JP7798508B2 - gaming machines - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to gaming machines such as pachinko machines that can variably display special identification information and be controlled to provide an advantageous state for players.

Some gaming machines use a launching device to launch gaming balls, which serve as gaming media, into a gaming area. When a gaming ball enters a prize area, such as a prize slot, within the gaming area, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out to the player. Furthermore, some gaming machines are equipped with a variable display device that can variably display (also called "variable") identification information, and are configured to change the gaming state (the state of the gaming machine; more specifically, the state in which the gaming machine is controlled) and award a predetermined gaming value to the player when the display result of the variable display of identification information on the variable display device becomes a specific display result (so-called pachinko machines).

The gaming value refers to the state of the variable winning ball device installed in the gaming area of the gaming machine, which makes it easier for the ball to win, which is advantageous for the player, which generates rights that make it easier for the player to enter an advantageous state, or which makes it easier for the conditions for the payout of prize balls to be met.

In pachinko gaming machines, a "jackpot" occurs when a predetermined specific display mode is derived as a result of the variable display of a special symbol (identification information) that is initiated on the variable display device based on a gaming ball entering the starting winning slot. The derived display refers to the final display of a symbol (final stopping symbol). When a jackpot occurs, for example, the large prize slot opens a predetermined number of times, transitioning to a large prize game state in which balls are more likely to win. During each opening period, if a predetermined number of large prize slots (e.g., 10 balls) win, the large prize slot closes. The number of times the large prize slot opens is fixed to a predetermined number (e.g., 15 rounds). An opening time (e.g., 29 seconds) is set for each opening, and the large prize slot closes when the opening time has elapsed, even if the number of wins does not reach the predetermined number. Hereinafter, the opening period of each large prize slot may be referred to as a "round." Furthermore, play during a round may be referred to as "round play."

In addition, on a variable display device, when a pattern other than the final stopping pattern (for example, the center pattern of a left, center, or right pattern) continues for a predetermined time and stops, oscillates, expands or contracts, or deforms while matching a specific display result, or when multiple patterns fluctuate synchronously within the same pattern, or when the positions of the displayed patterns change, and the possibility of a jackpot occurring continues before the final result is displayed (hereinafter, these states are referred to as reach states), the effect that is displayed is called a reach effect. The reach state and its appearance are referred to as the reach mode. Furthermore, a variable display that includes a reach effect is called a reach variable display. If the display result of the patterns displayed variably on the variable display device is not the specific display result, it is a "miss," and the variable display state ends. The player plays while enjoying the excitement of trying to make a jackpot occur.

In such gaming machines, for example, Patent Document 1 describes a feature in which either a battle reach or a story reach can be executed after the decoration identification information is set to a reach mode.

JP 2017-47092 A

However, the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1 leaves room for improvement in the way the effects that can be executed after the decoration identification information is set to a reach state, and does not sufficiently enhance gaming interest.

The present invention therefore aims to provide a gaming machine that can increase gaming interest.

(A) A gaming machine that can variably display special identification information and can be controlled to an advantageous state that is advantageous to the player,
a variable display execution means for executing variable display of a plurality of decorative identification information in response to variable display of the special identification information;
an advantageous state control means for controlling the display to the advantageous state when a specific display result is displayed as a variable display result of the plurality of decorative identification information;
a performance execution means for executing a predetermined performance that notifies the player whether or not the advantageous state is reached after the decoration identification information is temporarily stopped in a predetermined combination;
a light emission control means capable of controlling the light emission of the light emitting means,
The performance execution means
A special notice effect can be executed that suggests that the game will be controlled to the advantageous state,
As the special notice performance, a first special notice performance and a second special notice performance that can be executed at a timing different from the first special notice performance can be executed,
The first special notice performance has a first part and a second part that is executed after the first part,
The display means
When the predetermined effect is executed, a predetermined display can be displayed for a first period,
When the first special notice performance is executed, a first special display can be displayed, and a second special display can be displayed for a second period different from the first period,
When the second special notice performance is executed, a third special display can be displayed,
When the predetermined display is displayed, a plurality of predetermined related displays that imitate at least a part of the predetermined display can be displayed;
When the second special display is displayed, a plurality of second special related displays that imitate at least a part of the second special display can be displayed,
When the third special display is displayed, a plurality of third special related displays that imitate at least a part of the third special display can be displayed,
The number of the second special related indications displayed is greater than the number of the predetermined related indications displayed,
The second special related display may move at a different speed than the third special related display.
The first part can display the first special display and the second special display, while the second part can display the second special display;
the light emission control means is capable of controlling the light emission of the light emitting means in the second part in a pattern different from that in the first part,
There are multiple types of predetermined displays,
The predetermined related display displayed when a first predetermined display among the plurality of types of predetermined displays is displayed and the predetermined related display displayed when a second predetermined display among the plurality of types of predetermined displays are displayed in different manners when displayed.
It is characterized by:
(1) A gaming machine that can variably display special identification information and control it to an advantageous state that is advantageous to the player,
a variable display execution means for executing variable display of a plurality of decorative identification information in response to variable display of the special identification information;
an advantageous state control means for controlling the display to the advantageous state when a specific display result is displayed as a variable display result of the plurality of decorative identification information;
and a performance execution means capable of executing a predetermined performance to notify whether or not the advantageous state is reached after the decoration identification information is temporarily stopped in a predetermined combination,
The effect execution means is capable of executing a special notice effect that suggests that the game will be controlled to the advantageous state,
The display means
When the predetermined effect is executed, a predetermined display can be displayed for a first period,
When the special notice performance is executed, the special display can be displayed for a second period different from the first period,
When the predetermined display is displayed, a plurality of predetermined related displays that imitate at least a part of the predetermined display can be displayed;
When the special display is displayed, a plurality of special related displays that imitate at least a part of the special display can be displayed,
The number of times the special related indications are displayed is greater than the number of times the predetermined related indications are displayed,
There are multiple types of the predetermined display,
the predetermined related display displayed when a first predetermined display among the plurality of types of predetermined displays is displayed and the predetermined related display displayed when a second predetermined display among the plurality of types of predetermined displays are displayed in different manners when displayed,
The special related indication includes a first special related indication and a second special related indication having a different aspect from the first special related indication.
It is characterized by:

1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine according to this embodiment. FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram showing various control boards and the like installed in a pachinko gaming machine. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a game control main process. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a timer interrupt process for game control. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a special symbol process. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a performance control main process. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a performance control process. An explanatory diagram showing an example of a fluctuation pattern table used in a low probability state. An explanatory diagram showing an example of a fluctuation pattern table used in a high probability state. This is a timing chart showing the timing of the performance when Super Reach A to D is executed and a jackpot is achieved. This is a timing chart showing the timing of the performance when Super Reach A to D is executed and results in a miss. This is a timing chart showing the timing of performance when a long reach is executed. This is a timing chart showing the execution timing of the effects when a development preview effect and a special preview effect are executed, and when a development preview effect and a special preview effect are executed. An explanatory diagram showing specific examples of development preview performances and Super Reach A. An explanatory diagram showing specific examples of development preview effects and Super Reach A. An explanatory diagram showing specific examples of development preview effects and Super Reach A. An explanatory diagram showing specific examples of development preview performances and Super Reach A. An explanatory diagram showing specific examples of development preview performances and Super Reach A. An explanatory diagram showing specific examples of development preview performances and Super Reach A. An explanatory diagram showing specific examples of development preview performances and Super Reach B. An explanatory diagram showing specific examples of development preview performances and Super Reach B. An explanatory diagram showing specific examples of development preview performances and Super Reach B. An explanatory diagram showing specific examples of development preview performances and Super Reach B. An explanatory diagram showing specific examples of development preview performances and Super Reach B. An explanatory diagram showing specific examples of development preview performances and Super Reach B. An explanatory diagram showing specific examples of development preview effects and super reach C. An explanatory diagram showing specific examples of development preview effects and super reach C. An explanatory diagram showing specific examples of development preview effects and super reach C. An explanatory diagram showing specific examples of development preview effects and super reach C. An explanatory diagram showing specific examples of development preview effects and super reach C. An explanatory diagram showing specific examples of development preview effects and super reach C. An explanatory diagram showing a specific example of Super Reach D. An explanatory diagram showing a specific example of Super Reach D. An explanatory diagram showing a specific example of Super Reach D. An explanatory diagram showing a specific example of Super Reach D. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a long reach. An explanatory diagram showing specific examples of special preview effects and long reaches. An explanatory diagram showing specific examples of special preview effects and long reaches. An explanatory diagram showing a specific example of the hidden button effect when a special preview effect and a long reach are executed. An explanatory diagram showing specific examples of development preview effects and special preview effects. An explanatory diagram showing specific examples of development preview effects and special preview effects. An explanatory diagram showing specific examples of development preview effects and special preview effects. An explanatory diagram showing specific examples of development preview effects and special preview effects. An explanatory diagram showing a specific example of changes in the middle decorative pattern in Super Reach A. An explanatory diagram showing a specific example of changes in the middle decorative pattern in Super Reach B. An explanatory diagram showing a specific example of changes in the center decoration pattern according to the type of super reach and the type of center decoration pattern. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the principle of a light-emitting effect image. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the principle of a light-emitting effect image. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the principle of a light-emitting effect image. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the principle of a light-emitting effect image. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the principle of a light-emitting effect image. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the principle of a light-emitting effect image. This is a diagram of the presentation during variable display.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(Explanation of characteristic part 004IW)
Next, a characteristic part 004IW of this embodiment will be described.

(Fluctuation pattern table)
8-1 and 8-2 are explanatory diagrams showing specific examples of fluctuation pattern tables in the feature unit 004IW. Of these, FIG. 8-1(A) shows a specific example of a fluctuation pattern table for a loss used in a low probability state. Also, FIG. 8-1(B) shows a specific example of a fluctuation pattern table for a jackpot used in a low probability state. Also, FIG. 8-2(A) shows a specific example of a fluctuation pattern table for a loss used in a high probability state. Also, FIG. 8-2(B) shows a specific example of a fluctuation pattern table for a jackpot used in a high probability state. Also, FIG. 8-1(C) shows a specific example of a fluctuation pattern table for a jackpot.

In this example, as shown in Figure 8-1 (A), if a miss occurs in a low probability state, the fluctuation pattern is determined to be one of the following: fluctuation pattern PA1-1 (normal fluctuation), fluctuation pattern PA1-2 (shortened fluctuation), fluctuation pattern PA2-1 (normal reach), fluctuation pattern PA2-2 (long reach), fluctuation pattern PA2-3 (special notice + long reach), fluctuation pattern PA2-4 (development notice + super reach A), fluctuation pattern PA2-5 (development notice + special notice + super reach A), fluctuation pattern PA2-6 (development notice + special notice + super reach A), fluctuation pattern PA2-7 (development notice + super reach B), fluctuation pattern PA2-8 (development notice + special notice + super reach B), fluctuation pattern PA2-9 (development notice + special notice + super reach B), fluctuation pattern PA2-10 (development notice + super reach C), fluctuation pattern PA2-11 (development notice + special notice + super reach C), or fluctuation pattern PA2-12 (development notice + special notice + super reach C).

Also, in this example, as shown in Figure 8-1 (B), if a jackpot occurs in a low probability state, the fluctuation pattern is determined to be one of the following: fluctuation pattern PB2-1 (normal reach), fluctuation pattern PB2-2 (long reach), fluctuation pattern PB2-3 (special notice + long reach), fluctuation pattern PB2-4 (development notice + super reach A), fluctuation pattern PB2-5 (development notice + special notice + super reach A), fluctuation pattern PB2-6 (development notice + special notice + super reach A), fluctuation pattern PB2-7 (development notice + super reach B), fluctuation pattern PB2-8 (development notice + special notice + super reach B), fluctuation pattern PB2-9 (development notice + special notice + super reach B), fluctuation pattern PB2-10 (development notice + super reach C), fluctuation pattern PB2-11 (development notice + special notice + super reach C), or fluctuation pattern PB2-12 (development notice + special notice + super reach C).

In this example, as shown in Figure 8-1, multiple types of reach effects can be executed, with the likelihood of a jackpot increasing in the following order: normal reach < long reach < super reach A < super reach B < super reach C. Furthermore, when a super reach is executed, the development preview effect is executed with a high probability (100% in the example shown in Figure 8-1, but it can also be less than 100%). This configuration allows players to pay attention to whether or not the development preview effect is executed, i.e., whether or not it will develop into a super reach with a high expectation.

Furthermore, in this example, as shown in Figure 8-1, before a long reach and super reach A to C, either a special advance notice effect or a special advance notice effect may be executed, or neither may be executed, and the system is configured so that the likelihood of a jackpot is higher when either a special advance notice effect or a special advance notice effect is executed (especially when a special advance notice effect is executed rather than a special advance notice effect). This configuration allows players to pay attention to whether or not a special advance notice effect or a special advance notice effect will be executed, and which one will be executed.

In this example, as shown in Figure 8-2 (A), if a miss occurs in a high probability state, the fluctuation pattern is determined to be one of the following: fluctuation pattern PA1-1 (normal fluctuation), fluctuation pattern PA1-2 (shortened fluctuation), fluctuation pattern PA2-1 (normal reach), fluctuation pattern PA2-2 (long reach), fluctuation pattern PA2-3 (special notice + long reach), and fluctuation pattern PA2-13 (super reach D).

Also, in this example, as shown in Figure 8-2 (B), if a jackpot occurs in a high probability state, the fluctuation pattern is determined to be one of the following: fluctuation pattern PB2-1 (normal reach), fluctuation pattern PB2-2 (long reach), fluctuation pattern PB2-3 (special notice + long reach), or fluctuation pattern PB2-13 (super reach D).

In this example, as shown in Figures 8-1 and 8-2, the types of super reaches that can be executed are different in low probability states and high probability states. This configuration allows for variation in the presentation of the effects in low probability states and high probability states, increasing the enjoyment of the game.

In this example, only Super Reach D can be executed as a Super Reach in a high probability state, but this configuration is not limited to this, and multiple types of Super Reach may be executed. Furthermore, in a high probability state, just like in a low probability state, it may be possible to execute development preview effects, special preview effects, and special preview effects, and it may also be possible to execute shortened or simplified development preview effects, special preview effects, and special preview effects in a high probability state.

In addition, in this example, Super Reach A, Super Reach B, and Super Reach C have the same variable time (i.e., performance time), but this configuration is not limited to this, and the variable time (i.e., performance time) may differ depending on the type of Super Reach.

In addition to the examples shown in Figures 8-1 and 8-2, for example, a variation pattern may be set in which a pseudo consecutive performance is executed once or multiple times and then a reach performance is executed, and the probability of developing into a jackpot or a super reach with a high expectation may vary depending on the number of pseudo consecutive performances.

(Execution timing of each effect during reach)
Next, the execution timing of each effect during a reach will be explained with reference to Figures 8-3 to 8-6. Figure 8-3 is a timing chart showing the execution timing of the effects when Super Reach A to D are executed and a jackpot is reached. Figure 8-4 is a timing chart showing the execution timing of the effects when Super Reach A to D are executed and a miss is reached. Figure 8-5 is a timing chart showing the execution timing of the effects when a long reach is executed. Figure 8-6 is a timing chart showing the execution timing of the effects when a development notice effect and a special notice effect, and a development notice effect and a special notice effect are executed.

Figure 8-3(A) shows a timing chart for when effects are executed based on a jackpot of variation pattern PB2-4 (Development Notice + Super Reach A). The timing chart shown in Figure 8-3(A) corresponds to the explanatory diagrams showing specific examples of the Development Notice effects and Super Reach A in Figures 8-7 to 8-11, which will be described later.

As shown in Figure 8-3 (A), when the left and right decorative symbols reach a reach state, a normal reach effect is executed in which the center decorative symbol scrolls at a slow speed, after which the image display device 5 goes white and the development preview effect begins (the part corresponding to Figure 8-7 (4)). In the development preview effect, for example, the first ally character 004IWC01 and the second ally character 004IWC02 appear and the word "Development" is displayed, followed by an increase and decrease in the number of the first mini-character 004IWC03, suggesting the start of a super reach. When the development preview effect ends, super reach A begins (the part corresponding to Figure 8-8 (9)). Super reach A, which results in a jackpot, includes a first part (the part corresponding to Figures 8-8 (9) to (16)) that includes an introductory part and a teasing part, and a second part (the part corresponding to Figures 8-9 (17) to 8-11 (31)) that includes a final teasing part and a win/loss notification part. When the Super Reach A hit/miss notification section indicates that a jackpot has occurred (for example, when the image display device 5 displays the center decorative symbol changing from a cracked state to a normal state and the jackpot symbol is temporarily stopped), illumination control is performed so that decorative light sources such as the game effect lamp 9 and decorative LEDs emit light in rainbow colors. For example, illumination control is performed so that the decorative light sources emit light in rainbow colors at the timing shown in *1 in Figure 8-3 (A). After that, Super Reach A ends, the image display device 5 goes white, and the jackpot symbol is displayed as a stopped symbol.

Figure 8-3(B) shows a timing chart for when the effects are executed based on a jackpot of variation pattern PB2-7 (Development Notice + Super Reach B). The timing chart shown in Figure 8-3(B) corresponds to the explanatory diagrams showing specific examples of the Development Notice effects and Super Reach B in Figures 8-13 to 8-17, which will be described later.

As shown in Figure 8-3 (B), when the left and right decorative symbols reach a reach state, a normal reach effect is executed in which the center decorative symbol scrolls at a slow speed, and then the image display device 5 goes white and the development preview effect begins (the part corresponding to Figure 8-13 (4)). When the development preview effect ends, Super Reach B begins (the part corresponding to Figure 8-14 (9)). Super Reach B, which results in a jackpot, includes a first part (the part corresponding to Figure 8-14 (9) to (16)) that includes an introductory part and a provocative part, and a second part (the part corresponding to Figure 8-15 (17) to Figure 8-17 (32)) that includes a final provocative part and a win/loss notification part. When the win/loss notification part of Super Reach B announces a jackpot (for example, when the center decorative symbol changes from a cracked state to a destroyed state on the image display device 5 and the jackpot symbol is displayed as a temporary stop), illumination control is performed to cause decorative light-emitting elements such as the game effect lamp 9 and decorative LEDs to emit rainbow colors. For example, at the timing shown in Figure 8-3 (B) *1, light emission control is performed so that the decorative light emitter emits rainbow colors. After that, Super Reach B ends, the image display device 5 goes white, and the jackpot symbol is displayed as a static symbol.

Figure 8-3(C) shows a timing chart for when the effects are executed based on a jackpot of variation pattern PB2-10 (Development Notice + Super Reach C). The timing chart shown in Figure 8-3(C) corresponds to the explanatory diagrams showing specific examples of the Development Notice effects and Super Reach C in Figures 8-19 to 8-23, which will be described later.

As shown in Figure 8-3 (C), when the left and right decorative symbols reach a reach state, a normal reach effect is executed in which the center decorative symbol scrolls at a slow speed, after which the image display device 5 goes white and the development preview effect begins (the part corresponding to Figure 8-19 (4)). When the development preview effect ends, Super Reach C begins (the part corresponding to Figure 8-20 (9)). Super Reach C, which results in a jackpot, includes a first part (the part corresponding to Figure 8-20 (9) to (16)) that includes an introductory part and a teasing part, and a second part (the part corresponding to Figure 8-21 (17) to Figure 8-23 (36)) that includes a final teasing part and a win/loss notification part. When the Super Reach C hit/miss notification section announces that a jackpot has occurred (for example, when the image display device 5 displays the words "Completely Determined" or the decorative symbols that form the jackpot combination and the jackpot symbol are temporarily stopped), illumination control is performed so that decorative light-emitting elements such as the game effect lamp 9 and decorative LEDs emit light in rainbow colors. For example, illumination control is performed so that the decorative light-emitting elements emit light in rainbow colors at the timing shown in *1 in Figure 8-3 (C). After that, Super Reach C ends, the image display device 5 goes white, and the jackpot symbol is displayed as a stopped jackpot.

Figure 8-3(D) shows a timing chart for when a performance is executed based on a jackpot of variation pattern PB2-13 (Super Reach D). The timing chart shown in Figure 8-3(D) corresponds to the explanatory diagrams showing specific examples of Super Reach D in Figures 8-25 to 8-27, which will be described later.

As shown in Figure 8-3 (D), when the left and right decorative symbols reach a reach state, a normal reach effect is executed in which the center decorative symbol scrolls at a slow speed, and then Super Reach D begins (the part corresponding to Figure 8-25 (4)). Super Reach D, which results in a jackpot, includes a decide button effect (the part corresponding to Figure 8-25 (8) to Figure 8-26 (10)) and a movable object effect (the part corresponding to Figure 8-27 (11) to (13)). When a jackpot is announced during Super Reach D (for example, when a jackpot symbol is temporarily displayed on the image display device 5), illumination control is performed to illuminate decorative light-emitting elements such as the game effect lamp 9 and decorative LEDs in rainbow colors. For example, illumination control is performed to illuminate decorative light-emitting elements in rainbow colors at the timing indicated by *1 in Figure 8-3 (D). Super Reach D then ends, and the jackpot symbol is displayed in a stopped state.

In this example, as shown in Figure 8-3, in Super Reach A, Super Reach B, Super Reach C, and Super Reach D, when a jackpot is reached, the decorative light emitter's light emission is controlled using a common light emission pattern (i.e., a rainbow-colored light emission pattern). With this configuration, the presentation content for Super Reach A, Super Reach B, Super Reach C, and Super Reach D is different, increasing the excitement of the game, while the common light emission control makes it possible to prevent an increase in the amount of control data. It is also possible to properly notify the player that a jackpot has been reached.

In this example, the decorative illuminators are controlled to emit light in a common light-emitting pattern (i.e., a rainbow-colored light pattern) regardless of whether a winning combination is an odd-numbered or even-numbered symbol combination. Furthermore, even with the same odd-numbered symbols, the decorative illuminators are controlled to emit light in a common light-emitting pattern (i.e., a rainbow-colored light pattern) regardless of whether a winning combination is an odd-numbered symbol combination, such as a combination of "1" or "3." Furthermore, even with the same even-numbered symbols, the decorative illuminators are controlled to emit light in a common light-emitting pattern (i.e., a rainbow-colored light pattern) regardless of whether a winning combination is an even-numbered symbol combination, such as a combination of "2" or "4." This configuration allows for standardized light-emitting control during a super reach, thereby minimizing the increase in the amount of control data. Note that in the explanation of feature unit 004IW, the term "type of decorative symbols" is sometimes used. This does not necessarily mean that the symbols are classified as odd or even, but can also be classified by the different numbers, such as "1" and "3," even if the symbols are the same.

Figure 8-4(A) shows a timing chart for when the effect is executed based on a missed variation pattern PA2-4 (Development Notice + Super Reach A). The timing chart shown in Figure 8-4(A) corresponds to the explanatory diagrams showing specific examples of the Development Notice effect and Super Reach A in Figures 8-7 to 8-9 and 8-12, which will be described later.

