JP7795801B2 - gaming machines - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an amusement machine.

Conventionally, some pachinko gaming machines, a type of gaming machine, diversify their presentation by controlling the machine to one of several presentation modes. Furthermore, some such gaming machines are capable of controlling the machine to transition to a specific presentation mode after a specific number of variable games have been played since the machine was controlled to that mode. When transitioning presentation modes, such gaming machines may execute a mode transition effect to indicate that the presentation mode is being transitioned.

For example, the gaming machine of Patent Document 1 may transition to a special mode or an additional mode on the condition that 100 variable games have been played since control was placed in the first special mode. Furthermore, the gaming machine of Patent Document 1 indicates that the transition to the presentation mode occurs by executing a continuation/non-continuation presentation during the 100th variable game played since control was placed in the first special mode.

JP 2019-5439 A

However, in order to increase player interest in such gaming machines, there is still room for further improvement in the mode transition presentation that indicates a transition in presentation modes.

A gaming machine that solves the above problem is a gaming machine that can execute a variable game based on the result of a winning lottery, and is equipped with a performance execution means that executes a performance, a performance control means that controls the performance execution means, and a mode control means that controls to select one of a plurality of performance modes, and in the variable game, after provisional result information showing the result of the winning lottery is displayed, final result information that definitively notifies the result of the winning lottery is displayed, and the performance modes include a first performance mode and a second performance mode, and the mode control means is capable of controlling to transition from the first performance mode to the second performance mode on the condition that the variable game has been executed a specific number of times after control to the first performance mode, and the performance control means is configured to control the transition from the first performance mode to the second performance mode when the performance mode is the first performance mode. The gist of the invention is that, when the game mode is transitioned from the first presentation mode to the second presentation mode, it is possible to control the execution of a mode transition effect indicating that the presentation mode is transitioning, and the mode transition effect is executed after the provisional result information has been displayed in the specific number of times of the variable game since control to the first presentation mode and before the final result information is displayed, and the presentation time of the mode transition effect is longer than the time during which the game is controlled to the second presentation mode in the specific number of times of the variable game, and if the specific number of times of the variable game since control to the first presentation mode does not result in a win, the game will not be controlled to the first presentation mode after the specific number of times of the variable game has been executed since control to the first presentation mode .

This invention can increase the interest of players.

FIG. 1 is a front view showing a pachinko gaming machine. FIG. 2 is a front view showing the game board. FIG. 3(a) is an explanatory diagram showing the types of big winning symbols, and FIG. 3(b) is an explanatory diagram showing the types of special winning symbols. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of a pachinko gaming machine. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing the transition of the gaming state. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing the types of presentation modes. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing the transition of the presentation mode. 8(a) to 8(f) are explanatory diagrams showing the presentation of the second variable game after the time-shortening state is entered. FIG. 9 is a timing chart showing a specific example of the flow of control when a mode transition effect is executed.

An embodiment of a pachinko gaming machine will be described below. In the following description, up, down, left, right, front (front), and back (back) indicate the respective directions as seen by a player.
As shown in FIG. 1 , a pachinko gaming machine 10 as a gaming machine includes a launch handle HD that is operated by a player to launch a gaming ball. The pachinko gaming machine 10 also includes a speaker SP that outputs audio. The speaker SP can output audio, such as music and sound effects, to provide various notifications (hereinafter referred to as audio notifications) and various effects (hereinafter referred to as audio effects). The pachinko gaming machine 10 also includes a decorative lamp LA having an illuminant (not shown). The decorative lamp LA can provide various notifications (hereinafter referred to as light-emitting notifications) and various effects (hereinafter referred to as light-emitting effects) by turning on, blinking, and extinguishing the illuminant. The pachinko gaming machine 10 also includes an effect button D1 and a cross key D2 as examples of operating means capable of performing predetermined operations. The effect button D1 and the cross key D2 will be described in detail below.

The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a gaming board YB. A gaming area YBa is formed on the front side of the gaming board YB, into which gaming balls can flow. In this embodiment, gaming balls launched by operating the launch handle HD reach the gaming area YBa. The gaming board YB includes an opening window YBb in approximately the center when viewed from the front. A center frame W with various designs is attached to the opening window YBb.

As shown in FIG. 2, the pachinko gaming machine 10 is equipped with an effect display device 12 having an image display unit GH capable of displaying images. The effect display device 12 is attached to the gaming board YB so that, when viewed from the front, the image display unit GH is visible through the opening window YBb (center frame W) of the gaming board YB. For example, the image display unit GH is a liquid crystal panel or an organic EL panel. The effect display device 12 can execute various notifications (hereinafter referred to as display notifications) and various effects (hereinafter referred to as display effects) by displaying various images. In this embodiment, the effect display device 12 corresponds to effect execution means that executes effects.

The pachinko gaming machine 10 is provided with an information display device 13 that can display predetermined information. The information display device 13 is provided in a position on the gaming board YB that is visible to the player.
The information display device 13 includes a first special symbol display unit 13a. The first special symbol display unit 13a is capable of executing a first special symbol variation game in which predetermined symbols are displayed in a variable manner and the first special symbol is finally displayed as a fixed, stopped symbol. The information display device 13 includes a second special symbol display unit 13b. The second special symbol display unit 13b is capable of executing a second special symbol variation game in which predetermined symbols are displayed in a variable manner and the second special symbol is finally displayed as a fixed, stopped symbol. The first special symbol and the second special symbol are symbols for announcing the results of a special winning lottery, which will be described later.

In the following explanation, the special winning lottery for the first special symbol will be abbreviated as the "first special winning lottery," and the special winning lottery for the second special symbol will be abbreviated as the "second special winning lottery." Furthermore, the first special symbol changing game will be abbreviated as the "first special game," and the second special symbol changing game will be abbreviated as the "second special game." Furthermore, the first special game and the second special game will be collectively referred to as "special games." In this specification, "changing display" refers to a state in which the type of displayed symbol changes over time. In this specification, "determined stop display" refers to a state in which the symbol is definitively displayed as stopped, and the type of displayed symbol does not change. With respect to symbols, "determined stop display" and "derivation" have the same meaning.

The special symbols that can be derived in the first special symbol display unit 13a and the second special symbol display unit 13b include special winning symbols as a special winning result, jackpot symbols as a jackpot result, and losing symbols as a losing result. In this embodiment, the first special game and the second special game are not executed simultaneously. In this embodiment, if a special winning is won in the special winning lottery, a special winning symbol is derived in the special game, and a special winning game is triggered after the special game ends. Special winning game will be described in more detail below. Furthermore, if a jackpot is won in the special winning lottery, a jackpot symbol is derived in the special game, and a jackpot game is triggered after the special game ends. In the following description, a jackpot won in the special winning lottery may be referred to as a "pattern winning," and a jackpot game triggered when a jackpot is won in the special winning lottery may be referred to as a "pattern winning jackpot game." The jackpot game will be described in more detail below. On the other hand, if neither a special jackpot nor a jackpot is won in the special jackpot lottery, a losing symbol is displayed in the special game. That is, in this embodiment, the first special symbol display unit 13a and the second special symbol display unit 13b can execute a special game in which the special symbol is varied and stopped based on the results of the special jackpot lottery.

The information display device 13 includes a first special hold display unit 13c. The first special hold display unit 13c displays information that can identify the number of first special games whose execution has been put on hold because the hold conditions have been met but the execution conditions have not yet been met. In the following description, the number of first special games that have been put on hold is referred to as the "first special hold number." In this embodiment, the maximum value of the first special hold number is "4." The information display device 13 includes a second special hold display unit 13d. The second special hold display unit 13d displays information that can identify the number of second special games whose execution has been put on hold because the hold conditions have been met but the execution conditions have not yet been met. In the following description, the number of second special games that have been put on hold is referred to as the "second special hold number." In this embodiment, the maximum value of the second special hold number is "1."

The information display device 13 is equipped with a normal symbol display unit 13e. The normal symbol display unit 13e is capable of executing a normal symbol variation game in which predetermined symbols are displayed in a variable manner and a fixed normal symbol is ultimately displayed. The normal symbol is a symbol used to notify the result of a normal lottery, which will be described later. In the following explanation, the normal symbol variation game will be abbreviated to "normal game." The normal symbols that can be output to the normal symbol display unit 13e include normal winning symbols and normal losing symbols. In this embodiment, if a normal winning symbol is won in the normal lottery, a normal winning symbol is output in the normal game, and a normal winning game is initiated after the normal game ends.

The information display device 13 has a regular hold display unit 13f. The regular hold display unit 13f displays information that identifies the number of regular games whose execution has been put on hold because the hold conditions have been met but the execution conditions have not yet been met. In the following explanation, the number of held regular games will be referred to as the "regular hold number." In this embodiment, the maximum value of the regular hold number is "1." Note that each display unit in the information display device 13 does not need to be provided on a single display device, and may be provided in different parts. The information display device 13 may also have a right-hit display unit that displays information instructing a so-called "right hit," and a round display unit that notifies the maximum number of rounds of play, which will be described later.

The game board YB is formed with multiple winning holes through which game balls can enter. The multiple winning holes open into the game area YBa. The multiple winning holes include a first start winning hole 14, a second start winning hole 15, a first large winning hole 18, and a second large winning hole 21. The multiple winning holes may also include winning holes different from these winning holes.

The first start winning opening 14 is a winning opening through which game balls enter to fulfill the conditions for awarding prize balls and the conditions for holding the first special game. As an example, the first start winning opening 14 is located below the effect display device 12. The first start winning opening 14 is always open so that game balls can enter. The pachinko gaming machine 10 is equipped with a first start winning sensor SE1 that detects game balls that enter the first start winning opening 14 (see Figure 4). In this embodiment, when a game ball is detected by the first start winning sensor SE1, the conditions for holding the first special game may be fulfilled and the conditions for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls are fulfilled.

The second start winning opening 15 is a winning opening through which game balls enter to fulfill the conditions for awarding prize balls and the conditions for holding the second special game. As an example, the second start winning opening 15 is located to the right of the effect display device 12. The pachinko gaming machine 10 is equipped with a second start winning sensor SE2 that detects game balls that enter the second start winning opening 15 (see Figure 4). In this embodiment, when a game ball is detected by the second start winning sensor SE2, the conditions for holding the second special game may be fulfilled and the conditions for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls are fulfilled.

The pachinko gaming machine 10 is equipped with a normal movable piece 16 that can be in a first operating state in which gaming balls cannot enter the second start winning opening 15, and a second operating state in which gaming balls can enter the second start winning opening 15. The normal movable piece 16 is always in the first operating state, and operates in the second operating state when a normal winning game is triggered. In other words, when a normal winning game is triggered, the second start winning opening 15 becomes capable of receiving gaming balls. The gaming board YB is equipped with a first solenoid SL1 as a means for operating the normal movable piece 16 (see Figure 4).

The first large prize opening 18 is an opening through which game balls enter to fulfill the conditions for awarding prize balls. As an example, the first large prize opening 18 is located below the second start prize opening 15. The pachinko gaming machine 10 is equipped with a first count sensor SE3 that detects game balls that enter the first large prize opening 18 (see Figure 4). Specifically, in this embodiment, when a game ball is detected by the first count sensor SE3, the conditions for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls are fulfilled.

The pachinko gaming machine 10 is equipped with a first special opening/closing piece 19 that can be in an open state, opening the first large prize opening 18 to allow game balls to enter, or a closed state, closing the first large prize opening 18 to prevent game balls from entering. For example, the first special opening/closing piece 19 may be a door-like member that opens and closes the first large prize opening 18. The first special opening/closing piece 19 is normally in a closed state and operates to an open state when a special win game is triggered. In other words, when a special win game is triggered, the first large prize opening 18 is opened to allow game balls to enter. The gaming board YB is equipped with a second solenoid SL2 as a means for operating the first special opening/closing piece 19 (see Figure 4).

A passage 26 is provided at the back of the first large prize opening 18, through which gaming balls that enter the first large prize opening 18 can pass. The passage 26 branches into a first passage 26a and a second passage 26b at a branching point 27 downstream of the first large prize opening 18.

A distribution shutter 28 is provided in the branching section 27. The distribution shutter 28 distributes game balls that have entered the first large winning opening 18 to either the first passage 26a or the second passage 26b in response to the activation of the fourth solenoid SL4 (see Figure 4). The distribution shutter 28 operates to be in either a first distribution state in which game balls that have entered the first large winning opening 18 are distributed to the first passage 26a, or a second distribution state in which game balls that have entered the first large winning opening 18 are distributed to the second passage 26b. The distribution shutter 28 operates in a predetermined operating pattern when predetermined operating conditions are met.

