the pair of movable pieces 128b, the structure 129, and the partition wall that makes up the special feature unit U, and flows down vertically around the special feature unit U.

On the other hand, when a gaming ball enters the first starting hole 120 or the second starting hole 122, a special symbol is determined. A small prize symbol is provided as a special symbol, and when a small prize symbol is determined, a small prize game is executed. During a small prize game, the movable pieces 128b are opened for a short time. A rotation axis is provided at the bottom of the movable pieces 128b, and in the figure, the left movable piece 128b rotates approximately 45 degrees counterclockwise around the rotation axis, while the right movable piece 128b rotates approximately 45 degrees clockwise around the rotation axis. This opens the second large prize opening 128, and the movable pieces 128b function as a receptacle that guides the gaming ball to the second large prize opening 128.

Multiple role devices are provided within the second large prize opening 128. Here, the role devices provided are a first role device 400, a second role device 420, a third role device 430, a fourth role device 450, a fifth role device 460, and a sixth role device 470. The first role device 400 is provided approximately in the center of the width of the role unit U. The first role device 400 includes a movable motor 400c (described below) and a distribution plate 402 connected to the movable motor 400c. The distribution plate 402 is made of a plate-shaped member, and game balls that enter the second large prize opening 128 roll on the distribution plate 402.

The distribution plate 402 is located vertically below the pair of movable pieces 128b. Game balls that enter the second large winning slot 128 always fall onto the distribution plate 402. The output shaft of the movable motor 400c is connected to approximately the center of the width of the distribution plate 402, and the driving force of the movable motor 400c causes the distribution plate 402 to tilt within a predetermined angle range. Specifically, the distribution plate 402 switches between a first state in which the right end is located slightly vertically below the left end, and a second state in which the left end is located slightly vertically below the right end.

When the sorting plate 402 is in the first state, game balls that fall onto the sorting plate 402 roll and flow down toward the right side of the sorting plate 402. When the sorting plate 402 is in the second state, game balls that fall onto the sorting plate 402 roll and flow down toward the left side of the sorting plate 402.

In the initial state of the first role device 400, the distribution plate 402 is stationary and aligned horizontally. When the small win game begins, the movable motor 400c is energized, causing the distribution plate 402 to swing. At this time, immediately after the second large winning opening 128 opens, the movable motor 400c is energized so that the distribution plate 402 is in the first state. Thereafter, the movable motor 400c is energized so that the distribution plate 402 is in the second state. The distribution plate 402 is in the first state only for a short time immediately after the second large winning opening 128 opens, and thereafter remains in the second state until the small win game ends.

Therefore, a gaming ball that enters the second large winning opening 128 immediately after the start of a small win game is distributed to the right side of the bonus unit U by the distribution board 402. On the other hand, a gaming ball that enters the second large winning opening 128 after a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of a small win game is distributed to the left side of the bonus unit U by the distribution board 402.

However, the control of the first role device 400, i.e., the control of the position of the distribution board 402, is not limited to this. For example, the movable motor 400c may be energized and controlled so that the distribution board 402 periodically alternates between the first state and the second state. Furthermore, the ratio between the time that the distribution board 402 is maintained in the first state and the time that the distribution board 402 is maintained in the second state can be set as appropriate.

A normal path 410 is provided below and to the left of the distribution plate 402. The normal path 410 is a path that allows game balls to roll, and guides game balls that flow down from the left end of the distribution plate 402 vertically downward. The normal path 410 has a partially serpentine shape in the left-right and depth directions to reduce the speed at which the game balls flow down. The normal path 410 is also provided with a normal path detection switch 410s. The normal path detection switch 410s detects game balls flowing down the normal path 410. The normal path detection switch 410s is provided midway along the normal path 410, and game balls detected by the normal path detection switch 410s continue to flow vertically downward over a predetermined period of time.

As shown in FIG. 6, a second role device 420 is provided downstream of the normal passage 410. The second role device 420 includes a push solenoid 420c (see FIG. 7) and a push rod 422 connected to the push solenoid 420c. A through-hole 410a that penetrates the width of the game board 108 is formed downstream of the normal passage 410. The push rod 422 is normally stationary in a retracted position retracted from the through-hole 410a. Meanwhile, the second role device 420 energizes the push solenoid 420c at predetermined intervals during a small win game. When the push solenoid 420c is energized, the push rod 422 protrudes into the through-hole 410a.

In other words, during a small win game, the push rod 422 protrudes into the through-hole 410a at predetermined intervals. Of the game balls flowing down the normal path 410, those that do not collide with the push rod 422 fall vertically down the normal path 410, pass through the non-specific area 500, and are ejected to the outside of the second large prize opening 128. On the other hand, when the push rod 422 protrudes into the through-hole 410a, if a game ball flowing down the normal path 410 collides with the push rod 422, the game ball is ejected from the through-hole 410a to the right side of the normal path 410, i.e., toward the center of the width of the game board 108. The game ball ejected from the through-hole 410a by the push rod 422 is guided to the third bonus device 430.

As shown in Figure 5, the third role device 430 is located approximately in the center of the width of the role unit U. The third role device 430 includes a first rotating body motor 430c (see Figure 7) and a first rotating body 432 connected to the first rotating body motor 430c. The first rotating body 432 rotates at a constant speed in a constant direction at all times while the gaming machine 100 is in operation. However, the first rotating body 432 may rotate only during a small win game. The speed of the first rotating body 432 may also change during rotation.

The first rotating body 432 has multiple storage compartments 434 that open radially. The multiple storage compartments 434 are arranged in the rotational direction, and a game ball ejected from the through-hole 410a by the push rod 422 is stored in one of the storage compartments 434 of the first rotating body 432. The game ball stored in the storage compartment 434 moves in the rotational direction of the first rotating body 432.

Here, as shown in Figure 6, the storage sections 434 are classified into a loss storage section 434a, a V storage section 434b, and a replay storage section 434c. Here, there is one V storage section 434b and one replay storage section 434c, and all other storage sections 434 are loss storage sections 434a.

A replay passage 440 is provided radially outward from the first rotating body 432, and a non-specific area 500 and a specific area 502, indicated by dashed lines in the figure, are provided vertically below the first rotating body 432. Gaming balls contained in the losing storage section 434a are always guided to the non-specific area 500. Gaming balls contained in the V storage section 434b are always guided to the specific area 502. Gaming balls contained in the replay storage section 434c are always guided to the replay passage 440.

For example, the losing ball storage section 434a and the V storage section 434b have different radial lengths. Furthermore, the non-specific region 500 and the specific region 502 have different radial positions on the first rotating body 432. A gaming ball stored in the losing ball storage section 434a is configured to pass through a position radially shifted from the specific region 502 and pass directly above the non-specific region 500. Furthermore, a gaming ball stored in the V storage section 434b is configured to pass directly above the specific region 502. This ensures that gaming balls stored in the losing ball storage section 434a are always guided to the non-specific region 500, and gaming balls stored in the V storage section 434b are always guided to the specific region 502.

Furthermore, for example, the replay storage section 434c is formed with a shallower vertical depth than the losing storage section 434a and the replay storage section 434c, and is configured so that the bottom surface of the replay storage section 434c is flush with the bottom surface of the replay passage 440. When the replay storage section 434c faces the replay passage 440, game balls roll down from the replay storage section 434c into the replay passage 440. On the other hand, game balls stored in the losing storage section 434a and the V storage section 434b pass through the replay passage 440 without rolling down due to the step between them. As a result, only game balls stored in the replay storage section 434c are guided to the replay passage 440.

Note that the above-described configuration of the first rotating body 432 is merely one example. In any case, the configuration is not particularly limited as long as the gaming ball stored in the storage section 434 of the first rotating body 432 is guided to either the replay passage 440, the non-specific area 500, or the specific area 502. Note that, although the gaming ball is guided from the first rotating body 432 to the replay passage 440 here, the replay passage 440 is not required.

A fourth role device 450 is provided downstream of the replay passage 440. The fourth role device 450 includes a lifting motor 450c (see Figure 7), a lifting member 452 connected to the lifting motor 450c, and a passage component 454. The passage component 454 is formed of a cylindrical member whose inner diameter is larger than the diameter of the game ball and extends vertically. The lifting member 452 is provided within the passage component 454 and moves the passage component 454 vertically upward by the driving force of the lifting motor 450c.

A hole that opens into the replay passage 440 is formed in the lower part of the passageway component 454, and game balls guided from the first rotating body 432 to the replay passage 440 enter the passageway component 454. The lifting member 452 is normally stationary below the replay passage 440, and game balls that enter the passageway component 454 from the replay passage 440 are placed on the lifting member 452.

The fourth role device 450 is equipped with a replay path detection switch 450s that detects a gaming ball placed on the lifting member 452. When the replay path detection switch 450s detects a gaming ball, the lifting motor 450c is driven to raise the lifting member 452 vertically upward. When the lifting member 452 reaches the upper end of the path forming member 454, as shown by the dashed line in the figure, the gaming ball on the lifting member 452 rolls toward the fifth role device 460.

The fifth role device 460 includes a second rotating body motor 460c (see Figure 7) and a second rotating body 462 connected to the second rotating body motor 460c. The second rotating body 462 rotates at a constant speed in a constant direction at all times while the gaming machine 100 is in operation. However, the second rotating body 462 may rotate only during a small win game. The speed of the second rotating body 462 may also change during rotation.

The second rotating body 462 has multiple storage sections 464 that open radially. The multiple storage sections 464 are arranged in the rotational direction, and a gaming ball that rolls down from the lifting member 452 is stored in one of the storage sections 464 of the second rotating body 462. The gaming ball stored in the storage section 464 moves in the rotational direction of the second rotating body 462.

Here, as shown in Figure 6, the storage sections 464 are classified into a loss storage section 464a and a V storage section 464b. Here, one V storage section 464b is provided, and all other storage sections 464 are loss storage sections 464a.

Furthermore, a non-specific area 500 and a specific area 502, indicated by dashed lines in the figure, are provided on the back side of the second rotating body 462. Gaming balls contained in the losing storage section 464a are always guided to the non-specific area 500. Gaming balls contained in the V storage section 464b are always guided to the specific area 502. Note that the configuration in which gaming balls contained in the losing storage section 464a are guided to the non-specific area 500 and gaming balls contained in the V storage section 464b are guided to the specific area 502 is the same as above.

Here, in the small win game, if the game ball that entered the second large winning opening 128 enters the specific area 502, a type 2 jackpot is awarded. When a type 2 jackpot is won, a small win game is followed by a large win game. In the large win game, multiple round games are played in which the first large winning opening 126 is opened. On the other hand, if the game ball enters the non-specific area 500, it is a loss, and the small win game ends when all game balls are discharged from the second large winning opening 128.

In this embodiment, the second rotating body 462 is provided with two losing ball storage sections 464a and one V storage section 464b. Therefore, as described above, when a gaming ball is stored in the replay storage section 434c of the first rotating body 432, there is a 1/3 probability of a Type 2 jackpot.