As shown in Figure 8-4 (A), when the left and right decorative symbols reach a reach state, a normal reach effect is executed in which the center decorative symbol scrolls at a slow speed, after which the image display device 5 goes white and the development preview effect begins (the part corresponding to Figure 8-7 (4)). When the development preview effect ends, Super Reach A begins (the part corresponding to Figure 8-8 (9)). A Super Reach A that results in a loss includes a first part (the part corresponding to Figure 8-8 (9) to (16)) that includes an introductory part and a teasing part, and a second part (the part corresponding to Figure 8-9 (17) to (22), Figure 8-12 (34) to (37)) that includes a final teasing part and a win/loss notification part. When the Super Reach A win/loss notification unit notifies that a win has occurred (for example, when the central decorative symbol changes from a cracked state to a destroyed state on the image display device 5 and the losing symbol is displayed as a temporarily stopped symbol), illumination control is performed so that decorative light-emitting elements such as the game effect lamp 9 and decorative LEDs emit low-intensity white light (the part corresponding to (37) in Figure 8-12). For example, illumination control is performed so that the decorative light-emitting elements emit low-intensity white light at the timing *2 shown in Figure 8-4 (A). After that, Super Reach A ends, the image display device 5 goes black, and the losing symbol is displayed as a stopped symbol.

Figure 8-4(B) shows a timing chart for when the effect is executed based on a missed variation pattern PA2-7 (Development Notice + Super Reach B). The timing chart shown in Figure 8-4(B) corresponds to the explanatory diagrams showing specific examples of the Development Notice effect and Super Reach B in Figures 8-13 to 8-15 and 8-18, which will be described later.

As shown in Figure 8-4 (B), when the left and right decorative symbols reach a reach state, a normal reach effect is executed in which the center decorative symbol scrolls at a slow speed, after which the image display device 5 goes white and the development preview effect begins (the part corresponding to Figure 8-13 (4)). When the development preview effect ends, Super Reach B begins (the part corresponding to Figure 8-14 (9)). A Super Reach B that results in a loss includes a first part (the part corresponding to Figure 8-14 (9) to (16)) that includes an introductory part and a teasing part, and a second part (the part corresponding to Figure 8-15 (17) to (23), Figure 8-18 (35) to (38)) that includes a final teasing part and a win/loss notification part. When the Super Reach B win/loss notification unit notifies that a win has occurred (for example, when the image display device 5 displays the center decorative symbol changing from a cracked state to a normal state and the losing symbol is temporarily stopped), illumination control is performed so that decorative light-emitting elements such as the game effect lamp 9 and decorative LEDs emit low-intensity white light (the part corresponding to (38) in Figure 8-18). For example, illumination control is performed so that the decorative light-emitting elements emit low-intensity white light at the timing shown in *2 in Figure 8-4 (B). After that, Super Reach B ends, the image display device 5 goes black, and the losing symbol is displayed as a stopped symbol.

Figure 8-4(C) shows a timing chart for when the effect is executed based on a missed variation pattern PA2-10 (Development Notice + Super Reach C). The timing chart shown in Figure 8-4(C) corresponds to the explanatory diagrams showing specific examples of the Development Notice effect and Super Reach C in Figures 8-19 to 8-21 and 8-24, which will be described later.

As shown in Figure 8-4 (C), when the left and right decorative symbols reach a reach state, a normal reach effect is executed in which the center decorative symbol scrolls at a slow speed, after which the image display device 5 goes white and the development preview effect begins (the part corresponding to Figure 8-19 (4)). When the development preview effect ends, a super reach C begins (the part corresponding to Figure 8-20 (9)). A super reach C that results in a loss includes a first part (the part corresponding to Figure 8-20 (9) to (16)) that includes an introductory part and a teasing part, and a second part (the part corresponding to Figure 8-21 (17) to (24), Figure 8-24 (39) to (42)) that includes a final teasing part and a win/loss notification part. When the Super Reach C win/loss notification section notifies that a win will occur (for example, when the image display device 5 displays the third enemy character 004IWC13 rejoicing or the decorative symbols that result in a losing combination), illumination control is performed so that decorative light-emitting elements such as the game effect lamp 9 and decorative LEDs emit low-intensity white light (the part corresponding to (42) in Figure 8-24). For example, illumination control is performed so that the decorative light-emitting elements emit low-intensity white light at the timing *2 shown in Figure 8-4 (C). After that, the Super Reach C ends, the image display device 5 goes black, and the losing symbols are displayed as static symbols.

Figure 8-4(D) shows a timing chart for when the effect is executed based on a missed variation pattern PA2-13 (Super Reach D). The timing chart shown in Figure 8-4(D) corresponds to the explanatory diagrams showing specific examples of Super Reach D in Figures 8-25 to 8-26 and 8-28, which will be described later.

As shown in Figure 8-4(D), when the left and right decorative symbols reach a reach state, a normal reach effect is executed in which the center decorative symbol scrolls at a slow speed, and then Super Reach D begins (the part corresponding to Figure 8-25(4)). A Super Reach D that results in a loss includes a decide button effect (the parts corresponding to Figures 8-25(8) to 8-26(10)). When a loss is announced in Super Reach D (for example, when the center decorative symbol that results in a loss combination is displayed on the image display device 5), light emission control is performed so that decorative light-emitting elements such as the game effect lamp 9 and decorative LEDs emit low-intensity white light (the part corresponding to Figure 8-28(19)). For example, light emission control is performed so that the decorative light-emitting elements emit low-intensity white light at the timing *2 shown in Figure 8-4(D). After that, Super Reach D ends, the image display device 5 goes black, and the loss symbol is displayed stationary.

In this example, as shown in Figure 8-4, in Super Reach A, Super Reach B, Super Reach C, and Super Reach D, when a loss occurs, the decorative light emitter's light emission is controlled using a common light emission pattern (i.e., a low-luminance white light emission pattern). With this configuration, the presentation content for Super Reach A, Super Reach B, Super Reach C, and Super Reach D can be made different to increase the excitement of the game, while the common light emission control can prevent an increase in the amount of control data. It is also possible to properly notify the player that a loss has occurred.

Figure 8-5(A) shows a timing chart for when a performance is executed based on a missed variation pattern PA2-2 (long reach). The timing chart shown in Figure 8-5(A) corresponds to the explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a long reach in Figure 8-29, which will be described later.

As shown in Figure 8-5(A), when the left and right decorative symbols reach a reach state, a normal reach effect is executed in which the center decorative symbol scrolls at a slow speed, and then the image display device 5 goes white and a long reach begins (the part corresponding to Figure 8-29(4)). When a loss is announced during the long reach (for example, when the image display device 5 displays a display in which a center decorative symbol that constitutes a jackpot combination or an image suggesting the development into a super reach is not selected), the long reach ends, the image display device 5 goes black, and the loss symbol is displayed stationary.

Figure 8-5(B) shows a timing chart for when the effect is executed based on a missed variation pattern PA2-3 (special notice + long reach). The timing chart shown in Figure 8-5(B) corresponds to the explanatory diagrams in Figures 8-30 to 8-31, which will be described later, showing specific examples of special notice effects and long reaches.

As shown in Figure 8-5(B), when the left and right decorative symbols reach a reach state, a normal reach effect is executed, in which the center decorative symbol scrolls at a slow speed, followed by a special preview effect (the part corresponding to Figure 8-30(3)). In the special preview effect, for example, a spear image 004IWG04 pierces glass image 004IWG05, and a broken glass image 004IWG05b is displayed in the corner of the screen. Then, a long reach begins (the part corresponding to Figure 8-30(8)), but the broken glass image 004IWG05b continues to be displayed. If a miss is subsequently announced in the long reach (for example, if the image display device 5 displays a display in which the center decorative symbol that constitutes a jackpot combination or an image suggesting development into a super reach is not selected), the long reach ends, the image display device 5 goes black, and the missing symbol is displayed stationary.

Figure 8-5(C) shows a timing chart for when a performance is executed based on a missed variation pattern PA2-3 (special notice + long reach) and a hidden button performance is executed during a long reach. The timing chart shown in Figure 8-5(B) corresponds to the explanatory diagram in Figure 8-32 (described below) that shows a specific example of a hidden button performance when a special notice performance and long reach are executed.

As shown in Figure 8-5 (C), when the left and right decorative symbols reach a reach state, a normal reach effect is executed in which the center decorative symbol scrolls at a slow speed, followed by a special preview effect. When a long reach begins after the special preview effect (corresponding to Figure 8-32 (1)), the broken glass image 004IWG05b continues to be displayed. When push button 31B is pressed at this point, a back button effect is displayed, and the broken glass image 004IWG05b falls and disappears (corresponding to Figure 8-32 (3)).

The hidden button effect is a so-called button effect that is executed when a button operation or other action is detected during a valid operation period, but does not include any notification urging the player to operate a button or other action, or any notification that the operation is valid. Therefore, by providing a hidden button effect, it is possible to provide a fun way to find and execute the valid operation period.

Figure 8-6(A) shows a timing chart for when effects are executed based on variation pattern PA2-8 (Development Notice + Special Notice + Super Reach B) or variation pattern PB2-8 (Development Notice + Special Notice + Super Reach B). The timing chart shown in Figure 8-6(A) corresponds to the explanatory diagrams of Figures 8-33 to 8-34, which will be described later, showing specific examples of when the development notice effects and special notice effects are executed.

As shown in Figure 8-6 (A), when the left and right decorative symbols reach a reach state, a normal reach effect is executed in which the center decorative symbol scrolls at a slow speed, after which the image display device 5 goes white and the development preview effect begins (the part corresponding to Figure 8-33 (1)). When the development preview effect ends, a special preview effect is executed (the part corresponding to Figure 8-33 (4)). In the special preview effect, for example, after the first ally character 004IWC01 and the second ally character 004IWC02 are displayed, the second mini-character 004IWC04 is displayed increasing and decreasing, suggesting that a super reach will begin. After that, super reach B begins (the part corresponding to Figure 8-33 (9)), and the second mini-character 004IWC04 continues to be displayed for a predetermined period after super reach B begins.

Figure 8-6(B) shows a timing chart for when effects are executed based on variation pattern PA2-9 (Development Notice + Special Notice + Super Reach B) or variation pattern PB2-9 (Development Notice + Special Notice + Super Reach B). The timing chart shown in Figure 8-6(B) corresponds to the explanatory diagrams of Figures 8-35 to 8-36, which will be described later, showing specific examples of when the development notice effects and special notice effects are executed.

As shown in Figure 8-6 (B), when the left and right decorative symbols reach a reach state, a normal reach effect is executed in which the center decorative symbol scrolls at a slow speed, and then the image display device 5 goes white, and the development preview effect begins (the part corresponding to Figure 8-35 (1)). Then, before the development preview effect ends (in the middle of the development preview effect), a special preview effect begins (the part corresponding to Figure 8-35 (2)). In the special preview effect, for example, a spear image 004IWG04 pierces the glass image 004IWG05, and the remaining broken glass image 004IWG05b is displayed in the corner of the screen. Then, the super reach begins (the part corresponding to Figure 8-35 (7)), and the remaining broken glass image 004IWG05b continues to be displayed for a predetermined period of time even after the start of the super reach.

In this example, the special preview performance has a first part (for example, a part in which the spear image 004IWG04 and glass image 004IWG05 of Figures 8-35 (2) to (6) are displayed) and a second part (for example, a part in which the spear image 004IWG04 of Figures 8-35 (7) to 8-36 (10) disappears and the remaining broken glass image 004IWG05b continues to be displayed). In both the first and second parts, there are scenes in which the glass fragment image 004IWG05a is displayed, but the decorative light source is controlled to emit light in different emission patterns. For example, when the glass fragment image 004IWG05a is displayed in the first part (timing *1 shown in Figure 8-6(B)), light emission control is performed using a light emission pattern for the special preview effect, and when the glass fragment image 004IWG05a is displayed in the second part (timing *2 shown in Figure 8-6(B)), light emission control is performed using a light emission pattern for the super reach. When light emission control is performed using a light emission pattern for the special preview effect, for example, the decorative light emitter flashes rapidly in high-intensity white in the scenes shown in Figures 8-30(4) to (5) and 8-35(3) to (4), the decorative light emitter is turned off in the scenes shown in Figures 8-30(6) and 8-35(5), and the decorative light emitter flashes rapidly in high-intensity white in the scenes shown in Figures 8-30(7) and 8-35(6). Furthermore, when light emission control is performed using the light emission pattern for a Super Reach, for example, the decorative light emitter emits light in a color corresponding to the Super Reach background in the scenes shown in Figures 8-35(7) to (9), and the decorative light emitter emits light in a color corresponding to the character in the scenes shown in Figures 8-35(10) to (11). When a Long Reach is executed following the special preview effect shown in Figure 8-30, for example, the decorative light emitter emits light in a color corresponding to the Long Reach background in the scenes shown in Figures 8-30(8) to (9). This configuration enhances the presentation effect of the special preview effect by displaying the glass fragment image 004IWG05a. Furthermore, by using different light emission patterns when the glass fragment image 004IWG05a is displayed in the first and second parts of the special preview effect, the enjoyment of the game can be enhanced.

(Example of performance)
Next, specific examples of each reach effect will be described with reference to Figures 8-7 to 8-36. In each figure, the screen transitions in ascending order of (1), (2), and (3).

(Super Reach A)
Figures 8-7 to 8-12 are explanatory diagrams showing specific examples of development notice effects and Super Reach A. Of Figures 8-7 to 12, Figures 8-7 to 8-11 are specific examples of when effects are executed based on a jackpot of variation pattern PB2-4 (development notice + Super Reach A), and correspond to the timing chart shown in Figure 8-3 (A). Of Figures 8-7 to 12, Figures 8-7 to 8-9 and 8-12 are specific examples of when effects are executed based on a miss of variation pattern PA2-4 (development notice + Super Reach A), and correspond to the timing chart shown in Figure 8-4 (A).

In the examples shown in Figures 8-7 to 8-12, after the image display device 5 displays a losing symbol ("327") as the display result of the previous variable display (Figure 8-7(1)), a variable display based on a jackpot of variable pattern PB2-4 (development notice + super reach A) or a miss of variable pattern PA2-4 (development notice + super reach A) begins (Figure 8-7(2)).

Next, when the left and right decorative symbols reach a "1" state (Figure 8-7 (3)), a normal reach effect is executed in which the center decorative symbol scrolls slowly, and then the image display device 5 goes white and the development preview effect begins (Figure 8-7 (4)).

In the development preview, first, the first ally character 004IWC01 appears (Figure 8-7(4)), followed by the second ally character 004IWC02 (Figure 8-7(5)). Next, a display is displayed in which the word "Development" is displayed superimposed on the first ally character 004IWC01 and the second ally character 004IWC02 (Figure 8-7(6)). Next, the first mini-character 004IWC03 is displayed as if it is growing superimposed on the first ally character 004IWC01, the second ally character 004IWC02, and the word "Development" (Figure 8-7(7)), and eventually the first mini-character 004IWC03 is displayed as if it is growing and filling the entire screen (Figure 8-7(8)).

After that, when Super Reach A begins, the multiplied first mini-characters 004IWC03 gradually disappear (Figure 8-8 (9)), and eventually an effect is displayed in which all first mini-characters 004IWC03 have disappeared (Figure 8-8 (10)). This configuration reduces the sense of incongruity when switching from the development preview effect video to the Super Reach image, and makes the series of events from the development preview effect to the Super Reach appear natural.

Next, an effect is displayed in which the first enemy character 004IWC12 lands on the ground (Figure 8-8 (11)), and the upper body of the first enemy character 004IWC12 is enlarged and a concentric background image corresponding to the first enemy character 004IWC12 is displayed (Figure 8-8 (12)).

Next, the first ally character 004IWC01 and the first enemy character 004IWC12 face off, and the word "VS" is displayed, indicating that a battle is about to begin (Figure 8-8 (13)).

Next, the first ally character 004IWC01 attacks the first enemy character 004IWC12 (specifically, emits rays from its eyes) as shown in Figure 8-8 (14). At this time, the first enemy character 004IWC12 uses the center decorative symbol "9" (or a symbol image corresponding to the center decorative symbol "9") as a shield to block the attack (Figure 8-8 (14)).

In this example, the decorative symbols are displayed in the order "1," "2," "3," "4," "5," "6," "7," "8," and "9," and after "9," they are displayed again in order starting with "1." In the example shown in Figures 8-7 to 8-12, the decorative symbols on the left and right are "1," indicating a reach state, so the center decorative symbol "9" displayed in Figure 8-8 (14) is the center decorative symbol displayed just before the center decorative symbol "1" that results in the jackpot symbol combination "111."

Next, an attack from the first ally character 004IWC01 to the first enemy character 004IWC12 (specifically, a beam of light emitted from its eyes) penetrates the "9" symbol, which was acting as a shield, and damages the first enemy character 004IWC12. At this point, the "9" symbol appears destroyed (Figure 8-8 (15)). Then, the first enemy character 004IWC12 is displayed with an angry expression, and a background image of concentric circles corresponding to the first enemy character 004IWC12 is displayed (Figure 8-8 (16)).

Next, a display is displayed in which the first enemy character 004IWC12 begins an attack on the first ally character 004IWC01 (specifically, a body slam). Then, a display is displayed in which a decorative pattern "1" appears in front of the first ally character 004IWC01 (Figure 8-9 (18)). This decorative pattern "1" then becomes a shield that blocks attacks from the first enemy character 004IWC12 against the first ally character 004IWC01. In other words, a display is displayed in which the first enemy character 004IWC12 attacks (specifically, a body slams) this decorative pattern "1" (Figure 8-9 (19)).

The decorative pattern "1" displayed in Figure 8-9 (18) is the decorative pattern that results in the jackpot pattern combination "111." Therefore, a jackpot is signaled when the decorative pattern "1" displayed in Figure 8-9 (18) is protected without being destroyed, in other words, when it is destroyed and the next decorative pattern "2" is not displayed.

When the attack by the first enemy character 004IWC12 reaches the decorative pattern "1" (specifically, when it slams into it), the decorative pattern "1" becomes cracked (Figure 8-9 (19)), and then cracked (Figure 8-9 (20)).

Here, details of Figure 8-9 (20) will be explained with reference to Figure 8-37. Figure 8-37 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of changes in the center decoration pattern during Super Reach A. At the timing of Figure 8-9 (20), as shown in Figure 8-37, multiple center decoration pattern fragment images 004IWG01a are displayed around the cracked center decoration pattern "1." Furthermore, each center decoration pattern fragment image 004IWG01a has a different appearance (for example, different color, shape, number, and scattering pattern of the fragments), and is displayed in a three-dimensional manner, appearing to jump out from the screen. This configuration can enhance the realism of the presentation.

When the central decorative pattern "1" cracks as shown in Figure 8-9 (20), the effect image that was displayed immediately before is displayed with reduced brightness and saturation, and a cut-in effect is executed in which an image (normal or high brightness and saturation) depicting ally character 004IWC01 and multiple first mini-characters 004IWC03 is superimposed (Figure 8-9 (21)). Then, when the image displayed by the cut-in effect is erased, the same effect display as immediately before the cut-in effect (Figure 8-9 (20)) is displayed again (Figure 8-9 (22)).

Then, the display effect shown in Figure 8-9 (22) continues for three seconds (at a slower speed than the speed immediately before the cut-in effect (Figure 8-9 (20))). At this time, a slow-motion effect is executed, in which the progression speed of the effect slows from normal speed to a speed slower than normal speed. Specifically, an effect display is executed in which the fragment image 004IWG01a of the center decorative symbol displayed in stereoscopic vision and the movement speed of the characters are slowed. Note that while the slow-motion effect slows the movement speed of the fragment image 004IWG01a of the center decorative symbol and the character, the swinging movement speed of the decorative symbol in the reach mode displayed in the upper right corner of the screen and the movement speed (rotation, etc.) of the active display are not slowed (i.e., they are not affected by the slow-motion effect). This slow-motion effect corresponds to the final tease of the super reach, and by slowing down the progression speed of the effect, players can focus their attention on how the effect progresses, i.e., whether it will progress to an effect announcing a jackpot.

In the case of a jackpot for variation pattern PB2-4 (Development Notice + Super Reach A), after Figure 8-9 (22), the attack from the first enemy character 004IWC12 to the first ally character 004IWC01 fails (is ineffective), and a display effect is displayed in which the central decorative symbol "1" that served as a shield changes from a cracked state to a normal state again without being destroyed (Figure 8-10 (23)). A display effect is also displayed in which the first enemy character 004IWC12, whose attack failed, sheds tears of regret. In this example, light emission control begins in the scene shown in Figure 8-10 (23), causing the decorative light source to emit rainbow colors. For example, in the scenes shown in Figures 8-10 (23) and (29), the decorative light source rapidly blinks (flashes) in rainbow colors, and in the scenes shown in Figures 8-10 (24) to (28) and Figures 8-10 (30) to 8-11 (33), the decorative light source is controlled to emit rainbow colors slowly.

Next, the center decorative symbol "1" changes from its cracked state back to its normal state without being destroyed and is displayed facing forward, along with the first ally character 004IWC01 rejoicing (Figure 8-10 (24)). Next, a light effect image is displayed (Figure 8-10 (25)) superimposed on the previous effect display (Figure 8-10 (24)) including the first ally character 004IWC01 and the first enemy character 004IWC12, and the light effect image is enlarged to obscure the first ally character 004IWC01 and the first enemy character 004IWC12 (Figure 8-10 (26)). At this time, because the light effect image is opaque, the obscured first ally character 004IWC01 and the first enemy character 004IWC12 cannot be seen.

Next, after a light effect image covers the entire screen, a presentation display is performed in which the jackpot symbol "111" appears, including the center decorative symbol "1" that has changed back to its normal form (Figure 8-10 (27)). The jackpot symbol "111" then gradually expands (Figure 8-10 (28)) until it covers the entire screen (Figure 8-10 (29)). After that, the jackpot symbol "111" is displayed at the same size as when the normal fluctuation was occurring before the reach was established, and is displayed as if it were fluctuating four times (Figure 8-10 (30)). In this example, the number of times the decorative symbol fluctuates when the display result of the fluctuating display is displayed varies depending on the type of super reach and the game state. For example, in a low-probability state, the number of fluctuating times increases as the reach becomes more likely to result in a jackpot, creating a lingering impression at the end of the reach that corresponds to the level of expectation. In a low probability state, if a Super Reach C, which has a high chance of winning, is executed but fails, it can be stressful for the player if the screen immediately switches to the normal background. However, by increasing the number of times the image flickers to create a lingering impression, it is possible to prevent the player's interest in the game from decreasing. Also, in a high probability state, it is possible to increase the player's interest in the game by reducing the number of times the decorative symbols flicker when the Reach ends, in consideration of the player's desire to immediately play a jackpot game (or the next game).

Next, the jackpot symbol "111" is temporarily hidden and the word "Complete Settlement" is displayed (Fig. 8-11 (31)). Then, the image display device 5 goes white, Super Reach A ends, and the same background image as when the normal fluctuations were occurring before the reach was established is displayed, along with the jackpot symbol "111" being temporarily frozen (Fig. 8-11 (32)). After that, the jackpot symbol "111" is frozen (Fig. 8-11 (33)).

If the variation pattern PA2-4 (Development Notice + Super Reach A) is unsuccessful, after Figure 8-9 (22), an attack from the first enemy character 004IWC12 to the first ally character 004IWC01 becomes effective, and a display is displayed in which the middle decorative symbol "1" that was acting as a shield is destroyed (Figure 8-12 (34)). A display is also displayed in which the first ally character 004IWC01, who has been attacked, is blown away. In this example, light emission control begins from the scene shown in Figure 8-12 (34), in which the decorative light source emits low-intensity white light.

Next, the first enemy character 004IWC12 in a front double bicep pose is displayed in an enlarged scale (Fig. 8-12 (35)), and the center decorative symbol "1" is displayed superimposed on the first enemy character 004IWC12 (Fig. 8-12 (36)). Then, after the center decorative symbol "1", which is a losing combination, is displayed swaying four times, the image display device 5 goes black (Fig. 8-12 (37)), and Super Reach A ends.