The pachinko gaming machine 10 is equipped with a specific passage sensor SE5 that detects gaming balls that enter the first large prize opening 18 and pass through a specific area within the first passage 26a (see Figure 4). This specific area is the so-called V area. As will be described in more detail below, in this embodiment, when the first large prize opening 18 is opened during a special winning game, a jackpot is triggered when the gaming ball that entered the first large prize opening 18 passes through the specific area within the first passage 26a and is detected by the specific passage sensor SE5, resulting in a jackpot, and a jackpot game is initiated. In this embodiment, the allocation of a gaming ball that entered the first large prize opening 18 to either the first passage 26a or the second passage 26b can also be understood as a winning lottery for a bonus item. In this case, the allocation of a gaming ball that entered the first large prize opening 18 to the first passage 26a corresponds to winning a jackpot in the winning lottery for a bonus item. In the following description, a jackpot won in a prize draw may be referred to as a "prize win," and a jackpot game that occurs when a prize win is won in a prize draw may be referred to as a "prize win-based jackpot game." In other words, the pachinko gaming machine 10 in this embodiment is a gaming machine that can generate jackpot games based on symbol wins and jackpot games based on prize wins (a so-called "type 1/type 2 hybrid machine").

The second large prize opening 21 is an opening through which game balls enter in order to fulfill the conditions for awarding prize balls. As an example, the second large prize opening 21 is located below the first large prize opening 18. The pachinko gaming machine 10 is equipped with a second count sensor SE4 that detects game balls that enter the second large prize opening 21 (see Figure 4). Specifically, in this embodiment, when a game ball is detected by the second count sensor SE4, the conditions for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls are fulfilled.

The pachinko gaming machine 10 is equipped with a second special opening/closing piece 22 that can be in an open state in which the second large prize opening 21 is open to allow game balls to enter, and a closed state in which the second large prize opening 21 is closed to prevent game balls from entering. For example, the second special opening/closing piece 22 may be a door-like member that opens and closes the second large prize opening 21. The second special opening/closing piece 22 is normally in a closed state and operates to an open state when a jackpot game occurs. In other words, when a jackpot game occurs, the second large prize opening 21 is opened to allow game balls to enter. The gaming board YB is equipped with a third solenoid SL3 as a means for operating the second special opening/closing piece 22 (see Figure 4). In this embodiment, during a jackpot game, the second large prize opening 21 is opened, and the condition for awarding a prize ball is met when a game ball that enters the second large prize opening 21 is detected by the second count sensor SE4. In other words, in this embodiment, during a jackpot game, it is possible to win a game ball as a prize ball.

The gaming board YB is equipped with a gate 23. As an example, the gate 23 is located above the second start winning hole 15. The gate 23 is formed with a gate opening 23a. The gate opening 23a is always open so that gaming balls can enter. The pachinko gaming machine 10 is equipped with a gate sensor SE6 that detects gaming balls that have entered the gate opening 23a (see Figure 4). The gate opening 23a is an opening through which gaming balls can enter in order to fulfill the conditions for starting the normal game. Even if a gaming ball enters the gate opening 23a, the conditions for awarding prize balls are not fulfilled.

Next, the path along which the gaming ball flows down in this embodiment will be described.
The pachinko gaming machine 10 configured as described above has multiple paths through which gaming balls flow in the gaming area YBa, depending on the launch strength of the gaming balls. The paths through which gaming balls flow can also be understood as areas through which gaming balls flow. The multiple paths include a first path R1 that flows down the left side of the center frame W (the effect display device 12) and a second path R2 that flows down the right side of the center frame W (the effect display device 12). The first path R1 and the second path R2 may overlap partially or not entirely. In the following description, when the gaming board YB is viewed from the front, the area located to the left of the center line CL that bisects the gaming area YBa into left and right halves is referred to as the left side region R1a, and the area located to the right of the center line CL is referred to as the right side region R2a. That is, in this embodiment, the path that flows down through the left region R1a is the first path R1, and the path that flows down through the right region R2a is the second path R2.

By operating the launch handle HD to adjust the launch strength of the game ball, the player can hit the game ball into either the left area R1a or the right area R2a. The first start winning opening 14 is open on the first path R1 (left area R1a). Therefore, if the game ball is launched with the launch strength adjusted to a low level, the game ball will likely flow down the left area R1a and may enter the first start winning opening 14. On the second path R2 (right area R2a), the gate opening 23a, the second start winning opening 15, the first large winning opening 18, and the second large winning opening 21 are open, in order from upstream. Therefore, if the game ball is launched with the launch strength adjusted to a high level, the game ball will likely flow down the right area R2a and may enter the second start winning opening 15, the first large winning opening 18, the second large winning opening 21, or the gate opening 23a.

In the following explanation, firing a gaming ball toward the left region R1a with a launch strength that makes it easier for the gaming ball to flow down the first path R1 may be referred to as a "left hit." Also, firing a gaming ball with a launch strength that makes it easier for the gaming ball to flow down the second path R2 may be referred to as a "right hit."

Next, the gaming state of the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described.
The pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment includes a non-time-shortening state and a time-shortening state as multiple gaming states with different degrees of advantage for the player. In this embodiment, the non-time-shortening state and the time-shortening state are gaming states in which the average fluctuation time of the special game is different. Specifically, the time-shortening state of this embodiment is a state in which the average fluctuation time of the special game is shorter than that of the non-time-shortening state. Also, in this embodiment, the non-time-shortening state and the time-shortening state are gaming states in which the probability of the gaming ball entering the second start winning slot 15 is different. Specifically, the time-shortening state of this embodiment is a state in which the probability of the gaming ball entering the second start winning slot 15 is higher than that of the non-time-shortening state. In other words, in this embodiment, the time-shortening state is a ball-entry rate improvement state in which the rate of the gaming ball entering the second start winning slot 15 is improved compared to that of the non-time-shortening state.

For example, the rate at which game balls enter the second start winning slot 15 can be improved by performing one of the three controls described below, selected arbitrarily, or by combining multiple controls. The first control is normal symbol fluctuation time reduction control, which shortens the fluctuation time of the normal game. The second control is normal symbol probability fluctuation control, which increases the probability of winning a normal win in a normal lottery (normal win probability). The third control is operation time extension control, which lengthens the total operation time that the normal movable piece 16 operates in the second operation state during one normal win game. The operation time extension control may be at least one of control that increases the number of times the normal movable piece 16 operates in the second operation state during one normal win game, and control that lengthens the operation time for one operation when the normal movable piece 16 operates in the second operation state during a normal win game.

In particular, in this embodiment, the operating time during which the normal movable piece 16 operates in the second operating state during one normal winning game in the non-time-saving state is short enough that the game ball cannot actually enter the second start winning hole 15. For this reason, in this embodiment, in the non-time-saving state, it is more advantageous for the player to shoot the game ball into the left region R1a than to shoot the game ball into the right region R2a. In other words, the non-time-saving state can be said to be a game state in which left-handed shots are recommended.

On the other hand, in this embodiment, the operating time during which the normal movable piece 16 operates in the second operating state during one normal winning game in the time-saving state is long enough for the game ball to enter the second start winning slot 15. Therefore, in this embodiment, in the time-saving state, it is more advantageous for the player to shoot the game ball into the right-hand region R2a than to shoot the game ball into the left-hand region R1a. In other words, the time-saving state can be said to be a game state in which right-hand hitting is recommended.

Next, the special winning game in the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment will be described.
The special winning game begins after the end of the special game in which the special winning symbol is derived. In the special winning game, a role-play game is played to open the first large winning opening 18. Specifically, in the role-play game, a predetermined effect is first performed for a predetermined opening time. For example, the predetermined effect is an opening effect indicating the start of the role-play game. In the role-play game, an opening game is played to open the first large winning opening 18 after the opening time has elapsed. The opening game ends when a first opening end condition is met, in which a predetermined upper limit number of game balls (in this embodiment, one ball) enters the opening game, or a second opening end condition is met, in which a predetermined upper limit time has elapsed. In the opening game of the role-play game, the first large winning opening 18 is opened to a predetermined opening mode. Specifically, in this embodiment, the first large winning opening 18 is opened at the start of the opening game and closed at the end of the opening game. That is, in this embodiment, the first special opening/closing piece 19 operates to the open state when the open game starts, and operates to the closed state when the open game ends. Also, in this embodiment, a predetermined effect is performed during the open game in the role game. For example, the predetermined effect is an open game effect indicating that the open game is being executed to open the first large winning opening 18. Thereafter, in the role game, a predetermined effect is performed for a predetermined ending time. For example, the predetermined effect is an ending effect indicating the end of the role game.

In the special win game of this embodiment, if the game ball passes through a specific area in the first passage 26a during the reel game, a jackpot game based on the reel game is triggered after the reel game ends. The special win game then ends with the end of the jackpot game based on the reel game. On the other hand, if the game ball does not pass through a specific area in the first passage 26a during the reel game, the special win game ends with the end of the reel game.

Next, we will explain the jackpot game in this embodiment. Note that in the following explanation, when simply referring to a "jackpot game," it is intended to include both a "jackpot game based on a winning symbol" and a "jackpot game based on a winning device."

In a jackpot game, a predetermined effect is first performed for a predetermined opening time. For example, the predetermined effect is an opening effect indicating the start of a jackpot game. In a jackpot game, after the opening time has elapsed, a round game in which the second large prize opening 21 is opened is performed up to a predetermined maximum number of times. A round game ends when a first round end condition is met, in which a predetermined maximum number of game balls (10 in this embodiment) enters the round, or when a second round end condition is met, in which a predetermined maximum time has elapsed. In a round game, the second large prize opening 21 is opened to a predetermined opening state. Specifically, in this embodiment, the second large prize opening 21 is opened at the start of a round game and closed at the end of the round game. That is, in this embodiment, the second special opening/closing piece 22 operates to an open state at the start of a round game and operates to a closed state at the end of the round game. In this embodiment, a predetermined effect is performed during a round game. For example, the predetermined effect is a round effect that indicates that a round of play is being played to open the second large prize opening 21. When the final round of play ends, the predetermined effect is played for a predetermined ending time in the jackpot game. For example, the predetermined effect is an ending effect that indicates the end of the jackpot game. The jackpot game then ends as the ending time passes.

Next, the types of wins (big wins and special wins) in this embodiment will be explained.
As shown in Figure 3(a), the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment has multiple types of jackpot symbols as special jackpot symbols. Each of the multiple types of jackpot symbols is assigned a type of jackpot game. The types of jackpot symbols can also be understood as types of jackpots.

In this embodiment, the special jackpot symbols are classified into three groups, ZA, ZB, and ZC, at a predetermined ratio. Specifically, in this embodiment, of the 100 first special jackpot symbols, 10 are classified as ZA, 40 as ZB, and 50 as ZC. Also, in this embodiment, all 100 second special jackpot symbols are classified as ZA.

In the following explanation, a jackpot based on a jackpot pattern classified as pattern ZA will be referred to as a "jackpot ZA," a jackpot based on a jackpot pattern classified as pattern ZB will be referred to as a "jackpot ZB," and a jackpot based on a jackpot pattern classified as pattern ZC will be referred to as a "jackpot ZC." Also, in the following explanation, the jackpot games based on jackpot ZA, jackpot ZB, and jackpot ZC will be referred to as "jackpot game ZA," "jackpot game ZB," and "jackpot game ZC," respectively.

In this embodiment, the maximum number of rounds for jackpot games ZA is set to 10. Furthermore, the maximum number of rounds for jackpot games ZB and ZC is set to 3. In this embodiment, the maximum time for each round of jackpot games ZA to ZC is set to 25 seconds.

In this embodiment, after the end of a jackpot game based on a winning symbol, the system may be controlled to the time-shortened state. Specifically, after the end of jackpot games ZA and ZB, the system is controlled to the time-shortened state. On the other hand, after the end of jackpot game ZC, the system is controlled to the non-time-shortened state.

Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 3(b), the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment is provided with multiple types of special winning symbols as special winning symbols of special symbols. Each of the multiple types of special winning symbols has a specific type of special winning game. The types of special winning symbols can also be understood as the types of special winnings.

In this embodiment, the special winning symbols of the special symbols are classified into two groups, Symbol Za and Symbol Zb, at a predetermined ratio. Specifically, in this embodiment, of the 100 special winning symbols of the second special symbols, 50 types of special winning symbols are classified as Symbol Za, and 50 types of special winning symbols are classified as Symbol Zb. Note that in this embodiment, the first special symbols do not include special winning symbols. In other words, in this embodiment, special winning symbols are not derived in the first special game.

In the following explanation, a special win based on a special winning symbol classified as symbol Za will be referred to as a "special win Za," and a special win based on a special winning symbol classified as symbol Zb will be referred to as a "special win Zb." Also, in the following explanation, special win games based on special win Za and special win Zb will be referred to as "special win game Za" and "special win game Zb," respectively.

In the special win game of this embodiment, the first special opening/closing piece 19 operates in different operation patterns depending on the type of special win. Specifically, in each of the special win games Za and Zb, the first special opening/closing piece 19 operates in an operation pattern that allows the game ball to enter the first large winning opening 18.

In addition, in the special winning game of this embodiment, the distribution shutter 28 operates in a fixed operating pattern. In this operating pattern, the distribution shutter 28 operates in a first distribution state in which it distributes game balls that have entered the first large winning opening 18 to the first passage 26a, and a second distribution state in which it distributes game balls that have entered the first large winning opening 18 to the second passage 26b.