Furthermore, a sixth role device 470 is provided below and to the right of the distribution board 402 and above the fifth role device 460. The sixth role device 470 includes a gear motor 470c (see FIG. 7) and a first gear 472 and a second gear 474 connected to the gear motor 470c. The first gear 472 and the second gear 474 rotate at a constant speed at all times while the gaming machine 100 is in operation. However, the first gear 472 and the second gear 474 may rotate only during small win games. Furthermore, the speed of the first gear 472 and the second gear 474 may change while rotating.

A number of grooves for accommodating game balls are formed on the outer periphery of the first gear 472 and the second gear 474. Game balls that fall from the right end of the distribution plate 402 are guided to the first gear 472. As the first gear 472 rotates, the game balls guided to the first gear 472 move in the rotational direction of the first gear 472. Game balls that fall from the grooves of the first gear 472 due to their own weight are then accommodated in the grooves of the second gear 474. Game balls guided to the second gear 474 move in the rotational direction of the second gear 474 as the second gear 474 rotates. Game balls that fall from the grooves of the second gear 474 due to their own weight are then accommodated in one of the accommodation sections 464 of the fifth role device 460.

Therefore, if the distribution board 402 distributes game balls to the right side, the probability of winning a Type 2 jackpot is 1/3. In contrast, if the distribution board 402 distributes game balls to the left side, the second role device 420 first distributes the game balls to the non-specific area 500 or the third role device 430. The probability that the second role device 420 will distribute game balls to the third role device 430 is, for example, 1/2 to 1/10.

The first rotating body 432 of the third role device 430 is provided with one V storage section 434b and one replay storage section 434c, while it is provided with four loss storage sections 434a. Therefore, in the third role device 430, the probability that a gaming ball will enter the specific area 502 and win a double jackpot is 1/6. Furthermore, the probability that a gaming ball will be stored in the replay storage section 434c in the third role device 430 and that this gaming ball will enter the specific area 502 in the fifth role device 460 is 1/6 x 1/3 = 1/18.

As is clear from the above, in this embodiment, when the first role device 400 distributes the game ball to the right, the probability of winning a double jackpot is higher than when the first role device 400 distributes the game ball to the left. During a small jackpot game, the player watches the game ball, eagerly hoping that it will enter the specific area 502, and the player's anticipation increases particularly when the first role device 400 distributes the game ball to the right.

As shown in Figure 4, a hole is formed in the center of the role unit U, penetrating in the depth direction of the gaming machine 100. The main effect display unit 200a of the effect display device 200 is provided on the back side of the role unit U. Therefore, the main effect display unit 200a is positioned in approximately the center of the gaming board 108 so that it can be seen from the front side of the gaming machine 100. This main effect display unit 200a displays images for various effects.

As shown in FIG. 2, the gaming machine 100 is also equipped with an effect lighting device 204, an audio output device 206, effect buttons 208, and a cross key 209. The effect lighting device 204 is controlled to light up in accordance with various effects during play. The audio output device 206 is provided at the top of the front frame 106 or at the bottom of the outer frame 102, and outputs various sounds toward the front of the gaming machine 100 in accordance with the images displayed on the main effect display section 200a.

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

The cross key 209 consists of four buttons - an up button, a down button, a left button, and a right button - that can be pressed by the player, and is located near the effect button 208. The effect button 208 and the cross key 209 may also be used to configure various settings.

As shown in FIG. 2, the gaming machine 100 is also provided with a light intensity adjustment button 210 and a volume adjustment button 212. The light intensity adjustment button 210 is configured with two switches that detect pressing operations by the player. The two switches are spaced apart vertically, and when the upper switch detects a pressing operation by the player, the light intensity is increased, and when the lower switch detects a pressing operation by the player, the light intensity is decreased.

The volume adjustment button 212 is also configured with two switches that detect when the player presses them. The two switches are spaced apart, one above the other, and when the upper switch detects a press by the player, the volume is increased, and when the lower switch detects a press by the player, the volume is decreased.

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

Also, as shown in Figure 3, the game board 108 is provided with a first special symbol display 160, a second special symbol display 162, a first special symbol reserved display 164, a second special symbol reserved display 166, a normal symbol display 168, and a normal symbol reserved display 170, located outside the play area 116 and in a position visible to the player. Each of these displays 160-170 is a device for displaying various game-related statuses, and details of these will be provided below.

(Internal configuration of control means)
FIG. 7 is a first block diagram showing the internal configuration of the control means for controlling the progress of the game, and FIG. 8 is a second block diagram showing the internal configuration of the control means for controlling the progress of the game.

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

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

The main control board 300 includes a general prize opening detection switch 118s that detects when a game ball enters the general prize opening 118, a first start opening detection switch 120s that detects when a game ball enters the first start opening 120, a second start opening detection switch 122s that detects when a game ball enters the second start opening 122, a gate detection switch 124s that detects when a game ball passes through the gate 124, and a first special prize opening detection switch 125s that detects when a game ball enters the first special prize opening 126. 6s, a second large prize opening detection switch 128s that detects when a game ball enters the second large prize opening 128, an out ball detection switch 130s that detects when a game ball is ejected from the game area 116, a non-specific area detection switch 500s that detects when a game ball enters the non-specific area 500, and a specific area detection switch 502s that detects when a game ball enters the specific area 502 are connected, and detection signals are input from each of these detection switches to the main control board 300.

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

The main control board 300 also includes a normal electric role solenoid 122c that operates the movable piece 122b of the second starting opening 122, a first large prize opening solenoid 126c that operates the movable piece 126b that opens and closes the first large prize opening 126, a second large prize opening solenoid 128c that operates the movable piece 128b that opens and closes the second large prize opening 128, a movable motor 400c that swings the sorting plate 402, a push solenoid 420c that operates the push rod 422, and a first rotating body 432 that rotates the first rotating body 432. Motor 430c, lifting motor 450c that raises and lowers lifting member 452, second rotating body motor 460c that rotates second rotating body 462, and gear motor 470c that rotates first gear 472 are connected, and main control board 300 controls the opening and closing of second starting opening 122, first large winning opening 126, and second large winning opening 128, as well as the movement of sorting plate 402, push rod 422, first rotating body 432, lifting member 452, second rotating body 462, and first gear 472.

In addition, the gaming machine 100 is connected to multiple index sensors 480c that detect the origin positions of the first rotating body motor 430c, second rotating body motor 460c, and gear motor 470c, which rotate at a constant speed at all times, and is configured so that an origin position detection signal is input from each index sensor 480c to the main control board 300.

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

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

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

In addition, a performance display monitor 184 is provided on the back of the game board 108. The base ratio is displayed on the performance display monitor 184 by the main control board 300.

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

As shown in Figure 8, the payout control board 310 controls the firing of game balls and the payout of prize balls. This payout control board 310 also has a CPU, ROM, and RAM, and is connected to the main control board 300 for bidirectional communication. A game information output terminal board 312 is connected to this payout control board 310, and various information related to the progress of the game output from the main control board 300 is output to the gaming parlor's hall computer, etc. via the payout control board 310 and the game information output terminal board 312.

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

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

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

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

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

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

The sub-control board 330 also operates the prop device 202, which is a movable device used for effects, controls the lighting of the effect lighting device 204, and controls the audio output to output sound from the audio output device 206. Furthermore, when an operation detection signal is input from the effect button detection switch 208s, which detects that the effect button 208 has been pressed, the sub-control board 330 executes a predetermined effect. The sub-control board 330 also performs a predetermined process when an operation detection signal is input from the cross key detection switch 209s, which detects that the cross key 209 has been pressed.

In addition, the sub-control board 330 receives detection signals from the light intensity adjustment switch 210s, which detects pressing of the light intensity adjustment button 210, and the volume adjustment switch 212s, which detects pressing of the volume adjustment button 212. The sub-control board 330 changes the light intensity in response to the detection signal input from the light intensity adjustment switch 210s, and changes the volume in response to the detection signal input from the volume adjustment switch 212s.

The sub-control board 330 is also connected to a normal path detection switch 410s, a replay path detection switch 450s, and an SP route detection switch 470s. The normal path detection switch 410s is located on the normal path 410 and detects game balls guided to the normal path 410. The replay path detection switch 450s detects game balls guided to the replay path 440. The replay path detection switch 450s may be located in a position where it can detect game balls rolling on the replay path 440. For example, it may be located on the replay path 440 or within the path component 454. The SP route detection switch 470s detects game balls that have fallen to the right of the distribution board 402, i.e., toward the sixth role device 470 (see FIG. 6). The SP route detection switch 470s may be located in a position where it can detect game balls that reach the fifth role device 460 via the sixth role device 470.

In addition, here, the normal path detection switch 410s, replay path detection switch 450s, and SP route detection switch 470s are connected to the sub-control board 330. However, the normal path detection switch 410s, replay path detection switch 450s, and SP route detection switch 470s may also be connected to the main control board 300.

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

When starting a game, game balls are required as the gaming medium used in the game. Therefore, in the amusement facility where the gaming machine 100 is installed, a game ball lending device for lending game balls is generally installed adjacent to the gaming machine 100. Therefore, the gaming machine 100 of this embodiment is configured to be connectable to a game ball lending device in the amusement facility, and by the player performing a specified operation on the gaming machine 100, game balls can be loaned from the game ball lending device.

Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating the game ball lending device 350. The game ball lending device 350 has an insertion slot 351, which is configured to allow bills to be inserted. The game ball lending device 350 is pre-stored with a card 360, which serves as a storage medium for storing value information necessary for lending game balls. When a bill is inserted through the insertion slot 351, the value information storage unit 350a stores information related to the inserted amount as value information on the card 360. In other words, the card 360 functions as a so-called prepaid card, and cards 360 with value information (balance information) stored therein can be ejected through the card reading slot 352. The card reading slot 352 is also capable of accepting insertion of a card 360, and when a card 360 is inserted through the card reading slot 352, the value information (balance information) stored on the card 360 can be read by the game ball lending device 350. The gaming ball lending device 350 then lends gaming balls to the gaming machine 100 within the range of the value information stored on the card 360.

Note that, here, monetary information indicating the amount inserted into the game ball lending device 350 and the remaining balance is stored on the card 360 as the value information required for lending game balls. However, value information is not limited to monetary information, and, for example, information related to the number of game balls may also be stored on the card 360. In this case, the game ball lending device 350 reads the number of game balls stored on the card 360 and lends game balls within the range of the number of game balls read.

Furthermore, while the description here has been given of a case where a card 360 is used as a storage medium for storing value information, the storage medium is not limited to card-type, and can be coin-type, stick-type, or other type as long as it is capable of storing value information.

In this embodiment, the gaming machine 100 is configured to accept various operations on the gaming ball lending device 350 configured as described above. Specifically, in the gaming machine 100, the payout control board 310 is configured to be connectable to the gaming ball lending device 350, and the payout control board 310 functions as a relay board that relays operations to the gaming ball lending device 350.

The payout control board 310 is connected to a ball lending switch 250s that detects when the ball lending button 250 (see Figure 2) provided on the gaming machine 100 is pressed by a player, and when the ball lending button 250 is pressed, the detection signal is input to the payout control board 310.