When Super Reach A ends, the same background image as when the normal fluctuation occurred before the reach was established is displayed, and the losing symbol "121" is temporarily displayed (Figure 8-12 (38)). After that, the losing symbol "121" is displayed (Figure 8-12 (39)).

In this example, the interior decorative symbols can be in a normal state, a destroyed state (see Figure 8-12 (34)) that can be changed from the normal state, and a cracked state (see Figure 8-9 (20)) that can be changed from the normal state and is the state before changing to the destroyed state. These can change in response to the Super Reach presentation display (e.g., an attack from an ally character to an enemy character, or an attack from an enemy character to an ally character). In Super Reach A, a jackpot symbol is displayed when the interior decorative symbol changes from the normal state to the cracked state and then changes back to the normal state (e.g., the portion corresponding to Figure 8-9 (22) to Figure 8-10 (30)). With this configuration, the interior decorative symbol's state can be changed in response to the Super Reach A presentation display, thereby enhancing the sense of realism of the presentation and increasing the enjoyment of the game.

(Super Reach B)
Figures 8-13 to 8-18 are explanatory diagrams showing specific examples of development notice effects and Super Reach B. Of Figures 8-13 to 8-18, Figures 8-13 to 8-17 are specific examples of when effects are executed based on a jackpot of variation pattern PB2-7 (development notice + Super Reach B), and correspond to the timing chart shown in Figure 8-3 (B). Of Figures 8-13 to 8-18, Figures 8-13 to 8-15 and 8-18 are specific examples of when effects are executed based on a miss of variation pattern PA2-7 (development notice + Super Reach B), and correspond to the timing chart shown in Figure 8-4 (B).

In the examples shown in Figures 8-13 to 8-18, after a losing symbol ("327") is displayed on the image display device 5 as the display result of the previous variable display (Figure 8-13 (1)), a variable display based on a jackpot of variable pattern PB2-7 (development notice + super reach B) or a miss of variable pattern PA2-7 (development notice + super reach B) is initiated (Figure 8-13 (2)).

Next, when the left and right decorative symbols reach a "2" state (Figure 8-13 (3)), a normal reach effect is executed in which the center decorative symbol scrolls slowly, and then the image display device 5 goes white and a development preview effect begins (Figure 8-13 (4)).

In the development preview, first, the first ally character 004IWC01 appears (Figure 8-13 (4)), followed by the second ally character 004IWC02 (Figure 8-13 (5)). Next, the word "Development" is displayed superimposed on the first ally character 004IWC01 and the second ally character 004IWC02 (Figure 8-13 (6)). Next, the first mini-character 004IWC03 is displayed as if it is growing superimposed on the first ally character 004IWC01, the second ally character 004IWC02, and the word "Development" (Figure 8-13 (7)). Eventually, the first mini-character 004IWC03 is displayed as if it is growing and filling the entire screen (Figure 8-13 (8)).

After that, when Super Reach B begins, the multiplied first mini-characters 004IWC03 gradually disappear (Fig. 8-14 (9)), and eventually an effect is displayed in which all first mini-characters 004IWC03 have disappeared (Fig. 8-14 (10)). This configuration reduces the sense of incongruity when switching from the development preview effect video to the Super Reach image, and makes the series of events from the development preview effect to the Super Reach appear natural.

Next, an effect is displayed in which the second ally character 004IWC02 lands on the ground (Figure 8-14 (11)), and the upper body of the second ally character 004IWC02 is enlarged and a background image containing multiple star shapes corresponding to the second ally character 004IWC02 is displayed (Figure 8-14 (12)).

Next, the second ally character 004IWC02 and the second enemy character 004IWC11 face off, and the word "VS" is displayed, indicating that a battle is about to begin (Figure 8-14 (13)).

Next, the second enemy character 004IWC11 attacks the second ally character 004IWC02 (specifically, emits a beam of light from its fingertips) as shown in Figure 8-14 (14). At this time, the second ally character 004IWC02 uses the center decorative symbol "9" (or a symbol image corresponding to the center decorative symbol "9") as a shield to block the attack (Figure 8-14 (14)).

In the examples shown in Figures 8-13 to 8-12, the left and right decorative symbols are "2", indicating a reach state, so the center decorative symbol "9" displayed in Figure 8-14 (14) is the center decorative symbol displayed two symbols before the center decorative symbol "2" that results in the jackpot symbol combination "222".

Next, an effect is displayed in which an attack from the second enemy character 004IWC11 to the second ally character 004IWC02 (specifically, a beam of light emitted from the fingertip) destroys the decorative "9" symbol that was acting as a shield. At this time, the decorative "9" symbol appears destroyed (Figure 8-14 (15)). Then, the second ally character 004IWC02 is enlarged and a background image containing multiple star shapes corresponding to the second ally character 004IWC02 is displayed (Figure 8-14 (16)).

Next, an effect is displayed in which the second ally character 004IWC02 begins an attack on the second enemy character 004IWC11 (specifically, a punch) (Figure 8-15 (17)). Then, the opposing second enemy character 004IWC11 is displayed from the front (Figure 8-15 (18)), and an effect is displayed in which a decorative pattern "1" appears in front of the second enemy character 004IWC11 (Figure 8-15 (19)). This decorative pattern "1" then becomes a shield that blocks attacks from the second ally character 004IWC02 against the second enemy character 004IWC11. In other words, an effect is displayed in which the second ally character 004IWC02 attacks (specifically, a punch) the decorative pattern "1" (Figure 8-15 (20)).

The decorative pattern "1" displayed in Figure 8-15 (19) is the decorative pattern displayed just before the decorative pattern "2" that results in the jackpot pattern combination "222." Therefore, a jackpot is announced when the decorative pattern "1" displayed in Figure 8-15 (19) is destroyed and the next decorative pattern "2" is displayed.

When the attack by the second ally character 004IWC02 reaches the decorative pattern "1" (specifically, when the fist hits), the decorative pattern "1" becomes cracked (Figure 8-15 (20)) and then cracked (Figure 8-15 (21)).

Here, details of Figure 8-15 (21) will be explained with reference to Figure 8-38. Figure 8-38 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of the change in the center decoration pattern during Super Reach B. At the timing of Figure 8-15 (21), as shown in Figure 8-38, multiple center decoration pattern fragment images 004IWG01a are displayed around the cracked center decoration pattern "1." Furthermore, each center decoration pattern fragment image 004IWG01a has a different appearance (for example, different color, shape, number, and scattering pattern of the fragments), and is displayed in a three-dimensional manner, appearing to jump out from the screen. This configuration can enhance the realism of the presentation.

In this example, as shown in Figures 8-37 and 8-38, the appearance of the cracked interior symbol is different between Super Reach A and Super Reach B. In addition, the appearance of the cracked interior symbol is also configured to differ depending on the type of interior symbol. Figure 8-39 is an explanatory diagram showing specific examples of changes in the interior symbol depending on the type of Super Reach and the type of interior symbol. As shown in Figure 8-39, in this example, the appearance of the interior symbol fragment image 004IWG01a when the interior symbol is cracked differs depending on the type of Super Reach. In the example shown in Figure 8-39, even for the same interior symbol "1", the color, shape, number, and scattering pattern of the fragments differ depending on the type of Super Reach. In addition, in this example, the appearance of the fragment image 004IWG01a of the center decorative pattern when the center decorative pattern cracks varies depending on the type of center decorative pattern (e.g., whether it is an odd number pattern or an even number pattern, the difference in the number of the center decorative pattern, etc.). For example, in the same type of Super Reach, even among even number patterns, the color, shape, number, and scattering of fragments differ between the center decorative pattern "2" and the center decorative pattern "6". In the example shown in Figure 8-39, when Super Reach A is executed, the number of displayed fragment images of the center decorative pattern "6" is greater than that of the center decorative pattern "1". This configuration allows different impressions to be given depending on the type of Super Reach and the type of center decorative pattern, thereby enhancing the presentation effect. In addition to the configuration of this example, the character's attack action (e.g., a sword slashing attack) may be varied depending on the type of super reach, the presence and type of effects performed before the super reach, and whether or not a chance-up effect is performed during the super reach. In this case, the way the decorative symbol breaks and the shape of the decorative symbol fragments may be varied depending on the type of attack. For example, when a sword slashing attack is performed, the decorative symbol may be split in half, and the number of displayed decorative symbol fragments may be fewer than when a striking attack (e.g., a body slam) is performed. In this example, the central decorative symbol is in the form of a rectangular (or cuboid in the case of a stereoscopic view) block with a corresponding number drawn on its surface. However, the corresponding number itself may also be represented by a block. In this case, the number of displayed central decorative symbol fragments may be greater for the central decorative symbol "6," which has a wide block surface (i.e., a wide breaking surface), than for the central decorative symbol "1," which has a narrow block surface (i.e., a narrow breaking surface).

When the central decorative pattern "1" cracks as shown in Figure 8-15 (21), the effect image that was displayed immediately before is displayed with reduced brightness and saturation, and a cut-in effect is executed in which an image of ally character 004IWC01 and multiple stars (normal or high brightness and saturation) is superimposed (Figure 8-15 (22)). Then, when the image displayed by the cut-in effect is erased, the same effect display as immediately before the cut-in effect (Figure 8-15 (21)) is displayed again (Figure 8-15 (23)).

Then, the display effect shown in Figure 8-15 (23) continues for three seconds (at a slower speed than the speed immediately before the cut-in effect (Figure 8-15 (21))). At this time, a slow-motion effect is executed, in which the progression speed of the effect changes from normal speed to a slower-than-normal speed. Specifically, an effect display is executed in which the movement speed of the fragment image 004IWG01a of the center decorative symbol displayed in stereoscopic vision and the characters is slowed. Note that while the slow-motion effect slows the movement speed of the fragment image 004IWG01a of the center decorative symbol and the characters, the swinging movement speed of the decorative symbol in the reach mode displayed in the upper right of the screen and the movement speed (rotation, etc.) of the active display are not slowed (i.e., they are not affected by the slow-motion effect). This slow-motion effect corresponds to the final tease of the super reach, and by slowing down the progression speed of the effect, players can focus their attention on how the effect progresses, i.e., whether it will progress to an effect announcing a jackpot.

In the case of a jackpot for variation pattern PB2-7 (Development Notice + Super Reach B), after Figure 8-15 (23), an attack from second ally character 004IWC02 to second enemy character 004IWC11 becomes effective, and a display effect is displayed in which the central decorative symbol "1" that was acting as a shield is destroyed (Figure 8-16 (24)). A display effect is also displayed in which second enemy character 004IWC11, who has been attacked, is blown away (Figure 8-16 (24)). In this example, light emission control begins in which the decorative light source emits rainbow light from the scene shown in Figure 8-16 (24). For example, in the scenes shown in Figures 8-16 (24) and (30), the decorative light source rapidly blinks (flashes) in rainbow colors, and in the scenes shown in Figures 8-16 (25) to (29) and Figures 8-16 (31) to 8-17 (34), the decorative light source emits slow rainbow light.

Next, the next center decoration symbol "2" is displayed facing forward in the normal manner, and the rejoicing second ally character 004IWC02 is displayed (Fig. 8-16 (25)). Next, a light effect image is displayed (Fig. 8-16 (26)) superimposed on the previous effect display (Fig. 8-16 (25)) including the second ally character 004IWC02 and the second enemy character 004IWC11, and the light effect image is enlarged to obscure the second ally character 004IWC02 and the second enemy character 004IWC11 (Fig. 8-16 (27)). At this time, because the light effect image is opaque, the obscured second ally character 004IWC02 and the second enemy character 004IWC11 cannot be seen.

Next, a light effect image covers the entire screen, and then a display is displayed in which the jackpot symbol "222" appears, including the center decorative symbol "2" displayed in the normal manner (Figure 8-16 (28)). The jackpot symbol "222" then gradually expands (Figure 8-16 (29)) until it covers the entire screen (Figure 8-16 (30)). After that, the jackpot symbol "222" is displayed at the same size as when the normal fluctuations were occurring before the reach was achieved, and is displayed as if it were oscillating four times (Figure 8-16 (31)).

Next, the jackpot symbol "222" is temporarily hidden and the words "Complete Settlement" are displayed (Fig. 8-17 (32)). Then, the image display device 5 goes white, Super Reach B ends, and the same background image as when the normal fluctuations were occurring before the reach was established is displayed, along with the jackpot symbol "222" being temporarily frozen (Fig. 8-17 (33)). After that, the jackpot symbol "222" is frozen (Fig. 8-17 (34)).

If variation pattern PA2-7 (Development Notice + Super Reach B) is unsuccessful, after Figure 8-15 (23), the attack from second ally character 004IWC02 to second enemy character 004IWC11 is ineffective, and the central decorative symbol "1" that was acting as a shield changes from a cracked state to a normal state again without being destroyed (Figure 8-18 (35)). In this example, light emission control begins from the scene shown in Figure 8-18 (35), in which the decorative light source emits low-intensity white light.

Next, the second enemy character 004IWC11 is displayed with both hands raised diagonally (Fig. 8-18 (36)), and the center decorative symbol "3" is displayed superimposed on the second enemy character 004IWC11 (Fig. 8-18 (37)). The center decorative symbol "3", which is a losing combination, is then displayed oscillating four times, after which the image display device 5 goes black (Fig. 8-18 (38)), and Super Reach B ends.

When Super Reach B ends, the same background image as when the normal fluctuation occurred before the reach was established is displayed, and the losing symbol "232" is temporarily displayed (Figure 8-18 (39)). After that, the losing symbol "232" is displayed (Figure 8-18 (40)).

In this example, the interior decorative symbols can be in a normal state, a destroyed state (see Figure 8-16 (24)), which can be changed from the normal state, and a cracked state (see Figure 8-15 (23)), which can be changed from the normal state and is the state before changing to the destroyed state. These can change in response to the Super Reach presentation display (e.g., an attack from an ally character to an enemy character, or an attack from an enemy character to an ally character). In Super Reach B, a jackpot symbol is displayed when the interior decorative symbol changes from the normal state to the cracked state and then to the destroyed state (e.g., the portion corresponding to Figure 8-15 (23) through Figure 8-16 (30)). This configuration allows the interior decorative symbol to change in response to the Super Reach B presentation display, thereby enhancing the sense of realism of the presentation and increasing the enjoyment of the game.

In addition, in this example, when a first type of center decorative pattern (e.g., an even-numbered center decorative pattern, center decorative pattern "2") is destroyed during Super Reach B in which the left and right decorative patterns of "3" are in a reach state, and when a second type of center decorative pattern (e.g., an odd-numbered center decorative pattern, center decorative pattern "1") is destroyed during Super Reach B in which the left and right decorative patterns of "2" are in a reach state, the decorative light emitters are controlled to emit light in a common light pattern (i.e., a rainbow-colored light pattern) (see Figure 8-3). This configuration allows for common light emission control during Super Reach B, preventing an increase in the amount of control data.

Furthermore, in this example, when a jackpot pattern ("222") including a first center decoration pattern ("2") is displayed during Super Reach B, the second center decoration pattern ("1") displayed before the first center decoration pattern can change from a normal state to a destroyed state over a predetermined period of time, and the third center decoration pattern ("9") displayed before the second center decoration pattern ("1") can change from a normal state to a destroyed state over a specific period of time that is shorter than the predetermined period of time. In other words, the final center decoration pattern stop prompting effect (Figures 8-15 (20) to 8-16 (24)) has a longer duration than the center decoration pattern stop prompting effect immediately before the final one (Figures 8-14 (14) to (15)). This configuration varies the time required for the center decoration patterns to change from a normal state to a destroyed state, thereby enhancing the presentation effect of Super Reach B. In this example, the center decorative symbol does not change to a cracked state in the center decorative symbol stop provocation performance just before the final one, but this configuration is not limited to this, and it may be configured to change to a cracked state. Furthermore, if configured in this way, it may be configured so that the time during which the center decorative symbol's cracked state continues in the final center decorative symbol stop provocation performance is shorter than the time during which the center decorative symbol's cracked state continues in the center decorative symbol stop provocation performance just before the final one. This configuration can increase the excitement of the final center decorative symbol stop provocation performance.

In this example, Super Reach B includes a first part (e.g., the first part includes the introductory portion and the instigating portion of Super Reach B) and a second part (e.g., the second part includes the final instigating portion and the win/loss notification portion of Super Reach B). When a jackpot pattern ("222") including a first decorative pattern ("2") is displayed, the second decorative pattern ("1") is destroyed during the second part, and then the first decorative pattern ("2") is displayed in an enlarged form that is more visible than in its normal form. That is, after the decorative pattern "1" is destroyed as shown in FIG. 8-16 (24), the jackpot pattern "222" including the decorative pattern "2" is enlarged as shown in FIG. 8-16 (30). This configuration enhances the presentation effect when a jackpot pattern is displayed.

Furthermore, in this example, the cracked state is a state in which the visibility of the central decorative pattern is reduced compared to the normal state (for example, the cracked state of the central decorative pattern "1" shown in FIG. 8-15 (23)), and the destroyed state is a state in which the visibility of the central decorative pattern is reduced compared to the normal state and the cracked state (for example, the destroyed state of the central decorative pattern "1" shown in FIG. 8-16 (24)). After the second central decorative pattern (for example, the central decorative pattern "1") is destroyed, the first central decorative pattern (for example, the central decorative pattern "2") is displayed in the normal state (for example, see FIGS. 8-15 (23) to 8-16 (25)). This configuration makes it easier to see the specific decorative identification information displayed after the special state is reached.

In addition, in this example, the second ally character 004IWC02 associated with Super Reach B can be displayed as a Super Reach B presentation display, and the appearance of the center decoration pattern can be changed in response to the action of the second ally character 004IWC02 (in this example, an attack action) (see, for example, Figures 8-15 (20) to 8-16 (24)). This configuration makes it possible to associate the action of a specific character with changes in the appearance of specific decoration identification information, enhancing the presentation effect.

Furthermore, in this example, when the center decorative pattern changes from a normal state to a cracked state and then changes back to a normal state during the execution of Super Reach B, it is announced that the jackpot pattern will not be displayed (see, for example, Figure 8-15 (23) and Figure 8-18 (35) to (40)). This configuration makes it possible to associate the change in the state of the specific decorative identification information with whether or not a specific display result is displayed, thereby enhancing the presentation effect.

In addition, in this example, when the center decoration pattern changes from a normal state to a cracked state during the execution of the second part of Super Reach B, a fragment image 004IWG01a of the center decoration pattern accompanying the change can be displayed over the period until the center decoration pattern changes from the cracked state to the destroyed state (see, for example, Figures 8-15 (23) and 8-38). This configuration can enhance the sense of realism of the presentation.

In addition, in this example, when the decorative symbol changes from a normal state to a cracked state during the execution of the second part of Super Reach B, a cut-in effect can be executed during the period from the cracked state to the destroyed state, suggesting a jackpot (for example, the portion where the cut-in image shown in Figure 8-15 (22) is displayed). The execution period of the cut-in effect is shorter than the period from the cracked state to the destroyed state (for example, the cut-in effect is executed during a portion of the period from the cracked state to the destroyed state; see Figures 8-15 (21) to 8-16 (24)). This configuration can effectively enhance the effect.

In addition, in this example, the second ally character 004IWC02 associated with Super Reach B can be displayed as the Super Reach B presentation display, and the first ally character 004IWC01 associated with Super Reach A can be displayed as the Super Reach A presentation display. During Super Reach B, the appearance of the center decoration pattern can be changed in response to the action of the second ally character 004IWC02 (in this example, an attacking action) (see, for example, Figures 8-15 (20) to 8-16 (24)). During Super Reach A, the appearance of the center decoration pattern can be changed in response to the action of the first ally character 004IWC01 (in this example, an attacking action and a defensive action) (see, for example, Figures 8-8 (14) to 8-8 (15), 8-9 (22) to 8-10 (23), and 8-12 (34)). This configuration allows for a more diverse presentation and increased interest.

Furthermore, in this example, when the decorative symbol changes from a normal state to a cracked state in the second part of Super Reach B, a slow-motion effect can be executed, in which the performance progresses at a slower rate than normal (for example, the portion where the performance progresses slower, as shown in Figure 8-15 (23)). Furthermore, when the decorative symbol changes from a normal state to a cracked state in the second part of Super Reach A, a slow-motion effect can be executed (for example, the portion where the performance progresses slower, as shown in Figure 8-9 (22)). The duration of the slow-motion effect is the same for Super Reach B and Super Reach A (in this example, both are executed for 3 seconds). This configuration makes it possible to make the performance easier to understand, even while the content of the performance is different.

In this example, in the second part of Super Reach B, when the center decoration pattern changes from the normal state to the cracked state and then changes back to the normal state, it is suggested that the jackpot pattern is not displayed (for example, the part corresponding to (35) to (38) in Figure 8-18),
In the second part of Super Reach A, when the center decoration pattern changes from a normal state to a cracked state and then to a destroyed state, it is suggested that the jackpot pattern will not be displayed (for example, the part corresponding to (34) to (37) in Figure 8-12).
When the center decorative symbol is displayed in the normal mode again in the second part of Super Reach B, and when the center decorative symbol is displayed in the destroyed mode in the second part of Super Reach A, the light emission control of the decorative light source is performed in a common light emission mode (i.e., a pattern that emits low-intensity white light) (see Figure 8-4). With this configuration, it is possible to provide a variety of ways to enjoy the effects by changing the effects content, while suppressing the increase in the amount of control data by standardizing the light emission control.

(Super Reach C)
Figures 8-19 to 8-24 are explanatory diagrams showing specific examples of development notice effects and Super Reach C. Of Figures 8-19 to 8-24, Figures 8-19 to 8-23 are specific examples of when effects are executed based on a jackpot of variation pattern PB2-10 (development notice + Super Reach C), and correspond to the timing chart shown in Figure 8-3 (C). Of Figures 8-19 to 8-24, Figures 8-19 to 8-21 and 8-24 are specific examples of when effects are executed based on a miss of variation pattern PA2-10 (development notice + Super Reach C), and correspond to the timing chart shown in Figure 8-4 (C).

In the examples shown in Figures 8-19 to 8-24, after the image display device 5 displays a losing symbol ("327") as the display result of the previous variable display (Figure 8-19 (1)), a variable display based on a jackpot of variable pattern PB2-10 (development notice + super reach C) or a miss of variable pattern PA2-10 (development notice + super reach C) begins (Figure 8-19 (2)).

Next, when the left and right decorative symbols reach a "1" state (Figure 8-19 (3)), a normal reach effect is executed in which the center decorative symbol scrolls slowly, and then the image display device 5 goes white and the development preview effect begins (Figure 8-19 (4)).

In the development preview, first, the first ally character 004IWC01 appears (Figure 8-19 (4)), followed by the second ally character 004IWC02 (Figure 8-19 (5)). Next, the word "Development" is displayed superimposed on the first ally character 004IWC01 and the second ally character 004IWC02 (Figure 8-19 (6)). Next, the first mini-character 004IWC03 is displayed as if it is growing superimposed on the first ally character 004IWC01, the second ally character 004IWC02, and the word "Development" (Figure 8-19 (7)). Eventually, the first mini-character 004IWC03 is displayed as if it is growing and filling the entire screen (Figure 8-19 (8)).

After that, when Super Reach C begins, the multiplied first mini-characters 004IWC03 gradually disappear (Figure 8-20 (9)), and eventually a display is displayed in which all first mini-characters 004IWC03 disappear (Figure 8-20 (10)).