In this embodiment, a jackpot occurs when a game ball passes through a specific area in the first passage 26a during a special winning game and is detected by the specific passage sensor SE5, and the jackpot game occurs after the game of the special winning game ends. In the following explanation, the "specific condition" refers to the game ball passing through a specific area in the first passage 26a and being detected by the specific passage sensor SE5 during a special winning game.

In this embodiment, in each of the special winning games Za and Zb, the first special opening/closing piece 19 is operated in an operating pattern that allows the gaming ball to enter the first large winning opening 18, and the distribution shutter 28 is operated in an operating pattern that allows the gaming ball that has entered the first large winning opening 18 to pass through the first passage 26a. Therefore, in each of the special winning games Za and Zb, specific conditions can be met to trigger a jackpot game. In particular, in each of the special winning games Za and Zb, if the gaming ball is hit to the right during the special winning game, the first special opening/closing piece 19 and the distribution shutter 28 are operated in an operating pattern that causes the gaming ball to enter the first large winning opening 18 and pass through the first passage 26a with an extremely high probability. In other words, in this embodiment, in each of the special hit games Za and Zb, if the game ball is hit to the right during the special hit game, there is an extremely high probability that the specific conditions will be met and a jackpot game will occur.

In the following explanation, the jackpot games that occur when specific conditions are met in the special jackpot game Za and the special jackpot game Zb will be referred to as the "jackpot game Za" and the "jackpot game Zb," respectively.

In this embodiment, the maximum number of rounds in jackpot game Za is set to 10. That is, in this embodiment, in special win game Za, the large prize opening is opened a total of 11 times, including one opening game in the accessory game and ten rounds in the jackpot game. In jackpot game Zb, the maximum number of rounds is set to 6. That is, in this embodiment, in special win game Zb, the large prize opening is opened a total of seven times, including one opening game in the accessory game and six rounds in the jackpot game.

In this embodiment, the maximum time for each round of jackpot games Za and Zb is set to 25 seconds. Also, in this embodiment, the maximum number of game balls that can be entered in each round of jackpot games Za and Zb is set to 10.

In addition, in this embodiment, after the end of a jackpot game based on a hit of a special feature, the game may be controlled to a time-shortened state. Specifically, after the end of jackpot games Za and Zb, the game is controlled to a time-shortened state.

Next, the termination conditions when the time-saving state ends will be described.
In the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment, the time-saving state may end when a jackpot game is started. In other words, the end condition for ending the time-saving state includes a jackpot end condition that is established when a jackpot game is started.

In the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment, the time-saving state may end when a special game is executed a predetermined maximum number of times after being controlled to the time-saving state. In other words, in this embodiment, the end condition for ending the time-saving state is a count end condition that is met when a special game is executed a predetermined number of times after being controlled to the time-saving state. In this embodiment, the number of times of activation in the count end condition is 100, regardless of the type of jackpot game that has occurred.

In the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment, the time-saving mode may end when the number of times a special winning symbol is drawn in a special game reaches a predetermined upper limit. In other words, the end conditions for ending the time-saving mode include a special win end condition that is met when a special winning symbol is drawn in a special game. In this embodiment, the special winning symbol is drawn in a special game when a special win is won in a special win lottery. Therefore, in this embodiment, the special win end condition can also be understood as a condition that is met when a special win is won in a special win lottery. In this embodiment, the upper limit of the number of wins in the special win end condition is one, regardless of the type of jackpot game that occurs.

Next, the effect symbol variation game executed in the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described.
In this embodiment, the effect display device 12 is capable of executing an effect pattern change game in which effect patterns are displayed in a variable manner in multiple columns and ultimately a combination of effect patterns is derived. In the following explanation, the effect pattern change game is abbreviated to "effect game." The effect patterns are symbols (decorative symbols) decorated with characters, patterns, etc., and are intended to diversify the display effects. In this embodiment, the effect game is performed by displaying (scrolling) the first, second, and third symbol columns in a variable manner in a predetermined direction.

The effect game begins with the start of the special game and ends with the end of the special game. Specifically, in the effect game, effect symbols are temporarily displayed as stopped symbols in each of the first through third symbol columns (hereinafter referred to as "temporary stop symbols"), and then the effect symbols temporarily displayed as stopped symbols in each symbol column are displayed as fixed stop symbols, thereby deriving a combination of effect symbols. In the effect game, a combination of effect symbols corresponding to the special symbols derived in the special game is derived. Specifically, if a jackpot symbol (jackpot result) is derived in the special game, a jackpot symbol combination based on the effect symbols is also derived in the effect game. Furthermore, if a special win symbol (special win result) is derived in the special game, a special win symbol combination based on the effect symbols is derived in the effect game. And, if a losing symbol (loss result) is derived in the special game, a losing symbol combination based on the effect symbols is derived in the effect game. Note that in the following explanation, special games and effect games may be collectively referred to as "variable games."

Next, the electrical configuration of the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described.
As shown in Figure 4, the pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a main control board 40. The main control board 40 performs various processes and outputs control signals such as control commands, which are an example of control information, depending on the results of the processes. The pachinko gaming machine 10 also includes a sub-control board 50. The main control board 40 and the sub-control board 50 are connected so that control signals can be output in one direction from the main control board 40 to the sub-control board 50. The sub-control board 50 executes predetermined processes based on the control signals input from the main control board 40.

The main control board 40 will now be described in detail.
The main control board 40 includes a microprocessor 41. The microprocessor 41 includes a processing unit (hereinafter referred to as the main control CPU 41a) and a storage unit (memory). The main control CPU 41a executes various processes by running main control programs. The storage unit of the microprocessor 41 includes a ROM area (hereinafter referred to as the main control ROM 41b) from which information can be read but to which information cannot be written, and a RAM area (hereinafter referred to as the main control RAM 41c) from which information can be read and written.

The main control ROM 41b stores judgment values and tables used for various judgments and lotteries. The main control ROM 41b stores multiple types of fluctuation patterns. The fluctuation pattern is fluctuation information that can identify the content of the special game. In particular, in this embodiment, the fluctuation pattern is information that can identify the fluctuation time from the start to the end of the special game. The fluctuation pattern may also be information that can identify the content of the effects to be performed during the execution of the special game. In addition, the main control ROM 41b stores multiple types of fluctuation pattern tables that are used when determining the fluctuation pattern. In this embodiment, the fluctuation pattern table is a collection of judgment values that are referenced when determining the fluctuation pattern.

The main control RAM 41c stores various information that is rewritten depending on the results of processing by the main control CPU 41a. For example, information stored in the main control RAM 41c includes flags, counters, and timers. The microprocessor 41 is equipped with a random number circuit (not shown) that generates hardware random numbers. The microprocessor 41 may also be capable of generating software random numbers through the random number generation process performed by the main control CPU 41a. Note that the main control CPU 41a, main control ROM 41b, and main control RAM 41c do not necessarily have to be configured on a single chip as the microprocessor 41, but may also be configured separately.

The main control CPU 41a is connected to the first start winning sensor SE1, the second start winning sensor SE2, the first count sensor SE3, the second count sensor SE4, the specific passage sensor SE5, and the gate sensor SE6. The main control CPU 41a is configured to be able to input the detection signals output by each sensor when it detects a gaming ball. The main control CPU 41a is connected to the information display device 13. The main control CPU 41a is configured to be able to control the display content of the information display device 13.

The main control CPU 41a is connected to the first solenoid SL1, the second solenoid SL2, the third solenoid SL3, and the fourth solenoid SL4. The main control CPU 41a is configured to be able to control the operation of the normal movable piece 16 by controlling the first solenoid SL1. The main control CPU 41a is configured to be able to control the operation of the first special opening/closing piece 19 by controlling the second solenoid SL2. The main control CPU 41a is configured to be able to control the operation of the second special opening/closing piece 22 by controlling the third solenoid SL3. The main control CPU 41a is configured to be able to control the operation of the distribution shutter 28 by controlling the fourth solenoid SL4.

Next, the sub-control board 50 will be described in detail.
The sub-control board 50 comprises a sub-control CPU 50a, a sub-control ROM 50b, and a sub-control RAM 50c. The sub-control CPU 50a executes a sub-control program to perform various processes related to the effects. The sub-control ROM 50b stores the sub-control program and judgment values used in predetermined lotteries. The sub-control ROM 50b stores display effect data used for display effects, light-emitting effect data used for light-emitting effects, and audio effect data used for audio effects.

The sub-control RAM 50c stores various information that is rewritten during operation of the pachinko gaming machine 10. For example, the information stored in the sub-control RAM 50c includes flags, counters, and timers. In this embodiment, the sub-control board 50 is also configured to be able to generate software random numbers through the random number generation process performed by the sub-control CPU 50a. The sub-control board 50 may also be equipped with a random number generation circuit, enabling it to generate hardware random numbers.

The sub-control CPU 50a is connected to the performance display device 12. The sub-control CPU 50a is configured to be able to control the display content of the performance display device 12. The sub-control CPU 50a is connected to the decorative lamp LA. The sub-control CPU 50a is configured to be able to control the light emission mode of the decorative lamp LA. The sub-control CPU 50a is connected to the speaker SP. The sub-control CPU 50a is configured to be able to control the output mode of the speaker SP. In this way, in this embodiment, the sub-control CPU 50a functions as a performance control means that controls the performance execution means.

The sub-control CPU 50a is connected to the effect button D1 and the cross key D2. In this embodiment, the effect button D1 and the cross key D2 are button-type devices configured to be pressable. The effect button D1 and the cross key D2 are not limited to button-type devices, but may also be touch-sensor type devices, or may be configured to have a specific display device function as a touch panel type device. The effect button D1 and the cross key D2 may also be configured to include multiple operable parts. In one example of this embodiment, the effect button D1 is configured to include a single operable part. The cross key D2 is configured to include multiple operable parts, such as the left key D2l, right key D2r, up key D2u, and down key D2d. The sub-control CPU 50a is configured to be able to input operation signals that are output when the effect button D1 is operated, and operation signals that are output when each key D2l, D2r, D2u, and D2d on the cross key D2 is operated.

Next, various processes performed by the main control CPU 41a will be described.
First, the special symbol input process will be described.
In the special symbol input process, the main control CPU 41a determines whether a gaming ball has entered the first start winning port 14 based on whether a detection signal has been input from the first start winning sensor SE1. When a gaming ball has entered the first start winning port 14, the main control CPU 41a determines whether the first special reserve number stored in the main control RAM 41c is less than the upper limit number (4 in this embodiment). If the first special reserve number is less than the upper limit number, the main control CPU 41a updates the first special reserve number by adding 1. Next, the main control CPU 41a controls the first special reserve display unit 13c to display information that can identify the updated first special reserve number. In this way, the reserve condition for the first special game is met when a gaming ball is detected by the first start winning sensor SE1 when the first special reserve number is less than the upper limit number. At this time, the main control CPU 41a generates information (hereinafter referred to as the first reserved number command) that can identify the updated first special reserved number and sets it in the output buffer. In this embodiment, the information (control command) set in the output buffer is output to the sub-control board 50 in a predetermined output process.

Next, the main control CPU 41a acquires random numbers generated within the main control board 40 and stores random number information based on the acquired random numbers in the main control RAM 41c. For example, the random numbers may be special win random numbers used in the special win lottery, special symbol random numbers used in the lottery to determine special symbols, and variation pattern random numbers used to determine variation patterns. The main control CPU 41a stores the random number information so that it is possible to identify that it is random number information for the first special game and the storage order of the random number information. The random number information may be the acquired random numbers themselves, or may be information obtained by processing the random numbers using a predetermined method. By storing the random number information to be used for the first special game in the main control RAM 41c, the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment can suspend its execution until the start conditions for the first special game are met.

When random number information for the first special game is stored in the main control RAM 41c, if a game ball has not entered the first start winning port 14 and if the first special reserve number is not less than the upper limit, the main control CPU 41a determines whether a game ball has entered the second start winning port 15 based on whether a detection signal has been input from the second start winning sensor SE2. If a game ball has entered the second start winning port 15, the main control CPU 41a determines whether the second special reserve number stored in the main control RAM 41c is less than the upper limit (1 in this embodiment). If the second special reserve number is less than the upper limit, the main control CPU 41a updates the second special reserve number by adding 1. At this time, the main control CPU 41a controls the second special reserve display unit 13d to display information that can identify the updated second special reserve number. In this way, the reservation condition for the second special game is met when the second special reservation number is less than the upper limit and a game ball is detected by the second start winning sensor SE2. At this time, the main control CPU 41a also generates information (hereinafter referred to as the second reservation number command) that can identify the updated second special reservation number and sets it in the output buffer.

Next, the main control CPU 41a acquires random numbers generated within the main control board 40 and stores random number information based on the acquired random numbers in the main control RAM 41c. The main control CPU 41a stores the random number information so that it is possible to identify that it is random number information to be used in the second special game and the storage order of the random number information. By storing the random number information to be used in the second special game in the main control RAM 41c, the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment can suspend its execution until the execution conditions for the second special game are met.