When a detection signal is input from the ball lending switch 250s, the payout control board 310 outputs a loan request signal to the game ball lending device 350, requesting the loan of game balls. When the loan request signal is input, the game ball lending device 350 subtracts predetermined value information from the stored value information and executes a process to pay out game balls corresponding to the subtracted value information.

In addition, the payout control board 310 is connected to a return switch 252s that detects when the return button 252 (see Figure 2) provided on the gaming machine 100 is pressed by the player, and when the return button 252 is pressed, the detection signal is input to the payout control board 310.

When a detection signal is input from the return switch 252s, the payout control board 310 outputs a return request signal to the game ball lending device 350, requesting the return of the card 360. When the return request signal is input, the game ball lending device 350 executes a process to eject the card 360 from the card reading port 352.

Figure 10 is an address map of the memory area used by the main CPU 300a. Note that in Figure 10, addresses are shown in hexadecimal, with "H" indicating a hexadecimal number. As shown in Figure 10, the memory area used by the main CPU 300a includes the memory area allocated to the main ROM 300b (0000H to 2FFFH) and the memory area allocated to the main RAM 300c (F000H to F3FFH).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Next, we will explain how to play on the gaming machine 100, along with the various tables stored in the main ROM 300b.

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

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

When a player operates the operating handle 112 to launch a gaming ball into the gaming area 116, and the gaming ball flowing down the gaming area 116 enters the first starting hole 120 or the second starting hole 122, a lottery (hereinafter referred to as the "big prize lottery") is held to determine whether or not the player will receive a gaming profit. If a small prize is won in this big prize lottery, the first big prize hole 126 or the second big prize hole 128 is opened, and a small prize game is executed in which the gaming ball can enter the first big prize hole 126 or the second big prize hole 128. The big prize lottery method is explained below.

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

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

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

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

Figure 11(a) is a diagram illustrating the small win determination random number judgment table for Special 1. When a gaming ball enters the first start port 120 or the second start port 122, a small win determination random number is obtained from the range of 0 to 65535. Then, a small win determination random number judgment table is selected according to the hold type read when the big win lottery begins, and the big win lottery is held using the selected small win determination random number judgment table and the obtained small win determination random number.

When starting the big prize lottery for the reserved special 1, the small prize determination random number judgment table for special 1 shown in Figure 11(a) is referenced. According to this small prize determination random number judgment table for special 1, if the small prize determination random number is between 20001 and 20555, it is determined to be a small prize, and if it is any other small prize determination random number, it is determined to be a miss. Therefore, the probability of a small prize in this case is approximately 1/118.0.

Figure 11(b) is a diagram explaining the small win determination random number judgment table for Special 2. When starting the big win lottery for Special 2 reserved, the small win determination random number judgment table for Special 2 shown in Figure 11(b) is referenced. According to this small win determination random number judgment table for Special 2, if the small win determination random number is between 20001 and 25461, it is judged to be a small win, and if it is any other small win determination random number, it is judged to be a miss. Therefore, the probability of a small win in this case is approximately 1/12.0.

Figure 12 is a diagram illustrating the winning symbol random number determination table. When a gaming ball enters the first starting hole 120 or the second starting hole 122, a winning symbol random number is obtained from the range of 0 to 99. If the result of the major role lottery is a "small win," the type of special symbol is determined based on the obtained winning symbol random number and the winning symbol random number determination table.

At this time, if a "small win" is won by reserving special 1, the winning symbol random number determination table for special 1 is selected, as shown in Figure 12(a). Also, if a "small win" is won by reserving special 2, the winning symbol random number determination table for special 2 is selected, as shown in Figure 12(b). Hereinafter, the special symbol determined by the winning symbol random number, that is, the special symbol determined when a small win determination result is obtained, will be referred to as the small win symbol, and the special symbol determined when a loss determination result is obtained will be referred to as the loss symbol.

According to the special 1 winning symbol random number determination table shown in Figure 12(a) and the special 2 winning symbol random number determination table shown in Figure 12(b), the type of special symbol (small winning symbol) is determined according to the value of the obtained winning symbol random number, as shown.

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

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

Figure 13 is a diagram illustrating the reach group determination random number judgment table. Multiple reach group determination random number judgment tables are provided, and a preset table is selected depending on the hold type, hold number, game status, and variable status associated with the game status. When a game ball enters the first start port 120 or the second start port 122, one reach group determination random number is obtained from the range of 0 to 10006. As described above, once the big role lottery result is derived, a process is performed to determine the variable performance pattern (variation mode number, variable pattern number) that will notify the big role lottery result. In this embodiment, if the big role lottery result is a "miss," when determining the variable performance pattern, the group type is first determined using the reach group determination random number and the reach group determination random number judgment table. Note that the variable status specifies which table is referenced to determine the variable performance pattern, and is a concept that is set separately from the game status.

For example, when the game state is set to the non-time-saving game state, if a "miss" major role lottery result is derived based on the special 1 reserve, and the number of reserved special 1 reserves (hereinafter simply referred to as the "reserved number") at the time of the major role lottery is 0, then Reach Group Determination Random Number Judgment Table 1 is selected, as shown in FIG. 13(a). Similarly, when the game state is set to the non-time-saving game state, if a "miss" major role lottery result is derived based on the special 1 reserve, and the number of reserved special 1 reserves at the time of the major role lottery is 1, then Reach Group Determination Random Number Judgment Table 2 is selected, as shown in FIG. 13(b). If the number of reserved special 1 reserves is 2 to 3, then Reach Group Determination Random Number Judgment Table 3 is selected, as shown in FIG. 13(c). Note that in FIG. 13, the group x listed in the group type column indicates an arbitrary group number. Therefore, various group numbers are determined as the group type depending on the acquired reach group determination random number and the type of reach group determination random number judgment table referenced.

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

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

Figure 14 is a diagram explaining the reach mode determination random number judgment table. This reach mode determination random number judgment table is broadly divided into a miss reach mode determination random number judgment table that is selected when the big role lottery result is a "miss," and a small win reach mode determination random number judgment table that is selected when the big role lottery result is a "small win." Note that a miss reach mode determination random number judgment table is provided for each group type determined as described above, and a small win reach mode determination random number judgment table is provided for each reserve type.

Furthermore, each reach mode determination random number judgment table is also provided for each game state and symbol type. Here, an example of a reach mode determination random number judgment table for group x when it is a miss, referenced for a specific game state and symbol type, is shown in Figure 14(a), an example of a reach mode determination random number judgment table for special 1 when it is a small win, and an example of a reach mode determination random number judgment table for special 2 when it is a small win, is shown in Figure 14(c).

When a game ball enters the first start hole 120 or the second start hole 122, a reach mode determination random number is obtained from the range of 0 to 250. If the result of the big role lottery is a "lose," as shown in Figure 14(a), a reach mode determination random number judgment table for a miss corresponding to the group type determined by the group type lottery is selected, and a variable mode number is determined based on the selected reach mode determination random number judgment table for a miss and the reach mode determination random number.

Furthermore, if the result of the above-mentioned big prize lottery is a "small prize," as shown in Figures 14(b) and (c), the small prize reach mode determination random number judgment table corresponding to the read-out hold type is selected, and the variable mode number is determined based on the selected small prize reach mode determination random number judgment table and the reach mode determination random number.

In addition, in each reach mode determination random number determination table, the reach mode determination random number is associated with a fluctuation mode number and a fluctuation pattern random number determination table, which will be described later. When the fluctuation mode number is determined, the fluctuation pattern random number determination table is also determined. In Figure 14, the table x listed in the fluctuation pattern random number determination table column indicates an arbitrary table number. Therefore, the fluctuation mode number and the table number of the fluctuation pattern random number determination table are determined according to the acquired reach group determination random number and the type of reach mode determination random number determination table being referenced. In this embodiment, the fluctuation mode number and the fluctuation pattern number, which will be described later, are set in hexadecimal. Below, hexadecimal numbers are indicated by the letter "H," but the notation ○○H in Figures 14 to 16 indicates an arbitrary value expressed in hexadecimal.

As described above, if the result of the big role lottery is a "lose," the group type is first determined using the reach group determination random number judgment table and reach group determination random number shown in Figure 13. Then, depending on the determined group type and game status, the variation mode number and variation pattern random number judgment table are determined using the reach mode determination random number judgment table when a miss is reached and the reach mode determination random number shown in Figure 14(a).

On the other hand, if the result of the big prize lottery is a "small prize," the small prize reach mode determination random number judgment table shown in Figure 14, which corresponds to the determined small prize pattern (type of special pattern), will be referenced, and the reach mode determination random number will be used to determine the fluctuation mode number and fluctuation pattern random number judgment table.

Figure 15 is a diagram explaining the fluctuation pattern random number determination table. Here, fluctuation pattern random number determination table x for a specific table number x is shown, but there are many other fluctuation pattern random number determination tables provided for each table number.

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

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

Figure 16 is a diagram illustrating the fluctuation time determination table. Once the fluctuation mode number is determined as described above, fluctuation time 1 is determined according to the fluctuation time 1 determination table shown in Figure 16(a). According to this fluctuation time 1 determination table, fluctuation time 1 is associated with each fluctuation mode number, and the corresponding fluctuation time 1 is determined according to the determined fluctuation mode number.

Furthermore, once the fluctuation pattern number is determined as described above, fluctuation time 2 is determined according to the fluctuation time 2 determination table shown in Figure 16 (b). According to this fluctuation time 2 determination table, a fluctuation time 2 is associated with each fluctuation pattern number, and the corresponding fluctuation time 2 is determined according to the determined fluctuation pattern number. The total time of fluctuation times 1 and 2 determined in this way is the time for the fluctuation presentation that notifies the result of the big role lottery, i.e., the fluctuation time.

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

Figure 17 is a diagram explaining the special electric device activation ram set table. The special electric device activation ram set table stores various data for controlling small win games and big win games. During small win games and big win games, the first large win opening solenoid 126c and the second large win opening solenoid 128c are controlled to be energized by referring to this special electric device activation ram set table.

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

In this embodiment, when special symbols Z1 and Z2, which are small win symbols, are selected, a small win game consisting of one round of play is first executed. When special symbol Z1 is selected, the second large prize opening 128 is opened once every 0.1 seconds during the small win game. When special symbol Z2 is selected, the second large prize opening 128 is opened twice every 0.1 seconds during the small win game.

Note that the number of times and duration for which the second large prize opening 128 is opened during a small prize game are merely examples. For example, the number of times and duration for which the second large prize opening 128 is opened may be exactly the same for special patterns Z1 and Z2.

As described above, the second large prize opening 128 is provided with a specific area 502 and a non-specific area 500, and a gaming ball that enters the second large prize opening 128 always enters either the specific area 502 or the non-specific area 500. If a gaming ball that enters the second large prize opening 128 enters the specific area 502 during a small prize game, a large prize game is played following the small prize game, in which the first large prize opening 126 is opened. During this large prize game, nine rounds (2R to 10R) are played.