Next, a visual effect of the third enemy character 004IWC13 landing on the ground is displayed (Figure 8-20 (11)), after which the screen switches to a white background image and the word "decisive battle" is displayed in the center of the screen (Figure 8-20 (12)). Note that the word "decisive battle" displayed in Figure 8-20 (12) is displayed in the foreground until the timing of Figure 8-20 (15).

Next, across a parallelogram area in the center of the screen containing the word "decisive battle," a first superimposed image is displayed on the left, depicting the second ally character 004IWC02 and multiple stars, and a second superimposed image is displayed on the right, depicting the third enemy character 004IWC13 and multiple broken hearts (Figure 8-20 (13)).

Next, the first superimposed image on the left and the second superimposed image on the right are moved to the center and glued together, and the word "decisive battle" is superimposed on these images (Figure 8-20 (14)). After that, the first superimposed image on the left and the second superimposed image on the right are moved to their original positions, and the background image for Super Reach C is displayed in the parallelogram area formed between the two images, similar to the original. The word "decisive battle" is then superimposed on the background image for Super Reach C (Figure 8-20 (15)).

Next, the first superimposed image on the left and the second superimposed image on the right are erased, and the background image for Super Reach C is displayed in the area where they were previously displayed. Additionally, a visual effect is displayed in which the second ally character 004IWC02 and the third enemy character 004IWC13 face each other (Figure 8-20 (16)).

Next, a visual effect is displayed in which the third enemy character 004IWC13 begins an attack on the second ally character 004IWC02 (Figure 8-21 (17)). A flame effect image is displayed around the third enemy character 004IWC13 (Figure 8-21 (18)), and a visual effect is displayed in which a giant spherical energy bullet is formed above the head of the third enemy character 004IWC13 (Figure 8-21 (19)).

Next, a visual effect is displayed in which the second ally character 004IWC02 begins an attack on the third enemy character 004IWC13 (Figure 8-21 (20)). A flame effect image is displayed around the second ally character 004IWC02 (Figure 8-21 (21)), and a visual effect is displayed in which a giant energy ball is emitted from above the head of the second ally character 004IWC02 (Figure 8-21 (22)).

Next, a visual effect is displayed in which a spherical energy bullet formed by the third enemy character 004IWC13 collides with an energy bullet output from the second ally character 004IWC02 (Figure 8-21 (23)). Next, while the visual effect of the energy bullets colliding in the center of the screen continues, a first superimposed image depicting the second ally character 004IWC02 and multiple stars is displayed in a triangular area at the bottom left of the screen, and a second superimposed image depicting the third enemy character 004IWC13 and multiple broken hearts is displayed in a triangular area at the top right of the screen (Figure 8-21 (24)).

Then, the effect display shown in Figure 8-21 (24) continues for four seconds (at a slower speed than immediately before). At this time, a slow motion effect is implemented, in which the progression speed of the effect changes from normal speed to a slower-than-normal speed. Specifically, an effect display is implemented in which the movement speed of the energy bullets and characters slows down. Note that while the slow motion effect slows down the movement speed of the energy bullets and characters, the swinging movement speed of the decorative symbols in the reach mode displayed in the upper right corner of the screen and the movement speed (rotation, etc.) of the active display do not slow down (i.e., they are not affected by the slow motion effect). This slow motion effect corresponds to the final tease of a super reach, and by slowing down the progression speed of the effect, attention can be drawn to how the effect progresses, i.e., whether it will progress to an effect announcing a jackpot.

In the case of a jackpot in variation pattern PB2-10 (Development Notice + Super Reach C), after Figure 8-21 (24), a background image depicting the second ally character 004IWC02 and multiple stars is displayed (Figure 8-22 (25)). In this example, light emission control begins in the scene shown in Figure 8-22 (25), causing the decorative light source to emit rainbow colors. For example, in the scenes shown in Figure 8-22 (25) and Figure 8-23 (35), the decorative light source rapidly blinks (flashes) in rainbow colors, and in the scenes shown in Figure 8-22 (26) through Figure 8-23 (34) and Figure 8-23 (36) through Figure 8-23 (38), the decorative light source is controlled to emit rainbow colors slowly.

Next, the second ally character 004IWC02 makes a peace sign (Figure 8-22 (26)), after which the word "Complete" appears in the upper left of the screen (Figure 8-22 (27)), the word "All" appears in the upper right of the screen (Figure 8-22 (28)), the word "Decision" appears in the lower left of the screen (Figure 8-22 (29)), and the word "Coming" appears in the lower right of the screen (Figure 8-22 (30)). Once all the "Complete Decision" characters are displayed, the center decorative symbol "1" appears, which is the winning combination (Figure 8-22 (30)).

Next, a light effect image (Figure 8-22 (31)) is displayed superimposed on the previous effect display (Figure 8-22 (30)) including the second ally character 004IWC02 and the center decorative pattern "1," and the light effect image is enlarged to cover the second ally character 004IWC02 and the center decorative pattern "1" (Figure 8-22 (32)). At this time, because the light effect image is opaque, the covered second ally character 004IWC02 and the center decorative pattern "1" cannot be seen.

Next, a light effect image covers the entire screen, and then a display is displayed in which the jackpot symbol "111" including the center decorative symbol "1" appears (Figure 8-23 (33)). The jackpot symbol "111" then gradually expands (Figure 8-23 (34)) until it covers the entire screen (Figure 8-23 (35)). After that, the jackpot symbol "111" is displayed at the same size as when the normal fluctuations were occurring before the reach was achieved, and is displayed as if it were swaying four times (Figure 8-23 (36)).

Then, the image display device 5 goes white, Super Reach D ends, and the same background image as when the normal fluctuation occurred before the reach was established is displayed, along with the jackpot symbol "111" being temporarily stopped and displayed (Figure 8-23 (37)). After that, the jackpot symbol "111" is stopped and displayed (Figure 8-23 (38)).

If the variation pattern PA2-10 (Development Notice + Super Reach C) is missed, after Figure 8-21 (24), a background image depicting the third enemy character 004IWC13 and multiple broken hearts is displayed (Figure 8-24 (39)). In this example, light emission control begins from the scene shown in Figure 8-24 (39), causing the decorative light source to emit a low-intensity white light.

Next, a display is produced in which the third enemy character 004IWC13 makes a peace sign (Fig. 8-24 (40)), and then the center decorative symbol "2" is displayed superimposed on the third enemy character 004IWC13 (Fig. 8-24 (41)). Then, after the center decorative symbol "2", which is a losing combination, is displayed oscillating five times, the image display device 5 goes black (Fig. 8-24 (42)), and Super Reach C ends.

When Super Reach C ends, the same background image as when the normal fluctuation occurred before the reach was established is displayed, and the losing symbol "121" is temporarily displayed (Figure 8-24 (43)). After that, the losing symbol "121" is displayed (Figure 8-24 (44)).

In this example, while Super Reach B is being executed, a jackpot pattern can be displayed when the central decorative pattern changes from a normal state to a cracked state and then to a destroyed state (for example, the parts corresponding to Figures 8-15 (23) to 8-16 (30)), whereas while Super Reach C is being executed, a jackpot pattern can be displayed without the central decorative pattern changing to either a cracked state or a destroyed state (for example, the jackpot pattern "111" is displayed without executing the effect of changing the state of the central decorative pattern as shown in Figures 8-20 (9) to 8-23 (36)). However, when a jackpot pattern is displayed during Super Reach B and when a jackpot pattern is displayed during Super Reach C, it is possible to control the illumination of the decorative illuminant using a common illumination mode (for example, a rainbow-colored illumination pattern) (for example, see Figure 8-3). This configuration makes it possible to execute Super Reach B, which changes the appearance of the center decorative symbol to indicate whether or not a jackpot has been reached, while also enabling Super Reach C, which does not change the appearance of the center decorative symbol to indicate whether or not a jackpot has been reached. This allows for variation in the presentation and heightens gaming excitement, while also minimizing the increase in control data volume by sharing the light emission control between Super Reach B and Super Reach C. It also makes it possible to properly notify players that a jackpot has been reached.

Furthermore, in this example, a slow motion effect can be executed when the central decorative pattern changes from a normal state to a cracked state during the execution of the second part of Super Reach B (for example, the portion where the progression speed of the effect slows down, as shown in Figure 8-15 (23)). A slow motion effect can also be executed during the execution of the second part of Super Reach C (for example, the portion where the progression speed of the effect slows down, as shown in Figure 8-21 (24)). However, the slow motion effect executed during the second part of Super Reach C has a longer duration than the slow motion effect executed during the second part of Super Reach B. Specifically, the duration of the slow motion effect during the second part of Super Reach C is four seconds, while the duration of the slow motion effect during the second part of Super Reach B is three seconds (see Figures 8-15 (23) and 8-21 (24)). This configuration can increase the level of attention to the second part of Super Reach B and the second part of Super Reach C.

In addition, in this example, when a jackpot symbol is not displayed during the second part of Super Reach B, a normal decorative symbol can be displayed (e.g., the portion corresponding to (35) in Figure 8-18), and when a jackpot symbol is not displayed during the second part of Super Reach C, a normal decorative symbol can be displayed (e.g., the portion corresponding to (41) in Figure 8-24). The illumination of the decorative light emitter can be controlled using a common illumination mode (i.e., a low-brightness white illumination pattern) when a normal decorative symbol is displayed when a jackpot symbol is not displayed during the second part of Super Reach B, and when a normal decorative symbol is displayed when a jackpot symbol is not displayed during the second part of Super Reach C (e.g., the portions corresponding to (1-38) in Figure 8-18 and (42) in Figure 8-24; see Figure 8-4). This configuration allows for appropriate notification that a jackpot symbol was not displayed, and by sharing the illumination control between Super Reach B and Super Reach C, an increase in the amount of control data can be suppressed.

Furthermore, in this example, the execution period of the second part of Super Reach C is configured to be longer than the second part of Super Reach B. For example, the execution period of the slow motion presentation (Fig. 8-15 (23), Fig. 8-21 (24)), the period from the battle victory to the display of the jackpot symbol in the event of a jackpot (Fig. 8-16 (24) to (28), Fig. 8-22 (25) to Fig. 8-23 (33)), and the period from the display of the losing symbol to the return to the normal background screen in the event of a loss (Fig. 8-18 (35) to (38), Fig. 8-24 (39) to (42)) are configured to be longer. This configuration can improve the presentation effect of the highly anticipated Super Reach C.

Furthermore, in this example, while it is possible to display a center decorative symbol in both the first part of Super Reach B and the second part of Super Reach B, it is possible to display no center decorative symbol in the first part of Super Reach C (for example, the part corresponding to (9) to (16) in Figure 8-20), and to display a center decorative symbol in the second part of Super Reach C (for example, at the timing when the jackpot symbol is displayed) (for example, the part corresponding to (17) to (36) in Figure 8-21). This configuration allows for diversification of the presentation and improves the effectiveness of each presentation.

Furthermore, in this example, when a jackpot symbol is displayed during the second part of Super Reach B, the center decorative symbol is destroyed, and then a different center decorative symbol from the destroyed one is displayed in an enlarged form with higher visibility than in the normal form (for example, the part corresponding to (24) to (30) in Figure 8-16). When a jackpot symbol is displayed during the second part of Super Reach C, the center decorative symbol is not displayed in a destroyed form, but is displayed in an enlarged form (for example, the part corresponding to (25) to (35) in Figure 8-22). This configuration allows for a variety of presentations and improves the effectiveness of each presentation.

Furthermore, in this example, when a jackpot pattern is displayed in the second part of Super Reach B or the second part of Super Reach C, common text information can be displayed after the jackpot pattern is displayed (for example, the text "Completely settled" can be displayed as shown in Figure 8-17 (32) and Figure 8-22 (30)). With this configuration, the presentation results can be properly announced even when the presentation content is different.

In addition, in this example, when a jackpot symbol is not displayed during the second predetermined part of Super Reach B, a normal decorative symbol can be displayed; when a jackpot symbol is not displayed during the second part of Super Reach C, a normal decorative symbol can be displayed; the normal decorative symbol displayed when a jackpot symbol is not displayed during the second part of Super Reach B can perform a predetermined number of predetermined actions (four shaking actions in this example) (e.g., the part corresponding to Figure 8-18 (38)); and the normal decorative symbol displayed when a jackpot symbol is not displayed during the second part of Super Reach C (four times in this example) can perform a special number of predetermined actions (five shaking actions in this example) greater than the predetermined number (e.g., the part corresponding to Figure 8-24 (42)). This configuration allows for diversification of the presentation and improved presentation effects.

(Super Reach D)
Figures 8-25 to 8-28 are explanatory diagrams showing specific examples of Super Reach D. Of Figures 8-25 to 8-28, Figures 8-25 to 8-27 are specific examples of when the effects are executed based on a jackpot of variation pattern PB2-13 (Super Reach D), and correspond to the timing chart shown in Figure 8-3 (D). Of Figures 8-25 to 8-28, Figures 8-25 to 8-26 and 8-28 are specific examples of when the effects are executed based on a miss of variation pattern PA2-13 (Super Reach D), and correspond to the timing chart shown in Figure 8-4 (D).

In the examples shown in Figures 8-25 to 8-28, after the image display device 5 displays a losing symbol ("327") as the display result of the previous variable display (Figure 8-25(1)), variable display based on a jackpot in variable pattern PB2-13 (Super Reach D) or a miss in variable pattern PA2-13 (Super Reach D) begins (Figure 8-25(2)). Note that in the high-probability state where Super Reach D is executed, a background image different from that in the low-probability state is used, and a display instructing to hit right and a display indicating the number of remaining variables controlled to the high-probability state are also displayed.

Next, when the left and right decorative symbols reach "2" and enter the reach state (Figure 8-25 (3)), the center decorative symbol scrolls slowly, creating a normal reach effect, and then Super Reach D begins. When Super Reach D begins, the second ally character 004IWC02 and the first enemy character 004IWC12 face off, and the word "VS" is displayed, indicating the start of a battle (Figure 8-25 (4)).

Next, an effect is displayed in which the second ally character 004IWC02 attacks (specifically, punches) the first enemy character 004IWC12 (Fig. 8-25 (5)). Also, an effect is displayed in which the first enemy character 004IWC12 attacks (specifically, slams) the second ally character 004IWC02 (Fig. 8-25 (6)). Then, an effect is displayed in which the attack of the second ally character 004IWC02 (specifically, a punching fist) collides with the attack of the first enemy character 004IWC12 (specifically, a slamming shoulder) (Fig. 8-25 (7)).

At this point, the deciding button effect begins, and the effect display that was displayed just before is switched to a screen that displays a lighter version of ally character 004IWC01 and push button image 004IWG03, which resembles push button 31B (Figure 8-25 (8)). In other words, an effect display encouraging the operation of push button 31B begins. Then, ally character 004IWC01 and push button image 004IWG03 are displayed gradually darker (Figure 8-26 (9)), and the text "Press!" and a display indicating the valid operation period are additionally displayed (Figure 8-26 (10)).

In the case of a jackpot in variation pattern PB2-13 (Super Reach D), when operation of push button 31B is detected, a background image with a radial pattern is displayed (Figure 8-27 (11)). In this example, light emission control is initiated in which the decorative light emitter emits rainbow colors from the scene shown in Figure 8-27 (11). For example, in the scenes shown in Figure 8-27 (11) to (12) and (15), the decorative light emitter rapidly blinks (flashes) in rainbow colors, and in the scenes shown in Figure 8-27 (13) to (14) and (16) to (17), the decorative light emitter is controlled to emit rainbow colors slowly.

Next, a movable body effect is executed in which the movable body 32 moves from its initial position to an effect position in front of the image display 5 (Figure 8-27 (12)). At the same time, an effect display is executed in which the background image of the radial pattern breaks (Figure 8-27 (12)). Next, control is performed to return the movable body 32 from the effect position to its initial position, and an effect display is executed in which the background image of the radial pattern breaks and the jackpot symbol "222" appears behind the background image (Figure 8-27 (13)). When the background image of the radial pattern breaks, multiple fragment images are displayed, but because these fragment images have low transparency, the player cannot see the images displayed on lower layers through the fragment images.

Next, the jackpot symbol "222" that appears is displayed moving from the back of the screen (i.e., behind the background image of the radial pattern) to the front (Figure 8-27 (14)), and eventually the jackpot symbol "222" breaks through the background image of the radial pattern and is enlarged to cover the entire screen (Figure 8-27 (15)).

Next, the jackpot symbol "222" is displayed at the same size as when normal fluctuations were occurring before the reach was achieved, and is displayed as if it were swaying twice (Fig. 8-27 (16)). After that, the jackpot symbol "222" is displayed stationary (Fig. 8-27 (17)). In this example, when the jackpot symbol "222" is enlarged, it is displayed together with fragment images of the radial background image, giving the impression of breaking through and enhancing the sense of realism. On the other hand, when the jackpot symbol "222" is displayed at the same size as when normal fluctuations were occurring before the reach was achieved, the fragment images are completely faded out so as not to reduce the visibility of the jackpot symbol.

If the variation pattern PA2-13 (Super Reach D) is unsuccessful, when operation of the push button 31B is detected, an image of broken glass fragments is displayed along with a background image of broken glass (Figure 8-28 (18)). The displayed image of broken glass fragments is smaller and fewer in number than the image of broken glass fragments that appears when the radial background image shown in Figure 8-27 (13) is broken or the image of broken glass fragments in the special preview effect shown in Figure 8-30 (5). Next, after the image of broken glass fragments has finished fading out (i.e., after it has been completely erased), the center decorative pattern "3" is displayed superimposed on the background image (Figure 8-28 (19)). Then, after the center decorative pattern "3," which is the losing combination, is displayed oscillating twice, the image display device 5 goes black, and Super Reach D ends. Note that in this example, light emission control begins from the scene shown in Figure 8-28 (18), in which the decorative light source emits low-intensity white light.

When Super Reach D ends, the same background image as when the normal fluctuation occurred before the reach was established is displayed, and the losing symbol "232" is temporarily displayed (Figure 8-28 (20)). After that, the losing symbol "232" is displayed (Figure 8-28 (21)).

In this example, when Super Reach B is being executed, a jackpot pattern can be displayed when the central decorative pattern changes from a normal state to a cracked state and then to a destroyed state (for example, the parts corresponding to Figures 8-15 (23) to 8-16 (30)), and when Super Reach D is being executed, a jackpot pattern can be displayed without the central decorative pattern changing to either a destroyed state or a cracked state (for example, a jackpot pattern is displayed without executing a performance in which the state of the central decorative pattern changes, as shown in Figures 8-25 (4) to 8-27 (17)).However, when a jackpot pattern is displayed during Super Reach B and when a jackpot pattern is displayed during Super Reach D, the illumination of the decorative illuminant can be controlled using a common illumination mode (i.e., a rainbow-colored illumination pattern) (see Figure 8-3). This configuration makes it possible to execute Super Reach B, which changes the appearance of the center decorative symbol to indicate whether or not a jackpot has been reached, while also enabling Super Reach D, which does not change the appearance of the center decorative symbol to indicate whether or not a jackpot has been reached. This provides variation in the presentation between low-probability and high-probability states, increasing gaming interest, and furthermore, by sharing the light emission control between Super Reach B and Super Reach D, it is possible to suppress an increase in the amount of control data.

Furthermore, in this example, when Super Reach B is executed and a jackpot symbol is displayed, the jackpot symbol is displayed without the movable object effect being executed in the second part of Super Reach B (for example, the part corresponding to Figure 8-16 (25)), and when Super Reach D is executed and a jackpot symbol is displayed, the jackpot symbol is displayed after the movable object effect is executed in the second part of Super Reach D (for example, the part corresponding to Figure 8-27 (12)). With this configuration, the presentation style when displaying the jackpot symbol can be made different between the second part of Super Reach B and the second part of Super Reach D, increasing the enjoyment of the game.

In addition, in this example, when a jackpot symbol is not displayed during the second part of Super Reach B, a normal decorative symbol can be displayed (see, for example, Figures 8-4 and 8-18), and when a jackpot symbol is not displayed during the second part of Super Reach D, a normal decorative symbol can be displayed (see, for example, Figures 8-4 and 8-28). The illumination of the decorative light emitter can be controlled using a common illumination mode (i.e., a low-brightness white illumination pattern) when a normal decorative symbol is displayed when a jackpot symbol is not displayed during the Super Reach B part, and when a normal decorative symbol is displayed when a jackpot symbol is not displayed during the second part of Super Reach D (see, for example, the portions corresponding to Figures 8-18 (38) and 8-28 (19); see Figure 8-4). This configuration properly notifies the user that a jackpot symbol was not displayed, and by sharing the illumination control between Super Reach B and Super Reach D, it is possible to prevent an increase in the amount of control data.

Furthermore, in this example, while it is possible to display a center decorative symbol in both the first and second parts of Super Reach B, it is possible to display no center decorative symbol in the first part of Super Reach D (for example, no center decorative symbol is displayed as shown in Figures 8-25 (4) to 8-26 (10)), and to display a center decorative symbol in the second part of Super Reach D (for example, at the timing when a jackpot symbol is displayed) (for example, it is possible to display a center decorative symbol as shown in Figures 8-27 (11) to (16) and 8-28 (18) to (20)). This configuration allows for different presentations between Super Reach B and Super Reach D, increasing the enjoyment of the game.

Furthermore, in this example, in the second part of Super Reach B, the jackpot symbol is displayed without the deciding button effect being executed (see, for example, Figures 8-15 and 8-16), and in the second part of Super Reach D, the jackpot symbol is displayed after the deciding button effect is executed (for example, the part corresponding to Figure 8-27 (11) to (16)). This configuration allows the presentation to be different between Super Reach B and Super Reach D, increasing the enjoyment of the game.

Furthermore, in this example, if a jackpot symbol is displayed during Super Reach B, after the center decorative symbol is destroyed in the second part of Super Reach B, the center decorative symbol can be displayed in an enlarged form with higher visibility than in its normal form (for example, the part corresponding to (24) to (30) in Figure 8-16), and if a jackpot symbol is displayed during Super Reach D, the center decorative symbol can be displayed in an enlarged form during the second part of Super Reach D (for example, the part corresponding to (15) in Figure 8-27). With this configuration, it is possible to appropriately notify the player that a jackpot has been achieved, even while varying the presentation content.

Furthermore, in this example, the normal decorative pattern that is displayed when no jackpot symbol is displayed during the second part of Super Reach B can perform a predetermined number of predetermined actions (four shaking actions in this example) (for example, the part corresponding to Figure 8-18 (38)), and the normal decorative pattern that is displayed when no jackpot symbol is displayed during the second part of Super Reach D can perform a specific number of predetermined actions (three shaking actions in this example) that are less than the predetermined number (for example, the part corresponding to Figure 8-28 (19)). This configuration allows the presentation to be different between Super Reach B and Super Reach D, increasing the enjoyment of the game.

In addition to the configuration shown in this example, when a jackpot pattern is displayed in the second part of Super Reach B or the second part of Super Reach D, common text information (for example, the text display "Completely Settled") may be displayed after the jackpot pattern is displayed (for example, as in Figure 8-17 (32), the text display "Completely Settled" may also be displayed in the second part of Super Reach D shown in Figure 8-27). With this configuration, it is possible to appropriately notify the player that a jackpot has occurred, even while using different presentation content.

(long reach)
Figure 8-29 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a long reach. Figure 8-29 is a specific example of a case where a performance is executed based on a miss in the variation pattern PA2-2 (long reach), and corresponds to the timing chart shown in Figure 8-5 (A).