Next, the special symbol start process will be described.
In the special symbol start processing, the main control CPU 41a determines whether the execution conditions for the special game are met. The main control CPU 41a makes a positive determination if the game is not a winning game, the special game is not being executed, and it is not during the inter-variation interval time set after the special game ends, while making a negative determination if the game is a winning game, the special game is being executed, or during the inter-variation interval time. In this embodiment, the inter-variation interval time is the time from the end of one variable game to the time when the next variable game can be started. If the execution conditions for the special game are not met, the main control CPU 41a ends the special symbol start processing. If the execution conditions for the special game are met, the main control CPU 41a determines whether the second special reserved number stored in the main control RAM 41c is "1" or more. If the second special reserved number is "1" or more, the main control CPU 41a performs processing to execute the second special game. On the other hand, if the second special reservation number is not "1" or more, the main control CPU 41a determines whether the first special reservation number stored in the main control RAM 41c is "1" or more. If the first special reservation number is "1" or more, the main control CPU 41a performs processing to execute the first special game.

On the other hand, if the first special reserved number is not "1" or greater, the main control CPU 41a determines whether an output flag has been set in a specified memory area in the main control RAM 41c. The output flag is information that can identify that a standby state command, which can identify a standby state, has been output. A standby state is a state when a special game is not being executed, no winning game has occurred, and no special game is reserved. If the output flag has not been set, the main control CPU 41a generates a standby state command and outputs it to the sub-control board 50, and sets an output flag in the main control RAM 41c. Then, the main control CPU 41a ends the special symbol start process. On the other hand, if the output flag has been set, the main control CPU 41a ends the special symbol start process without generating a new standby state command.

When processing to execute a special game, the main control CPU 41a first updates the special hold number stored in the main control RAM 41c by subtracting "1". Specifically, when executing the first special game, the main control CPU 41a updates the first special hold number by subtracting "1" and controls the first special hold display unit 13c so that the updated first special hold number is displayed. At this time, the main control CPU 41a generates a first hold number command indicating the updated first special hold number and sets it in the output buffer. Similarly, when executing the second special game, the main control CPU 41a updates the second special hold number by subtracting "1" and controls the second special hold display unit 13d so that the updated second special hold number is displayed. At this time, the main control CPU 41a generates a second hold number command indicating the updated second special hold number and sets it in the output buffer.

Next, the main control CPU 41a acquires the random number information for the special game that was stored first from the main control RAM 41c. The main control CPU 41a then conducts a special win lottery using the special win random number identified from the acquired random number information. In other words, in this embodiment, the main control CPU 41a corresponds to a special lottery means that conducts a special win lottery as a special lottery. Specifically, when the main control CPU 41a executes a first special game, it acquires the random number information for the first special game that was stored first from the main control RAM 41c, and conducts a first special win lottery using the special win random number identified from the acquired random number information. Similarly, when the main control CPU 41a executes a second special game, it acquires the random number information for the second special game that was stored first from the main control RAM 41c, and conducts a second special win lottery using the special win random number identified from the acquired random number information.

Here, the main control CPU 41a determines whether or not a jackpot has been won by determining whether or not the value of the special win random number matches the jackpot determination value stored in the main control ROM 41b. If the value of the special win random number matches the jackpot determination value, the main control CPU 41a performs jackpot variation processing. In the jackpot variation processing, the main control CPU 41a determines one of the special patterns classified as jackpot patterns by holding a lottery to determine the special pattern based on the value of the special pattern random number identified from the acquired random number information. This determined special pattern becomes the final stop pattern derived in the special game.

On the other hand, if the value of the special win random number does not match the jackpot determination value, the main control CPU 41a determines whether or not a special win has been won by determining whether or not the value of the special win random number matches the special win determination value stored in the main control ROM 41b.

At this time, the main control CPU 41a determines whether or not a special win will be won using different special win determination values for the first special win lottery and the second special win lottery. For this reason, in this embodiment, the probability of winning a special win in the first special win lottery is different from the probability of winning a special win in the second special win lottery. Specifically, in this embodiment, the special win determination values are assigned so that there is a higher probability of winning a special win in the second special win lottery compared to the first special win lottery. In particular, in this embodiment, the special win determination values are assigned so that it is possible to win a special win in the second special win lottery, but that it is not possible to win a special win in the first special win lottery.

If the value of the special win random number matches the special win determination value, the main control CPU 41a performs special win variation processing. In the special win variation processing, the main control CPU 41a determines a special pattern from among the special patterns classified as special win patterns by conducting a lottery to determine the special pattern based on the value of the special pattern random number identified from the acquired random number information. This determined special pattern becomes the final stop pattern derived in the special game.

If the value of the special win random number does not match either the jackpot determination value or the special win determination value, the main control CPU 41a performs a loss variation process. In the loss variation process, the main control CPU 41a determines a special symbol as the loss symbol. This determined special symbol becomes the final stop symbol derived in the special game.

Then, once the main control CPU 41a has determined the confirmed stop pattern to be derived in the special game, it determines the change pattern by holding a change pattern determination lottery based on the value of the change pattern random number identified from the acquired random number information. Specifically, if the main control CPU 41a has determined a jackpot pattern as the confirmed stop pattern, it determines a change pattern from among the change patterns for jackpots. If the main control CPU 41a has determined a special win pattern as the confirmed stop pattern, it determines a change pattern from among the change patterns for special wins. If the main control CPU 41a has determined a losing pattern as the confirmed stop pattern, it determines a change pattern from among the change patterns for losing.

At this time, the main control CPU 41a determines the variation pattern by referencing different variation pattern tables depending on the game situation. In this embodiment, there are four types of variation pattern tables: a normal table, a special table, a first special table, and a second special table.

The normal table is a fluctuation pattern table that is referenced when the current game state is not in a time-saving state and in special games played after the first time since the time-saving state ended. The special table is a fluctuation pattern table that is referenced when the current game state is not in a time-saving state and in special games played up to the first time since the time-saving state ended. In this embodiment, the first time is one time. In other words, the normal table is a fluctuation pattern table that is referenced in special games played from the second time onwards after the time-saving state ended, and the special table is a fluctuation pattern table that is referenced in the first special game after the time-saving state ended. The normal table and the special table have their fluctuation pattern judgment values assigned so that the average fluctuation time of the fluctuation game is longer on the special table than on the normal table.

The first special table is a fluctuation pattern table that is referenced in special games up to the second time after the current game state is controlled to the time-shortened state when the current game state is in the time-shortened state. The second special table is a fluctuation pattern table that is referenced in special games after the second time after the current game state is controlled to the time-shortened state when the current game state is in the time-shortened state. In this embodiment, the second time is 10 times. That is, the first special table is a fluctuation pattern table that is referenced in special games up to the 10th time after the time-shortened state is controlled, and the second special table is a fluctuation pattern table that is referenced in special games from the 11th time onwards after the time-shortened state is controlled. The fluctuation pattern judgment values of the first special table and the second special table are assigned so that the average fluctuation time of the fluctuation game is longer in the second special table compared to the first special table.

Furthermore, the fluctuation pattern judgment values are assigned to the normal table so that the average fluctuation time of the fluctuation game is longer than that of the second special table. In other words, in this embodiment, the fluctuation pattern judgment values are assigned so that the average fluctuation time of the fluctuation game is longer in the order of first special table < second special table < normal table < special table.

Then, when the main control CPU 41a determines the variation pattern, it ends the special pattern start processing.
Upon completion of the special symbol start process, the main control CPU 41a executes a special game by performing a process separate from the special symbol start process. Specifically, the main control CPU 41a controls the display content of the information display device 13 to start the variation of the first special symbol or the second special symbol. The main control CPU 41a also sets information specifying the special symbol determined in the special symbol start process (hereinafter referred to as the "special symbol designation command") in the output buffer. The main control CPU 41a also sets information specifying a variation pattern and instructing the start of an effect game (hereinafter referred to as the "variation pattern designation command") in the output buffer. The main control CPU 41a also measures the variation time specified for the variation pattern determined in the special symbol start process. After the variation time specified for the variation pattern has elapsed, the main control CPU 41a ends the special game by controlling the information display device 13 to derive the special symbol determined in the special symbol start process. After that, the main control CPU 41a controls the special symbols derived in the special game to be displayed in a fixed, stopped state for a predetermined interval between variations. Also, when the variation time set for the variation pattern determined in the special symbol start process has elapsed, the main control CPU 41a sets information for deriving a combination of effect symbols (hereinafter referred to as an all-symbol stop command) in the output buffer.

With the above-described control, the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment can execute a variable game based on the results of the special winning lottery. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the sub-control CPU 50a determines the variable pattern in the special symbol start process, and thereby functions as a variable time determination means for determining the variable time of the variable game.

Next, we will explain the special win processing performed by the main control CPU 41a to generate a special win game. In this embodiment, the main control CPU 41a executes the special win processing, thereby realizing a special game control means that generates a special game.

The main control CPU 41a performs special win processing after the special game involving the special win has ended. In the special win processing, the main control CPU 41a performs control according to the type of special win won, thereby generating a special win game based on the special win won. As a result, in this embodiment, if the result of the special win lottery is a special win, a special win game is generated.

First, the main control CPU 41a starts measuring the opening time for the special feature game, and generates information that can identify the start of the special feature game in the special win game (hereinafter referred to as the special feature game start command) and sets it in the output buffer.

When the opening time has elapsed, the main control CPU 41a starts the open game by controlling the second solenoid SL2 to open the first large winning opening 18 based on an operation pattern corresponding to the type of special win. At this time, the main control CPU 41a controls the start of an effective detection period during which the specific passage sensor SE5 is enabled to detect game balls, in conjunction with the start of the open game. Also at this time, the main control CPU 41a generates information capable of identifying the start of the open game (hereinafter referred to as the open start command) and sets it in the output buffer. Furthermore, during the special win processing, the main control CPU 41a controls the fourth solenoid SL4 to operate the distribution shutter 28 based on a predetermined operation pattern during the special win game's role play.

After that, when the first or second opening end condition is met, the main control CPU 41a controls the second solenoid SL2 to close the first large winning opening 18, thereby ending the open game. At this time, the main control CPU 41a controls the detection valid period to end with the end of the open game. At this time, the main control CPU 41a also generates information that can identify the end of the open game (hereinafter referred to as the opening end command) and sets it in the output buffer. Next, the main control CPU 41a begins measuring the ending time for the special feature game. Then, when the ending time has elapsed, the main control CPU 41a generates information that can identify the end of the special feature game in the special win game (hereinafter referred to as the special feature game end command) and sets it in the output buffer.

In addition, if the operation of the distribution shutter 28 based on the predetermined operation pattern has not finished when the special feature play ends, the main control CPU 41a controls the fourth solenoid SL4 to finish the operation of the distribution shutter 28 upon the end of the special feature play.

Then, if a gaming ball is detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 during the effective detection period during a special feature game, the main control CPU 41a performs the jackpot processing described below after the special feature game ends. The main control CPU 41a then ends the special feature processing upon completion of the jackpot processing. On the other hand, if a gaming ball is not detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 during a special feature game, the main control CPU 41a ends the special feature processing without performing the jackpot processing.

In addition, if a gaming ball is detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 within the valid detection period, the main control CPU 41a outputs a detection enable command to the sub-control board 50. On the other hand, if a gaming ball is detected by the specific passing sensor SE5 outside the valid detection period, the main control CPU 41a outputs a detection disable command to the sub-control board 50.

Next, the jackpot processing performed by the main control CPU 41a to generate a jackpot game will be described.
When a game ball is detected by the specific passage sensor SE5 in a special winning game, the main control CPU 41a performs a jackpot process after the special winning game ends. Also, the main control CPU 41a performs a special winning process after the special game of the jackpot ends.

During jackpot processing, the main control CPU 41a begins measuring the opening time and generates information capable of identifying the start of jackpot play (hereinafter referred to as the jackpot play start command) and sets it in the output buffer. After the opening time has elapsed, the main control CPU 41a performs processing to execute round play. Specifically, the main control CPU 41a controls the third solenoid SL3 to open the second large prize opening 21 based on a predetermined opening pattern, thereby starting round play. After starting round play, if the first round end condition or the second round end condition is met, the main control CPU 41a controls the third solenoid SL3 to close the second large prize opening 21, thereby ending round play. The main control CPU 41a repeats this processing to execute round play until the maximum number of rounds has been played. Furthermore, each time round play is started, the main control CPU 41a generates information capable of identifying the start of round play (hereinafter referred to as the round start command) and sets it in the output buffer. In addition, each time a round of play ends, the main control CPU 41a generates information that can identify the end of the round of play (hereinafter referred to as the round end command) and sets it in the output buffer.

When the final round of play ends, the main control CPU 41a begins measuring the ending time. Then, when the ending time has elapsed, the main control CPU 41a generates information that can identify the end of the jackpot play (hereinafter referred to as the jackpot play end command) and sets it in the output buffer. The main control CPU 41a then ends the jackpot processing.