In each round of play in the big prize game, the first large prize opening 126 is opened once every 29.0 seconds. For each round of play in the small prize game and the big prize game, the end condition is set to either that the opening time of the first large prize opening 126 or the second large prize opening 128 reaches the maximum opening time, or that a specified number of game balls enter the first large prize opening 126 or the second large prize opening 128. When the end condition is met, the small prize game or the big prize game ends. In this case, the specified number is set to 10, and the small prize game or the big prize game ends when 10 game balls enter the first large prize opening 126 or the second large prize opening 128.

Figure 18 is a diagram illustrating a game state setting table for setting the game state after the end of a big win game. If a type 2 big win is won in a small win game as described above and a big win game is executed, the game state after the end of the big win game is set. Here, after the big win game, the game state is always set to the time-saving game state. Note that in this embodiment, the game state is provided with a non-time-saving game state and a time-saving game state.

The non-time-saving game state is the initial state of the gaming machine 100, and the time-saving game state is a state in which the second start opening 122 is easier to open than the non-time-saving game state. In other words, opening conditions for opening the second start opening 122 are set for each game state, and opening conditions are set for the time-saving game state that make it easier to open the second start opening 122 than the non-time-saving game state.

In addition, if the game state after a major win is set to a time-saving game state, a time-saving end condition for terminating the time-saving game state is also set. Here, the number of time-saving times is set as the time-saving end condition. The number of time-saving times is the number of times the special symbol changes until the time-saving game state ends, and in this case, the number of time-saving times is set to 10. Therefore, in this embodiment, if the special symbol is stopped and displayed 10 times on the first special symbol display device 160 or the second special symbol display device 162 in the time-saving game state, the time-saving game state ends and the game state is set to a non-time-saving game state.

Here, the game state and the number of time-saving times after a big win are set uniformly. However, depending on the special symbol, i.e., the type of small win symbol, and the game state when a small win is won, either the game state set after a big win or the number of time-saving times may be set differently, or both.

Figure 19 is a diagram illustrating the winning random number determination table. When a game ball flowing down the game area 116 passes through the gate 124, a normal symbol determination process (hereinafter referred to as the "normal symbol lottery") is performed, which is associated with whether or not to control the energization of the movable piece 122b of the second starting port 122.

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

When the regular symbol lottery is started in the non-time-saving play state, the win determination random number judgment table for the non-time-saving play state is referenced, as shown in Figure 19(a). According to this win determination random number judgment table for the non-time-saving play state, if the win determination random number is 0, a winning symbol is determined as the type of regular symbol, and if the win determination random number is 1 to 99, a losing symbol is determined as the type of regular symbol. Therefore, the probability of a winning symbol being determined in the non-time-saving play state, i.e., the probability of winning, is 1/100. As will be explained in more detail below, if a winning symbol is determined in this regular symbol lottery, the second start opening 122 is controlled to the open state, and if a losing symbol is determined, the second start opening 122 is maintained in the closed state.

In addition, when the regular symbol lottery begins in the time-saving play state, the time-saving play state win determination random number judgment table is referenced, as shown in Figure 19(b). According to this time-saving play state win determination random number judgment table, if the win determination random number is between 0 and 98, a winning symbol is determined as the type of regular symbol, and if the win determination random number is 99, a losing symbol is determined as the type of regular symbol. Therefore, the probability of a winning symbol being determined in the time-saving play state, i.e., the probability of winning, is 99/100.

Figure 20(a) is a diagram explaining the normal symbol fluctuation time data table, and Figure 20(b) is a diagram explaining the opening/closing control pattern table. As described above, when a normal symbol lottery is held, the normal symbol fluctuation time is determined. The normal symbol fluctuation time data table is referenced when determining the normal symbol fluctuation time when a winning or losing symbol is determined by the normal symbol lottery. According to this normal symbol fluctuation time data table, if the game state is set to a non-time-saving game state, the fluctuation time is determined to be 10 seconds, and if the game state is set to a time-saving game state, the fluctuation time is determined to be 0.1 seconds. Once the fluctuation time is determined in this manner, the normal symbol display 168 displays a fluctuating (flashing) display for the determined time. If a winning symbol is determined, the normal symbol display 168 lights up, and if a losing symbol is determined, the normal symbol display 168 turns off.

When a winning symbol is determined by the normal symbol lottery and the normal symbol display 168 lights up, the movable piece 122b of the second starting hole 122 is controlled to energize by referring to the opening/closing control pattern table, as shown in Figure 20(b). In reality, an opening/closing control pattern table is provided for each game state, and depending on the game state when the normal symbol is determined, the corresponding table is set when the normal electric role solenoid 122c begins to energize. However, for the sake of explanation, a single table shows the control data corresponding to each game state.

When a winning pattern is determined, the second starting port 122 is controlled to open and close by referring to the opening and closing control pattern table, as shown in Figure 20 (b). According to this opening/closing control pattern table, the following control data is pre-stored for each game state as shown in the figure: time before normal power release (waiting time until the second start port 122 begins to open), maximum number of normal electric role opening/closing switches (number of times the second start port 122 is opened), solenoid energization time (powering time of the normal electric role solenoid 122c for each opening of the second start port 122, i.e., the opening time of the second start port 122 per time), specified number (maximum number of wins that can be made through the second start port 122 while it is fully open), normal power closing effective time (closing time between each opening of the second start port 122, i.e., pause time), normal power active state time (waiting time from the last opening of the second start port 122), and normal power end wait time (waiting time after the normal power active state time has elapsed until the variable display of the normal symbols, described below, resumes).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(Step S100-11)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the RAM clear flag is on. A RAM clear button (not shown) is provided on the back of the game board 108, and when this RAM clear button is pressed, a RAM clear detection switch detects the pressing of the RAM clear button and outputs a RAM clear signal to the main control board 300. When the power is turned on with the RAM clear button pressed, the RAM clear signal is input and the RAM clear flag is turned on. If it is determined that the RAM clear flag is on, the process proceeds to step S100-13, and if it is determined that the RAM clear flag is not on, the process proceeds to step S100-19.

(Step S100-13)
The main CPU 300a performs initialization processing to clear data in the main RAM 300c that should be cleared when the power is turned on (when the main RAM 300c is reset to clear the data).

(Step S100-15)
The main CPU 300a performs a process of transmitting a subcommand (RAM clear command) (storing the command in a transmission buffer) to notify the sub-control board 330 that the main RAM 300c has been cleared.

(Step S100-17)
The main CPU 300a performs a transmission process (storing the command in a transmission buffer) of a payout command (RAM clear command) to notify the payout control board 310 that the main RAM 300c has been cleared.

(Step S100-19)
The main CPU 300a executes the processing required to calculate the checksum.

(Step S100-21)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the checksum calculated in step S100-19 is inconsistent with the checksum saved when the power was turned off. If it is determined that they are inconsistent, the process proceeds to step S100-13. If it is determined that they are not inconsistent (they are in agreement), the process proceeds to step S100-23.

(Step S100-23)
The main CPU 300a performs initialization processing to clear data in the main RAM 300c that should be cleared when power is restored (when the main RAM 300c is not cleared and data before power loss is maintained).

(Step S100-25)
The main CPU 300a performs a process of transmitting a subcommand (power restoration command) (storing the command in a transmission buffer) to notify the sub-control board 330 that power has been restored from a power outage.

(Step S100-27)
The main CPU 300a performs a transmission process (storing the command in a transmission buffer) of a payout command (power restoration command) to notify the payout control board 310 that power has been restored after a power outage.

(Step S100-29)
The main CPU 300a executes power-on sub-command set processing (storing commands in a transmission buffer) to transmit to the sub-control board 330 commands necessary for the initial state presentation at power-on, such as a power-on special symbol type designation command indicating the type of special symbol, a special 1 reserve designation command indicating the number of special 1 reserves (X1), a special 2 reserve designation command indicating the number of special 2 reserves (X2), and a special symbol winning order command indicating the winning order of the stored special 1 reserves and special 2 reserves.

(Step S100-31)
The main CPU 300a sets the timer interrupt period.

(Step S100-33)
The main CPU 300a performs processing to prohibit interrupts.

(Step S100-35)
The main CPU 300a updates the initial value update random number for the winning symbol random number. The initial value update random number for the winning symbol random number is used to determine the initial value and the end value of the winning symbol random number. In other words, when the winning symbol random number goes through one cycle from the initial value update random number for the winning symbol random number to the initial value update random number for the winning symbol random number - 1 by the update process of the winning symbol random number described later, the winning symbol random number is updated to the initial value update random number for the winning symbol random number at that time.

(Step S100-37)
The main CPU 300a analyzes the received data (main commands) received from the payout control board 310 and executes various processes according to the received data.

(Step S100-39)
The main CPU 300 a performs processing to transmit the sub-commands stored in the transmission buffer to the sub-control board 330 .

(Step S100-41)
The main CPU 300a performs processing to permit an interrupt.

(Step S100-43)
The main CPU 300a updates the reach group determination random number, reach mode determination random number, and variation pattern random number, and thereafter repeats the process from step S100-33. Note that, hereinafter, the reach group determination random number, reach mode determination random number, and variation pattern random number for determining the variation presentation pattern are collectively referred to as variation presentation random numbers.

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

(Main Control Board 300 Power-Off Evacuation Process (XINT Interrupt Process))
22 is a flowchart explaining the power-off save processing (XINT interrupt processing) in the main control board 300. The main CPU 300a monitors the power-off detection circuit, and when the power supply voltage drops below a predetermined value, it interrupts the CPU initialization processing and executes the power-off save processing.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(Timer interrupt processing of main control board 300)
23 is a flowchart illustrating the timer interrupt process in the main control board 300. The main control board 300 is provided with a reset clock pulse generating circuit that generates a clock pulse every predetermined period (4 milliseconds in this embodiment, hereinafter referred to as "4 ms"). When a clock pulse is generated by the reset clock pulse generating circuit, an interrupt occurs in the CPU initialization process (step S100), and the following timer interrupt process is executed.

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

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

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

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

(Step S400-9)
The main CPU 300a performs a timer update process to update various timer counters. Here, unless otherwise specified, the timer counters are decremented each time the main control board 300 executes timer interrupt processing, and the decrement stops when the timer counter reaches 0.

(Step S400-11)
The main CPU 300a executes the update process of the initial value update random number for the winning symbol random number, similar to the above step S100-35.

(Step S400-13)
The main CPU 300a performs a process to update the winning symbol random number. Specifically, the random number counter is updated by adding 1, and if the result of the addition exceeds the maximum value of the random number range, the random number counter is reset to 0, and if the random number counter has completed one cycle, the random number is updated from the value of the initial value update random number for the winning symbol random number at that time.

Although a detailed explanation will be omitted, in this embodiment, the small win determination random number and the win determination random number use hardware random numbers updated by a hardware random number generator built into the main control board 300. The hardware random number generator updates both the small win determination random number and the win determination random number according to certain rules, automatically changing the random number sequence each time the random number sequence completes one cycle, and changing the start value each time the system is reset.

(Step S500)
The main CPU 300a executes a switch management process to determine whether or not a signal has been input from the first start hole detection switch 120s, the second start hole detection switch 122s, the gate detection switch 124s, the first large prize hole detection switch 126s, the second large prize hole detection switch 128s, the specific area detection switch 502s, and the out ball detection switch 130s. Details of this switch management process will be described later.