In the example shown in Figure 8-29, after the image display device 5 displays a losing symbol ("327") as the display result of the previous variable display (Figure 8-29(1)), a variable display based on a missing variable pattern PA2-2 (long reach) is initiated (Figure 8-29(2)).

Next, when the left and right decorative symbols reach "2" and enter a reach state (Figure 8-29 (3)), a normal reach effect is executed in which the center decorative symbol scrolls at a slow speed, and then a long reach begins. When a long reach begins, a first ally character 004IWC01 is displayed, along with multiple options 004IWG02 (Figure 8-29 (4)). The multiple options 004IWG02 include multiple options imitating enemy characters, suggesting that a center decorative symbol that will result in a miss will stop, and an option suggesting that a center decorative symbol "2" will stop, suggesting a jackpot. Note that this example configuration is not limiting, and if a variation pattern that develops from a long reach to a super reach is provided, options suggesting development into a super reach, such as "Good Opportunity," "Strong SP," or "Super Hot," may also be included.

Next, a display of multiple options 004IWG02 spins (Fig. 8-29(5)). Then, when the first ally character 004IWC01 shoots an option with a ray emitted from his eye (Fig. 8-29(6)), the shot option is displayed within a frame designated as TARGET (Fig. 8-29(7)). In the example shown in Fig. 8-29(7), an option modeled after an enemy character is shot and displayed within the TARGET frame, suggesting that the center decorative pattern, which is a miss, will stop.

Then, the image display device 5 goes black and the long reach ends. When the long reach ends, the same background image as when the normal fluctuations were occurring before the reach was established is displayed, and the losing symbol "212" is displayed as a stopped symbol (Figure 8-29 (8)).

(Special notice + long reach)
Figures 8-30 to 8-31 are explanatory diagrams showing specific examples of special notice effects and long reaches. Figures 8-30 to 8-31 are specific examples of when effects are executed based on a miss in the variation pattern PA2-3 (special notice + long reach), and correspond to the timing chart shown in Figure 8-5 (B).

In the example shown in Figures 8-30 to 8-31, after the image display device 5 displays a losing symbol ("327") as the display result of the previous variable display (Figure 8-30 (1)), a variable display based on a missing variable pattern PA2-3 (special notice + long reach) is initiated (Figure 8-30 (2)).

Next, the left and right decorative symbols will be "2", putting the game into a reach state. At this point, the special preview effect begins, and spear image 004IWG04 appears from the bottom right of the screen (Figure 8-30 (3)). Then, the background image switches to black, and the spear image 004IWG04 moves from the bottom right to the center of the screen, colliding with glass image 004IWG05 (Figure 8-30 (4)).

Next, a visual effect is displayed in which the spear image 004IWG04 penetrates the glass image 004IWG05 (Figure 8-30(5)). At this time, the glass image 004IWG05 breaks, displaying multiple images of broken glass 004IWG05a and an image of the remaining broken glass 004IWG05b in the corner of the screen (Figure 8-30(5)).

In this example, the time from when the glass image cracks to when it completely shatters during the special preview effect (e.g., corresponding to (4)-(5) in Figure 8-30) is different from the time from when the background image cracks to when it completely shatters during Super Reach D (e.g., corresponding to (12)-(13) in Figure 8-27). Specifically, because the display of the glass image shattering during the special preview effect occurs before the win/loss notification, the time from when the image cracks to when it completely shatters is set short, emphasizing the tempo of the display. On the other hand, because the display of the background image shattering during Super Reach D occurs when a jackpot is notified, the cracking is first caused by the movement of the movable body, and then the complete shattering occurs as the movable body 32 returns to its original position, emphasizing the enjoyment of the jackpot. In addition to this configuration, the display speed of the glass image fragments during the special preview effect (i.e., the speed at which they move as they fade off the screen) may be configured to differ from the display speed of the background image fragments during Super Reach D. For example, to heighten the sense of excitement when a jackpot is announced, the display speed of the background image fragments in Super Reach D may be made faster than the display speed of the glass image fragments in the special preview performance. When the glass image fragments are displayed in the special preview performance, light emission control is performed to cause the decorative light emitter to flash rapidly in high-intensity white light, whereas when the background image fragments are displayed in Super Reach, light emission control is performed to cause the decorative light emitter to emit rainbow colors.

All of the multiple glass fragment images 004IWG05a have disappeared by the time shown in Figure 8-30 (6), but the remaining broken glass image 004IWG05b remaining in the corner of the screen continues to be displayed even after the long reach begins after the special preview effect. In this example, the remaining broken glass image 004IWG05b remaining in the corner of the screen continues to be displayed until the long reach ends. Note that although the remaining broken glass image 004IWG05b remaining in the corner of the screen is displayed on a higher layer than the other effect images and background images, because it is highly transparent, the other effect images and background images displayed on lower layers can be seen through the glass image 004IWG05b.

Next, a visual effect is displayed in which the spear image 004IWG04 pierces the glass image 004IWG05 and collides with the second glass image 004IWG06 located behind the glass image 004IWG05 (Figure 8-30(6)). Then, the second glass image 004IWG06 breaks, causing multiple second glass fragment images 004IWG06a to be displayed (Figure 8-30(7)).

Next, when the Long Reach begins, a display effect is displayed in which multiple options 004IWG02 appear along with the first ally character 004IWC01 behind multiple second glass fragment images 004IWG06a (Figure 8-30(8)). Note that, although not shown in this example, between the scene in Figure 8-30(7) and the scene in Figure 8-30(8), a whiteout occurs on a layer lower than the layer on which the fragment images are displayed (i.e., both the fragment images and the whiteout are visible from the player's perspective), and then the black background image is switched to the Super Reach background image.

Next, the multiple second glass fragment images 004IWG06a gradually disappear (Fig. 8-31 (9) and (10)), and a display of multiple options 004IWG02 rotates (Fig. 8-31 (11)). Then, when the first ally character 004IWC01 shoots an option with a ray emitted from his eye (Fig. 8-31 (12)), the shot option is displayed within a frame designated as TARGET (Fig. 8-31 (13)). In the example shown in Fig. 8-31 (13), an option modeled after an enemy character is shot and displayed within the TARGET frame, suggesting that the missing decorative pattern will stop.

Then, the image display device 5 goes black and the long reach ends. When the long reach ends, the same background image as when the normal fluctuations were occurring before the reach was established is displayed, and the losing symbol "212" is displayed as a stopped symbol (Figure 8-31 (14)).

(Secret button effect)
FIG. 8-32 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a back button effect when a special notice effect and a long reach are executed. FIG. 8-32 is a specific example of a case where an effect is executed based on a failure of the variation pattern PA2-3 (special notice + long reach) and a back button effect is executed during a long reach, and corresponds to the timing chart shown in FIG. 8-5(C). In this example, the back button effect is an effect that can be executed regardless of whether or not a special notice effect is executed, and when a player's action (e.g., repeated pressing or long pressing of the push button 31B) is detected during the back button effect period during a long reach, the decorative light emitter is illuminated with an illumination pattern corresponding to the back button effect rather than an illumination pattern corresponding to the long reach. Note that there are multiple illumination patterns corresponding to the back button effect, and the expected probability of a jackpot is indicated depending on the type of illumination pattern. When the special preview effect and long reach shown in Figure 8-32 are executed, if a player's action is detected within the back button effect period, an effect is displayed in which the broken glass image 004IWG05b displayed in the corner of the screen falls and disappears, and an effect is started in which the decorative light source is illuminated in an illumination pattern corresponding to the back button effect.

In the example shown in Figure 8-32, a special preview effect displays a broken glass image 004IWG05b in the corner of the screen, along with multiple second glass fragment images 004IWG06a, and these images continue to be displayed even after the long reach begins after the special preview effect. When the long reach begins, a preview effect is displayed in which multiple options 004IWG02 appear along with the first ally character 004IWC01 behind the multiple second glass fragment images 004IWG06a (Figure 8-32 (1)).

Next, the multiple second glass fragment images 004IWG06a gradually disappear, and the multiple options 004IWG02 rotate (Figure 8-32(2)). If operation of push button 31B is detected at this point, a reverse button effect (i.e., an effect in which the decorative light source is illuminated in a light pattern corresponding to the reverse button effect) is displayed, and the broken glass image 004IWG05b displayed in the corner of the screen falls and disappears (Figure 8-32(3)). Even while the glass image 004IWG05b falls and disappears, the multiple options 004IWG02 continue to rotate (Figure 8-32(4)).

(Development preview and special preview)
8-33 to 8-34 are explanatory diagrams showing specific examples of when the development notice effect and the special notice effect are executed. Figures 8-33 to 8-34 are specific examples of when the effect is executed based on the variation pattern PA2-8 (development notice + special notice + super reach B) or the variation pattern PB2-8 (development notice + special notice + super reach B), and correspond to the timing chart shown in Figure 8-6 (A).

In the example shown in Figures 8-33 and 8-34, after the left and right decorative symbols are "2" and the game enters a reach state, the image display device 5 goes white and the development preview performance begins (Figure 8-33 (1)).

In the development preview, first the first ally character 004IWC01 appears (Fig. 8-33 (1)), followed by the second ally character 004IWC02 (Fig. 8-33 (2)). Next, the word "Development" is displayed superimposed on the first ally character 004IWC01 and the second ally character 004IWC02 (Fig. 8-33 (3)).

Next, when the special preview effect begins, a first panel image, featuring the first ally character 004IWC01 and multiple squares in the background, gradually appears from the bottom left of the screen, and a second panel image, featuring the second ally character 004IWC02 and multiple stars in the background, gradually appears from the bottom right of the screen (Figure 8-33 (4)). Then, once the first and second panel images are displayed in their entirety (Figure 8-33 (5)), the words "Let's go!" are displayed superimposed on the first and second panel images (Figure 8-33 (6)).

The second mini-character 004IWC04 appears to grow and is displayed superimposed on the first panel image, the second panel image, and the "Let's go!" text display (Figure 8-33 (7)), and eventually the grown second mini-character 004IWC04 fills the entire screen (Figure 8-33 (8)).

After that, when the Super Reach (in this example, Super Reach B) begins, the multiplied second mini-characters 004IWC04 gradually disappear (Figure 8-34 (9)), and eventually a display is displayed showing all second mini-characters 004IWC04 disappearing (Figure 8-34 (10)). Then, a display is displayed showing the second ally character 004IWC02 landing on the ground (Figure 8-34 (11)).

(Development preview and special preview)
8-35 to 8-36 are explanatory diagrams showing specific examples of when the development notice performance and the special notice performance are executed. Figures 8-35 to 8-36 are specific examples of when performances are executed based on the variation pattern PA2-9 (development notice + special notice + super reach B) or the variation pattern PB2-9 (development notice + special notice + super reach B), and correspond to the timing chart shown in Figure 8-6 (B).

In the example shown in Figures 8-35 and 8-36, after the left and right decorative symbols are "2" and the game enters a reach state, the image display device 5 goes white and the development preview performance begins.

In the development preview, the first ally character 004IWC01 appears first, followed by the second ally character 004IWC02 (Figure 8-35 (1)).

When the special preview effect begins, a spear image 004IWG04 appears from the bottom right of the screen (Figure 8-35 (2)). The background image then switches to black, and the spear image 004IWG04 moves from the bottom right of the screen toward the center, colliding with the glass image 004IWG05 (Figure 8-35 (3)).

Next, a visual effect is displayed in which the spear image 004IWG04 penetrates the glass image 004IWG05 (Figure 8-35(4)). At this time, the glass image 004IWG05 breaks, displaying multiple images of broken glass 004IWG05a and an image of the remaining broken glass 004IWG05b in the corner of the screen (Figure 8-35(4)).

The multiple glass fragment images 004IWG05a have all disappeared by the time shown in Figure 8-35 (5), but the remaining broken glass image 004IWG05b remaining in the corner of the screen continues to be displayed even after the Super Reach begins after the special preview effect. In this example, the remaining broken glass image 004IWG05b remaining in the corner of the screen continues to be displayed until a character appears in the Super Reach. Note that although the remaining broken glass image 004IWG05b remaining in the corner of the screen is displayed on a higher layer than other effect images and background images, because it is highly transparent, other effect images and background images displayed on lower layers can be seen through the glass image 004IWG05b.

Next, a visual effect is displayed in which the spear image 004IWG04 pierces the glass image 004IWG05 and collides with the second glass image 004IWG06 located behind the glass image 004IWG05 (Figure 8-35(5)). Then, the second glass image 004IWG06 breaks, causing multiple second glass fragment images 004IWG06a to be displayed (Figure 8-35(6)).

Next, when a Super Reach (in this example, Super Reach B) begins, an effect display is performed in which the background of the multiple second glass fragment images 004IWG06a is switched to a background image for the Super Reach (Figure 8-35(7)). Note that, although not shown in this example, between the scene in Figure 8-35(6) and the scene in Figure 8-35(7), a whiteout occurs on a layer lower than the layer on which the fragment images are displayed (i.e., both the fragment images and the whiteout are visible from the player's perspective), and then the black background image is switched to the background image for the Super Reach.

Next, a visual effect is displayed in which multiple images of second glass fragments 004IWG06a gradually disappear (Figure 8-35 (8)). Eventually, all of the images of second glass fragments 004IWG06a disappear, and only the remaining broken glass image 004IWG05b is displayed in the corner of the screen (Figure 8-36 (9)).

Next, when the second ally character 004IWC02 lands on the ground, a display is displayed in which the broken glass image 004IWG05b in the corner of the screen falls and disappears (Fig. 8-36 (10), (11)). In an example in which a Super Reach is executed after the special effect announcement shown in Fig. 8-35 to Fig. 8-36 is executed, "2↓2" is displayed in the upper right corner of the screen, with the left and right decorative symbols of "2" in a reach state, in the scene shown in Fig. 8-36 (11). In this example, if a Super Reach is executed without the execution of a special effect announcement, "2↓2" is displayed in the upper right corner of the screen from the start of the Super Reach, with the left and right decorative symbols in a reach state. However, if a Super Reach is executed after the execution of a special announcement effect, "2↓2" is displayed in the upper right corner of the screen, with the left and right decorative symbols in a reach state, at the timing shown in Fig. 8-36 (11), in order to avoid reducing the effect of the special announcement effect (e.g., a broken glass image).

In this example, when a special preview effect is executed, a special display (in this example, the second mini-character 004IWC04) can be displayed (e.g., the portions corresponding to Figures 8-33(7) to 8-34(9)), and when a special preview effect is executed, a special display (in this example, the broken glass image 004IWG05b) can be displayed (e.g., the portions corresponding to Figures 8-35(3) to 8-36(10)). The super reach (in this example, super reach B) is executed after the special display is displayed in conjunction with the execution of the special preview effect (e.g., super reach B starts at the timing of Figure 8-34(9)), and is executed after the special display is displayed in conjunction with the execution of the special preview effect (e.g., super reach B starts at the timing of Figure 8-35(7)). As mentioned above, in this example, there are cases where either the special notice effect or the special notice effect is executed, and cases where neither is executed, and the expectation of a jackpot is higher when either the special notice effect or the special notice effect is executed (especially when the special notice effect is executed rather than the special notice effect). This configuration draws attention to whether the special notice effect or the special notice effect will be executed before the super reach is executed, and furthermore, the appearance of the super reach can be made different depending on whether the special notice effect or the special notice effect is executed, thereby increasing the enjoyment of the game.

Furthermore, in this example, when a special preview effect is executed, a special display (in this example, the second mini-character 004IWC04) can be displayed along with the decorative symbol of the reach state (for example, the part corresponding to Figure 8-33 (7)), and when a special preview effect is executed, the decorative symbol of the reach state can be hidden and a special display (in this example, the broken glass image 004IWG05b) can be displayed (for example, the part corresponding to Figure 8-35 (4)). This configuration can enhance the presentation effect of the special preview effect.

In addition, in this example, the special display is displayed continuously for a special period from the start of the Super Reach (in this example, Super Reach B) (for example, it is displayed continuously from the start of Super Reach B until character B appears; the part corresponding to Figure 8-35 (7) to Figure 8-36 (10)), and the special display (in this example, the second mini-character 004IWC04) is displayed continuously for a period shorter than the special period while the Super Reach (in this example, Super Reach B) is being executed (for example, it is displayed from the start of Super Reach B until character B appears; the part corresponding to Figure 8-34 (9)). With this configuration, the display period of the special display and the display period of the special display can be made different, increasing interest in the game.

In addition, in this example, a character related to the Super Reach can be displayed as a Super Reach effect display, and the special display (in this example, the broken glass image 004IWG05b) can be hidden in response to the character's actions (for example, the display of the broken glass image 004IWG05b ends in response to the action of the second ally character 004IWC02 landing on the ground. This corresponds to the part in Figure 8-36 (10)). With this configuration, consecutively executed effects can be linked to improve the effect of each other.

Also, in this example, if a special preview effect is executed before the execution of a long reach, the long reach is executed after a special display (in this example, the broken glass image 004IWG05b) is displayed in conjunction with the execution of the special preview effect (for example, the broken glass image 004IWG05b is displayed (Figure 8-30 (5)), and then the long reach begins (Figure 8-30 (8))). The special display is then displayed continuously for a predetermined period after the long reach begins (for example, the broken glass image 004IWG05b is displayed until the long reach ends at the timing of Figure 8-31 (13)). On the other hand, if a special preview effect is executed before the execution of a super reach, the special display is displayed continuously for a period shorter than the predetermined period after the super reach begins (for example, the broken glass image 004IWG05b is displayed from the start of super reach B until the second ally character 004IWC02 appears; the part corresponding to Figures 8-35 (7) to 8-36 (10)). This configuration allows the display period of the special display to vary depending on the effect that is executed after the special preview effect, increasing excitement in the game.

Furthermore, in this example, during the execution period of the long reach, it is possible to execute a secret button effect for a special period that is shorter than the predetermined period after the start of the long reach (for example, it is possible to execute a secret button effect (an effect in which the lamp illumination pattern steps up according to the level of expectation with rapid or long presses) until just before the final exciting part of the long reach), and if a special notice effect is executed and then the long reach is executed, it is possible to hide the special display (in this example, the remaining broken glass image 004IWG05b) when the secret button effect is executed (for example, the part corresponding to Figure 8-32 (3)). This configuration can increase the enjoyment of the game.

In addition, in this example, the special preview performance or special preview performance can be executed after the development preview performance has started, with the special preview performance starting after the development preview performance has ended (see, for example, Figure 8-6 (A)), and the special preview performance starting before the development preview performance has ended (see, for example, Figure 8-6 (B)). This configuration allows the start timing of each performance to be different, increasing interest.

Furthermore, in this example, when the development preview effect is executed, a development display (in this example, the first mini-character 004IWC03) can be displayed, and the super reach is executed after the development display is displayed in conjunction with the execution of the development preview effect (see, for example, Figures 8-3, 8-13 to 8-14). When a special display (in this example, the second mini-character 004IWC04) is displayed during the super reach, the display of the development display during that super reach is restricted (see, for example, Figures 8-33 to 8-34). When a special display (in this example, the broken glass image 004IWG05b) is displayed during the super reach, the display of the development display during that super reach is restricted (see, for example, Figures 8-35 to 8-36). This configuration prevents the effects from becoming complicated.

In addition, in this example, the glass fragment images 004IWG05a that accompany the display of the glass image 004IWG05 and the remaining broken glass image 004IWG05b are displayed more frequently than the center decorative pattern fragment images 004IWG01a that accompany the display of the center decorative pattern (see, for example, Figure 8-35 (4) and Figure 8-39), and the center decorative pattern fragment image 004IWG01a that is displayed in conjunction with the display of the first center decorative pattern (e.g., center decorative pattern "4") and the center decorative pattern fragment image 004IWG01a that is displayed in conjunction with the display of the second center decorative pattern (e.g., center decorative pattern "1") are displayed in different ways (e.g., the color, shape, number, and scattering manner of the fragments are different; see Figure 8-39). With this configuration, the center decorative symbol fragment image 004IWG01a and the glass fragment image 004IWG05a enhance the presentation effects of the super reach and special preview presentation, and further, by differentiating the way the center decorative symbol fragment image 004IWG01a is displayed from the way the glass fragment image 004IWG05a is displayed, it is possible to increase interest in the game.

In this example, the center decorative symbol fragment image 004IWG01a is displayed for a first period, and the glass fragment image 004IWG05a is displayed for a second period that is shorter than the first period. For example, the glass fragment image 004IWG05a moves faster and remains on the screen for a shorter period than the center decorative symbol fragment image 004IWG01a (the portion corresponding to (24) in Figure 8-16 and the portion corresponding to (4) in Figure 8-35). This configuration allows the center decorative symbol fragment image 004IWG01a and the glass fragment image 004IWG05a to have different display periods, increasing interest in the game.

In this example, a Super Reach effect display (for example, the background image of Super Reach B) can be displayed together with the center decorative pattern, and a Super Reach effect display (for example, the background image of Super Reach B) can be displayed together with the broken glass image 004IWG05b, and the center decorative pattern can be displayed with a higher display priority than the Super Reach effect display (for example, the center decorative pattern 004IWG01 has a higher display priority than the background image of Super Reach and is displayed in a higher layer), and the broken glass image 004IWG05b can be displayed with a higher display priority than the Super Reach effect display. G05b can be displayed (for example, the remaining broken glass image 004IWG05b has a higher display priority than the background image of Super Reach B and is displayed in a higher layer), and while the Super Reach effect display is not visible through the center decoration pattern, the predetermined effect display can be seen through the remaining broken glass image (for example, as shown in Figures 8-15 (19) to (23), the background image is not visible through the center decoration pattern 004IWG01, but the background image is visible through the remaining broken glass image 004IWG05b as shown in Figures 8-35 (7) to 8-36 (9)). This configuration allows the remaining broken glass image 004IWG05b to add variety to the way the Super Reach effect display is displayed, increasing excitement in the game.

In addition, in this example, a character related to the Super Reach (for example, second ally character 004IWC02) can be displayed as a Super Reach presentation display, and when the character acts on the center decoration pattern, a fragment image 004IWG01a of the center decoration pattern is displayed. Specifically, when second ally character 004IWC02 strikes the center decoration pattern, a fragment image 004IWG01a of the center decoration pattern is displayed (see Figure 8-15 (23) and Figure 8-38). This configuration allows the presentation display to be related, enhancing the presentation effect.

Furthermore, in this example, when a super reach is executed without a special preview effect being performed, multiple decorative symbols in the reach mode can be displayed from the start of the super reach (for example, the part corresponding to Figure 8-14 (9)), and when a super reach is executed after a special preview effect is performed, multiple decorative symbols in the reach mode can be displayed after a predetermined period of time has passed from the start of the super reach (for example, the period until the second ally character 004IWC02 appears) (for example, the parts corresponding to Figures 8-35 (7) to 8-36 (11)). This configuration allows the performance mode to differ depending on whether or not a special preview effect is performed, increasing interest.

In addition, in this example, as a special preview effect display, a spear image 004IWG04 can be displayed before the special display (in this example, the remaining broken glass image 004IWG05b), and the spear image 004IWG04 can be moved from the first display position (in this example, the position in the bottom right of the screen) to the second display position (in this example, the position in the center of the screen). When the spear image 004IWG04 is displayed in the first display position, a suggestion display (for example, a black background image) can be displayed indicating that a special display will be displayed. When the spear image 004IWG04 is displayed in the second display position, a glass fragment image 004IWG05a and remaining broken glass image 004IWG05b can be displayed (for example, the parts corresponding to Figure 8-35 (2) to (4)). This configuration can enhance the realism of the effect.