Next, we will explain the processing related to the game state performed by the main control CPU 41a. In this embodiment, the main control CPU 41a executes the following control, thereby realizing the function of game state control means that controls the game state to one of multiple game states.

The main control CPU 41a can control the game state by setting a predetermined value to the activation flag stored in the main control RAM 41c. Specifically, the main control CPU 41a controls the game state to the non-time-shortened state by setting the activation flag to a value that can identify a non-time-shortened state. The main control CPU 41a controls the game state to the time-shortened state by setting the activation flag to a value that can identify a time-shortened state. The main control CPU 41a can also set the number of activations in the time-shortened state by setting a predetermined value to the activation count flag in the main control RAM 41c. Then, when the main control CPU 41a updates the values of the activation flag and activation count flag, it outputs a game state command to the sub-control board 50 that can identify the current game state and number of activations.

When the main control CPU 41a ends a jackpot game, it updates the values of the activation flag and activation count flag depending on the type of jackpot game. This allows the main control CPU 41a to control the game to a time-shortened state when the jackpot game ends. Specifically, when the main control CPU 41a ends each of the jackpot games ZA, ZB, Za, and Zb, it sets the activation flag to a value that identifies the time-shortened state and sets the activation count flag to a value that identifies 100 activations as the number of activations. In other words, when the main control CPU 41a ends each of the jackpot games ZA, ZB, Za, and Zb, it controls the game to a time-shortened state after the jackpot game ends. On the other hand, when the main control CPU 41a ends jackpot game ZC, it does not update the value of the activation flag. In this embodiment, the game is controlled to a non-time-shortened state during the jackpot game. In other words, when the main control CPU 41a ends the jackpot game ZC, it continues to control the game to the non-time-saving state even after the jackpot game ends.

The main control CPU 41a also updates the value of the activation count flag each time a special game is played after control has been placed into the time-shortened state. Then, when a predetermined number of special games have been played since control was placed into the time-shortened state, the main control CPU 41a sets the activation flag to a value that identifies a non-time-shortened state. This allows the main control CPU 41a to control the end of the time-shortened state when the count end condition is met.

Furthermore, when the main control CPU 41a is controlled to the time-shortened state, it sets the activation flag to a value that can identify a non-time-shortened state when the number of times a special winning symbol is drawn in a special game reaches the upper limit of wins. Note that in this embodiment, the upper limit of wins for the special win termination condition is one regardless of the type of jackpot game that has occurred. Therefore, when the main control CPU 41a is controlled to the time-shortened state, it sets the activation flag to a value that can identify a non-time-shortened state when a special winning symbol is drawn in a special game. This allows the main control CPU 41a to control the time-shortened state to end when the special win termination condition is met.

In addition, when starting a jackpot game, the main control CPU 41a sets an activation flag to a value that can identify a non-time-saving state. This allows the main control CPU 41a to control the termination of the time-saving state when the jackpot termination condition is met.

Here, the transition of the game state realized by the control of the main control CPU 41a as described above will be explained.
As shown in FIG. 5, if a player wins a jackpot ZA or ZB in the non-time-saving mode, the game is controlled to the time-saving mode after the jackpot game ZA or ZB ends. On the other hand, if a player wins a jackpot ZC in the non-time-saving mode, the game is controlled to the non-time-saving mode even after the jackpot game ZC ends. Furthermore, if a player wins a special jackpot Za or Zb in the non-time-saving mode, the game is controlled to a different game state depending on whether the game ball passed through a specific area in the special jackpot game Za or Zb. Specifically, if the game ball passed through a specific area in the special jackpot game Za or Zb, the jackpot game Za or Zb occurs, and the game is controlled to the time-saving mode after the jackpot game ends. On the other hand, if the game ball did not pass through the specific area in the special jackpot game Za or Zb, the jackpot game Za or Zb did not occur, and the game is controlled to the non-time-saving mode even after the special jackpot game Za or Zb ends.

Furthermore, if a player wins a jackpot ZA or ZB while in the time-shortened state, the game will be temporarily controlled to a non-time-shortened state when the jackpot game ZA or ZB starts, but will be controlled to the time-shortened state again after the jackpot game ZA or ZB ends. On the other hand, if a player wins a jackpot ZC while in the time-shortened state, the game will be controlled to a non-time-shortened state when the jackpot game ZC starts, and will remain controlled to the non-time-shortened state even after the jackpot game ZC ends.

Furthermore, if a special win Za or Zb is won in the time-saving state, the game is controlled to a non-time-saving state when the special win symbol is drawn in the special game, and then controlled to a different game state depending on whether the game ball passes through a specific area during the special win game Za or Zb. Specifically, if the game ball passes through a specific area during the special win game Za or Zb, a jackpot game Za or Zb is triggered, and the game is controlled to a time-saving state after the jackpot game ends. In other words, if a special win Za or Zb is won in the time-saving state, the game is temporarily controlled to a non-time-saving state when the special win symbol is drawn, but if the game ball passes through a specific area during the special win game Za or Zb that occurs subsequently, the game is controlled to a time-saving state again after the jackpot game Za or Zb ends. On the other hand, if the game ball does not pass through the specific area during the special winning game Za, Zb, the jackpot game Za, Zb does not occur, and the game remains in a non-time-saving state even after the special winning game Za, Zb ends.

Furthermore, when the number of times the special game has been executed in the time-shortening state reaches the number of times it has been activated, the state is controlled to a non-time-shortening state.
Next, the normal symbol input process performed by the main control CPU 41a will be described.

During the normal symbol input process, if the main control CPU 41a receives a detection signal from the gate sensor SE6 and the normal hold number is less than the upper limit, it updates the normal hold number stored in the main control RAM 41c by adding 1 and controls the normal hold display unit 13f to display the updated normal hold number. The main control CPU 41a then acquires a random number generated within the main control board 40 and stores random number information based on the acquired random number in the main control RAM 41c. In this case, the main control CPU 41a stores the random number information for a normal game so that the storage order of the random number information can be identified. Note that the random number may be, for example, a normal win random number used for normal win determination (normal lottery). The main control CPU 41a then terminates the normal symbol input process.

Next, the normal symbol start processing performed by the main control CPU 41a will be described.
During the normal symbol start process, when a normal win game is not being played and the normal game is not being executed, and the normal reserve number stored in the main control RAM 41c is one or more, the main control CPU 41a subtracts one from the normal reserve number stored in the main control RAM 41c to update it. At this time, the main control CPU 41a also controls the normal reserve display unit 13f so that the updated normal reserve number is displayed. Next, the main control CPU 41a reads the random number information for the normal game that was stored first from the main control RAM 41c and performs a normal lottery based on the read random number information. Specifically, the main control CPU 41a performs a normal lottery by determining whether the value of the normal win random number matches the normal win determination value stored in the main control ROM 41b. At this time, the main control CPU 41a performs a normal lottery using a normal win determination value that varies depending on the current game state. For example, in this embodiment, the normal win determination value is assigned to each game state so that when in a non-specific game state, a normal win will not be won regardless of the value of the normal win random number, whereas when in a specific game state, a normal win will be won regardless of the value of the normal win random number.

Next, the main control CPU 41a determines the normal symbol to be derived in the normal game and the normal game fluctuation time. After that, the main control CPU 41a ends the normal symbol start process. At this time, the main control CPU 41a may determine a shorter normal game fluctuation time when in a specific game state compared to when in a non-specific game state (or may make it easier to determine a shorter normal game fluctuation time).

The main control CPU 41a then executes the normal game by performing processing separate from the normal symbol start processing. Specifically, the main control CPU 41a starts the normal game and controls the information display device 13 so that, when the variable time determined in the normal symbol start processing has elapsed, the normal symbol determined in the normal symbol start processing is displayed.

Next, we will explain the normal win processing performed by the main control CPU 41a. When the normal game for a normal win ends, the main control CPU 41a executes the normal win processing. In the normal win processing, the main control CPU 41a controls the first solenoid SL1 to operate the normal movable piece 16 to the second operating state in an operating mode determined by the normal symbol (type of normal win), thereby generating a normal win game.

Through this normal symbol input process, normal symbol start process, and normal win process, the main control CPU 41a operates the normal movable piece 16 when in the time-saving state so that the game ball is more likely to enter the second start winning hole 15 than when in the non-time-saving state.

In addition to the processes described above, the main control CPU 41a also performs various other processes. For example, when the main control CPU 41a receives a detection signal from each sensor indicating that a gaming ball has been detected, it generates information indicating that the detection signal has been received and sets this information in the output buffer.

Next, we will explain the various processes performed by the sub-control CPU 50a. When the sub-control CPU 50a receives a control signal from the main control CPU 41a, it executes various processes in response to that control signal.

First, the effect symbol variation process for executing the effect game will be described.
When the sub-control CPU 50a inputs a special symbol designation command and a variation pattern designation command, it controls the effect display device 12 to execute an effect game corresponding to the special game by starting the variation display of effect symbols. Specifically, when the sub-control CPU 50a inputs a special symbol designation command, it determines a combination of effect symbols to be derived in the effect game based on the type of special symbol designated by the input special symbol designation command.

Specifically, when a special symbol classified as a jackpot symbol is specified, the sub-control CPU 50a determines the symbol combination for a jackpot based on the performance symbols. When a special symbol classified as a special winning symbol is specified, the sub-control CPU 50a determines the symbol combination for a special winning based on the performance symbols. When a special symbol classified as a losing symbol is specified, the sub-control CPU 50a determines the symbol combination for a losing based on the performance symbols.

Furthermore, when the sub-control CPU 50a inputs a variation pattern designation command, it determines the effect to be executed during the execution of the effect game based on the variation pattern specified by the input variation pattern designation command. Thereafter, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 to begin the variable display of the effect symbols in each symbol row. In other words, the sub-control CPU 50a starts the effect game. Specifically, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 to variably display three columns of effect symbols. The sub-control CPU 50a also controls the execution of various effects whose execution has been determined. Next, after starting the effect game, the sub-control CPU 50a temporarily stops the display of the effect symbols in each symbol row when a predetermined timing arrives. Furthermore, the sub-control CPU 50a ends the effect game by displaying the effect symbols in each symbol row as fixed and stopped, triggered by the input of the all-symbol stop command. In this embodiment, the symbol combination of the effect symbols that is temporarily stopped corresponds to provisional result information indicating the result of the winning lottery, and the symbol combination of the effect symbols that is fixed and stopped corresponds to fixed result information that definitively notifies the result of the winning lottery. Note that the sub-control CPU 50a may also cause the effect symbols of each symbol row to be fixed and stopped when the variation time set for the variation pattern has elapsed, regardless of the all symbol stop command. In this case, the all symbol stop command may be omitted.

Then, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the display of the effect symbols of each symbol row to be fixed and stopped until a standby state command or a variation pattern designation command is input. As a result, in this embodiment, the effect symbols of each symbol row are fixed and stopped and displayed for the inter-variation interval time.

Next, processing related to the gaming state will be described.
When the sub-control CPU 50a receives a game state command from the main control CPU 41a, it stores a value that identifies the game state determined from the received game state command in the sub-action flag of the sub-control RAM 50c. Furthermore, the sub-control CPU 50a stores a value that identifies the number of activations determined from the received game state command in the sub-action count flag of the sub-control RAM 50c. Furthermore, when the sub-control CPU 50a is in the time-shortened state, it updates the value of the sub-action count flag each time a special game is executed. At this time, the sub-control CPU 50a may update the value of the sub-action count flag upon input of a variable pattern designation command, or upon input of a special symbol designation command. Furthermore, the sub-control CPU 50a may update the value of the sub-action count flag upon input of an all-symbol stop command. This allows the sub-control CPU 50a to identify the current game state and the number of activations.

Next, the presentation modes in the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment will be described.
The pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment is equipped with a plurality of presentation modes that define various presentation aspects. The sub-control CPU 50a stores a value that can identify a predetermined presentation mode in a mode flag in the sub-control RAM 50c. The sub-control CPU 50a then performs processing related to various presentation aspects according to the presentation mode identified from the value stored in the mode flag. This allows the sub-control CPU 50a to execute various presentation aspects in a manner that corresponds to the current presentation mode. The various presentation aspects include, for example, the type of image displayed as a background image, the types of presentation that can be executed, and the probability of execution of a presentation.

As shown in Figure 6, the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment has five presentation modes: normal mode, special mode, first special mode, second special mode, and third special mode.

Normal mode and special mode are presentation modes when the current game state is not in a time-saving state. In particular, normal mode is a presentation mode that is controlled when the current game state is not in a time-saving state and after the first number of variable games has ended since the time-saving state ended. Special mode is a presentation mode that is controlled when the current game state is not in a time-saving state and after the first number of variable games has ended since the time-saving state ended.

Furthermore, the first special mode, second special mode, and third special mode are presentation modes when the current gaming state is in the time-shortened state. In particular, the first special mode is a presentation mode that is controlled when the current gaming state is in the time-shortened state, from the time the state is controlled to the time-shortened state until the number-of-games transition condition for the second number of variable games is met. The second special mode and the third special mode are presentation modes that are controlled when the current gaming state is in the time-shortened state, from the time the state is controlled to the time-shortened state until the number-of-games transition condition for the second number of variable games is met. In this embodiment, the first special mode corresponds to the first presentation mode, and the second special mode and the third special mode correspond to the second presentation mode.