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

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

(Step S400-15)
The main CPU 300a executes error management processing to determine various errors and to make settings according to the error determination results.

(Step S400-17)
The main CPU 300a checks the general prize opening detection switch 118s, the first start opening detection switch 120s, the second start opening detection switch 122s, the first large prize opening detection switch 126s, and the second large prize opening detection switch 128s, and executes prize opening switch processing to increment the corresponding counters for prize ball control, etc.

(Step S400-19)
The main CPU 300a executes a payout control management process to create and send a payout command based on the counter value of the counter for prize ball control set in step S400-17.

(Step S400-21)
The main CPU 300a executes a role control process that controls the role devices in the role unit U. Here, the actuators of each role device are controlled to be energized based on the operating conditions that are preset for each role device. The operating conditions may include causing the role device to perform a certain operation when the gaming machine 100 is energized, causing the role device to perform a predetermined operation during a small win game, causing the role device to perform a predetermined operation when a predetermined sensor detects a gaming ball, etc.

Furthermore, in the bonus device control process, the main CPU 300a creates and transmits an index command based on the origin position detection signal input from each index sensor 480c. In this embodiment, the index sensors 480c are provided on the first rotating body motor 430c, second rotating body motor 460c, and gear motor 470c, which rotate at a constant speed at all times. Therefore, while the gaming machine 100 is operating, an index command is transmitted, for example, once every few seconds.

(Step S400-23)
The main CPU 300a executes an external information management process for setting output data for external information to be output from the game information output terminal board 312 to the outside.

(Step S400-25)
The main CPU 300a executes an LED display setting process that sets display data for controlling the lighting of various indicators (LEDs), such as the first special pattern indicator 160, the second special pattern indicator 162, the first special pattern reserved indicator 164, the second special pattern reserved indicator 166, the normal pattern indicator 168, the normal pattern reserved indicator 170, and the right-hit notification indicator 172, in an output buffer corresponding to each common.

(Step S400-27)
The main CPU 300a executes a solenoid output image synthesis process to synthesize the solenoid output images of the normal electric device solenoid 122c, the first large prize opening solenoid 126c, the second large prize opening solenoid 128c and the movable member drive solenoid 142c and store them in an output port buffer.

(Step S400-29)
The main CPU 300a executes a port output process for outputting the values of the common output buffers stored in the respective output port buffers to the output ports.

(Step S400-31)
The main CPU 300a performs processing to prohibit interrupts.

(Step S400-33)
The main CPU 300a uses the unused area of the main RAM 300c to perform processing for calculating the base ratio to be displayed on the performance display monitor 184, and executes performance display monitor control processing for setting common data for displaying the calculated base ratio on the performance display monitor 184 in the common output buffer. In the performance display monitor control processing, the base ratio is calculated for each predetermined period. Here, the performance display monitor 184 may alternate between displaying the base ratio for the current period and the base ratio for the previous period at predetermined time intervals. Furthermore, the base ratio displayed on the performance display monitor 184 may be switched in response to a predetermined operation.

(Step S400-35)
The main CPU 300a restores the register and ends the timer interrupt process.

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

Figure 24 is a flowchart explaining the switch management process (step S500) on the main control board 300.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(Step S500-11)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the specific area detection switch is on, that is, whether a gaming ball has entered the specific area 502 and a detection signal has been input from the specific area detection switch 502s. If it is determined that the specific area detection switch is on, the process proceeds to step S540, and if it is determined that the specific area detection switch is not on, the process proceeds to step S500-13.

(Step S540)
The main CPU 300a executes a specific area passing process based on the entry of the gaming ball into the specific area 502, and ends the switch management process. The specific area passing process will be described in detail later.

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

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

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

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

Figure 25 is a flowchart explaining the gate passage process (step S510) on the main control board 300.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Figure 26 is a flowchart explaining the first start port passage process (step S520) on the main control board 300.

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

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

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

Figure 27 is a flowchart explaining the second start port passage process (step S530) on the main control board 300.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Figure 28 is a flowchart explaining the special symbol random number acquisition process (step S535) on the main control board 300. This special symbol random number acquisition process is executed using a module common to the first start port passing process (step S520) and the second start port passing process (step S530) described above.

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

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

(Step S535-5)
The main CPU 300a loads the small win determination random number updated by the hardware random number generation unit.

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

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

(Step S535-11)
The main CPU 300a calculates the target memory section among the eight memory sections of the special chart reserved memory area in which the acquired small win determination random number is to be saved.

(Step S535-13)
The main CPU 300a obtains the small win determination random number loaded in step S535-5, the winning pattern random number updated in step S400-11, the reach group determination random number updated in step S100-43, the reach mode determination random number, and the variation pattern random number, and stores them in the target memory unit calculated in step S535-11.

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

(Step S535-17)
The main CPU 300a executes a process for determining the effect at the time of acquisition, which performs a provisional lottery for a major role, provisionally determines a winning symbol, and provisionally determines variable information based on the various random numbers stored in the target memory unit in step S535-13. In this process, a pre-read command indicating variable information to be determined when a newly stored reserved symbol is read is transmitted to the sub-control board 330.

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

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

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

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

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

Figure 29 is a flowchart explaining the specific area passing process in step S540 above.

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

As will be described in more detail below, this validity period flag is used to determine whether or not the entry of a gaming ball into the specific area 502 is considered valid, and in this embodiment, it is turned on at the start of a small win game (first round of play).

(Step S540-3)
If it is determined in step S540-1 that the valid period flag is on, the main CPU 300a determines whether the specific area entry flag is on. The specific area entry flag identifies that the gaming ball has already validly entered the specific area 502. If it is determined that the specific area entry flag is on, the specific area passing process is terminated, and if it is determined that the specific area entry flag is not on, the process proceeds to step S540-5.

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

(Step S540-7)
The main CPU 300a sets a specific area entry command in the transmission buffer to notify the sub-control board 330 that the gaming ball has validly entered the specific area 502, and ends the specific area passing process.

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

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

Figure 30 is a diagram illustrating the special game management phase. As already explained, in this embodiment, a special game triggered by a game ball entering the first start gate 120 or the second start gate 122, and a regular game triggered by a game ball passing through the gate 124, proceed simultaneously in parallel. Processing related to special games is executed in stages and repeatedly, and the main control board 300 manages each process related to these special games using the special game management phase.

As shown in Figure 30, the main ROM 300b stores multiple special game control modules for controlling the execution of special games, and each of these special game control modules is associated with a special game management phase. Specifically, if the special game management phase is "00H", a module for executing "special symbol change waiting processing" is called; if the special game management phase is "01H", a module for executing "special symbol change processing" is called; if the special game management phase is "02H", a module for executing "special symbol stop pattern display processing" is called; if the special game management phase is "03H" or "07H", a module for executing "large prize opening pre-processing" is called; if the special game management phase is "04H" or "08H", a module for executing "large prize opening control processing" is called; if the special game management phase is "05H" or "09H", a module for executing "large prize opening closure valid processing" is called; and if the special game management phase is "06H" or "0AH", a module for executing "large prize opening end wait processing" is called.

Figure 31 is a flowchart explaining the special game management process (step S600) on the main control board 300.

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

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

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

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

Figure 32 is a flowchart explaining the special symbol change waiting process on the main control board 300. This special symbol change waiting process is executed when the special game management phase is "00H".

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

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

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

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

(Step S610-9)
The main CPU 300a loads the small win determination random number and reservation type transferred to the 0th memory section, selects the corresponding small win determination random number judgment table, draws a big role lottery, and executes a special symbol win judgment process to store the lottery result.

(Step S610-11)
The main CPU 300a executes a special symbol determination process to determine the special symbol. Here, if the result of the major role lottery in step S610-9 above is a small win, the winning symbol random number and reserve type transferred to the 0th memory unit are loaded, the corresponding winning symbol random number determination table is selected to extract the special symbol determination data, and the extracted special symbol determination data (small win symbol type) is saved. Also, if the result of the major role lottery in step S610-9 above is a loss, the special symbol determination data for the loss corresponding to the reserve type (losing symbol type) is saved. Specifically, if the reserve type is special 1 reserve, special symbol X is saved as the losing symbol, and if the reserve type is special 2 reserve, special symbol Y is saved as the losing symbol. In this way, once the special symbol determination data is saved, a symbol type designation command corresponding to the special symbol determination data is set in the transmission buffer.

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

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

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

(Step S610-17)
The main CPU 300a performs a reserve area setting process for storing the type of small winning symbol (special symbol determination data) and the like in the reserve area of the main RAM 300c.

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

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

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

Figure 33 is a flowchart explaining the special symbol variable number determination process on the main control board 300.

(Step S612-1)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the result of the major role lottery in step S610-9 is a small win. If it is determined to be a small win, the process proceeds to step S612-3. If it is determined not to be a small win (a loss), the process proceeds to step S612-5.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Figure 34 is a flowchart explaining the special symbol change processing on the main control board 300. This special symbol change processing is executed when the special game management phase is "01H".

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Figure 35 is a flowchart explaining the special symbol stop symbol display process on the main control board 300. This special symbol stop symbol display process is executed when the special game management phase is "02H".

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

(Step S630-3)
The main CPU 300a executes a time-saving game state management process. Here, when the game state is a time-saving game state, the counter value of a time-saving game state counter that counts the remaining number of time-saving games is decremented. Then, when the counter value becomes 0, the game state is changed from the time-saving game state to a non-time-saving game state.

(Step S630-5)
The main CPU 300a sets a number command indicating the remaining number of time-saving times in the transmission buffer.

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

(Step S630-9)
The main CPU 300a checks the result of the big role lottery.

(Step S630-11)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the result of the major role lottery is a small win. If it is determined to be a small win, the process proceeds to step S630-15. If it is determined not to be a small win, the process proceeds to step S630-13.

(Step S630-13)
The main CPU 300a updates the special game management phase to "00H" and ends the special symbol stop symbol display process. This ends the special game management process based on the reservation of 1, and if special 1 reservation or special 2 reservation is stored, processing will be performed to start the variable display of the special symbol based on the next reservation.

(Step S630-15)
The main CPU 300a sets data in a special electric accessory operation RAM set table according to the type of the determined special symbol.

(Step S630-17)
The main CPU 300a performs a process for setting the maximum number of special electric device activations. Specifically, by referencing the data set in step S630-15, the maximum number of special electric device activations counter is set to a predetermined number (the counter value corresponding to the type of special symbol = the number of rounds). This maximum number of special electric device activations counter indicates the number of rounds ("1") that can be played in the upcoming small prize game. Meanwhile, the main RAM 300c is provided with a continuous special electric device activation counter, and the current number of rounds is managed by adding "1" to the counter value of the continuous special electric device activation counter at the start of each round of play. Here, a process for resetting (updating to "0") the counter value of the continuous special electric device activation counter is also performed upon the start of the small prize game.

(Step S630-19)
The main CPU 300a refers to the data set in step S630-17 and saves a predetermined opening time as a timer value in the special game timer.

(Step S630-21)
The main CPU 300a sets in the transmission buffer an opening designation command for transmitting the start of a small win game to the sub-control board 330. This opening designation command is provided for each opening time, and here, the opening designation command corresponding to the opening time saved in step S630-19 is set in the transmission buffer.

(Step S630-23)
The main CPU 300a updates the special game management phase to "07H" and ends the special symbol stop symbol display process, thereby starting the small win game.

Figure 36 is a flowchart explaining the pre-opening process of the special prize opening on the main control board 300. This pre-opening process of the special prize opening is executed when the special game management phase is "03H" or "07H".

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

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

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

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

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

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

(Step S640-11)
The main CPU 300a turns on the valid period flag, thereby validating the entry of the gaming ball into the specific area 502 upon the start of the small win game.

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

Figure 37 is a flowchart explaining the special prize opening/closing switching process on the main control board 300.

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

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

(Step S641-5)
Based on the solenoid control data extracted in step S641-3, the main CPU 300a executes a large prize opening solenoid energization control process to start energizing the first large prize opening solenoid 126c or the second large prize opening solenoid 128c, or to stop energizing the first large prize opening solenoid 126c or the second large prize opening solenoid 128c. By executing this large prize opening solenoid energization control process, the start or stop of energization of the first large prize opening solenoid 126c or the second large prize opening solenoid 128c is controlled in steps S400-27 and S400-29.

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

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

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

Figure 38 is a flowchart explaining the special prize opening control process on the main control board 300. This special prize opening control process is executed when the special game management phase is "04H" or "08H".

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Figure 39 is a flowchart explaining the special prize opening closure activation process on the main control board 300. This special prize opening closure activation process is executed when the special game management phase is "05H" or "09H".

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

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

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

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

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

(Step S660-11)
The main CPU 300a determines whether all of the gaming balls that entered the second large prize opening 128 have been discharged. Here, it is determined that discharge is complete when the value obtained by subtracting the total number of gaming balls that entered the specific area 502 and the non-specific area 500 from the number of gaming balls that entered the second large prize opening 128 becomes 0. If it is determined that discharge is complete, the process proceeds to step S660-13, and if it is determined that discharge is not complete, the large prize opening closure validity process is terminated. Note that if the determination result that discharge is not complete is derived continuously for a certain period of time, error processing is performed.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Figure 40 is a flowchart explaining the special prize slot end wait process on the main control board 300. This special prize slot end wait process is executed when the special game management phase is "06H" or "0AH".

(Step S670-1)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the timer value of the special game timer saved in step S660-21 is 0. If it determines that the timer value of the special game timer is not 0, it ends the wait process for the end of the special prize slot, and if it determines that the timer value of the special game timer is 0, it proceeds to step S670-3.

(Step S670-3)
The main CPU 300a executes a state setting process to set the game state after the end of the big win game that was executed based on the game ball entering the specific area 502 during the small win game. Specifically, the main CPU 300a references the game state setting table (FIG. 18) and sets the game state after the big win game ends and the number of time-saving times based on the type of special symbol that triggered the execution of the small win game. Note that if the game ball did not enter the specific area 502 during the small win game, that is, if the special game management phase is "0AH," the game state is not set in step S670-3.

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

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

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

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

Figure 41 is a diagram explaining the normal game management phase. As already explained, in this embodiment, processing related to normal games triggered by the passage of a gaming ball through gate 124 is executed stepwise and repeatedly, and the main control board 300 manages each process related to such normal games using the normal game management phase.

As shown in Figure 41, the main ROM 300b stores multiple normal game control modules for controlling the execution of normal games, and each of these normal game control modules is associated with a normal game management phase. Specifically, if the normal game management phase is "00H", a module for executing "normal symbol change waiting processing" is called; if the normal game management phase is "01H", a module for executing "normal symbol change in progress processing" is called; if the normal game management phase is "02H", a module for executing "normal symbol stop pattern display processing" is called; if the normal game management phase is "03H", a module for executing "normal electric device prize opening pre-processing" is called; if the normal game management phase is "04H", a module for executing "normal electric device prize opening control processing" is called; if the normal game management phase is "05H", a module for executing "normal electric device prize opening closure enable processing" is called; and if the normal game management phase is "06H", a module for executing "normal electric device prize opening end wait processing" is called.

Figure 42 is a flowchart explaining the normal game management process (step S700) on the main control board 300.

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

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

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

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

Figure 43 is a flowchart explaining the normal symbol change waiting process on the main control board 300. This normal symbol change waiting process is executed when the normal game management phase is "00H".

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Figure 44 is a flowchart explaining the normal symbol fluctuation processing on the main control board 300. This normal symbol fluctuation processing is executed when the normal game management phase is "01H".

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Figure 45 is a flowchart explaining the normal symbol stop symbol display process on the main control board 300. This normal symbol stop symbol display process is executed when the normal game management phase is "02H".

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

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

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

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

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

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

Figure 46 is a flowchart explaining the pre-opening processing of the normal electric device prize opening on the main control board 300. This pre-opening processing of the normal electric device prize opening is executed when the normal game management phase is "03H".

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

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

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

Figure 47 is a flowchart explaining the normal electric prize opening/closing switching process on the main control board 300.

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

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

(Step S741-5)
The main CPU 300a executes a normal electric role solenoid energization control process to start energization of the normal electric role solenoid 122c or to stop energization of the normal electric role solenoid 122c based on the solenoid control data extracted in step S741-3. By executing this normal electric role solenoid energization control process, the start or stop of energization of the normal electric role solenoid 122c is controlled in step S400-27 and step S400-29.

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

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

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

Figure 48 is a flowchart explaining the normal electric feature winning slot opening control process on the main control board 300. This normal electric feature winning slot opening control process is executed when the normal game management phase is "04H".

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

(Step S750-3)
The main CPU 300a determines whether the counter value of the normal electric accessory opening/closing switching counter is the upper limit value of the normal electric accessory opening/closing switching number. If it is determined that the counter value is the upper limit value, the process proceeds to step S750-7, and if it is determined that the counter value is not the upper limit value, the process proceeds to step S741.

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

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

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

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

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

Figure 49 is a flowchart explaining the normal electric device prize opening closure enable process on the main control board 300. This normal electric device prize opening closure enable process is executed when the normal game management phase is "05H".

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

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

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

Figure 50 is a flowchart explaining the normal electric device prize slot end wait process on the main control board 300. This normal electric device prize slot end wait process is executed when the normal game management phase is "06H".

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

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

According to the process shown in Figure 21 above, when the RAM clear button is on and the power is turned on, a RAM clear is executed, clearing the game information stored in the main RAM 300c. Then, when the RAM clear is executed on the main control board 300, a RAM clear notification is executed on the sub-control board 330 for a predetermined period of time (e.g., 31 seconds) to notify the user that a RAM clear has been executed. When this RAM clear notification is executed, a dedicated sound is output from the audio output device 206, all LEDs on the main body frame, such as the front frame 106, are lit in red, and all LEDs on the game board 108 are turned off.

Figure 51(a) is a diagram illustrating an example of the RAM clearing screen. When RAM is cleared on the main control board 300, the RAM clearing screen shown in Figure 51(a) is displayed for a predetermined period of time (e.g., 31 seconds). On the RAM clearing screen, the main performance display unit 200a displays "RAM clearing in progress." Also, at this time, as shown in Figure 51(a), the main performance display unit 200a displays "Press and hold performance button to display administrator screen."

Furthermore, if multiple pre-set display conditions are all met while the RAM clearing screen shown in Figure 51(a) is displayed, the administrator screen (Figure 51(b)) will be displayed. Note that the RAM clear notification continues even after the administrator screen is displayed. Then, after a predetermined time (e.g., 31 seconds) has elapsed and the RAM clear notification has ended, the LEDs on the main body frame will light up in a lighting pattern corresponding to the customer waiting state. Meanwhile, all LEDs on the game board 108 will remain off.

In this embodiment, the following three display conditions are set: (1) the RAM clearing screen is being displayed, (2) the administrator screen is available for display, and (3) the effect button 208 is pressed continuously for five seconds.

The administrator screen displayable state is a state that is set for a maximum of a specified time (e.g., 31 seconds) when the power is turned on with the RAM clear button pressed. Multiple termination conditions are set for the administrator screen displayable state, and the administrator screen displayable state ends when any of the termination conditions is met.

Specifically, the administrator screen displayable state is terminated under two conditions: (1) a predetermined time (e.g., 31 seconds) has passed since the power was turned on with the RAM clear button pressed, and (2) a predetermined main command other than a specific main command has been received. In other words, the administrator screen displayable state will end when a predetermined time (e.g., 31 seconds) has passed since the power was turned on with the RAM clear button pressed.

The term "main command" refers to the commands sent from the main control board 300 to the sub-control board 330. Main commands include commands sent as the game progresses. Specifically, main commands are commands sent when a special game or normal game begins, and include a winning designation command sent when a game ball enters the first start port 120 or the second start port 122, a look-ahead designation command, a change command sent when a change begins, and a normal pattern designation command sent when a normal pattern begins to change. Main commands also include a touch sensor detection generation designation command sent when a certain amount of time (100 ms) has passed since the player went from a non-contact state in which they are not gripping the operating handle 112 to a contact state in which they are gripping the operating handle 112.

Main commands also include error commands sent based on the detection of various errors on the main control board 300, customer waiting designation commands sent when the counter value of the special symbol 2 reserved ball counter and the counter value of the special symbol 1 reserved ball counter are "0", and index commands sent based on the input of an origin position detection signal from the index sensor 480c.

As described above, the effect button detection switch 208s, which detects when the effect button 208 is pressed, the cross key detection switch 209s, which detects when the cross key 209 is pressed, the light intensity adjustment switch 210s, which detects when the light intensity adjustment button 210 is pressed, and the volume adjustment switch 212s, which detects when the volume adjustment button 212 is pressed, are connected to the sub-control board 330. Therefore, no main command is sent based on the operation of the effect button 208, the cross key 209, the light intensity adjustment button 210, or the volume adjustment button 212.

Also, as mentioned above, the ball lending switch 250s, which detects when the ball lending button 250 is pressed, and the return switch 252s, which detects when the return button 252 is pressed, are connected to the payout control board 310. Therefore, no main command is sent based on the operation of the ball lending button 250 and the return button 252.

In this embodiment, the error command, customer waiting command, and index command are set as specific main commands. In other words, if a specific main command other than the error command, customer waiting command, or index command is received before a specific time (e.g., 31 seconds) has elapsed since the power was turned on while the RAM clear button was pressed, the administrator screen display state will end.

As mentioned above, since a main command is not sent based on the operation of the effect button 208, directional pad 209, light intensity adjustment button 210, volume adjustment button 212, ball lending button 250, and return button 252, the administrator screen displayable state will not end based on the operation of the effect button 208, directional pad 209, light intensity adjustment button 210, volume adjustment button 212, ball lending button 250, and return button 252 before a predetermined time (e.g., 31 seconds) has elapsed since the power was turned on with the RAM clear button pressed.

When a player begins playing, a specific main command other than the specific main command described above is sent from the main control board 300 to the sub-control board 330, and the administrator screen display state ends. This makes it possible to prevent anyone other than arcade staff from displaying the administrator screen, which could lead to mischief or fraud.

Furthermore, as described above, in this embodiment, while the gaming machine 100 is operating, an index command is sent from the main control board 300 to the sub-control board 330 once every few seconds. In other words, regardless of whether the player is playing (or has started playing) a game, while the gaming machine 100 is operating, an index command is sent from the main control board 300 to the sub-control board 330 once every few seconds.

As a result, if the administrator screen display state is terminated based on the receipt of this index command, it will be difficult for amusement center staff and others to display the administrator screen.

In addition, if the door open sensor detects that the middle frame 104 or front frame 106 is open, an error command is sent from the main control board 300 to the sub-control board 330. Therefore, if the administrator screen display state ends upon receipt of an error command, it becomes difficult for amusement center staff and others to display the administrator screen.

Furthermore, when the RAM is cleared on the main control board 300, a customer waiting designation command is sent from the main control board 300 to the sub-control board 330 in step S610-5 above. Therefore, if the state in which the administrator screen can be displayed is terminated based on the reception of the customer waiting designation command, it becomes difficult for amusement center staff, etc. to display the administrator screen.

In this embodiment, as described above, by setting the error command, customer waiting command, and index command as specific main commands, it is possible to reduce the risk that arcade staff and others will have difficulty displaying the administrator screen.

Figure 51(b) is a diagram illustrating an example of an administrator screen. As described above, when the RAM clearing screen is displayed, the administrator screen can be displayed, and the effect button 208 is pressed continuously for 5 seconds, the administrator screen shown in Figure 51(b) is displayed on the main effect display unit 200a.

As shown in Figure 51 (b), the administrator screen displays two menu tabs with menu items (Error History Check and Panel LED Check) and an Exit tab. When a selection operation is performed while the administrator screen is displayed, the highlighted menu tab, i.e., the selected menu item, is switched.

When a confirmation operation (pressing the effect button 208) is performed while the administrator screen is displayed, a details screen corresponding to the selected menu item is displayed in the main effect display section 200a. On the other hand, when a confirmation operation is performed while the end tab is selected, the administrator screen is cleared.

When the Confirm button is pressed while "Check board LEDs" is selected on the administrator screen, all LEDs on the game board 108 will light up at 50% brightness for three seconds.

Figure 51 (c) is a diagram illustrating the error history confirmation screen. When the confirm operation is performed while error history confirmation is selected on the administrator screen, the error history confirmation screen shown in Figure 51 (c) is displayed on the main performance display unit 200a.

The error history confirmation screen displays error history information, including the date, time, and type of error when the error occurred. The sub-RAM 330c of the sub-control board 330 stores the past 30 pieces of error history information. If another error occurs after 30 pieces of error history information have been stored, the oldest error history information is erased and new error history information is stored. While the error history confirmation screen is displayed, all error history information stored in the sub-RAM 330c can be viewed by pressing the up or down button on the directional pad 209.

The sub-RAM 330c may store error history information for all errors that have occurred, regardless of the type of error, or, for example, may store only a preset portion of errors. Errors include those detected by the main control board 300, such as door open errors and magnetic errors, and those detected by the sub-control board 330, such as base abnormalities. Here, both errors detected by the main control board 300 and errors detected by the sub-control board 330 may be reported as error history information. However, for example, only errors detected by the main control board 300 or errors detected by the sub-control board 330 may be reported.

As described above, according to this embodiment, an administrator screen for checking error history (machine information) and checking the operation of the effect devices (LEDs provided on the gaming board 108) is displayed on the main effect display unit 200a. This makes it possible to detect fraud or malfunctions of effect devices early on, thereby providing an optimal gaming environment.

The administrator screen has multiple termination conditions set for terminating the display, and when any of the termination conditions is met, the display of the administrator screen is terminated. Specifically, there are three conditions for terminating the administrator screen: (1) a confirm operation is performed with the administrator screen's exit tab selected, (2) the effect button 208 and directional pad 209 are not operated for a predetermined period of time (e.g., three minutes), and (3) a predetermined main command other than a specific main command is received.

As a result, even if the gaming machine 100 is left unattended with the administrator screen displayed, the display of the administrator screen will be terminated if the effect button 208 and directional pad 209 are not operated for a predetermined period of time (e.g., three minutes), thereby reducing the risk of tampering or fraudulent activity with the administrator screen.

In addition, even if the gaming machine 100 is left with the administrator screen displayed, the display of the administrator screen will be terminated upon receiving a predetermined main command other than a specific main command, i.e., upon the player starting play, thereby reducing the risk of tampering or fraudulent activity against the administrator screen.

Furthermore, as described above, because a main command is not sent based on the operation of the light intensity adjustment button 210, volume adjustment button 212, ball lending button 250, or return button 252, the display of the administrator screen will not be terminated based on the operation of the light intensity adjustment button 210, volume adjustment button 212, ball lending button 250, or return button 252 before a predetermined time (e.g., 31 seconds) has elapsed since the power was turned on with the RAM clear button pressed. This makes it possible to prevent the display of the administrator screen from being unintentionally terminated when an amusement facility staff member or the like operates the light intensity adjustment button 210, volume adjustment button 212, ball lending button 250, or return button 252 while the administrator screen is displayed.

Furthermore, according to the above embodiment, even if a specific main command has not been received since the RAM was cleared on the main control board 300, once a specific time (e.g., 31 seconds) has passed since the RAM was cleared on the main control board 300, the conditions for terminating the administrator screen displayable state will be met, and the administrator screen displayable state will end. In this case, once a specific time (e.g., 31 seconds) has passed since the RAM was cleared on the main control board 300, it will no longer be possible to display a new administrator screen.

On the other hand, if the player has not started playing, the specified main command will not be sent, and therefore, if the administrator screen is already displayed, the condition for terminating the administrator screen will not be met even if a specified time (e.g., 31 seconds) has passed since the RAM was cleared on the main control board 300, and the administrator screen can remain displayed. However, even if the administrator screen is already displayed, if the administrator screen display is terminated after a specified time (e.g., 31 seconds) has passed since the RAM was cleared on the main control board 300, it will be impossible to display (re-display) the administrator screen anew, even if the specified main command has not been received.

Furthermore, if a specified main command is received while the administrator screen is being displayed, the conditions for terminating the administrator screen are met, and the display of the administrator screen is terminated. Furthermore, regardless of whether the administrator screen is being displayed or not, if a specified main command is received, the conditions for terminating the administrator screen displayable state are met, and the administrator screen displayable state is terminated even before a specified time (e.g., 31 seconds) has elapsed since the RAM was cleared on the main control board 300, making it impossible to display (re-display) the administrator screen.

In the above embodiment, the specified main command that satisfies the condition for terminating the administrator screen displayable state and the specified main command that satisfies the condition for terminating the administrator screen are the same type. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the specified main command that satisfies the condition for terminating the administrator screen displayable state and the specified main command that satisfies the condition for terminating the administrator screen may include at least some of different types of main commands. For example, a first main command may be set as the specified main command that satisfies the condition for terminating the administrator screen displayable state, and a second main command different from the first main command may be set as the specified main command that satisfies the condition for terminating the administrator screen. Also, for example, a first main command may be set as the specified main command that satisfies the condition for terminating the administrator screen, and the first main command and a second main command different from the first main command may be set as the specified main commands that satisfies the condition for terminating the administrator screen. Furthermore, for example, a first main command and a second main command different from the first main command may be set as the predetermined main command that satisfies the condition for terminating the administrator screen displayable state, and the first main command may be set as the predetermined main command that satisfies the condition for terminating the administrator screen.

The following describes the control processing of the effects on the sub-control board 330. Note that this section mainly describes the processing related to the display of the administrator screen, and omits explanations of processing unrelated to the administrator screen display.

(Sub-CPU initialization process of the sub-control board 330)
FIG. 52 is a flowchart illustrating the sub-CPU initialization process (S1000) of the sub-control board 330.

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

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

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

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

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

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

(Step S1200)
The sub-CPU 330a analyzes the command received from the main control board 300 and performs command reception processing according to the received command. This command reception processing will be described in detail later.

(Step S1300)
The sub-CPU 330a performs RAM clearing screen management processing to manage the display of the RAM clearing screen (FIG. 51(a)). This RAM clearing screen management processing will be described later.

(Step S1400)
The sub-CPU 330a performs an administrator screen management process to manage the display of the administrator screen (FIG. 51(b)). This administrator screen management process will be described later.

(Step S1100-7)
The sub-CPU 330a restores the register and ends the sub-timer interrupt process.

Figure 54 is a flowchart explaining the command reception processing on the sub-control board 330.

(Step S1210-1)
The sub-CPU 330a determines whether a main command has been received. If it is determined that a main command has been received, the process proceeds to step S1210-3, and if it is determined that a main command has not been received, the command reception process ends.

(Step S1210-3)
The sub-CPU 330a determines whether a RAM clear command has been received. The RAM clear command is transmitted when a predetermined area of the main RAM 300c is initialized after the power is turned on with the RAM clear switch 182s pressed. If it is determined that a RAM clear command has been received, the process proceeds to step S1210-5. If it is determined that a RAM clear command has not been received, the process proceeds to step S1210-13.

(Step S1210-5)
The sub-CPU 330a displays a RAM clearing screen on the main performance display unit 200a.

(Step S1210-7)
The sub-CPU 330a sets a RAM clearing screen display timer that measures the display time of the RAM clearing screen.

(Step S1210-9)
The sub-CPU 330a turns on an administrator screen displayable state flag indicating an administrator screen displayable state.

(Step S1210-11)
The sub-CPU 330a sets an administrator screen displayable state timer that measures the administrator screen displayable state, and ends the command reception process.

(Step S1210-13)
The sub-CPU 330a determines whether a customer waiting command has been received. If it is determined that a customer waiting command has been received, the process proceeds to step S1210-15. If it is determined that a customer waiting command has not been received, the process proceeds to step S1210-17.

(Step S1210-15)
The sub-CPU 330a executes a predetermined process upon reception of the customer waiting designation command based on the reception of the customer waiting designation command. In the process upon reception of the customer waiting designation command, the sub-CPU 330a manages the display of a predetermined customer waiting screen.

(Step S1210-17)
The sub-CPU 330a determines whether an error command has been received. In the main control board 300, the error management process (step S400-15) determines whether various errors have occurred, such as a dispensing error, a door open error, a tray full error, and a magnetic detection error. An error command is provided for each type of error, and an error command corresponding to an error determined to have occurred in the main control board 300 is sent to the sub-control board 330. If it is determined that an error command has been received, the process proceeds to step S1210-19. If it is determined that an error command has not been received, the process proceeds to step S1210-21.

(Step S1210-19)
The sub-CPU 330a executes a predetermined error command reception process based on the receipt of the error command. In the error command reception process, the sub-CPU 330a stores, for example, the date and time when the error command was received and the error type corresponding to the received error command as error history information in the sub-RAM 330c. The sub-CPU 330a also executes an error notification corresponding to the received error command.

(Step S1210-21)
The sub-CPU 330a determines whether an index command has been received. If it is determined that an index command has been received, the process proceeds to step S1210-23. If it is determined that an index command has not been received, the process proceeds to step S1220.

(Step S1210-23)
The sub-CPU 330a executes a predetermined index command reception process based on the received index command. In the index command reception process, the sub-CPU 330a executes various effects based on the received index command.

(Step S1210-25)
The sub-CPU 330a executes an administrator screen displayable state management process, which will be described in detail later.

Figure 55 is a flowchart explaining the administrator screen display status management process on the sub-control board 330.

(Step S1220-1)
The sub-CPU 330a determines whether the administrator screen displayable state flag is on. If it is determined that the administrator screen displayable state flag is on, the process proceeds to step S1220-3. If it is determined that the administrator screen displayable state flag is off, the process proceeds to step S1220-7.

(Step S1220-3)
The sub-CPU 330a turns off the administrator screen displayable state flag, which ends the administrator screen displayable state when a predetermined main command other than the specific main commands (error command, customer waiting command, and index command) is received.

(Step S1220-5)
The sub-CPU 330a clears the administrator screen displayable state timer.

(Step S1220-7)
The sub-CPU 330a determines whether the administrator screen is being displayed on the main effect display unit 200a. If it is determined that the administrator screen is being displayed, the process proceeds to step S1220-9. If it is determined that the administrator screen is not being displayed, the process ends.

(Step S1220-9)
The sub-CPU 330a terminates the display of the administrator screen on the main effect display unit 200a. As a result, if a predetermined main command other than a specific main command (an error command, a customer waiting command, or an index command) is received while the administrator screen is being displayed, the display of the administrator screen will terminate.

Figure 56 is a flowchart explaining the screen management process during RAM clearing on the sub-control board 330.

(Step S1300-1)
The sub-CPU 330a determines whether the timer value of the RAM clearing screen display timer is greater than 0. If it is determined that the timer value of the RAM clearing screen display timer is greater than 0, the process proceeds to step S1300-3, and if it is determined that the timer value of the RAM clearing screen display timer is not greater than 0, the RAM clearing screen management process is terminated.

(Step S1300-3)
The sub-CPU 330a decrements the timer value of the screen display timer while the RAM is being cleared.

(Step S1300-5)
The sub-CPU 330a determines whether the timer value of the RAM clearing screen display timer decremented in step S1300-3 is 0. If it is determined that the timer value of the RAM clearing screen display timer is 0, it proceeds to step S1300-7, and if it is determined that the timer value of the RAM clearing screen display timer is not 0, it terminates the RAM clearing screen management process.

(Step S1300-7)
The sub-CPU 330a ends the display of the RAM clearing screen on the main effect display unit 200a. As a result, the display of the RAM clearing screen ends based on the fact that a predetermined time (e.g., 31 seconds) has elapsed since the RAM was cleared on the main control board 300.

Figure 57 is a flowchart explaining the administrator screen management process on the sub-control board 330.

(Step S1400-1)
The sub-CPU 330a determines whether the timer value of the administrator screen displayable state timer is greater than 0. If it is determined that the timer value of the administrator screen displayable state timer is greater than 0, the process proceeds to step S1400-3, and if it is determined that the timer value of the administrator screen displayable state timer is not greater than 0, the process proceeds to step S1400-9.

(Step S1400-3)
The sub-CPU 330a decrements the timer value of the administrator screen displayable state timer.

(Step S1400-5)
The sub-CPU 330a determines whether the timer value of the administrator screen displayable state timer decremented in step S1400-3 is 0. If it is determined that the timer value of the administrator screen displayable state timer is 0, the process proceeds to step S1400-7, and if it is determined that the timer value of the administrator screen displayable state timer is not 0, the process proceeds to step S1400-9.

(Step S1400-7)
The sub-CPU 330a turns off the administrator screen displayable state flag, which ends the administrator screen displayable state when a predetermined time (e.g., 31 seconds) has elapsed since the RAM was cleared in the main control board 300.

(Step S1400-9)
The sub-CPU 330a determines whether the RAM clearing screen is currently being displayed on the main effect display unit 200a. If it is determined that the RAM clearing screen is currently being displayed, the process proceeds to step S1400-11. If it is determined that the RAM clearing screen is not currently being displayed, the process proceeds to step S1410.

(Step S1400-11)
The sub-CPU 330a determines whether the administrator screen displayable state flag is on. If it is determined that the administrator screen displayable state flag is on, the process proceeds to step S1400-13. If it is determined that the administrator screen displayable state flag is off, the process proceeds to step S1410.

(Step S1400-13)
The sub-CPU 330a determines whether the effect button 208 has been pressed (long pressed) for a predetermined time (for example, 5 seconds). If it is determined that the effect button 208 has been pressed, the process proceeds to step S1400-15. If it is determined that the effect button 208 has not been pressed, the process proceeds to step S1410.

(Step S1400-15)
The sub-CPU 330a displays the administrator screen on the main effect display unit 200a. As a result, when the RAM clearing screen is displayed and multiple preset display conditions ((1) the RAM clearing screen is being displayed, (2) the administrator screen can be displayed, and (3) the effect button 208 is pressed continuously for 5 seconds) are all met, the administrator screen is displayed.

(Step S1410)
The sub-CPU 330a executes an administrator screen display process, which will be described in detail later.

Figure 58 is a flowchart explaining the processing performed while the administrator screen is displayed on the sub-control board 330.

(Step S1410-1)
The sub-CPU 330a determines whether the administrator screen is being displayed on the main effect display unit 200a. If it is determined that the administrator screen is being displayed, the process proceeds to step S1410-3. If it is determined that the administrator screen is not being displayed, the process for displaying the administrator screen is terminated.

(Step S1410-3)
The sub-CPU 330a determines whether a selection operation has been input. If it is determined that a selection operation has been input, the process proceeds to step S1410-5. If it is determined that a selection operation has not been input, the process proceeds to step S1410-7.

(Step S1410-5)
The sub-CPU 330a switches the selected tab among the tabs displayed on the administrator screen.

(Step S1410-7)
The sub-CPU 330a determines whether a decision operation has been input. If it is determined that a decision operation has been input, the process proceeds to step S1410-9. If it is determined that a decision operation has not been input, the process proceeds to step S1410-13.

(Step S1410-9)
The sub-CPU 330a determines whether the selected item is "End." If it is determined that "End" is selected, the process proceeds to step S1410-19. If it is determined that "End" is not selected, the process proceeds to step S1410-11.

(Step S1410-11)
The sub-CPU 330a displays a details screen corresponding to the selected tab.

(Step S1410-13)
The sub-CPU 330a determines whether the effect button 208 and the cross key 209 are both unoperated. If it is determined that neither is unoperated, the process proceeds to step S1410-15, and if it is determined that neither is unoperated, the process during the administrator screen display is terminated.

(Step S1410-15)
The sub-CPU 330a updates the no-operation time.

(Step S1410-17)
The sub-CPU 330a determines whether the no-operation time updated in step S1410-15 has exceeded a predetermined time (e.g., 3 minutes). If it is determined that the predetermined time has passed, the sub-CPU 330a proceeds to step S1410-19. If it is determined that the predetermined time has not passed, the sub-CPU 330a ends the administrator screen display process.

(Step S1410-19)
The sub-CPU 330a ends the display of the administrator screen and ends the administrator screen display process. As a result, the display of the administrator screen ends when a confirm operation is performed with the end tab of the administrator screen selected, or when the effect button 208 and the cross key 209 are not operated for a predetermined period of time (for example, 3 minutes).

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

In the above embodiment, an example of when the present invention is applied to a type 2 gaming machine is described, but the gaming characteristics of gaming machines to which the present invention can be applied are not limited to this. For example, it goes without saying that the present invention can also be applied to type 1 gaming machines and type 1/type 2 mixed machines. In the present invention, it is sufficient that an effect is executed when a gaming ball enters a specified area, and the specified area is not specifically limited.

In any case, the present invention only requires that it comprises a main control unit (in the above embodiment, as an example, the main control board 300) that controls the progress of the game, and a sub-control unit (in the above embodiment, as an example, the sub-control board 330) that controls the presentation based on commands sent from the main control unit. The sub-control unit (in the above embodiment, as an example, the sub-control board 330) includes: predetermined state setting means (in the above embodiment, as an example, the sub-CPU 330a that executes the processing of step S1210) that sets a predetermined state (in the above embodiment, as an example, an administrator screen displayable state) in which a predetermined screen (in the above embodiment, as an example, the administrator screen) on which model information can be referenced can be displayed during a predetermined period after power-on; predetermined screen display means (in the above embodiment, as an example, the sub-CPU 330a that executes the processing of step S1400) that displays the predetermined screen when a preset display condition is met during the predetermined state; and predetermined state release means (in the above embodiment, as an example, the sub-CPU 330a that executes the processing of steps S1220, S1400, and S1410) that releases the predetermined state when a release condition is met during the predetermined state, including receiving a predetermined command from the main control unit.
It is sufficient to have the following.

Furthermore, the predetermined state release means may not need to release the predetermined state if, during the predetermined state, it receives a specific command from the main control unit that is not included in the predetermined commands (in the above embodiment, examples include an error command, a customer waiting command, and an index command).

The device may also include a first operation unit (in the above embodiment, for example, return button 252) that accepts an operation to return a storage medium that stores value information necessary for lending game value, a second operation unit (in the above embodiment, for example, button 250) that accepts an operation to lend game value, and a third operation unit (in the above embodiment, for example, volume adjustment button 212) that accepts an operation to change the volume output from the sound output unit. The predetermined state release means may not release the predetermined state based on at least one of the operations of the first operation unit, the second operation unit, and the third operation unit during the predetermined state.

In addition, while the above embodiment illustrates a case in which an index command is transmitted based on an origin position detection signal being input from each index sensor 480c, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, an index command may be transmitted based on a detection signal for a predetermined position being input from each index sensor 480c. Alternatively, an index command may be transmitted based on each index sensor 480c detecting a predetermined position a predetermined number of times (multiple times).

100 Gaming machine 212 Volume adjustment button (third operation unit)
250 Ball loan button (second operation part)
252 Return button (first operation unit)
300 Main control board (main control unit)
300a main CPU
300b main ROM
300c main RAM
330 Sub-control board (sub-controller)
330a Sub CPU
330b Sub ROM
330c Sub RAM

Claims (1)

A main control unit that controls the progress of the game;
A sub-controller that controls the performance based on commands sent from the main controller;
A performance operation unit capable of inputting operations;
Equipped with
The sub-control unit
a predetermined state setting means for setting a predetermined state in which a predetermined screen on which model information can be referred to can be displayed for a predetermined period after power-on;
a predetermined screen management means for displaying the predetermined screen when a display condition including an operation on the performance operation unit is satisfied during the predetermined state;
a predetermined state canceling means for canceling the predetermined state when a canceling condition is met, including receiving a predetermined command from the main control unit, during the predetermined state;
Equipped with
The predetermined screen management means
When the termination condition is met, the display of the predetermined screen is terminated;
When the release condition is met but the termination condition is not met, the gaming machine continues to display the predetermined screen .