In addition, in this example, even when the special display (in this example, the remaining broken glass image 004IWG05b) is hidden, the glass fragment image 004IWG05a can still be displayed (for example, the part corresponding to Figure 8-36 (10)). This configuration can enhance the sense of realism of the presentation.

In addition, in this example, multiple glass fragment images 004IWG05a can be displayed, each with a different display format (see, for example, Figure 8-35 (4)). This configuration can enhance the sense of realism of the presentation.

In addition, in this example, the special preview performance can be distinguished into a first part (for example, a part in which spear image 004IWG04 and glass image 004IWG05 are displayed) and a second part (for example, a part in which spear image 004IWG04 disappears and broken glass image 004IWG05b continues to be displayed), and in the first part, a first special display (in this example, spear image 004IWG04) and a second special display (in this example, broken glass image 004IWG05b) can be displayed, and in the first part, in conjunction with displaying the second special display, a special related display (in this example, glass fragment image 004IWG05a) that imitates at least a part of the second special display can be displayed, and in the second part, the first special display is hidden while the second special display is displayed. A separate display can be continuously displayed (e.g., the portions corresponding to Figures 8-35(7) through 8-36(9)), a special related display can be displayed in the second part when the second part ends (e.g., the portion corresponding to Figure 8-36(10)), the manner in which the special related display is displayed differs between the first and second parts (e.g., the portion corresponding to Figure 8-35(4) and the portion corresponding to Figure 8-36(10)), and the illumination of the decorative illuminators can be controlled using different illumination patterns when the special related display is displayed in the first part and when the special related display is displayed in the second part (e.g., the portion corresponding to Figure 8-35(4) and the portion corresponding to Figure 8-36(10); see Figure 8-6(B) *1*2). This configuration enhances the presentation effect of the special preview effect with the special related display, and further, by using different illumination patterns when the special related display is displayed in the first and second parts of the special preview effect, interest in the game can be increased.

Furthermore, in this example, the execution period of the special preview effect overlaps at least partially with the execution period of the super reach (see, for example, Figure 8-6 (B)), and the special related display (in this example, the glass shard image 004IWG05a) is displayed in the first part of the special preview effect in response to the movement of the character related to the special preview effect (in this example, the spear image 004IWG04) (for example, the portion corresponding to Figure 8-35 (4)), and in the second part of the special preview effect in response to the movement of the character related to the super reach (in this example, the second ally character 004IWC02) (for example, the portion corresponding to Figure 8-36 (10)). With this configuration, the display pattern of the special related display (in this example, the glass shard image 004IWG05a) differs between the first and second parts of the special preview effect, increasing the enjoyment of the game.

Furthermore, in this example, in the first part of the special preview effect, it is possible to display the special related display (in this example, the glass fragment image 004IWG05a) moving at a first speed (for example, the part corresponding to Figure 8-35 (4)), and in the second effect part, it is possible to display the special related display moving at a second speed different from the first speed (for example, a speed slower than the first speed) (for example, the part corresponding to Figure 8-36 (10)). With this configuration, it is possible to display the special related display differently in the first and second parts of the special preview effect, increasing the enjoyment of the game.

Furthermore, in this example, after the special preview performance is executed, either Super Reach A or Super Reach B can be executed, and the execution period of the special preview performance overlaps with the execution period of either Super Reach A or Super Reach B (see, for example, Figure 8-6 (B)). The special related display (in this example, the glass shard image 004IWG05a) is displayed in the first part of the special preview performance in response to the movement of the special character (in this example, the spear image 004IWG04) related to the special preview performance (for example, the part corresponding to Figure 8-35 (4)), and in the second part of the special preview performance in response to the movement of the first ally character 004IWC01 related to Super Reach A or the second ally character 004IWC02 related to Super Reach B (for example, the part corresponding to Figure 8-36 (10)). This configuration allows the special preview performance to be associated with Super Reach A or Super Reach B, thereby enhancing the performance effects of each.

Furthermore, in this example, multiple special related displays (in this example, glass fragment images 004IWG05a) can be displayed in the first part of the special preview performance, and multiple special related displays can be displayed in the second part. Of the multiple special related displays displayed in the first part, the first special related display and the second special related display have different display modes. Of the multiple special related displays displayed in the second part, the third special related display and the fourth special related display have different display modes. The display mode of the first special related display is different from that of the third special related display and also different from that of the fourth special related display. The display mode of the second special related display is different from that of the third special related display and also different from that of the fourth special related display. Specifically, as shown in Figures 8-35 (4) and 8-36 (10), multiple glass fragment images 004IWG05a are displayed in both cases, but each image has a different appearance. This configuration can enhance the dramatic effect of the special related displays.

In addition to the configuration shown in this example, the special display (in this example, the second mini-character 004IWC04) may be a non-stereoscopic (2D) display (for example, a display that gives a non-stereoscopic appearance), and the special display (in this example, the broken glass image 004IWG05b) may be a stereoscopic (3D) display (for example, a display that gives a three-dimensional appearance). This configuration allows for different presentation styles to increase interest.

For example, the special preview effect can be executed in a first mode (e.g., a mode in which the second ally character 004IWC02 appears) that suggests that Super Reach B will be executed, and a second mode (e.g., a mode in which the first ally character 004IWC01 appears) that suggests that Super Reach A will be executed, and a common special display can be displayed when the first mode of special preview effect is executed and when the second mode of special preview effect is executed. For example, the common second mini-character 004IWC04 can be displayed in both cases in which the first ally character 004IWC01 appears as a special preview effect and in which the second ally character 004IWC02 appears. This configuration allows a variety of special preview effects to be executed, increasing the excitement.

Furthermore, for example, the image of the fragments of the inner decorative pattern 004IWG01a and the image of the glass fragments 004IWG05a may both be displayed in stereoscopic (3D) form. For example, they may be displayed in a way that gives them a three-dimensional appearance. This configuration can enhance the sense of realism of the presentation.

Furthermore, for example, it may be possible to display the image of the fragments of the center decoration pattern 004IWG01a and the image of the glass fragments 004IWG05a moving in a predetermined direction (for example, the Z-axis direction). For example, it may be possible to display an image that moves from the front of the screen toward the depth. This configuration can enhance the sense of realism of the presentation.

For example, it may be possible to display the fragment image 004IWG01a of the center decorative pattern moving in a predetermined direction (for example, the Z-axis direction) at normal speed, and when a slow-motion effect is executed, it may be possible to display the fragment image 004IWG01a of the center decorative pattern moving in the predetermined direction at a speed slower than normal. This configuration can enhance the sense of realism of the effect.

Furthermore, for example, the special related display (in this example, the glass fragment image 004IWG05a) may be displayed in stereoscopic (e.g., 3D) form (e.g., a three-dimensional representation) in both the first and second parts. This configuration can enhance the sense of realism of the presentation.

Furthermore, for example, in the first part of the special preview performance, the special related display (in this example, a glass fragment image 004IWG05a) can be displayed moving in a first direction (e.g., the Z-axis direction) (e.g., displaying an expression of movement from the front of the screen toward the depth), and in the second part, the special related display can be displayed moving in a second direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction) different from the first direction (e.g., displaying an expression of movement in the vertical direction). With this configuration, the special related display can be displayed differently, increasing interest in the game.

For example, the spear image 004IWG04 displayed in the first part of the special preview effect may be made to move faster than the ally character displayed in the first part, or the special related display displayed in the first part of the special preview effect may be made to appear more dynamic (moving at a faster speed) than the special related display displayed in the second part of the special preview effect. This configuration allows the special related display to be displayed differently, increasing the enjoyment of the game.

Here, we will explain the lighting effect drawing function, including whiteout, in the image display device 5 mentioned in Figures 8-7 (3), 8-13 (3), 8-19 (3), and 8-29 (3), based on the principle diagrams in Figures 8-40 to 11-46.

First, as shown in Figure 8-40 (A), the display control unit 123 has in a virtual space a first decorative pattern drawing surface (virtual plane) on which the right decorative pattern 037SG105R and the left decorative pattern 037SG105L are drawn, and a second decorative pattern drawing surface (virtual plane) on which the central decorative pattern 037SG105C is drawn. The drawing position of the decorative pattern on the first decorative pattern drawing surface or the second decorative pattern drawing surface is sequentially changed downward in the vertical direction (Y direction), thereby drawing a changing display image of the decorative pattern.

As shown in Figure 8-40(A), the first decorative pattern drawing surface and the second decorative pattern drawing surface are positioned such that the second decorative pattern drawing surface is located a virtual distance of virtual depth Z0 ahead of the first decorative pattern drawing surface. Therefore, if the central decorative pattern 037SG105C and the right decorative pattern 037SG105R or the left decorative pattern 037SG105L are displayed overlapping each other, an image is generated in which the central decorative pattern 037SG105C blocks the view of the right decorative pattern 037SG105R or the left decorative pattern 037SG105L. Furthermore, if decorative patterns the same size as the right decorative pattern 037SG105R and the left decorative pattern 037SG105L were drawn on the second decorative pattern drawing surface, only the central decorative pattern 037SG105C would be larger, resulting in an unnatural display when all three decorative patterns were lined up. However, in this example, to prevent this unnatural display, the size of the image of the central decorative pattern 037SG105C drawn on the second decorative pattern drawing surface is adjusted and drawn so that the three decorative patterns are approximately the same size.

Therefore, the display control unit 123 can calculate the position of each decorative pattern in virtual space from the first decorative pattern drawing surface or the second decorative pattern drawing surface and the drawing position of each decorative pattern on each of these drawing screens.

Therefore, when actually using the lighting effect drawing function, for example, as shown in Figure 8-40, by specifying the coordinates (X1, Y1, Z1) of the single light source 037SG105K in virtual space, the lighting effect image when the single light source 037SG105K is located at the specified coordinates (X1, Y1, Z1) is automatically drawn and displayed by the display control unit 123 through simulation.

Note that the X coordinate corresponds to the left-right position on the image display device 5, the Y coordinate corresponds to the up-down position on the image display device 5, and the Z direction corresponds to the front-to-back (depth) position in the virtual space (see Figure 8-40).

Specifically, for example, as shown in Figure 8-40 (A), when three decorative patterns are lined up in the center of the image display device 5, if the coordinates (X1, Y1, Z1) of the single light source 037SG105K are specified as being directly behind the central decorative pattern 037SG105C and Z1 away from the first decorative pattern drawing surface, when the single light source is placed at the specified coordinates (X1, Y1, Z1) in virtual space, the position of the single light source 037SG105K and the coordinates on the first decorative pattern drawing surface or the second decorative pattern drawing surface will be 2 Based on the positional relationship of each decorative pattern drawn on the decorative pattern drawing surface, how the light emitted from the single light source 037SG105K is blocked by each decorative pattern and how it wraps around to the front of each decorative pattern is simulated as shown by the dashed lines in Figure 8-40 (A), and as shown in Figure 8-40 (B), a light-emitting effect image 037SG105E is drawn and displayed, in which a faint radiating light can be seen from around the central decorative pattern 037SG105C.

Furthermore, if the coordinates of the single light source 037SG105K are specified as coordinates (X2, Y1, Z1) directly behind the left decorative pattern 037SG105L and Z1 away from the first decorative pattern drawing surface, as shown in Figure 8-41 (A), that is, coordinates moved horizontally to the left from the aforementioned coordinates (X1, Y1, Z1), then, as shown in Figure 8-41 (B), the distance to the first decorative pattern drawing surface is Z1, the same as in the case shown in Figure 8-40, and the luminous effect image 037SG105E, in which a faint radial light is visible from around the left decorative pattern 037SG105L, is drawn and displayed, as in Figure 8-40. Furthermore, the luminous effect image 037SG105E is luminous in that the brightness is higher near the center and decreases as it approaches the edges, and the size of the entire image (distance from the center of the effect to the outer edge of the effect) is approximately the same as the luminous effect image 037SG105E in Figure 8-40, which is a distance Z1 behind the first decorative pattern drawing surface.

Furthermore, if the coordinates of the single light source 037SG105K are specified as coordinates (X1, Y2, Z1) directly above the central decorative pattern 037SG105C and Z1 away from the first decorative pattern drawing surface, as shown in Figure 8-42 (A), that is, coordinates moved vertically directly upward from the aforementioned coordinates (X1, Y1, Z1), then an illuminating effect image 037SG105E will be drawn and displayed, as shown in Figure 8-42 (B), indicating that the light emitted from the single light source 037SG105K is visible without being obstructed by the central decorative pattern 037SG105C. Furthermore, the luminous effect image 037SG105E is luminous in that the brightness is higher near the center and decreases as it approaches the edges, and the size of the entire image (distance from the center of the effect to the outer edge of the effect) is approximately the same as the luminous effect image 037SG105E in Figure 8-40, which is a distance Z1 behind the first decorative pattern drawing surface.

Furthermore, if the coordinates of the single light source 037SG105K are specified as coordinates (X1, Y1, Z2) at a position close to the first decorative pattern drawing surface and Z2 away from the first decorative pattern drawing surface, as shown in Figure 8-43 (A), that is, coordinates moved from the aforementioned coordinates (X1, Y1, Z1) to approach the central decorative pattern 037SG105C without changing the up, down, left, or right position, the resulting image will be a luminous effect image 037SG105E, which is larger overall than when the distance from the first decorative pattern drawing surface is Z1, and the single light source 037SG105K will be on the left, as shown in Figure 8-43 (B). Because decorative pattern 037SG105L and right decorative pattern 037SG105R are closer, light wraps around in front of the left decorative pattern 037SG105L and right decorative pattern 037SG105R, making their outlines unclear, while single light source 037SG105K is located directly behind the central decorative pattern 037SG105C, which is farther away from the single light source 037SG105K than the left decorative pattern 037SG105L and right decorative pattern 037SG105R. For this reason, light wraps around less in front of the central decorative pattern 037SG105C, making its outline clearer. Furthermore, because the single light source 037SG105K is closer, the overall brightness of light-emitting effect image 037SG105E is higher than that of light-emitting effect image 037SG105E when the Z coordinate is Z1.

Furthermore, when the coordinates (X1, Y1, -Z3) of a position forward of the first decorative pattern drawing surface and the second decorative pattern drawing surface and Z3 away forward from the first decorative pattern drawing surface are specified as the coordinates of the single light source 037SG105K, as shown in Figure 8-44(A), an illuminating effect image 037SG105E is drawn in which the strong light emitted from the single light source 037SG105K is not blocked by the left, center, and right decorative patterns, as shown in Figure 8-44(B), and the illuminating effect image 037SG105E is large in overall size and extremely bright and is displayed across substantially the entire display area of the image display device 5. In this case, the left, center, and right decorative patterns, which are positioned behind the single light source 037SG105K, are all invisible due to the illuminating effect image.

As described above, in this example, by specifying the coordinates of the single light source 037SG105K, the light-emitting effect image 037SG105E corresponding to the specified coordinates is automatically drawn and displayed by the light-emitting effect drawing function of the display control unit 123. By sequentially changing (moving) these specified coordinates over time, the light-emitting effect image 037SG105E corresponding to the movement of the single light source is drawn and displayed. However, even if the specified coordinates are the same, these light-emitting effect drawing functions can draw and display, for example, a light-emitting effect image 037SG105E corresponding to the central decorative pattern 037SG105C drawn on the second decorative pattern drawing surface scrolling downward through a variable display, as shown in Figure 8-45 (A).

Specifically, when the scrolling central decorative pattern 037SG105C is drawn in a position overlapping a single light source, an illumination effect image (similar to FIG. 8-40(B)) is drawn and displayed in which the light from the single light source is blocked by the central decorative pattern 037SG105C, as shown in FIG. 8-45(B). When the scrolling central decorative pattern 037SG105C is drawn in a position not overlapping a single light source 037SG105K, an illumination effect image is drawn and displayed in which the light emitted from the single light source is visible without being blocked by the central decorative pattern 037SG105C, as shown in FIG. 8-45(C). Note that while FIG. 8-45 uses the central decorative pattern 037SG105C as an example, the same applies to the right decorative pattern 037SG105R and the left decorative pattern 037SG105L.

As described above, the highly functional display control unit 123 used in this example allows the coordinates of a single light source in virtual space to be specified, and automatically generates and displays a light-emitting effect image 037SG105E when the single light source 037SG105K is located at the specified coordinates.In an actual performance, by describing the coordinates of the single light source 037SG105K at the time the process data is executed in chronological order in the process data for executing the performance, a light-emitting effect image 037SG105E corresponding to the coordinates of the single light source 037SG105K described in the process data is automatically generated, and is then composited with other performance images and displayed on the image display device 5.

Next, the display mode of the variable display and light-emitting effect image 037SG105E in this example will be explained based on Figure 8-46.

First, when a variable display is executed in a Super Reach variable pattern or the like, as shown in Figures 8-46(A) and 8-46(B), once the variable display of the decorative symbols is executed for a predetermined period of time, the left decorative symbol 037SG105L and the right decorative symbol 037SG105R, which show the same number, will stop on the display screen of the image display device 5 while the normal background image 5a is displayed, resulting in a Reach. Then, behind the central decorative symbol 037SG105C, which is still being displayed, the display of the luminous effect image 037SG105E begins. Then, as the variable display progresses, the display area of the luminous effect image 037SG105E on the display screen of the image display device 5 gradually expands and the brightness increases.

At this time, as shown in Figures 8-46(C) and 8-46(D), between the multiple central decorative patterns 037SG105C for which variable display is being performed, the display mode of part of the light-emitting effect image 037SG105E changes as the central decorative patterns 037SG105C move (variably display) from top to bottom, changing as the variable display progresses.

Furthermore, portions of the luminous effect image 037SG105E are diffracted between these multiple central decorative patterns 037SG105C, between the left decorative pattern 037SG105L and the central decorative pattern 037SG105C, and between the right decorative pattern 037SG105R and the central decorative pattern 037SG105C, and are displayed overlapping at the top and bottom of each central decorative pattern 037SG105C, the right part of the left decorative pattern 037SG105L, and the left part of the right decorative pattern 037SG105R, as if reflected off the back of the central decorative pattern 037SG105C.

Furthermore, as the variable display progresses and the display area of the luminous effect image 037SG105E on the image display device 5 expands and the brightness increases, the brightness of the base portion 037SG105D of each decorative pattern 037SG105L, 037SG105C, 037SG105R decreases due to backlighting from the luminous effect image 037SG105E, and then the brightness of the numeric display portion 037SG105S of each decorative pattern 037SG105L, 037SG105C, 037SG105R decreases. Then, as shown in Figure 8-46 (E), as the light-emitting effect image 037SG105E on the display screen of the image display device 5 is further enlarged, the decorative patterns 037SG105L, 037SG105SGC, and 037SG105R eventually turn entirely black, making the base portion 037SG105D and the division of the number display portion 037SG105S invisible to the player.

More precisely, when the light-emitting effect image 037SG105E on the display screen of the image display device 5 is enlarged to a position behind the left decorative pattern 037SG105L and the right decorative pattern 037SG105R, the brightness of the base portion 037SG105D of the left decorative pattern 037SG105L and the right decorative pattern 037SG105R first decreases, and the outlines of these left decorative pattern 037SG105L and right decorative pattern 037SG105R are emphasized by the light-emitting effect image 037SG105E. Furthermore, when the luminous effect image 037SG105E is enlarged to the left of the left decorative pattern 037SG105L and the right of the right decorative pattern 037SG105R, the brightness of the number display portion 037SG105S of the left decorative pattern 037SG105L and the right decorative pattern 037SG105R decreases, the left decorative pattern 037SG105L and the right decorative pattern 037SG105R as a whole turn black, the brightness of the base portion 037SG105D of the central decorative pattern 037SG105C decreases, and the outline of the central decorative pattern 037SG105C is emphasized by the luminous effect image 037SG105E. Then, as the light-emitting effect image 037SG105E expands further and fills almost the entire display area, the brightness of the number display portion 037SG105S of the central decorative pattern 037SG105C decreases, and the entire central decorative pattern 037SG105C turns black.

Then, as shown in Figure 8-46 (F), as the variable display progresses, the luminous effect image 037SG105E is displayed across almost the entire display screen of the image display device 5, and the decorative patterns 037SG105L, 037SG105C, 037SG105R and background image 5a that had been displayed up until that point become temporarily invisible to the player.

As explained above, this feature section 004IW discloses the gaming machine configuration shown below.

The gaming machine disclosed in this characteristic section 004IW is a gaming machine that displays special identification information (e.g., special symbols) in a variable manner and can be controlled to an advantageous state (e.g., a jackpot gaming state) that is advantageous to the player. It is equipped with: variable display execution means that can display multiple decorative identification information (e.g., decorative symbols) in a variable manner in response to the display of the special identification information; advantageous state control means that can control the game to an advantageous state when a specific display result (e.g., a jackpot symbol) is displayed as a result of the display of the multiple decorative identification information in a variable manner; and effect execution means that can execute a predetermined effect (e.g., Super Reach B) that notifies the player whether the game has been controlled to an advantageous state. During the execution of the predetermined effect, decorative identification information from the multiple decorative identification information, excluding specific decorative identification information (e.g., a middle decorative symbol), is temporarily stopped in a reach state, and the specific decorative identification information is displayed in response to the effect display of the predetermined effect (e.g., an effect image of a battle effect related to Super Reach B), and the form of the specific decorative identification information can be selected from a normal form and a special form that can be changed from the normal form. The specific decorative identification information displayed during the execution of a predetermined performance includes a normal mode (e.g., a broken mode, see FIG. 8-16 (24)) and a special mode (e.g., a cracked mode, see FIG. 8-15 (23)) which is a mode that can be changed from the normal mode and is the mode before changing to the special mode. The specific decorative identification information displayed during the execution of a predetermined performance can be changed from the normal mode to the special mode and from the special mode to the special mode in accordance with the performance display of the predetermined performance. When the specific decorative identification information changes from the normal mode to the special mode and then to the special mode during the execution of a predetermined performance, a specific display result can be displayed (e.g., the parts corresponding to FIG. 8-15 (23) to FIG. 8-16 (30)). When the first specific decorative identification information (e.g., the center decorative pattern "2") becomes the special mode and when the second specific decorative identification information (e.g., the center decorative pattern "1") becomes the special mode during the execution of a predetermined performance, it is possible to control the light emission of the light-emitting means (e.g., the game effect lamp 9 and the decorative light-emitting body such as a decorative LED) using a common light-emitting mode (e.g., a rainbow-colored light-emitting pattern). This configuration allows the appearance of specific decorative identification information to change in accordance with the display of a specific effect, thereby enhancing the sense of realism of the effect and increasing interest in the game. Furthermore, by standardizing light emission control during a specific effect, it is possible to suppress an increase in the amount of control data.

Furthermore, this feature section 004IW discloses the gaming machine configurations shown below in (Means 1) to (Means 17).

(Means 1) Multiple types of specific decorative identification information (e.g., center decorative symbols from "1" to "9") can be displayed during the execution of a predetermined effect, and when a specific display result (e.g., jackpot symbol "222") including first specific decorative identification information (e.g., center decorative symbol "2") is displayed during the execution of a predetermined effect, the second specific decorative identification information (e.g., center decorative symbol "1") displayed before the first specific decorative identification information can change from a normal state to a special state over a predetermined period, and the third specific decorative identification information (e.g., center decorative symbol "9") displayed before the second specific decorative identification information can change from a normal state to a special state over a specific period shorter than the predetermined period (e.g., the final center decorative symbol stop prompting effect (Figures 8-15 (20) to 8-16 (24)) has a longer duration than the center decorative symbol stop prompting effect immediately before the final one (Figures 8-14 (14) to (15))). This configuration allows for different periods of time for the specific decoration identification information to change from the normal state to the special state, enhancing the effect of the specified presentation.