In this embodiment, a different type of image is displayed as the background image in each presentation mode. That is, in this embodiment, the normal mode, special mode, first special mode, second special mode, and third special mode can be understood as presentation modes in which at least the image displayed as the background image on the presentation display device 12 differs. Specifically, in normal mode, a normal background image is displayed as the background image. In special mode, a special background image is displayed as the background image. In first special mode, a first special background image is displayed as the background image. In second special mode, a second special background image is displayed as the background image. In third special mode, a third special background image is displayed as the background image.

In addition, in this embodiment, the average time determined as the fluctuation time of the fluctuation game may differ in each presentation mode.
For example, in this embodiment, the average time determined by the main control CPU 41a as the fluctuation time of the variable game differs between when the game is controlled in the normal mode and when the game is controlled in the special mode. As described above, in this embodiment, when the current game state is a non-time-shortened state, the normal table is referenced for special games played after the first time since the time-shortened state ended, while the special table is referenced for special games played up to the first time since the time-shortened state ended. Furthermore, the fluctuation pattern determination values are assigned to the special table so that the average fluctuation time of the variable game is longer than that of the normal table. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the game is controlled in the special mode, the average fluctuation time of the variable game is longer than that of the normal mode.

In addition, in this embodiment, the average time determined by the main control CPU 41a as the fluctuation time of the variable game differs when controlled in the first special mode and when controlled in the second or third special mode. As described above, in this embodiment, when the current game state is the time-shortened state, the first special table is referenced in determining the fluctuation pattern of the special game for the first two special games after control to the time-shortened state, while the second special table is referenced in special games after control to the time-shortened state. Furthermore, in the second special table, the fluctuation pattern judgment values are assigned so that the average fluctuation time of the variable game is longer than in the first special table. Therefore, in this embodiment, when controlled in the second or third special mode, the average fluctuation time of the variable game is longer than when controlled in the first special mode.

Here, we will explain the control for transitioning between presentation modes. In this embodiment, the sub-control CPU 50a executes the following control, thereby realizing the function of mode control means that controls the display to one of multiple presentation modes.

As shown in FIG. 7, the sub-control CPU 50a stores a value that can identify the first special mode in the mode flag when a game state command that can identify the time-shortened state is input. Therefore, in this embodiment, the start of the time-shortened state triggers a transition from normal mode or special mode to the first special mode. Also, in this embodiment, if a special win or jackpot is won in the second special mode or third special mode and the time-shortened state is again controlled via jackpot play (indicated as "time-shortened state reset" in the figure), the transition to the first special mode will also occur.

The sub-control CPU 50a can control a transition from the first special mode to the second special mode or the third special mode when the second number of variable games is played after control is placed in the first special mode. Specifically, the sub-control CPU 50a determines the number of variable games played after control is placed in the time-shortened state based on the value of the sub-operation count flag. As described above, in this embodiment, control is placed in the first special mode when the time-shortened state is initiated, and therefore the number of variable games played after control is placed in the time-shortened state corresponds to the number of variable games played after control is placed in the first special mode. Then, when the number of variable games played after control is placed in the time-shortened state reaches the second number, the sub-control CPU 50a determines that the count transition condition has been met and controls the transition to the presentation mode.

As shown in Figure 8, when the sub-control CPU 50a transitions between presentation modes in response to the fulfillment of the number transition condition, it controls the presentation display device 12 to execute a mode transition presentation indicating that the presentation mode will transition. In this embodiment, the mode transition presentation is executed in a manner that selects either the second special mode or the third special mode as the presentation mode to transition to.

As shown in Figure 8 (c), the sub-control CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 to start the mode transition effect after the effect symbols in all symbol rows have been temporarily frozen in the second variable game since control was put into the time-shortened state. In other words, the mode transition effect is an effect that is executed after the effect symbols in all symbol rows have been temporarily frozen in the second variable game since control was put into the time-shortened state. When the mode transition effect starts, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 to display a transition effect image GA, which indicates that the mode transition effect is being executed. The transition effect image GA is, for example, an image that resembles a door.

Next, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the start of a mode selection period during which the post-transition presentation mode can be selected. Specifically, the sub-control CPU 50a stores a value that can identify that the mode selection period is in progress in the mode selection period flag in the sub-control RAM 50c, and controls the start of measurement of the time that has elapsed since the mode selection period began. Furthermore, upon the start of the mode selection period, the sub-control CPU 50a stores a value that can identify either the second special mode or the third special mode in the temporary mode flag in the sub-control RAM 50c. For example, in this embodiment, the sub-control CPU 50a stores a value that can identify the second special mode in the temporary mode flag in the sub-control RAM 50c. Thereafter, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the update of the value stored in the temporary mode flag each time the left key D2l or right key D2r is operated during the mode selection period. At this time, if the value stored in the temporary mode flag is a value that can identify the second special mode when the left key D2l or the right key D2r is operated, the sub-control CPU 50a updates it to a value that can identify the third special mode. On the other hand, if the value stored in the temporary mode flag is a value that can identify the third special mode when the left key D2l or the right key D2r is operated, the sub-control CPU 50a updates it to a value that can identify the second special mode.

Also, as shown in FIG. 8(d), the sub-control CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 to display a mode selection image GB upon the start of the mode selection period. The mode selection image GB is, for example, an image consisting of a combination of an image GB1 that resembles the text "Second Special Mode," an image GB2 that resembles the text "Third Special Mode," and an image GB3 that resembles an effect button D1 and left-right arrows. At this time, the sub-control CPU 50a displays, among the mode selection images GB, images that correspond to an effect mode that can be identified from the value stored in the temporary mode flag in a more emphasized manner than images that do not correspond to an effect mode that can be identified from the value stored in the temporary mode flag. For example, when the effect mode that can be identified from the value stored in the temporary mode flag is the second special mode, the sub-control CPU 50a displays the image GB1 that resembles the text "Second Special Mode" brighter than the image GB2 that resembles the text "Third Special Mode."

The sub-control CPU 50a then controls the mode selection period to end if the effect button D1 is operated during the mode selection period. The sub-control CPU 50a also controls the mode selection period to end if a predetermined time has passed without the effect button D1 being operated. At this time, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 to hide the transition effect image GA and mode selection image GB.

Also, as shown in Figure 8 (e), the sub-control CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 to display a mode start image GC indicating the effect mode that can be identified from the value of the temporary mode flag upon completion of the mode transition effect. In this embodiment, the mode start image GC is an image that differs depending on the type of effect mode that can be identified from the value of the temporary mode flag. For example, when the effect mode that can be identified from the value of the temporary mode flag is the second special mode, the mode start image GC is an image that imitates the string "second special mode started," and when the effect mode that can be identified from the value of the temporary mode flag is the third special mode, the mode start image GC is an image that imitates the string "third special mode started."

Then, as shown in Figure 8 (f), the sub-control CPU 50a controls the mode transition effect to end when a predetermined time has elapsed since the mode transition effect began. At this time, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 to end the mode transition effect before the effect symbols in all symbol rows are displayed as fixed and stopped in the second variable game since control was put into the time-shortened state. In other words, the mode transition effect is an effect that is executed before the effect symbols in all symbol rows are displayed as fixed and stopped in the second variable game since control was put into the time-shortened state.

The sub-control CPU 50a then controls the mode flag to store a value indicating a presentation mode that can be identified from the value of the temporary mode flag upon completion of the mode transition presentation. That is, when a value that can identify the second special mode is stored in the temporary mode flag, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the mode to switch to the second special mode upon completion of the mode transition presentation, while when a value that can identify the third special mode is stored in the temporary mode flag, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the mode to switch to the third special mode upon completion of the mode transition presentation.

In this embodiment, the sub-control CPU 50a clears the value of the mode flag when the mode transition effect begins. Therefore, in this embodiment, while the mode transition effect is being executed, the game is not controlled by any effect mode.

In this embodiment, through the above control, when the number transition condition for executing the second number of variable games after control to the time-shortened state is met, a transition from the first special mode to the second special mode or the third special mode occurs during the execution of the second number of variable games. In this way, the sub-control CPU 50a can control the execution of a mode transition presentation indicating a transition in presentation mode as the presentation mode transitions from the first special mode to the second special mode or the third special mode.

Furthermore, through the above-described control, in this embodiment, when the sub-control CPU 50a ends the first special mode on the condition that the second variable game has been played since control was placed in the time-shortened state, it determines which presentation mode, the second special mode or the third special mode, to control to, triggered by the end of the first special mode. In particular, in this embodiment, the sub-control CPU 50a determines which presentation mode, the second special mode or the third special mode, to control to, during the second variable game being played since control was placed in the time-shortened state.

In this embodiment, if a special win or jackpot is won in the first special mode and the game is re-controlled to the time-saving state via jackpot play, the game will continue to be controlled in the first special mode, while the value of the secondary operation count flag will be updated in response to the input of a game state command. As a result, when the game is re-controlled to the time-saving state via jackpot play in response to a special win or jackpot in the first special mode, the number of variable games played since the game was re-controlled to the time-saving state will reach the second number, triggering a transition to the presentation mode.

Also, as shown in FIG. 7, the sub-control CPU 50a stores a value that can identify a special mode in the mode flag when a standby state command or a variable pattern designation command is input for the first time during the non-time-shortened state after inputting a game state command that can identify a non-time-shortened state. In other words, when the sub-control CPU 50a transitions from the time-shortened state to the non-time-shortened state, and the transition to the standby state without transitioning back to the time-shortened state is triggered by the start of a variable game, the sub-control CPU 50a switches to the special mode.

In this embodiment, when the first special mode is selected, the special mode is entered when the special win Za or Zb is won and the game ball does not pass through the specific area during the special win game Za or Zb. On the other hand, when the second or third special mode is selected, the special mode is entered when the special win Za or Zb is won and the game ball does not pass through the specific area during the special win game Za or Zb, and also when the number of special games activated after the time-saving state is selected is reached.

The sub-control CPU 50a can then transition from special mode to normal mode when the first number of variable games has ended since control was placed in special mode. Specifically, when controlled in special mode, the sub-control CPU 50a counts the number of variable games that have been played since control was placed in special mode by updating the value of the first number flag in the sub-control RAM 50c each time a variable pattern designation command is input. When the number of variable games played since control was placed in special mode reaches the first number, the sub-control CPU 50a uses the end of the first number of variable games as a trigger to store a value that can identify normal mode in the mode flag.

Next, we will explain the winning indication effects that can be executed by the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment. Winning indication effects are effects that suggest whether or not a winning symbol will be obtained in the variable game currently being executed. In particular, the winning indication effects of this embodiment are effects that are executed during the first special mode.

As shown in Figure 8 (a), the sub-control CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 to execute a win suggestion effect during the first special mode. Specifically, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 to display a teasing image GD in the win suggestion effect, which teases whether or not a winning symbol will be derived in the variable game being executed. The teasing image GD is, for example, an image formed by combining an image GD1 that resembles a star and an image GD2 that resembles the text "If the star shines, it's a win!?"

As shown in FIG. 8(b), the sub-control CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 to display a suggestion image GE indicating whether a winning symbol will be derived in the currently running variable game at the timing when the effect symbols of all symbol rows are temporarily stopped and displayed in the currently running variable game. Therefore, in this embodiment, the suggestion image GE displayed in the win suggestion effect can also be understood as provisional result information indicating the result of the winning lottery. Specifically, if a winning symbol is not derived in the currently running variable game, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 to display a loss suggestion image GE as the suggestion image GE, indicating that a winning symbol will not be derived. The loss suggestion image is, for example, an image that resembles a cracked star. Furthermore, although not shown, if a winning symbol is derived in the currently running variable game, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 to display a win suggestion image GE as the suggestion image GE, indicating that a winning symbol will be derived. The win suggestion image is, for example, an image that resembles a shining star.

Next, we will explain the remaining number of activations notification effect that can be executed by the pachinko gaming machine 10 of this embodiment. The remaining number of activations notification effect is an effect that notifies the number of remaining variable games for which the time-saving state will continue. Note that in the following explanation, the number of remaining variable games for which the time-saving state will continue will simply be referred to as the "remaining number of activations." In particular, the remaining number of activations notification effect of this embodiment is executed throughout the entire time-saving state. In other words, the remaining number of activations notification effect of this embodiment is executed regardless of whether the device is controlled to the first special mode, second special mode, or third special mode.

As shown in Figures 8(a) to (f), the sub-control CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 to execute a remaining operation count notification effect during the time-saving state. Specifically, the sub-control CPU 50a determines the remaining number of operation counts based on the value of the sub-operation count flag. Then, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 to display a remaining operation count image GF indicating the remaining number of operation counts in the remaining operation count notification effect. The remaining operation count image GF is, for example, an image that resembles the string "XX operations remaining."