(Means 2) In Means 1, the predetermined effect includes a first predetermined part (e.g., a first part including the introductory part and the hype part of Super Reach B) and a second predetermined part (e.g., a second part including the final hype part of Super Reach B and the win/loss notification part), and a specific display result can be displayed in the second predetermined part (e.g., see Figures 8-3 and 8-16). When a specific display result (e.g., a jackpot pattern "222") including first specific decorative identification information (e.g., a center decorative pattern "2") is displayed, after the second specific decorative identification information (e.g., a center decorative pattern "1") becomes a special pattern during execution of the second predetermined part, the first specific decorative identification information is displayed in an enlarged form that is more visible than its normal form (e.g., see Figures 8-16 (24) to (30). As shown in Figure 8-16 (30), the jackpot pattern "222" including the center decorative pattern "2" is enlarged). This configuration enhances the effect of the effect when the specific display result is displayed.

In means 1 or 2, the special mode is a mode in which the visibility of the specific decorative identification information is reduced compared to the normal mode (for example, the mode in which the central decorative pattern "1" shown in Figure 8-15 (23) is cracked), and the special mode is a mode in which the visibility of the specific decorative identification information is reduced compared to the normal mode and the special mode (for example, the mode in which the central decorative pattern "1" shown in Figure 8-16 (24) is destroyed). After the second specific decorative identification information (for example, the central decorative pattern "1") changes to the special mode, the first specific decorative identification information (for example, the central decorative pattern "2") is displayed in the normal mode (for example, see Figures 8-15 (23) to 8-16 (25)). This configuration makes it easier to see the specific decorative identification information displayed after the special mode is changed.

In means 1 or 2, a predetermined character (e.g., second ally character 004IWC02) related to the predetermined effect can be displayed as the effect display for the predetermined effect, and the appearance of the specific decoration identification information can be changed in response to the action of the predetermined character (e.g., attack action) (see, for example, Figures 8-15 (20) to 8-16 (24)). This configuration makes it possible to associate the action of the predetermined character with changes in the appearance of the specific decoration identification information, thereby enhancing the presentation effect.

In means 1 or 2, when the specific decoration identification information changes from a normal state to a special state and then changes back to the normal state during the execution of a predetermined effect, a notification is issued that the specific display result will not be displayed (see, for example, Figure 8-15 (23) and Figure 8-18 (35) to (40)). This configuration allows the change in the state of the specific decoration identification information to be associated with whether or not the specific display result will be displayed, thereby enhancing the effect of the effect.

In means 1 or 2, when specific decoration identification information changes from a normal state to a special state during execution of the second predetermined part, a related display (e.g., a fragment image 004IWG01a of the center decoration pattern) can be displayed in accordance with the change in the specific decoration identification information over the period until the change from the special state to the special state (see, for example, Figures 8-15 (23) and 8-38). This configuration can enhance the sense of realism of the presentation.

In means 1 or 2, when the specific decoration identification information changes from a normal state to a special state during the execution of the second predetermined part, a cut-in effect can be executed to suggest that the specific decoration identification information will be controlled to an advantageous state during the period from the special state to the special state (for example, the portion where the cut-in image shown in Figure 8-15 (22) is displayed), and the execution period of the cut-in effect is shorter than the period from the special state to the special state (for example, the cut-in effect is executed during a portion of the period from the middle decoration pattern changing from a cracked state to a destroyed state; see Figures 8-15 (21) to 8-16 (24)). This configuration can effectively enhance the effect.

In means 1 or 2, a specific effect (e.g., Super Reach A) can be executed that is different from a predetermined effect and indicates whether or not the game will be controlled to an advantageous state. When a predetermined effect is executed, the rate of control to an advantageous state is higher than when a specific effect is executed (e.g., see Figure 8-1 (B)). During the execution of the specific effect, decoration identification information among the multiple decoration identification information, excluding the specific decoration identification information (e.g., the middle decoration pattern), can be temporarily stopped in a reach state, and the specific decoration identification information can be displayed in correspondence with the display of the specific effect (e.g., a display image of a battle effect related to Super Reach A). The state of the specific decoration identification information displayed during the execution of the specific effect can be a normal state, a special state that can be changed from the normal state (e.g., a destroyed state; see Figure 8-12 (34)), and a state that can be changed from the normal state and is before changing to the special state. and special modes (for example, a cracked mode; see Figure 8-9 (20)). The specific decoration identification information displayed during the execution of a specific effect can change from a normal mode to a special mode, from a special mode to a special mode, and from a special mode to a normal mode, in accordance with the display of the specific effect. When the specific decoration identification information changes from the normal mode to the special mode and then back to the normal mode during the execution of a specific effect, a specific display result can be displayed (for example, see Figures 8-9 (22) to 8-10 (30)). When the specific display result is displayed during the execution of a predetermined effect and when the specific display result is displayed during the execution of a specific effect, the light emission of the light-emitting means (for example, the game effect lamp 9 and decorative light-emitting elements such as decorative LEDs) can be controlled using a common light-emitting mode (for example, a rainbow-colored light-emitting pattern) (for example, see Figure 8-3).

In means 1 or 2, a predetermined character related to a predetermined effect (e.g., second ally character 004IWC02) can be displayed as the effect display for a predetermined effect, and a specific character related to a specific effect (e.g., first ally character 004IWC01) can be displayed as the effect display for a specific effect. During execution of the predetermined effect, the state of the specific decorative identification information can be changed in response to the action (e.g., attack action) of the predetermined character (see, e.g., Figures 8-15 (20) to 8-16 (24)). During execution of the specific effect, the state of the specific decorative identification information can be changed in response to the action (e.g., attack action and defense action) of the specific character (see, e.g., Figures 8-8 (14) to 8-8 (15), 8-9 (22) to 8-10 (23), and 8-12 (34)). This configuration allows for diversification of effects and increased interest.

In means 1 or 2, the predetermined effect includes a first predetermined part (e.g., a first part including the introductory part and the provocative part of Super Reach B) and a second predetermined part (e.g., a second part including the final provocative part of Super Reach B and the winning/losing notification part), the specific effect includes a first specific part (e.g., a first part including the introductory part and the provocative part of Super Reach A) and a second specific part (e.g., a second part including the final provocative part of Super Reach A and the winning/losing notification part), and a specific display result can be displayed in the second predetermined part (e.g., see Figures 8-3 and 8-16), and a specific display result can be displayed in the second specific part (e.g., see Figures 8-3 and 8-10). (See reference number 10 ...

In means 1 or 2, the predetermined effect is composed of a first predetermined part (e.g., a first part including the introductory part and the provocative part of Super Reach B) and a second predetermined part (e.g., a second part including the final provocative part of Super Reach B and the winning/losing notification part), and the specific effect is composed of a first specific part (e.g., a first part including the introductory part and the provocative part of Super Reach A) and a second specific part (e.g., a second part including the final provocative part of Super Reach A and the winning/losing notification part), and when the specific decorative identification information changes from the normal mode to the special mode and then changes back to the normal mode during the execution of the second predetermined part, it is suggested that the specific display result will not be displayed (e.g., , corresponding to (35) to (38) in Figure 8-18), and it is suggested that when the specific decoration identification information changes from the normal mode to the special mode and then back to the special mode during execution of the second specific part, the specific display result will not be displayed (e.g., corresponding to (34) to (37) in Figure 8-12). It is possible to control the light emission of the light-emitting means (e.g., the game effect lamp 9 and decorative light-emitting elements such as decorative LEDs) using a common light-emitting mode (e.g., a low-brightness white light-emitting pattern) when the specific decoration identification information is displayed in the normal mode again during execution of the second predetermined part and when the specific decoration identification information is displayed in the special mode during execution of the second specific part (e.g., see Figure 8-4). This configuration allows for different effects to be enjoyed in a variety of ways, while commonizing the light-emission control can prevent an increase in the amount of control data.

(Means 3) It is possible to execute either a predetermined effect (e.g., Super Reach B) that notifies whether or not the player is controlled to an advantageous state, or a special effect (e.g., Super Reach C) that notifies whether or not the player is controlled to an advantageous state, and the rate of control to an advantageous state is higher when a special effect is executed than when a predetermined effect is executed (e.g., see Figure 8-1 (B)). During the execution of the predetermined effect, the decoration identification information among the multiple decoration identification information, excluding specific decoration identification information (e.g., a middle decoration pattern), is temporarily stopped in a reach state, and the effect display of the predetermined effect (e.g., Super Reach The specific decoration identification information is displayed in response to a display image of a battle display or the like relating to Reach B, and when it is notified that the special display will be controlled to an advantageous state during the execution of the special display, the decoration identification information other than the specific decoration identification information among the plurality of decoration identification information is temporarily stopped in a Reach state, and the specific decoration identification information is displayed when the specific display result is displayed, and the state of the specific decoration identification information displayed during the execution of the predetermined display is a normal state, a special state that can be changed from the normal state (for example, a destroyed state. See FIG. 8-16 (24)), and a state that can be changed from the normal state and is a special state. The specific decoration identification information displayed during the execution of a predetermined effect can be changed from the normal state to the special state and from the special state to the special state in accordance with the display of the predetermined effect. When the specific decoration identification information changes from the normal state to the special state and then to the special state during the execution of the predetermined effect, a specific display result can be displayed (for example, the part corresponding to Fig. 8-15 (23) to Fig. 8-16 (30)). During the execution of the special effect, the specific decoration identification information can be changed from the special state to the special state and from the special state to the special state. The specific display result can be displayed without changing to either the normal or special mode (for example, as shown in Figures 8-20 (9) to 8-23 (36), the jackpot symbol "111" is displayed without executing a display in which the mode of the center decorative symbol changes). The light emission of the light-emitting means (for example, the game effect lamp 9 and decorative light-emitting elements such as decorative LEDs) can be controlled using a common light emission mode (for example, a rainbow-colored light emission pattern) when the specific display result is displayed during the execution of a predetermined effect and when the specific display result is displayed during the execution of a special effect (for example, see Figure 8-3). This configuration allows for the execution of a predetermined effect that changes the mode of the specific decorative identification information to indicate whether or not a game has been controlled to an advantageous state, while also allowing for the execution of a special effect that indicates whether or not a game has been controlled to an advantageous state without changing the mode of the specific decorative identification information. This provides variety in the presentation of the effects, increasing the enjoyment of the game, and furthermore, by sharing the light emission control between the predetermined effect and the special effect, data volume can be reduced.

(Means 4) In means 3, the predetermined effect includes a first predetermined part (e.g., a first part including the introductory part and the provocative part of Super Reach B) and a second predetermined part (e.g., a second part including the final provocative part of Super Reach B and the winning/losing notification part), the special effect includes a first special part (e.g., a first part including the introductory part and the provocative part of Super Reach C) and a second special part (e.g., a second part including the final provocative part of Super Reach C and the winning/losing notification part), a specific display result can be displayed in the second predetermined part (e.g., see Figures 8-3 and 8-16), a specific display result can be displayed in the second special part (e.g., see Figures 8-3 and 8-23), and when the specific decoration identification information changes from the normal mode to the special mode during the execution of the second predetermined part, the progress of the effect A progression speed change effect (e.g., slow motion effect) can be executed, changing the speed from normal speed to a special speed slower than the normal speed (e.g., the portion where the progression speed of the effect slows down, as shown in FIG. 8-15 (23)). A progression speed change effect can be executed during execution of the second special part (e.g., the portion where the progression speed of the effect slows down, as shown in FIG. 8-21 (24)). The progression speed change effect executed in the second special part has a longer execution duration than the progression speed change effect executed in the second specified part (e.g., the duration of the slow motion effect in the second part of Super Reach C is 4 seconds, while the duration of the slow motion effect in the second part of Super Reach B is 3 seconds. See FIG. 8-15 (23) and FIG. 8-21 (24)). This configuration can increase the level of attention to the second specified part and the second special part.

(Means 5) In means 3 or 4, the predetermined effect includes a first predetermined part (e.g., a first part including the introductory part and the provocative part of Super Reach B) and a second predetermined part (e.g., a second part including the final provocative part of Super Reach B and the winning/losing notification part), the special effect includes a first special part (e.g., a first part including the introductory part and the provocative part of Super Reach C) and a second special part (e.g., a second part including the final provocative part of Super Reach C and the winning/losing notification part), a specific display result can be displayed in the second predetermined part (e.g., see Figures 8-3 and 8-16), a specific display result can be displayed in the second special part (e.g., see Figures 8-3 and 8-23), and when a specific display result is not displayed during the execution of the second predetermined part, a specific decoration identification in a normal mode is performed. It is possible to display information (e.g., the portion corresponding to FIG. 8-18 (35)), and to display specific decorative identification information in a normal mode when a specific display result is not displayed during execution of the second special part (e.g., the portion corresponding to FIG. 8-24 (41)). It is possible to control the light emission of the light-emitting means (e.g., the game effect lamp 9 and decorative light-emitting elements such as decorative LEDs) using a common light emission mode (e.g., a low-brightness white light emission pattern) when specific decorative identification information in a normal mode is displayed when a specific display result is not displayed during execution of the second predetermined part, and when specific decorative identification information in a normal mode is displayed when a specific display result is not displayed during execution of the second special part (e.g., the portions corresponding to FIG. 8-18 (1-38) and FIG. 8-24 (42); see FIG. 8-4). This configuration allows for appropriate notification that a specific display result is not displayed, and data volume can be reduced by sharing the light emission control between the predetermined effects and the special effects.

In any of means 3 to 5, the execution period of the second special part is longer than the second predetermined part (for example, the execution period of the slow motion effect (Fig. 8-15 (23), Fig. 8-21 (24)), the period from the battle victory to the display of the jackpot symbol at the time of a jackpot (Fig. 8-16 (24) to (28), Fig. 8-22 (25) to Fig. 8-23 (33)), and the period from the display of the losing symbol to the return to the normal background screen at the time of a loss (Fig. 8-18 (35) to (38), Fig. 8-24 (39) to (42)) are longer). This configuration can improve the effect of special effects that are more likely to be controlled to an advantageous state.

In any of means 3 to 5, specific decoration identification information can be displayed in both the first and second predetermined parts, and the specific decoration identification information can be displayed in the first special part (e.g., the part corresponding to (9) to (16) in Figure 8-20) without being displayed, and in the second special part (at the timing when the specific display result is displayed) (e.g., the part corresponding to (17) to (36) in Figure 8-21). This configuration allows for diversification of the presentation and improves the presentation effect.

In any of means 3 to 5, when a specific display result is displayed during the execution of the second predetermined part, after the specific decoration identification information changes to a special mode during the execution of the second predetermined part, specific decoration identification information different from the specific decoration identification information that has changed to the special mode is displayed in an enlarged mode with higher visibility than the normal mode (e.g., the portions corresponding to (24) to (30) in Figure 8-16), and when a specific display result is displayed during the execution of the second special part, the specific decoration identification information is not displayed in a special mode during the execution of the second special part, but is instead displayed in an enlarged mode (e.g., the portions corresponding to (25) to (35) in Figure 8-22). This configuration allows for diversification of the presentation and improvement of the presentation effects.

In any of means 3 to 5, when a specific display result is displayed in the second predetermined part or the second special part, special text information can be displayed after the specific display result is displayed in both the second predetermined part and the second special part (for example, the text "Completely settled" can be displayed as shown in Figure 8-17 (32) and Figure 8-22 (30)). This configuration allows the presentation results to be properly announced even when the presentation content is different.

In any of means 3 to 5, specific decoration identification information in a normal mode can be displayed when a specific display result is not displayed during execution of the second specified part, and specific decoration identification information in a normal mode can be displayed when a specific display result is not displayed during execution of the second special part. The specific decoration identification information in a normal mode displayed when a specific display result is not displayed during execution of the second specified part can perform a specific action (e.g., a swinging action) a specific number of times (e.g., four times) (e.g., the part corresponding to Figure 8-18 (38)), and the specific decoration identification information in a normal mode displayed when a specific display result is not displayed during execution of the second special part can perform a specific number of times (e.g., five times) of a specific action (e.g., a swinging action) that is greater than the specific number of times (e.g., the part corresponding to Figure 8-24 (42)). This configuration allows for diversification of the presentation and improved presentation effects.

(Means 6) It is possible to control the display between a normal state (e.g., a low probability state) in which the decorative identification information can be variably displayed, and a special state (e.g., a high probability state) in which the decorative identification information can be variably displayed and is different from the normal state and the advantageous state in which the decorative identification information cannot be variably displayed. In the normal state, a predetermined effect (e.g., Super Reach B) can be executed to notify whether the player will be controlled to an advantageous state, and in the special state, a special effect (e.g., Super Reach D) can be executed to notify whether the player will be controlled to an advantageous state. During the execution of the predetermined effect, a specific decorative identification information (e.g., a middle decorative pattern) from among the multiple decorative identification information can be displayed. The decoration identification information excluding the specific decoration identification information is temporarily stopped in a reach state, and the specific decoration identification information is displayed in response to the display of the predetermined effect (for example, a display image of a battle effect related to Super Reach B), and when it is notified that the special effect will be controlled to an advantageous state during the execution of the special effect, the decoration identification information excluding the specific decoration identification information among the plurality of decoration identification information is temporarily stopped in a reach state, and the specific decoration identification information is displayed when the specific display result is displayed (for example, see Figure 8-27), and the state of the specific decoration identification information displayed during the execution of the predetermined effect is a normal state and a special state that can be changed from the normal state (for example, a state where the specific decoration identification information is destroyed, 8-16(24)) and a special mode (for example, a cracked mode, see FIG. 8-15(23)) which is a mode that can be changed from the normal mode and is a mode before changing to the special mode, and the specific decoration identification information displayed during the execution of the predetermined performance can be changed from the normal mode to the special mode and from the special mode to the special mode in accordance with the performance display of the predetermined performance, and when the specific decoration identification information changes from the normal mode to the special mode and then to the special mode during the execution of the predetermined performance, a specific display result can be displayed (for example, the part corresponding to FIG. 8-15(23) to FIG. 8-16(30)), and the specific decoration identification information displayed during the execution of the predetermined performance can be changed from the normal mode to the special mode and from the special mode to the special mode in accordance with the performance display of the predetermined performance, and when the specific decoration identification information changes from the normal mode to the special mode and then to the special mode, a specific display result can be displayed (for example, the part corresponding to FIG. 8-15(23) to FIG. 8-16(30)), and the specific decoration identification information displayed during the execution of the predetermined performance can be changed from the normal mode to the special mode and from the special mode to the special mode in accordance with the performance display of the predetermined performance, and the specific decoration identification information displayed during the execution of the predetermined performance can be changed from the normal mode to the special mode and then ... During the execution of another effect, a specific display result can be displayed without the specific decoration identification information changing to either the special or special mode (for example, as shown in Figures 8-25(4) through 8-27(17), a jackpot symbol is displayed without executing a change in the mode of the center decoration symbol). The light emission of the light-emitting means (e.g., the game effect lamp 9 and decorative light-emitting elements such as decorative LEDs) can be controlled using a common light emission mode (e.g., a rainbow-colored light emission pattern) when a specific display result is displayed during the execution of a predetermined effect and when a specific display result is displayed during the execution of a special effect (see, for example, Figure 8-3). This configuration allows for the execution of a predetermined effect that changes the mode of the specific decoration identification information to indicate whether or not a game has been controlled to an advantageous state, while also allowing for the execution of a special effect that indicates whether or not a game has been controlled to an advantageous state without changing the mode of the specific decoration identification information. This provides variation in the presentation of effects during normal and special states, enhancing the enjoyment of the game. Furthermore, the shared light emission control between the predetermined effect and the special effect reduces the increase in the amount of control data.

(Means 7) In means 6, a movable body effect can be executed using a movable body (e.g., movable body 32), and the predetermined effect includes a first predetermined part (e.g., a first part including the introductory part and the provocative part of Super Reach B) and a second predetermined part (e.g., a second part including the final provocative part of Super Reach B and the winning/losing notification part), and the special effect includes a first special part (e.g., a first part including the introductory part and the provocative part of Super Reach D) and a second special part (e.g., a second part including the final provocative part of Super Reach D and the winning/losing notification part), and in the second predetermined part A specific display result can be displayed in the first special part (see, for example, Figures 8-3 and 8-16), and a specific display result can be displayed in the second special part (see, for example, Figures 8-3 and 8-27). When a specific effect is executed and a specific display result is displayed, the specific display result is displayed in the second specific part without the movable object effect being executed (e.g., the part corresponding to Figure 8-16 (25)). When a special effect is executed and a specific display result is displayed, the specific display result is displayed in the second special part after the movable object effect is executed (e.g., the part corresponding to Figure 8-27 (12)). This configuration allows the presentation mode when displaying the specific display result to differ between the second specific part and the second special part, increasing the enjoyment of the game.

(Means 8) In means 6 or 7, the predetermined effect includes a first predetermined part (e.g., a first part including the introductory part and the provocative part of Super Reach B) and a second predetermined part (e.g., a second part including the final provocative part of Super Reach B and the winning/losing notification part), the special effect includes a first special part (e.g., a first part including the introductory part and the provocative part of Super Reach D) and a second special part (e.g., a second part including the final provocative part of Super Reach D and the winning/losing notification part), a specific display result can be displayed in the second predetermined part (e.g., see Figures 8-3 and 8-16), a specific display result can be displayed in the second special part (e.g., see Figures 8-3 and 8-27), and when a specific display result is not displayed during the execution of the second predetermined part, a normal mode special effect is displayed. It is possible to display specific decorative identification information (see, for example, Figures 8-4 and 8-18), and to display specific decorative identification information in a normal mode when a specific display result is not displayed during execution of the second special part (see, for example, Figures 8-4 and 8-28). It is possible to control the light emission of the light-emitting means (e.g., the game effect lamp 9 and decorative light-emitting elements such as decorative LEDs) using a common light-emitting mode (e.g., a low-brightness white light-emitting pattern) when specific decorative identification information in a normal mode is displayed when a specific display result is not displayed during execution of the second specific part, and when specific decorative identification information in a normal mode is displayed when a specific display result is not displayed during execution of the second special part (see, for example, the portions corresponding to Figures 8-18 (38) and 8-28 (19); see Figure 8-4). This configuration allows for appropriate notification that a specific display result is not displayed, and data volume can be reduced by sharing the light-emission control between the specific effects and the special effects.

In any of means 6 to 8, specific decoration identification information can be displayed in both the first and second predetermined parts, and the specific decoration identification information can be not displayed in the first special part (for example, no center decoration pattern is displayed, as shown in Figures 8-25 (4) to 8-26 (10)), and the specific decoration identification information can be displayed in the second special part (at the timing of the display of the specific display result) (for example, center decoration patterns can be displayed, as shown in Figures 8-27 (11) to (16) and 8-28 (18) to (20)). This configuration allows for different presentations between Super Reach B and Super Reach D, increasing the enjoyment of the game.

Any of means 6 to 8 is provided with a motion detection means (e.g., push button 31B) capable of detecting the player's motion, and in the second specified part, a specific display result is displayed without executing a motion effect (e.g., a deciding button effect) using the motion detection means (see, for example, Figures 8-15 and 8-16), and in the second special part, a specific display result is displayed after executing a motion effect (e.g., the part corresponding to Figure 8-27 (11) to (16)). With this configuration, the presentation style can be differentiated between Super Reach B and Super Reach D, increasing the enjoyment of the game.