Below, we will explain a specific example of the control flow when a mode transition effect is executed.
As shown in Figure 9, in this example, it is assumed that the ninth variable game has been executed since control was placed in the time-shortened state at time t0. Also, in this example, since the second number of variable games (ten in this embodiment) has not yet been executed since control was placed in the time-shortened state, it is controlled to the first special mode. Furthermore, since this example is in the time-shortened state, a remaining number of activations notification effect is executed on the effect display device 12. At this time, since the ninth variable game has been executed since control was placed in the time-shortened state, the remaining number of activations is 91. Therefore, the remaining number of activations is notified as 91 in the remaining number of activations in the remaining number of activations notification effect.

Then, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 to temporarily stop the display of the effect symbols of each symbol column at a predetermined timing during the execution of the variable game (time t1). Note that in Figure 9, the period during which the effect symbols of all symbol columns are temporarily stopped is indicated as "temporary stop display," while the period during which the effect symbols of at least some symbol columns are variable is indicated as "variable." Next, when the sub-control CPU 50a inputs an all-symbol stop command following the end of the special game, it ends the effect game by displaying the effect symbols of all symbol columns as fixed and stopped (time t2). Thereafter, the sub-control CPU 50a continues to display the effect symbols of all symbols as fixed and stopped for the inter-variation interval time (indicated as "INT" in the figure) (times t2 to t3).

Next, when the sub-control CPU 50a inputs a variation pattern designation command in conjunction with the start of the special game, it starts the effect game by displaying the effect symbols in all symbol rows in a variable manner (time t3). Furthermore, the sub-control CPU 50a updates the value of the sub-action count flag in response to the input of the variation pattern designation command. After updating the value of the sub-control CPU 50a, it determines the remaining number of actions based on the updated value and updates the remaining number of actions to be notified in the remaining action count notification effect. In this example, the tenth variation game will be started since control was placed in the time-shortened state. That is, the variation game that starts at time t3 is the second variation game since control was placed in the time-shortened state. Furthermore, although not shown, in this example, a win suggestion effect is executed during the second variation game since control was placed in the time-shortened state. In this case, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 to display a teasing image GD in conjunction with the start of the second variation game since control was placed in the time-shortened state.

Then, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 to temporarily freeze the display of the effect symbols of each symbol row at a predetermined timing (time t4). Furthermore, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 to display a suggestion image GE indicating whether or not a winning symbol will be derived in the variable game currently being executed, at the timing when the effect symbols of all symbol rows have temporarily frozen.

Furthermore, because this is the second variable game since the current variable game was controlled to the time-shortened state, the sub-control CPU 50a starts the mode transition effect after the effect symbols in all symbol rows are temporarily displayed in a static state (time t5). When starting the mode transition effect, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 to display the transition effect image GA. Also, at this time, the sub-control CPU 50a erases the value of the mode flag in conjunction with the start of the mode transition effect. In other words, the sub-control CPU 50a ends the first special mode in conjunction with the start of the mode transition effect.

Next, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the start of the mode selection period (time t6). At this time, with the start of the mode selection period, the sub-control CPU 50a stores a value that can identify either the second special mode or the third special mode in the temporary mode flag in the sub-control RAM 50c. Also, at this time, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 to display the mode selection image GB in a display mode that corresponds to the value stored in the temporary mode flag. Thereafter, each time the left key D2l or right key D2r is operated during the mode selection period, the sub-control CPU 50a updates the value stored in the temporary mode flag and controls the display mode of the mode selection image GB to change.

Then, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the mode selection period to end when the effect button D1 is operated during the mode selection period, or when a predetermined time has passed without the effect button D1 being operated (time t7). At this time, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 to hide the transition effect image GA and the mode selection image GB, while displaying the mode start image GC in a manner corresponding to the type of effect mode that can be identified from the value of the temporary mode flag. Next, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the mode transition effect to end when a predetermined time has elapsed since the mode transition effect began (time t8). At this time, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the mode flag to store a value indicating an effect mode that can be identified from the value stored in the temporary mode flag upon the end of the mode transition effect. In this example, it is assumed that a value that can identify the second special mode was stored in the temporary mode flag at the end of the mode transition effect. In this case, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the mode to change to the second special mode upon the end of the mode transition effect.

Furthermore, when the sub-control CPU 50a inputs an all-symbol stop command following the end of the special game, it ends the effect game by displaying the fixed and stopped effect symbols of all symbol rows (time t9). After that, the sub-control CPU 50a continues to display the fixed and stopped effect symbols of all symbols for the inter-variation interval time (times t9 to t10).

Then, when the sub-control CPU 50a inputs a variable pattern designation command in conjunction with the start of the special game, it again starts the effect game by variably displaying the effect symbols in all symbol rows, updates the value of the sub-action count flag, and updates the remaining number of activations to be notified in the remaining activation count notification effect based on the updated value (time t10).

According to the above control flow, in this embodiment, when the second number of variable games is played after control is placed into the time-shortened state, the presentation mode is transitioned from the first special mode to the second special mode or the third special mode, even if the game state does not change before or after the end of the second number of variable games. In other words, in this embodiment, when the presentation mode is transitioned from the first special mode to the second special mode or the third special mode on the condition that the second number of variable games is played after control is placed into the time-shortened state, the main control CPU 41a does not transition the game state before or after the end of the second number of variable games.

Here, the time relationship of each control when the mode transition effect is executed in this embodiment will be explained.
The sub-control CPU 50a controls the mode transition effect to start when a specific time longer than the inter-variation interval (times t2 to t3, t9 to t10) has elapsed since the start of the second variation game after the time-shortening state. As described above, in this embodiment, the first special mode is activated at the start of the second variation game after the time-shortening state (time t3). Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first special mode ends (time t5) when the mode transition effect is initiated during the second variation game after the time-shortening state. Therefore, in this embodiment, the time from the start of the second variation game to the elapse of the specific time (times t3 to t5) is the time during which the first special mode is activated during the second variation game after the time-shortening state. Therefore, in this embodiment, the first special mode is activated during the second variation game after the time-shortening state. In other words, in this embodiment, the time during which the game is controlled to the first special mode in the second variable game after being controlled to the time-shortened state and the inter-variation interval time are different in length.

Furthermore, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the mode transition effect to end at a timing such that, in the second variable game after control to the time-shortened state, the time from the end of the mode transition effect to the fixed stop display of the effect symbols in all symbol rows (times t8 to t9) is longer than the inter-variation interval time. As described above, in this embodiment, control is performed to the second special mode or the third special mode upon the end of the mode transition effect (time t8). Therefore, in this embodiment, in the second variable game after control to the time-shortened state, the time from the end of the mode transition effect to the end of the variable game (times t8 to t9) is the time during which control is performed in the second special mode or the third special mode. Therefore, in this embodiment, in the second variable game after control to the time-shortened state, control is performed in the second special mode or the third special mode for a time longer than the inter-variation interval time. In other words, in this embodiment, the time during which the game is controlled to the second special mode or the third special mode in the second variable game after being controlled to the time-shortened state is different in length from the inter-variation interval time.

Furthermore, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the mode transition effect so that the presentation time (times t5 to t8) in the second variable game after control to the time-shortened state is longer than the time controlled to the first special mode (times t3 to t5). As a result, in this embodiment, the presentation time of the mode transition effect is longer than the time controlled to the first special mode in the second variable game after control to the time-shortened state. Furthermore, the sub-control CPU 50a controls the mode transition effect so that the presentation time (times t5 to t8) in the second variable game after control to the time-shortened state is longer than the time controlled to the second special mode or the third special mode (times t8 to t9). As a result, in this embodiment, the presentation time of the mode transition effect is longer than the time controlled to the second special mode or the third special mode in the second variable game after control to the time-shortened state.

Furthermore, as described above, the time during which the game is controlled to the first special mode in the second variable game after being controlled to the time-saving state, and the time during which the game is controlled to the second special mode or the third special mode in the second variable game after being controlled to the time-saving state, are longer than the inter-variation interval time. Therefore, in this embodiment, the presentation time of the mode transition presentation is longer than the inter-variation interval time.

The effects of this embodiment will be described.
(1) In a variable game, when the effect symbols of all the symbol rows are temporarily stopped and displayed due to a losing symbol combination, it may reduce the interest of the player. In contrast, according to this embodiment, in the second variable game after being controlled to the time-saving state, the effect symbols of all the symbol rows are temporarily stopped and displayed, and then the mode transition effect is started. Therefore, even after the effect symbols of all the symbol rows are temporarily stopped and displayed, the interest of the player can be attracted and the player can enjoy the game.

(2) If the mode transition effect is executed during the inter-variation interval time after the second variation game is played after the time-shortened state, the transition mode may not be long enough to allow for a sufficient amount of time for the mode transition effect, resulting in a lack of enjoyment in the game. Furthermore, when the mode transition effect is executed during the inter-variation interval time, it may be possible to lengthen the inter-variation interval time compared to when the mode transition effect is not executed in order to ensure sufficient time for the mode transition effect. In such a case, the longer inter-variation interval time may result in the game being prolonged, which may actually reduce interest in the game. In contrast, according to this embodiment, during the second variation game after the time-shortened state, the mode transition effect is executed before the display of the final stop symbols in all symbol rows. This allows for more time to be ensured for the mode transition effect, while preventing the game from becoming protracted, compared to when the mode transition effect is executed during the inter-variation interval time after the second variable game has ended since the time-shortened state was entered, thereby increasing interest in the game.

(3) In this embodiment, when the second variable game is played after the time-shortened state is entered, the presentation mode is shifted from the first special mode to the second special mode or the third special mode without any change in the game state before or after the variable game ends. This allows the player to enjoy the game without getting bored by shifting the presentation mode even when the game state does not change.

(4) In this embodiment, the average fluctuation time of the variable game differs between the first special mode and the second or third special mode, so the tempo of the game can be changed before and after the transition to the presentation mode. This allows players to enjoy the game without getting bored.

(5) In this embodiment, when the transition to the presentation mode is made on the condition that the second number of variable games is played after the time-shortening state is entered, the presentation mode to be transitioned to is identified during the mode selection period that is set after the first special mode ends. This allows the appropriate presentation mode to be identified depending on the situation at the time of transition of the presentation mode, thereby increasing the enjoyment of the game.

(6) In particular, in this embodiment, the transition destination presentation mode can be determined by operating the left key D2l and the right key D2r during the mode selection period that is set during the execution of the second number of variable games after control has been placed in the time-shortened state. Therefore, in this embodiment, compared to, for example, a case in which the transition destination presentation mode is determined before the start of the second number of variable games, it is possible to transition to a presentation mode that suits the player's mood at the time of transition.

(7) Furthermore, in this embodiment, the presentation mode to be transitioned to can be determined during the mode selection period that is set during the execution of the second number of variable games after control is placed in the time-shortened state. This allows the presentation mode to be transitioned to more quickly than when the presentation mode to be transitioned to is determined after the second number of variable games has ended.

(8) In this embodiment, the presentation time for the mode transition presentation can be longer than the inter-change interval time, so the mode transition presentation can be fully enjoyed.
(9) In this embodiment, the presentation time for the mode transition presentation can be longer than the time during which the game is controlled to the first special mode in the second variable game after being controlled to the time-saving state, so the mode transition presentation can be fully enjoyed.

(10) In this embodiment, the duration of the mode transition effect can be longer than the duration of control to the second special mode or the third special mode in the second variable game after control to the time-shortened state, allowing the player to fully enjoy the mode transition effect.

(11) In this embodiment, the time during which the game is controlled to the first special mode in the second variable game after being controlled to the time-shortened state is different from the inter-variation interval time. Therefore, the effects when the game is controlled to the first special mode can be enjoyed without being bound by the length of the inter-variation interval time.

(12) In this embodiment, the time during which the game is controlled to the second special mode or the third special mode in the second variable game after being controlled to the time-shortened state is different from the inter-variation interval time. Therefore, the effects when the game is controlled to the second special mode or the third special mode can be enjoyed without being bound by the length of the inter-variation interval time.

(13) During a mode transition effect, the player's attention is drawn to the transition of effect modes, which can make it difficult to determine whether the mode transition effect is being executed during the execution of a variable game or during the inter-variation interval time. In this case, it becomes difficult to determine the remaining number of activations controlled to the time-saving state, which may reduce the player's interest. In contrast, in this embodiment, during the execution of one variable game, the mode transition effect is executed after the effect symbols of all symbol rows have been temporarily stopped and displayed, but before the effect symbols of all symbol rows have been confirmed and displayed, making it easier to determine that a mode transition effect has been executed during the execution of one variable game. This makes it easier to determine the remaining number of activations controlled to the time-saving state, which can prevent the player's interest from decreasing.

(14) Furthermore, in this embodiment, the remaining number of activations notification effect is executed during the second execution of the variable game after the time-shortening state is entered. Therefore, even if a mode transition effect is executed during one variable game, it is possible to prevent the remaining number of activations before the time-shortening state becomes difficult to grasp.

This embodiment can be modified and implemented as follows.
This embodiment and the following modified examples can be implemented in combination with each other within the scope of technical compatibility.

- The sub-control CPU 50a may be capable of controlling the execution of a confirmation notification effect that definitively notifies the result of a winning lottery. For example, the confirmation notification effect may be executed in a manner that displays a confirmation notification image that definitively notifies the result of a winning lottery, separate from the effect symbols, at the timing when a symbol combination of effect symbols is displayed as a definitive stop in a variable game. In this case, the confirmation notification image can also be understood as definitive result information that definitively notifies the result of a winning lottery.

The content of the winning suggestion effect may be changed as appropriate. Also, it may be embodied in a gaming machine that does not execute the winning suggestion effect.
The period during which the remaining operation count notification effect is executed may be changed as appropriate. For example, the sub-control CPU 50a may control the time-shortening state so that the remaining operation count notification effect is not executed from the time-shortening state until the second variable game is completed, while the remaining operation count notification effect is executed after the time-shortening state is entered and the second variable game is completed.

The content of the remaining activation count notification effect may be changed as appropriate. Also, the present invention may be embodied in a gaming machine that does not execute the remaining activation count notification effect.
The method for determining the presentation mode to which the transition is made when the second number of variable games has been played since the time-shortened state was entered may be changed as appropriate. For example, the presentation mode to which the transition is made when the second number of variable games has been played since the time-shortened state was entered may be determined before the start of the second number of variable games. As an example, when the time-shortened state is entered after the end of a jackpot game, the sub-control CPU 50a may set a mode selection period during the jackpot game and, in response to the operation of the cross key D2 during the mode selection period, determine the presentation mode to which the transition is made when the second number of variable games has been played since the time-shortened state was entered by lottery by the sub-control CPU 50a. In this case, the lottery by the sub-control CPU 50a may be performed during the second number of variable games played since the time-shortened state was entered, or may be performed before the start of the second number of variable games. When the sub-control CPU 50a determines the presentation mode to be transitioned to before the start of the second variable game after being controlled to the time-shortened state, it stores information that can identify the determined presentation mode in the sub-control RAM 50c. Thereafter, the sub-control CPU 50a may determine the presentation mode to be transitioned to by referring to the information stored in the sub-control RAM 50c during the execution of the second variable game.

- The number and types of presentation modes may be changed as appropriate. For example, the number of presentation modes to which a transition can be made, provided that the second number of variable games has been played since the time-saving state was entered, may be one, or three or more.

- The type of presentation defined in each presentation mode may be changed as appropriate.
- The number and types of fluctuation pattern tables may be changed as appropriate.
The allocation of the judgment values of the fluctuation patterns in each fluctuation pattern table may be changed as appropriate. For example, the judgment values of the fluctuation patterns may be allocated so that the average fluctuation time of the fluctuation game is the same between the first special table and the second special table. That is, the average fluctuation time of the fluctuation game may be the same when controlled in the first special mode and when controlled in the second special mode or the third special mode. Furthermore, the judgment values of the fluctuation patterns may be allocated so that the average fluctuation time of the fluctuation game is the same between the normal table and the special table. That is, the average fluctuation time of the fluctuation game may be the same when controlled in the normal mode and when controlled in the special mode.

- The type of variation pattern table referenced may be changed as appropriate depending on the game situation. For example, when controlled in a time-shortened state, the same variation pattern table may be referenced for the special game up to the second time after control was put into the time-shortened state and the special game after the second time after control was put into the time-shortened state. Also, when controlled in a non-time-shortened state, the same variation pattern table may be referenced for the special game up to the first time after control was put into the time-shortened state and the special game after the first time after control was put into the time-shortened state.

- The presentation time of the mode transition effect may be changed as appropriate. For example, the presentation time of the mode transition effect may be shorter than the time during which the game is controlled to the first special mode in the second variable game after being controlled to the time-saving state, or it may be the same time. Also, the presentation time of the mode transition effect may be shorter than the time during which the game is controlled to the second special mode or the third special mode in the second variable game after being controlled to the time-saving state, or it may be the same time. Furthermore, the presentation time of the mode transition effect may be shorter than the inter-variation interval time, or it may be the same time.

- The start timing of the mode transition effect may be changed as appropriate. For example, when the second variable game is executed after control to the time-shortened state, the sub-control CPU 50a may start the mode transition effect at a timing when the time from the start of the second variable game to the start of the mode transition effect is shorter than or equal to the inter-variation interval time. In other words, the sub-control CPU 50a may control the time during which the first special mode is controlled in the second variable game after control to the time-shortened state to be shorter than or equal to the inter-variation interval time.

- The timing of the end of the mode transition effect may be changed as appropriate. For example, when the second variable game is executed after control to the time-shortened state, the sub-control CPU 50a may end the mode transition effect when the time from the end of the mode transition effect to the end of the second variable game is shorter than or the same as the inter-variation interval time. In other words, the sub-control CPU 50a may control the time during which the second special mode or the third special mode is controlled in the second variable game after control to the time-shortened state to be shorter than or the same as the inter-variation interval time.

The content of the mode transition effect may be changed as appropriate.
Instead of or in addition to the mode transition effect indicating a transition from the first special mode to the second special mode or the third special mode, a mode transition effect indicating a transition from a special mode to the normal mode may be executed. In this case, the sub-control CPU 50a may execute the mode transition effect after the display symbols of all symbol rows have been temporarily frozen during the first variable game after the time-saving state has ended, but before the display symbols of all symbol rows have been frozen. In this case, the sub-control CPU 50a may be capable of controlling the normal mode to one of a plurality of display modes, and may determine the post-transition display mode by setting a mode selection period during the mode transition effect executed during the first variable game after the time-saving state has ended.

- The timing for transitioning presentation modes may be changed as appropriate. For example, the first number of times may be two or more. The second number of times may be nine or fewer, or eleven or more. The sub-control CPU 50a may also be capable of controlling transitions in presentation modes under conditions other than the execution of a specific number of variable games.

- The sub-control CPU 50a may control one of the presentation modes even while the mode transition presentation is being performed. For example, the sub-control CPU 50a may control the first special mode until the end of the mode transition presentation, and then change from the first special mode to the second special mode or the third special mode upon the end of the mode transition presentation.

- The sub-control CPU 50a may change the presentation mode to be controlled after the time-shortened state ends, depending on whether the second special game is on hold when the time-shortened state ends. For example, if the second special game is on hold when the time-shortened state ends, the sub-control CPU 50a may control to the special mode after the time-shortened state ends, whereas if the second special game is not on hold when the time-shortened state ends, the sub-control CPU 50a may control to the normal mode after the time-shortened state ends.

・The number and type of jackpots may be changed as appropriate.
The number and type of special wins may be changed as appropriate. For example, even if a jackpot game is triggered by the game payout passing through a specific area during a special win game, there may be a special win that is controlled to a non-time-saving state after the jackpot game ends.

- The main control CPU 41a may determine the game state after a jackpot game occurs in a special win game based on the game state when a game ball is detected by the specific passage sensor SE5 in the special win game. For example, when the game ball passes through a specific area in a specified special win game in a non-time-shortened state, the main control CPU 41a may control the special win game to a non-time-shortened state after a jackpot game occurs in the special win game. On the other hand, when the game ball passes through a specific area in a specified special win game in a time-shortened state, the main control CPU 41a may control the special win game to a time-shortened state after a jackpot game occurs in the special win game.

- This may also be implemented in gaming machines that do not have special jackpot symbols. In other words, a jackpot game may only occur when the gaming ball passes through a specific area during the valid detection period in a special jackpot game.

- The conditions for ending the time-saving state may be changed as appropriate. For example, the time-saving state may or may not end depending on the type of special win won. Also, the time-saving state may not end when a special win is won. There may also be multiple types of time-saving conditions with different ending conditions.

- It may also be embodied in a gaming machine equipped with a probability variation function that varies the probability of winning a jackpot in a special lottery. For example, it may be embodied in a pachinko gaming machine that transitions the gaming state from a low probability state to a high probability state after the end of a jackpot game, provided that a specific jackpot has been won. Also, for example, it may be embodied in a pachinko gaming machine (a so-called V-variable machine) that transitions the gaming state from a low probability state to a high probability state after the end of a jackpot game, provided that a gaming ball has been detected by a specific passage sensor SE5 during the jackpot game.

- The sub-control board 50 may be a sub-integrated control board, and a display control board that specializes in controlling the performance display device 12, an audio control board that specializes in controlling the speaker SP, and a lamp control board that specializes in controlling the decorative lamps LA may be provided separately from the sub-control board 50. Also, some or all of the display control board, audio control board, and lamp control board may be the same board. Furthermore, the sub-control CPU 50a may be composed of multiple CPUs implemented on a single board.

- The pachinko gaming machine 10 may be equipped with a single control board that integrates the functions of the main control board 40 and the sub-control board 50. The functions of the main control board 40 may also be realized by dividing them into multiple boards. The main control CPU 41a may be composed of multiple CPUs mounted on a single board.

The present invention may be applied to a pachinko gaming machine that does not execute a special effect game. In this case, the special effect display device 12 may display a special symbol.
The technical ideas that can be understood from the above-described embodiment and modified examples will be described.

(Appendix 1) A gaming machine capable of executing a variable game based on the result of a winning lottery comprises a performance execution means for executing a performance, a performance control means for controlling the performance execution means, and a mode control means for controlling the performance mode to one of a plurality of performance modes, and in the variable game, provisional result information indicating the result of the winning lottery is displayed, and then final result information that definitively notifies the result of the winning lottery is displayed, and the performance modes include a first performance mode and a second performance mode, and the mode control means switches from the first performance mode to the second performance mode on the condition that the variable game has been executed a specific number of times since control to the first performance mode. The gaming machine is characterized in that the effect control means is capable of controlling a transition to the first presentation mode, and the effect control means is capable of controlling the execution of a mode transition effect indicating the transition of the presentation mode as the presentation mode transitions from the first presentation mode to the second presentation mode, the mode transition effect being executed after the provisional result information is displayed and before the final result information is displayed in the specific number of variation games since control to the first presentation mode, and the duration of the mode transition effect is longer than the duration of control to the second presentation mode in the specific number of variation games.

(Appendix 2) The gaming machine described in Appendix 1 has a plurality of second presentation modes, and when the mode control means ends the first presentation mode on the condition that the variable game has been executed the specified number of times after control to the first presentation mode, it specifies which of the plurality of second presentation modes to control to upon the end of the first presentation mode.

CL...center line D1...effect button D2...directional pad D2d...down key D2l...left key D2r...right key D2u...up key GA...transition effect image GB (GB1-GB3)...mode selection image GC...mode start image GD (GD1, GD2)...teasing image GE...suggestion image GF...remaining number of operations image GH...image display HD...launch handle LA...decorative lamp R1...first path R1a...left area R2...second path R2a...right area SE1...first start winning sensor SE2...second start winning sensor SE3...first count sensor SE4...second count sensor SE5...specific passage sensor SE6...gate sensor SL1...first solenoid SL2...second solenoid SL3...third solenoid SL4...Fourth solenoid SP...Speaker W...Center frame YB...Game board YBa...Game area YBb...Open window 10...Pachinko game machine 12...Performance display device (performance execution means) 13...Information display device 13a...First special symbol display section 13b...Second special symbol display section 13c...First special hold display section 13d...Second special hold display section 13e...Normal symbol display section 13f...Normal hold display section 14...First start winning opening 15...Second start winning opening 16...Normal movable piece 18...First large winning opening 19...First special opening/closing piece 21...Second large winning opening 22...Second special opening/closing piece 23...Gate 23a...Gate opening 26...Passage 26a...First passage 26b...Second passage 27...Branch section 28... Shutter 40... Main Control Board 41... Microprocessor 41a... Main Control CPU (Game Status Control Means, Variable Time Determination Means) 41b... Main Control ROM 41c... Main Control RAM 50... Sub-Control Board 50a... Sub-Control CPU (Performance Control Means, Mode Control Means) 50b... Sub-Control ROM 50c... Sub-Control RAM

Claims (1)

In a gaming machine capable of executing a variable game based on the result of a winning lottery,
a performance execution means for executing a performance;
a performance control means for controlling the performance execution means;
A mode control means for controlling the display mode to one of a plurality of display modes,
In the variable game, provisional result information indicating the result of the winning lottery is displayed, and then final result information indicating the result of the winning lottery is displayed,
The presentation modes include a first presentation mode and a second presentation mode,
The mode control means is capable of controlling a transition from the first presentation mode to the second presentation mode on the condition that a specific number of variable games have been executed since the first presentation mode was set,
The presentation control means is capable of controlling execution of a mode transition presentation indicating that the presentation mode is transitioning as the presentation mode transitions from the first presentation mode to the second presentation mode,
The mode transition effect is executed after the provisional result information is displayed and before the final result information is displayed in the variable game for the specific number of times since the game is controlled to the first effect mode,
The presentation time of the mode transition presentation is longer than the time controlled to the second presentation mode in the specific number of times of the variable game,
This gaming machine is characterized in that, if the specific number of variable games after being controlled to the first presentation mode does not result in a win, the gaming machine is not controlled to the first presentation mode after the specific number of variable games have been executed since being controlled to the first presentation mode .