In any of means 6 to 8, when a specific display result is displayed in the second specified part or the second special part, special text information (e.g., the text display "Completely settled") may be displayed after the specific display result is displayed in both the second specified part and the second special part (for example, the text display "Completely settled" may also be displayed in the second part of Super Reach D shown in Figure 8-27, similar to Figure 8-17 (32)).

In any of means 6 to 8, when a specific display result is displayed during the execution of a predetermined effect, the specific decoration identification information can be displayed in an enlarged form with higher visibility than the normal form after the specific decoration identification information changes to a special form during the execution of the second predetermined part (for example, the part corresponding to (24) to (30) in Figure 8-16), and when a specific display result is displayed during the execution of a special effect, the specific decoration identification information can be displayed in an enlarged form during the execution of the second special part (for example, the part corresponding to (15) in Figure 8-27). This configuration makes it possible to appropriately notify the player that a jackpot has been reached, even while the content of the effect is different.

In any of means 6 to 8, specific decoration identification information in a normal mode can be displayed when a specific display result is not displayed during execution of the second specified part, and specific decoration identification information in a normal mode can be displayed when a specific display result is not displayed during execution of the second special part. The specific decoration identification information in a normal mode displayed when a specific display result is not displayed during execution of the second specified part can perform a specific number of times (e.g., four times) of a specific action (swinging action) (e.g., the part corresponding to Figure 8-18 (38)), and the specific decoration identification information in a normal mode displayed when a specific display result is not displayed during execution of the second special part can perform a specific number of times (e.g., three times) of a specific action that is less than the specific number (e.g., the part corresponding to Figure 8-28 (19)). This configuration allows the presentation modes to be different between the specified effects and the special effects, increasing the enjoyment of the game.

(Means 9) The display means is capable of variable display of decorative identification information in response to variable display of special identification information, and after the decorative identification information is set to a reach mode in which it is temporarily stopped in a predetermined combination, a predetermined effect (e.g., Super Reach B) can be executed to notify whether or not the player will be controlled to an advantageous state, and before the predetermined effect is executed, a special preview effect (e.g., special preview effect) can be executed that suggests the player will be controlled to an advantageous state, and before the predetermined effect is executed, a special preview effect (e.g., special preview effect) that is different from the special preview effect can be executed that suggests the player will be controlled to an advantageous state, and when the special preview effect is executed and the predetermined effect is executed, the rate at which the player will be controlled to an advantageous state is higher than when the predetermined effect is executed without the special preview effect, and when the special preview effect is executed and the predetermined effect is executed, the rate at which the player will be controlled to an advantageous state is higher than when the predetermined effect is executed without the special preview effect (e.g., see Figure 8-1 (B)). ), the display means is capable of displaying a special display (e.g., the second mini-character 004IWC04) when a special notice performance is executed (e.g., the portion corresponding to Figures 8-33(7) to 8-34(9)), and is capable of displaying a special display (e.g., the remaining broken glass image 004IWG05b that remained broken in the special notice performance) when a special notice performance is executed (e.g., the portion corresponding to Figures 8-35(3) to 8-36(10)), and there are times when a predetermined performance starts when a special display is displayed (e.g., Super Reach B starts at the timing of Figure 8-34(9)), and times when a predetermined performance starts when a special display is displayed (e.g., Super Reach B starts at the timing of Figure 8-35(7)), and when a predetermined performance starts when a special display is displayed, the probability of being controlled to an advantageous state is higher when a predetermined performance starts when a special display is displayed than when a predetermined performance starts when a special display is displayed (e.g., see Figure 8-1(B)). This configuration draws attention to whether a special preview effect or a special announcement effect will be executed before the execution of the predetermined effect, and furthermore, the appearance of the predetermined effect can be made different depending on whether a special preview effect or a special announcement effect is executed, thereby increasing the enjoyment of the game.

(Means 10) In means 9, the display means can display a special display together with the decorative identification information of the reach mode when a special preview effect is executed (for example, the part corresponding to (7) in Figure 8-33), and can hide the decorative identification information of the reach mode and display a special display when a special preview effect is executed (for example, the part corresponding to (4) in Figure 8-35). This configuration can enhance the presentation effect of the special preview effect.

(Means 11) In means 9 or 10, the special display is displayed continuously for a special period from the start of the specified effect (for example, it is displayed continuously from the start of Super Reach B until character B appears; the portion corresponding to Figure 8-35 (7) to Figure 8-36 (10)), and the special display is displayed continuously for a period shorter than the special period while the specified effect is being executed (for example, it is displayed from the start of Super Reach B until character B appears; the portion corresponding to Figure 8-34 (9)). With this configuration, the display period of the special display and the display period of the special display can be made different, increasing interest in the game.

In any of means 9 to 11, the special display may be a non-stereoscopic (2D) display (for example, a non-stereoscopic representation is displayed), or the special display may be a stereoscopic (3D) display (for example, a stereoscopic representation is displayed). This configuration allows for different presentation styles and increases interest.

In any of means 9 to 11, a predetermined character (e.g., second ally character 004IWC02) related to the predetermined effect can be displayed as the effect display for the predetermined effect, and the special display can be made non-displayable in response to the action of the predetermined character (e.g., the display of the remaining broken glass image 004IWG05b ends in response to the action of second ally character 004IWC02 landing on the ground. This corresponds to the part in Figure 8-36 (10)). With this configuration, consecutively executed effects can be linked to improve the effect of each other.

Any of means 9 to 11 may execute a specific effect (e.g., Super Reach A) that is different from the predetermined effect and indicates that control will be performed to an advantageous state, and the special preview effect may include a first mode (e.g., a mode in which the second ally character 004IWC02 appears) that suggests that the predetermined effect will be executed, and a second mode (e.g., a mode in which the first ally character 004IWC01 appears) that suggests that the specific effect will be executed, and the display means may be capable of displaying a special display of a common mode when the first mode of special preview effect is executed and when the second mode of special preview effect is executed (e.g., the common second mini-character 004IWC04 may be displayed in both the case in which the first ally character 004IWC01 appears as the special preview effect and the case in which the second ally character 004IWC02 appears as the special preview effect). This configuration allows for the execution of a variety of special preview effects, increasing interest.

In any of means 9 to 11, a notification effect (e.g., a long reach) that is different from the predetermined effect and indicates that the game will be controlled to an advantageous state can be executed, and the rate of control to an advantageous state is higher when a special notification effect is executed and then the predetermined effect is executed than when a special notification effect is executed and then the notification effect is executed (e.g., see Figure 8-1 (B)), a special notification effect can be executed before the notification effect is executed (e.g., see Figure 8-30), and the notification effect is executed after a special display is displayed in conjunction with the execution of the special notification effect (e.g., when the broken glass image 004IWG05b is displayed ( When the notification effect starts (FIG. 8-30(5)), the long reach begins (FIG. 8-30(8)), and the display means continues to display the special display for a predetermined period of time after the notification effect begins (for example, the broken glass image 004IWG05b is displayed until the long reach ends (FIG. 8-31(13))), or continues to display the special display for a period shorter than the predetermined period after the predetermined effect begins (for example, the broken glass image 004IWG05b is displayed from the start of Super Reach B until the second ally character 004IWC02 appears; this corresponds to FIG. 8-35(7) to FIG. 8-36(10)). This configuration allows the display period of the special display to vary depending on the effect executed after the special preview effect, increasing interest in the game.

In any of means 9 to 11, a notification effect (e.g., a long reach) that is different from a predetermined effect and notifies that the game will be controlled to an advantageous state can be executed, and when a special notice effect is executed and then a predetermined effect is executed, the rate of being controlled to an advantageous state is higher than when a special notice effect is executed and then a notification effect is executed (e.g., see FIG. 8-1(B)), the special notice effect can be executed before the execution of the notification effect (e.g., see FIG. 8-30), the notification effect is executed after a special display is displayed in conjunction with the execution of the special notice effect, and is equipped with action detection means (e.g., push button 31B) that can detect the player's action, and during the execution period of the notification effect, an action effect can be executed using the action detection means for a special period that is shorter than the predetermined period after the start of the notification effect (e.g., a back button effect (an effect in which the lamp light emission pattern steps up depending on the degree of expectation when a button is pressed repeatedly or long pressed) can be executed until just before the final prodding part of a long reach), and when a special notice effect is executed and then a notification effect is executed, it is possible to hide the special display when the action effect is executed (e.g., the part corresponding to FIG. 8-32(3)). This configuration can increase the enjoyment of playing games.

In any of means 9 to 11, a development preview performance (e.g., a development preview performance) can be executed before the execution of a predetermined performance (see, for example, Figures 8-3 and 8-6), and the development preview performance is executed at a higher rate than the special preview performance and the special preview performance when the predetermined performance is executed (e.g., executed at a rate of 100:0; see Figure 8-1), and the special preview performance or the special preview performance can be executed after the development preview performance has started, and the special preview performance starts after the development preview performance has ended (see, for example, Figure 8-6 (A)), and the special preview performance starts before the development preview performance has ended (see, for example, Figure 8-6 (B)). This configuration allows the start timing to be different for each performance, increasing interest.

In any of means 9 to 11, a development preview performance (e.g., a development preview performance) can be executed before the execution of a predetermined performance, and a development display (e.g., first mini character 004IWC03) can be displayed when the development preview performance is executed, and the predetermined performance is executed after the development display is displayed in conjunction with the execution of the development preview performance (e.g., see Figures 8-3, 8-13 to 8-14), and when a special display is displayed in the predetermined performance, the display of the development display in the predetermined performance is restricted (e.g., see Figures 8-33 to 8-34), and when a special display is displayed in the predetermined performance, the display of the development display in the predetermined performance is restricted (e.g., see Figures 8-35 to 8-36).
This configuration can prevent the presentation from becoming complicated.

(Means 12) The display means is capable of variable display of decorative identification information in response to variable display of special identification information, and after the decorative identification information is placed in a reach state in which it is temporarily stopped in a predetermined combination, a predetermined effect (e.g., Super Reach B) can be executed to notify whether or not the game will be controlled to an advantageous state, and a special notice effect (e.g., special notice effect) can be executed to suggest that the game will be controlled to an advantageous state. The display means is capable of displaying a predetermined display (e.g., a center decoration pattern 004IWG01) when the predetermined effect is executed, and a special display (e.g., an image of broken glass 004IWG05b) when the special notice effect is executed, and when displaying the predetermined display, is capable of displaying multiple predetermined related displays (e.g., an image of fragments of a center decoration pattern 004IWG01a) that imitate at least a part of the predetermined display (e.g., a display of a broken image of a center decoration pattern 004IWG01a). 8-38), when a special display is displayed, a plurality of special related displays (e.g., glass fragment image 004IWG05a) that imitate at least a part of the special display can be displayed (e.g., the portion corresponding to FIG. 8-35(4)), the number of special related displays displayed is greater than the number of predetermined related displays (e.g., there are more glass fragment images 004IWG05a displayed than center decorative pattern fragment images 004IWG01a), there are a plurality of types of predetermined displays, and the predetermined related display that is displayed when a first predetermined display (e.g., an even-numbered center decorative pattern) of the plurality of types of predetermined displays is displayed differs in appearance when displayed (e.g., the color, shape, number, and scattering manner of the fragments are different; see FIG. 8-39). This configuration enhances the effects of the predetermined and special preview effects through the use of predetermined and special related displays, and further increases the enjoyment of the game by differentiating the way the predetermined and special related displays are displayed.

(Means 13) In means 12, the display means displays a predetermined related display for a first period, and a special related display for a second period that is shorter than the first period (for example, the moving display of the glass fragment image 004IWG05a is faster than the moving display of the center decoration pattern fragment image 004IWG01a. The portion corresponding to Figure 8-16 (24) and the portion corresponding to Figure 8-35 (4)). With this configuration, the display periods for the predetermined related display and the special related display can be made different, increasing interest in the game.

(Means 14) In either means 12 or means 13, the display means is capable of displaying a predetermined effect display (for example, a middle decorative pattern 004IWG01 and a background image of Super Reach B) together with a predetermined display, and is capable of displaying a predetermined effect display (for example, a broken glass image 004IWG05b and a background image of Super Reach B) together with a special display, and is capable of displaying the predetermined display with a higher display priority than the effect display of the predetermined effect (for example, the middle decorative pattern 004IWG01 has a higher display priority than the background image of Super Reach B and is displayed in a higher layer), and is capable of displaying a predetermined effect display Special displays can be displayed with a higher display priority than the background display (for example, the broken glass image 004IWG05b has a higher display priority than the background image of Super Reach B and is displayed in a higher layer), and while the display of the predetermined effect is not visible through the predetermined display, the display of the predetermined effect can be seen through the special display (for example, as shown in Figures 8-15 (19) to (23), the background image is not visible through the middle decorative pattern 004IWG01, but the background image is visible through the broken glass image 004IWG05b as shown in Figures 8-35 (7) to 8-36 (9)). This configuration allows for variation in the way the display of the predetermined effect is presented using special displays, increasing excitement in the game.

In any of means 12 to 14, the predetermined related display and the special related display are both displayed in stereoscopic (3D) form (for example, a display that appears three-dimensional). This configuration can enhance the sense of realism of the presentation.

In any of means 12 to 14, the display means can display a predetermined character (e.g., second ally character 004IWC02) related to the predetermined effect as the effect display for the predetermined effect, and the predetermined related display is displayed when the predetermined character acts on the predetermined display (e.g., when second ally character 004IWC02 strikes the center decoration pattern, a fragment image 004IWG01a of the center decoration pattern is displayed. See Figures 8-15 (23) and 8-38). This configuration makes it possible to associate the effect displays and enhance the effect of the display.

In any of means 12 to 14, the display means can temporarily stop and display multiple decorative identification information in a reach state while a predetermined effect is being executed; if a predetermined effect is executed without a special preview effect being executed, the display means can display multiple decorative identification information in a reach state from the start of the predetermined effect (e.g., the portion corresponding to Figure 8-14 (9)); and if a predetermined effect is executed after a special preview effect is executed, the display means can display multiple decorative identification information in a reach state after a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the start of the predetermined effect (e.g., the period until the second ally character 004IWC02 appears) (e.g., the portions corresponding to Figures 8-35 (7) to 8-36 (11)). This configuration allows the effect state to differ depending on whether or not a special preview effect is being executed, thereby increasing interest.

In any of means 12 to 14, the display means may be capable of displaying a predetermined related display in a predetermined direction (e.g., the Z-axis direction), and may be capable of displaying a special related display in a predetermined direction (e.g., displaying an expression that moves from the front of the screen toward the depth). This configuration can enhance the sense of realism of the presentation.

In any of means 12 to 14, the display means can move the predetermined related display in a predetermined direction (e.g., the Z-axis direction) at a normal speed, and can execute a speed-changing effect (e.g., a slow-motion effect) that changes the progression speed of the predetermined effect from normal speed to a special speed slower than the normal speed while the predetermined effect is being executed (e.g., the portion where the progression speed of the effect slows as shown in Figure 8-15 (23)). When the speed-changing effect is executed, the display means can move the predetermined related display in the predetermined direction at a special speed. This configuration can enhance the realism of the effect.

In any of means 12 to 14, the display means can display a special character (e.g., spear image 004IWG04) related to the special preview effect before displaying the special display (e.g., broken glass image 004IWG05b) as a display of the special preview effect, can move the special character from a first display position (e.g., a position in the lower right of the screen) to a second display position (e.g., a position in the center of the screen), can display a suggestion display (e.g., a black background image) suggesting that a special display will be displayed when the special character is displayed in the first display position, and can display the special display and a special related display (e.g., glass shard image 004IWG05a) when the special character is displayed in the second display position (e.g., the portions corresponding to (2) to (4) in Figure 8-35). This configuration can enhance the realism of the effects.

In any of means 12 to 14, the display means can display a special related display even when the special display is hidden (for example, the part corresponding to Figure 8-36 (10)). This configuration can enhance the sense of realism of the presentation.

In any of means 12 to 14, the display means can display multiple pieces of predetermined related information in conjunction with displaying the predetermined display, and the first predetermined related display (e.g., first fragment image 004IWG01a of the center decorative pattern) and the second predetermined related display (e.g., second fragment image 004IWG01a of the center decorative pattern) among the multiple predetermined related displays have different display formats (see, for example, Figure 8-39). This configuration can enhance the sense of realism of the presentation.

In any of means 12 to 14, the display means is capable of displaying multiple pieces of special related information in conjunction with displaying the special display, and among the multiple special related displays, the first special related display (e.g., first glass fragment image 004IWG05a) and the second special related display (e.g., second glass fragment image 004IWG05a) have different display formats (see, for example, Figure 8-35 (4)). This configuration can enhance the sense of realism of the presentation.

(Means 15) The display means is capable of executing a special preview effect (e.g., a special preview effect) that suggests that control will be exerted to an advantageous state, and the special preview effect includes a first effect part (e.g., a part in which a spear image 004IWG04 and a glass image 004IWG05 are displayed) and a second effect part (e.g., a part in which the spear image 004IWG04 disappears and the remaining broken glass image 004IWG05b continues to be displayed), and the display means is capable of displaying a first special display (e.g., a spear image 004IWG04) and a second special display (e.g., a remaining broken glass image 004IWG05b) in the first effect part, and in conjunction with displaying the second special display in the first effect part, is capable of displaying a special related display (e.g., a glass fragment image 004IWG05a) that imitates at least a part of the second special display, and in the second effect part, the first special display is hidden. On the other hand, the second special display can be continuously displayed (for example, the parts corresponding to Figures 8-35 (7) to 8-36 (9)), a special related display can be displayed in the second presentation part at the timing when the second presentation part ends (for example, the part corresponding to Figure 8-36 (10)), the manner in which the special related display is displayed differs between the first presentation part and the second presentation part (for example, the part corresponding to Figure 8-35 (4) and the part corresponding to Figure 8-36 (10)), and it is possible to control the light emission of the light-emitting means (for example, the game effect lamp 9 and decorative light-emitting elements such as decorative LEDs) using different light-emitting modes when the special related display is displayed in the first presentation part and when the special related display is displayed in the second presentation part (for example, the part corresponding to Figure 8-35 (4) and the part corresponding to Figure 8-36 (10); see *1 and *2 in Figure 8-6 (B)). This configuration enhances the presentation effect of the special preview effect with the special related display, and further increases the enjoyment of the game by differentiating the lighting pattern when the special related display is displayed between the first and second presentation parts of the special preview effect.

(Means 16) In means 15, a predetermined effect (e.g., Super Reach B) can be executed after the execution of a special preview effect, and the execution period of the special preview effect overlaps at least partially with the execution period of the predetermined effect (e.g., see Figure 8-6 (B)). In the first effect part, the special related display is displayed in response to the movement of a special character (e.g., spear image 004IWG04) related to the special preview effect (e.g., the portion corresponding to Figure 8-35 (4)), and in the second effect part, it is displayed in response to the movement of a predetermined character (e.g., second ally character 004IWC02) related to the predetermined effect (e.g., the portion corresponding to Figure 8-36 (10)). With this configuration, the display pattern of the special related display can be made different between the first and second effect parts, increasing interest in the game.

(Means 17) In means 15 or 16, the display means can move and display the special related display at a first speed in the first presentation part (for example, the part corresponding to Figure 8-35 (4)), and can move and display the special related display at a second speed different from the first speed (for example, a speed slower than the first speed) in the second presentation part (for example, the part corresponding to Figure 8-36 (10)). With this configuration, the way the special related display is displayed can be made different between the first and second presentation parts, increasing the enjoyment of the game.

In any of means 15 to 17, the special related display may be displayed in stereoscopic (e.g., 3D) form (e.g., a three-dimensional representation) in both the first and second performance parts.

In any of means 15 to 17, after a special preview effect is executed, either a predetermined effect (e.g., Super Reach B) or a specific effect (e.g., Super Reach A) can be executed, and the execution period of the special preview effect overlaps with the execution period of the predetermined effect or the specific effect (e.g., see Figure 8-6 (B)). The special related display is displayed in the first effect part in response to the movement of a special character related to the special preview effect (e.g., spear image 004IWG04) (e.g., the part corresponding to Figure 8-35 (4)), and in the second effect part in response to the movement of a predetermined character related to the predetermined effect (e.g., second ally character 004IWC02) or a specific character related to the specific effect (e.g., first ally character 004IWC01) (e.g., the part corresponding to Figure 8-36 (10)).

In any of means 15 to 17, the display means may be capable of displaying the special related display moving in a first direction (e.g., the Z-axis direction) in the first presentation part (e.g., displaying an expression that moves from the front of the screen toward the depth), and may be capable of displaying the special related display moving in a second direction different from the first direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction) in the second presentation part (e.g., displaying an expression that moves vertically). This configuration allows the special related display to be displayed differently, increasing interest in the game.

In any of means 15 to 17, the movement speed of the special character may be faster than the movement speed of the predetermined character (for example, the corresponding special related display may be displayed more vigorously (displayed at a faster movement speed)). This configuration allows the special related display to be displayed differently, increasing the enjoyment of the game.

In any of means 15 to 17, the display means is capable of displaying multiple special related displays in the first presentation part and multiple special related displays in the second presentation part; among the multiple special related displays displayed in the first presentation part, the first special related display and the second special related display have different display modes; among the multiple special related displays displayed in the second presentation part, the third special related display and the fourth special related display have different display modes; the display mode of the first special related display is different from that of the third special related display and different from that of the fourth special related display; and the display mode of the second special related display is different from that of the third special related display and different from that of the fourth special related display (for example, the portions corresponding to Figures 8-35 (4) and 8-36 (10). In both cases, multiple glass fragment images 004IWG05a are displayed, but each image has a different display mode). This configuration enhances the presentation effect of the special related displays.

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

Claims (1)

A gaming machine that can variably display special identification information and be controlled to an advantageous state that is advantageous to a player,
a variable display execution means for executing variable display of a plurality of decorative identification information in response to variable display of the special identification information;
an advantageous state control means for controlling the display to the advantageous state when a specific display result is displayed as a variable display result of the plurality of decorative identification information;
a performance execution means for executing a predetermined performance that notifies the player whether or not the advantageous state is reached after the decoration identification information is temporarily stopped in a predetermined combination;
a light emission control means capable of controlling the light emission of the light emitting means,
The performance execution means
A special notice effect can be executed that suggests that the game will be controlled to the advantageous state,
As the special notice performance, a first special notice performance and a second special notice performance that can be executed at a timing different from the first special notice performance can be executed,
The first special notice performance has a first part and a second part that is executed after the first part,
The display means
When the predetermined effect is executed, a predetermined display can be displayed for a first period,
When the first special notice performance is executed, a first special display can be displayed, and a second special display can be displayed for a second period different from the first period,
When the second special notice performance is executed, a third special display can be displayed,
When the predetermined display is displayed, a plurality of predetermined related displays that imitate at least a part of the predetermined display can be displayed;
When the second special display is displayed, a plurality of second special related displays that imitate at least a part of the second special display can be displayed,
When the third special display is displayed, a plurality of third special related displays that imitate at least a part of the third special display can be displayed,
The number of the second special related indications displayed is greater than the number of the predetermined related indications displayed,
The second special related display may move at a different speed than the third special related display.
The first part can display the first special display and the second special display, while the second part can display the second special display;
the light emission control means is capable of controlling the light emission of the light emitting means in the second part in a pattern different from that in the first part,
There are multiple types of predetermined displays,
The predetermined related display displayed when a first predetermined display among the plurality of types of predetermined displays is displayed and the predetermined related display displayed when a second predetermined display among the plurality of types of predetermined displays are displayed in different manners when displayed.
A gaming machine characterized by: