JP2023140503A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

To improve the amusement of games.SOLUTION: A game machine includes drop lottery means that performs, in a high probability state, a drop lottery causing a shift from the high probability state to a low probability state, the high probability state being a state of a high base state where a great reduction of game balls will not occur and being a state having a higher lottery winning probability in a lottery for special symbols than the low probability state has. In the high base state after a shift to the low probability state due to a winning of the drop lottery by the drop lottery means, if a result of the lottery for the special symbols is specific losing symbols, the high base state is to be extended.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 24

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine.

Conventionally, gaming machines have been known that shift to a non-probability variable state when a winning lottery is won in a variable probability state that is advantageous to the advantageous player.

JP 2021-186204 Publication

However, there is still room for further improvement in order to improve the interest of playing games in such gaming machines.

The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and aims to improve the interest of games.

The present invention has been made to solve at least part of the above-mentioned problems, and can be realized as the following application examples.

[Application example 1]
A gaming machine,
A falling lottery for transitioning from the high probability state to the low probability state in a high probability state where the probability of winning a special symbol lottery is higher than in a low probability state in a high base state where the number of game balls is not significantly reduced. Equipped with a falling lottery means to perform
In the high base state after winning the falling lottery by the falling lottery means and shifting to the low probability state, if the result of the lottery of the special symbol is a specific losing symbol, the high base state is extended. ,
A gaming machine characterized by:
[Application example 2]
The gaming machine described in Application Example 1,
If you add up the winning probability of the special symbol lottery in the low probability state and the probability that the result of the special symbol lottery will be a specific losing symbol, the probability of winning the special symbol lottery in the high probability state is the same as the probability of winning the special symbol lottery in the high probability state. Become,
A gaming machine characterized by:
[Application example 3]
The gaming machine according to Application Example 1 or Application Example 2,
If the result of the special symbol lottery is a specific losing symbol, the number of times the high base state continues is set to be three times or more the probability denominator of the winning probability of the special symbol lottery in the low probability state;
A gaming machine characterized by:
[Application example 4]
The gaming machine according to any one of Application Examples 1 to 3,
The high base state after winning the falling lottery by the falling lottery means and shifting to the low probability state until the number of fluctuations after winning the special symbol lottery reaches a predetermined number of times is the number of fluctuations. continues until reaching the predetermined number of times,
A gaming machine characterized by:
[Application example 5]
The gaming machine according to any one of Application Examples 1 to 4,
When the falling lottery by the falling lottery means is won and the state shifts to the low probability state, it indicates that the falling lottery has been won.
A gaming machine characterized by:
[Application example 6]
The gaming machine according to any one of Application Examples 1 to 5,
The high base state after winning the falling lottery by the falling lottery means and shifting to the low probability state suggests that the high base state is an advantageous state for the player.
A gaming machine characterized by:
[Application example 7]
The gaming machine according to any one of Application Examples 1 to 6,
In the first high base state which is the high base state after winning the falling lottery by the falling lottery means and shifting to the low probability state, when the result of the lottery of the special symbol is a specific losing symbol, Extending the high base state by switching to a second high base state, which is the high base state that continues more often than the first high base state;
A gaming machine characterized by:
[Application example 8]
The gaming machine described in Application Example 7,
In the second high base state, if the result of the lottery of the special symbol is a specific losing symbol, the second high base state is not switched to the new second high base state;
A gaming machine characterized by:

According to the present invention, it is possible to improve the interest of the game.

FIG. 3 is a front view of the gaming machine. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the main control board. FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining a sensor solenoid. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of a sub-control board. It is a diagram for explaining storage areas of a game control microcomputer and an effect control microcomputer. It is an explanatory diagram of a hit determination table. It is an explanatory diagram of a jackpot type determination table. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram of a fluctuation pattern determination table in a non-time saving state. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram of a fluctuation pattern determination table in a time saving state. It is a flowchart of main control main processing. 3 is a flowchart of main side timer interrupt processing. It is a flowchart of special operation processing. It is a flowchart of special symbol standby processing. It is a flowchart of hit determination processing. It is a flowchart of special symbol confirmation processing. It is a flowchart of gaming state management processing. It is a flowchart of gaming state setting processing. It is a flowchart of gaming state setting processing. It is a flowchart of sub-control main processing. 3 is a flowchart of sub-side timer interrupt processing. 3 is a flowchart of received command analysis processing. It is a flowchart of a fluctuating production start process. It is a figure for explaining production A during a rush. It is a figure for explaining production B during a rush.

<First embodiment>
1. Structure of Gaming Machine FIG. 1 is a front view of a gaming machine 1 as an embodiment of the present invention. In the following, the left-right direction of the gaming machine 1 will be explained so as to correspond to the left-right direction as seen from the player facing the gaming machine 1. Further, the forward direction of the gaming machine 1 will be explained as the direction from the gaming machine 1 toward the player, and the backward direction of the gaming machine 1 will be explained as the direction from the player toward the gaming machine 1.

The gaming machine 1 is a pachinko gaming machine that fires game balls based on a player's firing operation, and when a game ball wins a prize in a specific winning device, pays out a predetermined number of game balls to the player based on the winning. be.

The game machine 1 includes a game machine frame 50 and a game board 2, and the game board 2 is attached to the inside of the game machine frame 50. The gaming machine frame 50 includes, in addition to a front frame (front frame part) 53, an outer frame (base frame part) that forms the outer shell of the gaming machine, and an inner frame to which the gaming board 2 is attached inside the outer frame. We are prepared.

The front frame (front frame portion) 53 is a vertically rectangular unit disposed on the front side of the outer frame and the inner frame, and includes a handle 60, a batted ball supply tray (upper tray) 61, and an excess ball tray (lower tray). ) 62, a production button 63, a sword member 64, a sword button 65, a frame lamp 66, a speaker 67, a select button 68, and a frame movable body 600. An opening is formed in the center of the front frame 53, and the gaming area 3 of the gaming board 2 can be viewed through the opening.

The handle 60 is arranged at the lower end of the right side of the front frame 53, and causes the game ball to be launched at a firing intensity that corresponds to the rotation angle. A batted ball supply tray (upper tray) 61 is provided below the front frame 53 and stores game balls. The surplus ball receiving tray (lower tray) 62 is arranged below the batted ball supply tray (upper tray) 61, and stores game balls that cannot be accommodated in the batted ball supply tray (upper tray) 61.

The performance button 63 is an operation unit disposed near the batted ball supply tray (upper tray) 61, and is operated (pressed) by the player during a performance performed as the game progresses. The sword member 64 is an operation part imitating the shape of a sword, and can be pushed downward by the player during performances performed as the game progresses. The sword button 65 is an operation unit provided at the upper end of the sword member 64, that is, at the end of the sword handle, and is operated (pressed) by the player during performances performed as the game progresses. Ru. The sword member 64 is configured to be able to perform two different operations: a first operation of pushing the entire sword member 64 downward, and a second operation of pressing the sword button 65 at the tip.

The frame lamp 66 is arranged around the opening of the front frame 53, and performs a light emitting effect during a game or the like. The speakers 67 are arranged at the upper left and upper right of the front frame 53, and perform sound production during games and the like. The select button 68 is a so-called cross key, and is composed of a left button, a right button, an upper button, and a lower button, and allows various inputs. The frame movable body 600 is a movable so-called gimmick provided on the upper part of the front frame 53. The frame movable body 600 is configured to be movable from a stored state in which it is stored inside the front frame 53 to an exposed state in which it projects above the front frame 53.

The game board 2 includes a game area 3, a rail member 4, a board lamp 5, an image display device 7, a center decoration 10, a fixed winning device (belly button) 19, and a normal variable winning device (electronic chew) 22. , the gate (through chucker) 28, the first big winning device (first attacker) 31, the second big winning device (second attacker) 36, the general winning opening 27 (normal winning opening 27), and the out opening. 16 and a display 40.

The game area 3 is an area where game balls shot by operating the handle 60 flow down, and a plurality of game nails for guiding the game balls are provided protrudingly. The rail member 4 is arranged at the left end of the game area 3 and guides the game ball launched by operating the handle 60 toward the upper side of the game area 3. The board lamp 5 is arranged on the back side of the game area 3, and emits light from the back side of the game area 3.

The image display device 7 is provided near the center of the gaming area 3 and includes a display screen 7a. The image display device 7 may be a liquid crystal display device, or may be another image display device such as an organic EL display device, a plasma display, a projector, or a dot matrix. The display screen 7a of the image display device 7 includes a production pattern display area in which production patterns (decorative patterns) 8L, 8C, and 8R are displayed in a variable manner, a pending image display area in which pending images 9A and 9B are displayed, and a pending digested image. It has a pending digested image display area where 9C is displayed. The hold images 9A and 9B are images representing hold, and are also called hold icons 9A and 9B. The pending digested image 9C is an image corresponding to the change, and is also referred to as the change image 9C or the change icon 9C. Note that the pending digested image 9C is an image corresponding to the change and does not indicate suspension, but the suspended images 9A, 9B and the suspended digested image 9C are also referred to as a suspended image for convenience.

The performance symbol display area includes three symbol display areas: "left", "middle", and "right". A left presentation pattern (left decorative pattern) 8L is displayed in the left pattern display area. A medium performance pattern (medium decorative pattern) 8C is displayed in the medium pattern display area. A right effect pattern (right decorative pattern) 8R is displayed in the right pattern display area. The performance symbols 8L, 8C, and 8R are composed of a plurality of symbols representing numbers from "0" to "9", for example. The variable display of the performance symbols 8L, 8C, and 8R is synchronized with the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol, which will be described later. The image display device 7 makes it easy for the player to understand the results of the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol (jackpot lottery result) by combining the effect symbols displayed in the left, middle, and right symbol display areas. can be displayed. Note that the first special symbol and the second special symbol are collectively referred to as a "special symbol."

For example, in the case of winning a jackpot, the effect pattern is stopped and displayed as a zero number such as "777". If it is a miss, the effect pattern is stopped and displayed with a miss, such as "637". This makes it easier for the player to grasp the progress of the game. The player can grasp the jackpot lottery result through the image display device 7. Furthermore, the manner in which the performance symbols are displayed in a variable manner may be a manner in which they are scrolled in the vertical direction, or may be in any other manner. The combination of performance symbols to be stopped and displayed according to each lottery result is not limited to the above and can be arbitrarily set. Hereinafter, the performance that displays the performance symbols 8L, 8C, and 8R will also be referred to as a "variable performance of performance symbols," a "variable display of decorative symbols," or simply a "variable performance." In addition, for this performance symbol fluctuation performance, the performance during the period from when the special symbol starts changing until it stops (also referred to as a special symbol fluctuation period) is counted as one fluctuating performance. Therefore, even if there is a case where the decorative pattern is temporarily stopped during the period from when the special pattern starts changing until it stops, the performance of the temporary stop is included in the fluctuating performance of the decorative pattern.

The image display device 7 can display on the display screen 7a, in addition to the performance symbol variation performance, a jackpot performance that is performed in parallel with a jackpot game (an example of a special game), a demonstration performance for waiting for customers, etc. In the performance symbol variation performance, performance images such as background images and character images may also be displayed in addition to the performance symbols. In addition to the production pattern, the image display device 7 also includes an identification display (fourth pattern, not shown) that can indicate that the special pattern is changing or indicate the lottery result of the special pattern. may be displayed on the display screen 7a. Note that the identification display (fourth symbol) may be displayed by a light emitting device such as an LED provided in the game area 3.

The reserved image display area is a first reserved display area that displays reserved images 9A according to the number of stored first special figures reserved, which will be described later, and a reserved image 9B that displays reserved images 9B according to the number of stored second special figures reserved, which will be described later. and a second hold display area. By displaying the pending images 9A and 9B, the number of stored first special symbols and the number of second reserved special symbols can be displayed in an easy-to-understand manner to the player. The pending digest image display area includes a pending digest display area that displays the pending digest image 9C. The pending digesting image 9C corresponds to the production symbols (production symbols 8L, 8C, 8R) currently being changed on the display screen 7a, and depending on the display of the pending digesting image 9C, the first special symbol pending or the second special symbol pending It is possible to clearly display to the player that the special drawing reservation has been completed ("extinction of special drawing reservation" to be described later).

The center decoration 10 is located near the center of the game area 3 and in front of the image display device 7.
A stage part 11 is formed at the lower part of the center decoration body 10. The stage part 11 has a shape that can guide a game ball rolling on the upper surface of the stage part 11 to a first starting port 20, which will be described later. A warp portion 12 is provided at the lower left of the center decorative body 10. The warp section 12 includes an inlet section through which game balls flow in and an outlet section through which game balls flow out, and causes the game balls that flowed in through the inlet section to flow out to the stage section 11 through the exit section.

The fixed prize winning device (belly button) 19 is disposed below the image display device 7 in the game area 3, and is provided with a first starting port 20 that allows ease of entry of game balls at all times. The winning of the game ball into the first starting hole 20 is an opportunity for a first special symbol lottery (jackpot lottery). In other words, the winning of the game ball into the first starting hole 20 is an opportunity to obtain a winning random number and the like and to determine a jackpot.

The normal variable prize winning device (electronic chew) 22 is arranged below the first starting port 20 in the gaming area 3, and includes a second starting port 21. The winning of the game ball into the second starting hole 21 is an opportunity for a second special symbol lottery (jackpot lottery). The electric chew 22 includes a movable member 23 in front of the second starting port 21, and the second starting port 21 is opened and closed by the operation of the movable member 23. The movable member 23 is driven by an electric chew solenoid 24 (FIG. 3). A game ball can enter the second starting port 21 when the movable member 23 is in an open state. Note that the electric chew 22 only needs to enter the second starting port 21 more easily when the movable member 23 is in the open state than when the movable member 23 is in the closed state. It may be possible for the ball to enter the ball.

The gate (through chucker) 28 is arranged above the first big prize winning device (first attacker) 31 in the game area 3, and is configured to allow the game ball to pass through. Passage of the game ball to the gate 28 is an opportunity for a normal symbol lottery to determine whether or not to release the electric chew 22. In other words, the passage of the game ball through the gate 28 is a trigger for obtaining a normal symbol random number and determining a hit.

Here, the "special symbol lottery" means that when a game ball enters the first starting hole 20 or the second starting hole 21, a random number for special symbol determination is acquired, and this acquired random number is used as a predetermined random number. It is a process of determining whether or not it is a jackpot by comparing it with the value corresponding to the "jackpot". This "jackpot" lottery result is not immediately notified to the player, but a variable display of special symbols is performed on the display 40, and after a predetermined variable time has elapsed, the special symbol corresponding to the lottery result is displayed. A stop display (determined display) is performed, and the lottery result is notified to the player. In the image display device 7, a pattern matching game is performed in which performance symbols are variably displayed in synchronization with the variably displayed special symbols, and the jackpot lottery result is more effectively notified to the player by this symbol matching game.

In addition, "normal symbol lottery" means that when a game ball passes through the gate 28, a random number for determining a normal symbol is obtained, and this obtained random number is compared with a predetermined value corresponding to a "win". It is a process of determining whether or not it is a hit by doing so. Regarding the lottery result of this normal symbol, the lottery result is not announced immediately after the game ball passes through the gate 28, but a fluctuating display of the regular symbol is performed on the display 40, and after a predetermined fluctuating time has elapsed. By the way, the normal symbol corresponding to the lottery result is displayed (lit or extinguished) as confirmed, and the player is notified of the lottery result.

The first big winning device (first attacker) 31 is arranged at the upper right of the first starting opening 20 in the gaming area 3, and is connected to the first big winning opening 30, the V area 39, the non-V area 70, and the V opening/closing area. A member 71 is provided. The first big prize opening 30 includes an opening/closing member 32 that allows or inhibits reception of game balls by a swing-type opening/closing operation. The opening/closing member 32 is driven by the first big prize opening solenoid 33 (FIG. 3). A game ball can enter the first big prize opening 30 when the opening/closing member 32 is in the open state.

The first big prize winning device 31 includes a V area (specific area) 39, a V area sensor 39a (FIG. 3), a non-V area (non-specific area) 70, and a non-V area sensor 70a (FIG. 3). , a first big prize opening sensor 30a (FIG. 3), a V opening/closing member 71, and a V opening/closing member solenoid 73 (FIG. 3).

The V area (specific area) 39 and the non-V area (non-specific area) 70 are configured as areas through which the game ball that has passed through the first grand prize opening 30 can pass inside the first grand prize winning device 31. . The first big winning hole sensor 30a is arranged upstream of the V area 39 and the non-V area 70, and detects the winning of a game ball into the first big winning hole 30. The V area sensor 39a is arranged in the V area 39 and detects passage of a game ball to the V area 39. The non-V area sensor 70a is arranged in the non-V area 70 and detects passage of a game ball to the non-V area 70.

The V opening/closing member 71 distributes the game balls that have passed through the first big prize opening 30 to either the V area 39 or the non-V area 70. The V opening/closing member solenoid 73 drives the V opening/closing member 71. The V opening/closing member 71 is configured to rotate (clockwise and counterclockwise with respect to the game board 2), and when the V opening/closing member solenoid 73 is energized, it rotates counterclockwise from the origin position to move the game ball. It is in the first state (rotating state) in which it distributes to the V area 39, and when the V opening/closing member solenoid 73 is not energized, it is in the second state (stopping state) in which it is located at the origin and distributes game balls to the non-V area 70. . In addition, the V opening/closing member 71 is not limited to rotational movement, but may have the function of distributing the game ball that has passed through the first big prize opening 30 to either the V area 39 or the non-V area 70, for example, It may be configured to move in the front and back direction with respect to the game board 2. That is, when the V opening/closing member solenoid 73 is energized, the game ball is distributed to the V area 39 in a retracted state (first state), and when the V opening/closing member solenoid 73 is not energized, the game ball is distributed to the non-V area 70 in the advancing state. (Second state).

The first big winning device 31 of this embodiment further includes a first big winning device discharge sensor 31a (FIG. 3) that counts the number of game balls discharged from the first big winning device 31. The first big winning device discharge sensor 31a is provided at a point where the V area 39 and the non-V area 70 merge downstream, and counts the number of game balls that have passed through the V area sensor 39a or the non-V area sensor 70a.

The second big prize winning device (second attacker) 36 is arranged above and to the right of the first big winning hole 30 in the gaming area 3, and includes a second big winning hole 35. The second big prize opening 35 includes an opening/closing member 37 that inhibits or allows reception of game balls by a swing-type opening/closing operation. The opening/closing member 37 is driven by the second large prize opening solenoid 38 (FIG. 3). A game ball can enter the second big prize opening 35 when the opening/closing member 37 is in an open state. The winning into the second big winning hole 35 is detected by the second big winning hole sensor 35a. The second big winning device 36 of this embodiment further includes a second big winning device ejection sensor 36a (FIG. 3) that counts the number of game balls discharged from the second big winning device 36.

The general winning hole 27 is provided at the lower part of the gaming area 3. The out port 16 is provided at the lower part of the game area 3, and discharges game balls that have not won in any of the winning holes to the outside of the game area 3. The display 40 is arranged near the center on the right side of the game board 2.

The gaming area 3 includes a left gaming area 3A on the left side of the center in the left-right direction, and a right gaming area 3B on the right side. A hitting method in which the game ball is launched so that it flows down the left game area 3A is called "left-handed hitting." On the other hand, a hitting method in which the game ball is launched so that it flows down the right game area 3B is called "right-handed hitting." In the gaming machine 1, it is possible to aim for winning in the first starting opening 20 by playing left-handed. On the other hand, the configuration is such that by hitting right, you can aim to pass through the gate 28 and win into the second starting opening 21, the first big winning opening 30, and the second big winning opening 35.

In the gaming machine 1, when a game ball enters the first starting port 20 or the second starting port 21, the values (numerical information) of various random numbers such as the winning random number obtained for that winning are , is temporarily stored in the special figure reservation storage area 84e (FIG. 5). Specifically, if the winning is in the first starting opening 20, it is stored in the first special drawing holding storage area (FIG. 5) as the first special drawing holding, and if it is winning in the second starting opening 21, It is stored as a second special figure reservation in the second special figure reservation storage area (FIG. 5). There is an upper limit to the number of special figure reservations that can be stored in each special figure reservation storage area 84e, and the upper limit in this embodiment is 4 for both the first special figure reservation storage area and the second special figure reservation storage area. It becomes. The special figure reservation stored in the special figure reservation storage area 84e is consumed when variable display of special symbols based on the special figure reservation becomes possible. "Extinguishing the special symbol reservation" means determining the winning random number etc. corresponding to the special symbol reservation and executing a variable display of the special symbol to show the determination result. Therefore, in the gaming machine 1, if the variable display of the special symbol based on the winning of a game ball to the first starting port 20 or the second starting port 21 cannot be performed immediately after the winning, that is, the variable display of the special symbol is executed. Even if a prize is won during execution of a medium or special game, the right to draw a jackpot for that prize can be reserved up to a predetermined number of prizes.

In the gaming machine 1, when a game ball passes through the gate 28, the value of the normal symbol random number acquired for the passage is temporarily stored as a normal symbol pending in the common symbol retention storage area 84f (FIG. 5). . There is an upper limit to the number of general figure reservations that can be stored in the ordinary figure reservation storage area 84f, and the upper limit value in this embodiment is four. The general symbol reservation stored in the ordinary symbol reservation storage area 84f is consumed when the variable display of the ordinary symbol based on the ordinary symbol reservation becomes possible. The extinguishing of the normal symbol reservation means to determine the ordinary symbol random number corresponding to the ordinary symbol reservation, and to execute a variable display of the ordinary symbol to show the determination result. Therefore, in the gaming machine 1, if the variable display of the normal symbols based on the passage of the game ball to the gate 28 cannot be performed immediately after the passage, that is, when the variable display of the normal symbols is being executed or the auxiliary game is being executed, winnings will be won. Even if there is, it is possible to reserve the right to draw a normal symbol lottery for the passing of a predetermined number of symbols as an upper limit.

2. Electrical Configuration of Gaming Machine The electrical configuration of the gaming machine 1 will be explained based on FIGS. 2 to 4. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the main control board side of the gaming machine 1. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the sub-control board side of the gaming machine 1. The gaming machine 1 includes a main control board 80 (FIG. 2), a sub-control board 90 (FIG. 4), an image control board 100 (FIG. 4), a lamp control board 107 (FIG. 4), and an audio control board 106 (FIG. 4). FIG. 4), a payout control board 110 (FIG. 2), and a power supply board 116 (FIG. 2).

The main control board 80 is a game control board that controls gaming profits such as jackpot lottery and game state transition, and constitutes a main control section. The sub-control board 90 is an effect control board that controls the effects to be executed as the game progresses, and together with the image control board 100, the lamp control board 107, and the audio control board 106, constitutes a sub-control unit. Note that the sub-control unit can be configured as long as it includes at least the sub-control board 90.

The main control board 80 includes a game control microcomputer 81 and an input/output circuit 87. The game control microcomputer 81 is a one-chip microcomputer mounted on the main control board 80, and controls the progress of the game of the gaming machine 1 according to a program. The game control microcomputer 81 sends and receives data to and from other boards etc. via an input/output circuit (I/O port section) 87. The input/output circuit 87 may be built into the game control microcomputer 81.

The sensor solenoid 44 is connected to the main control board 80 via an input/output circuit 87. The sensor solenoid 44 is a general term for various sensors and solenoids. As shown in FIG. 3, the sensors include a first starting hole sensor 20a, a second starting hole sensor 21a, a gate sensor 28a, a first big winning hole sensor 30a, a second big winning hole sensor 35a, and a V area sensor 39a. , the non-V area sensor 70a, the normal winning a prize opening sensor 27a, the first big winning device discharge sensor 31a, and the second big winning device discharge sensor 36a.

The first starting port sensor 20a is provided inside the first starting port 20, and detects a game ball that has entered the first starting port 20. The second starting port sensor 21a is provided inside the second starting port 21, and detects a game ball that has won a prize in the second starting port 21. The gate sensor 28a is provided inside the gate 28 and detects a game ball that has passed through the gate 28. The first big winning hole sensor 30a is provided inside the first big winning hole 30, and detects a game ball that has won in the first big winning hole 30. The second big winning hole sensor 35a is provided inside the second big winning hole 35, and detects the game ball that has entered the second big winning hole 35. The V area sensor 39a is provided in the V area 39 and detects a game ball that has passed through the V area 39. The non-V area sensor 70a is provided in the non-V area 70 and detects a game ball that has passed through the non-V area 70. The normal winning hole sensor 27a is provided inside the normal winning hole 27, and detects a game ball that has won a prize in the normal winning hole 27. The first big prize winning device ejection sensor 31a detects game balls discharged from the first big winning device 31. The second big prize winning device ejection sensor 36a detects game balls discharged from the second big winning device 36.

Examples of the solenoids include, as shown in FIG. 3, the electric chew solenoid 24, the first big winning hole solenoid 33, the second big winning hole solenoid 38, and the V opening/closing member solenoid 73.
The electric chew solenoid 24 drives the movable member 23 of the electric chew 22. The first big prize opening solenoid 33 drives the opening/closing member 32 of the first big winning device 31. The second big prize opening solenoid 38 drives the opening/closing member 37 of the second big winning device 36. The V opening/closing member solenoid 73 drives the V opening/closing member 71.

The display device 40 is connected to the main control board 80 via an input/output circuit 87. The game control microcomputer 81 controls the display of the display 40.
An external terminal board 72 is connected to the main control board 80 via an input/output circuit 87. The main control board 80 sends information to the external terminal board 72 such as prize ball information, door or frame opening information, the number of changes in the first special symbol or the second special symbol, and inputs to the first starting port 20 and the second starting port 21. It outputs information such as whether the game ball has won a prize or a jackpot, as well as a security signal.

A payout control board 110 is connected to the main control board 80 via an input/output circuit 87.
The main control board 80 transmits various commands to the payout control board 110 and receives signals from the payout control board 110 for monitoring payout.
A prize ball payout device 120, a rental ball payout device 130, and a card unit 135 are connected to the payout control board 110.

A power supply board 116 is connected to the main control board 80 via an input/output circuit 87. The main control board 80 operates with power supplied from the power supply board 116, and distributes power to other boards (not shown). Further, a firing device 112 is connected via a power supply board 116.

A sub-control board 90 (FIG. 4) is connected to the main control board 80 via an input/output circuit 87. The main control board 80 transmits various commands to the sub control board 90. The connection between the main control board 80 and the sub-control board 90 is a unidirectional communication connection that allows only the transmission of signals from the main control board 80 to the sub-control board 90. That is, a unidirectional circuit (for example, a circuit using a diode), not shown, is interposed between the main control board 80 and the sub-control board 90 as a communication direction regulating means.

The sub-control board 90 includes a production control microcomputer 91 and an input/output circuit 95. The production control microcomputer 91 is a one-chip microcomputer mounted on the sub-control board 90, and controls the production of the game of the gaming machine 1 according to a program. The performance control microcomputer 91 sends and receives data to and from other boards etc. via the input/output circuit 95. The input/output circuit 95 may be built in the production control microcomputer 91. An image control board 100 , an audio control board 106 , a lamp control board 107 , and a relay board 108 are connected to the sub-control board 90 via an input/output circuit 95 .

The image control board 100 controls the display of the image display device 7 according to a program. In addition to programs for display control, the CPU unit of the image control board 100 stores still image data and video data displayed on the image display device 7, specifically, characters, items, figures, letters, numbers, and Image data such as symbols (including performance patterns) and background images are stored.

A speaker 67 is connected to the audio control board 106, and the performance control microcomputer 91 outputs audio, music, and sound effects from the speaker 67 via the audio control board 106 based on commands received from the main control board 80. etc. is output.

The frame lamp 66 and the board lamp 5 are connected to the lamp control board 107, and are controlled.

A production button 63, a select button 68, and a frame movable body 600 are connected to the relay board 108. When the production button 63 is pressed (pressed down) by the player, it outputs a switch signal to the sub-control board 90 via the relay board 108. Further, the production control microcomputer 91 operates the production button 63 based on the command received from the main control board 80. The production button 63 can not only be operated by pressing, but also changeable between a normal position (buried position) in which the upper surface of the button body protrudes slightly, and a protruding position in which most of the button body protrudes. It has become. In other words, as one of the effects, the effect button 63 is raised up. When the select button 68 is pressed (pressed down) by the player, it outputs a switch signal to the sub-control board 90 via the relay board 108.

The performance control microcomputer 91 operates the frame movable body 600 based on commands received from the main control board 80. The frame movable body 600 is a movable so-called gimmick provided on the upper part of the front frame 53 (FIG. 1). The performance control microcomputer 91 creates operation pattern data (drive data) that determines the operation mode of the frame movable body 600, and controls the operation of the frame movable body 600 according to the operation pattern data. Data stored in the sub ROM 93 is used to create the operation pattern data. Note that a touch sensor or the like that is provided on the front frame 53 and outputs a detection signal when a human body comes into contact with it may be connected to the relay board 108.

3. Data Configuration of Gaming Machine The data configuration of the gaming machine 1 will be explained based on FIG. FIG. 5(A) is a diagram for explaining a table stored in the main ROM 83 of the game control microcomputer 81. FIG. 5(B) is a diagram for explaining the storage area provided in the main RAM 84 of the game control microcomputer 81. FIG. 5(C) is a diagram for explaining a table stored in the sub ROM 93 of the production control microcomputer 91. FIG. 5(D) is a diagram for explaining the storage area provided in the sub RAM 94 of the production control microcomputer 91.

The main ROM 83 (FIG. 5(A)) is provided with a table storage area 83a. This table storage area 83a includes a jackpot determination table, a reach determination table, a normal symbol hit determination table, a normal symbol fluctuation pattern determination table, a jackpot type determination table, a fluctuation pattern determination table, an electric chew opening pattern determination table, and a big winning opening opening. Pattern judgment tables, etc. are stored. These determination tables are referred to by the game control microcomputer 81 in main control main processing (described later) that the game control microcomputer 81 executes.

The main RAM 84 (FIG. 5(B)) includes a command set area 84a, a flag set area 84b, a counter set area 84c, a special operation status set area 84d, a special figure reservation storage area 84e, and a general figure reservation memory. A region 84f is provided.

The command set area 84a is an area (output buffer) where commands output from the main control unit side to the sub control unit side are set in the main control main processing (described later), and includes advance determination commands, pending pitch count commands, A fluctuation start command, a fluctuation stop command, an opening command, a round designation command, an ending command, a game state designation command, etc. are set.

The flag set area 84b is an area where flags indicating the status of the gaming machine and the gaming status are set in the main control main processing (described later), and a jackpot flag, probability change flag, time saving flag, sudden time saving flag, etc. are set. .

The counter set area 84c is an area where counters used in main control main processing (described later) are set, including a random number counter, a round counter, a probability variable counter, a time saving counter, a game number counter, and the like.

The special operation status setting area 84d is an area where a status in special operation processing, which will be described later, is set.

The special figure reservation storage area 84e includes a first special figure reservation storage area in which the first special figure reservation is stored, and a second special figure reservation storage area in which the second special figure reservation is stored. The first special figure reservation storage area stores random value groups (reservation information) such as random numbers per special symbol corresponding to the first, second, third, and fourth of the first special figure reservation. A first storage area, a second storage area, a third storage area, and a fourth storage area are provided for storage. The second special figure reservation storage area includes a first memory for storing random value groups (reservation information) corresponding to the first, second, third, and fourth pieces of the second special figure reservation. A storage area, a second storage area, a third storage area, and a fourth storage area are provided.

The normal symbol reservation storage area 84f stores a group of random numbers (reservation information) such as normal symbol random numbers (winning random numbers) corresponding to the first, second, third, and fourth symbols of the ordinary symbol reservation. A first storage area, a second storage area, a third storage area, and a fourth storage area are provided for.

The sub ROM 93 (FIG. 5(C)) is provided with a table storage area 93a. The table storage area 93a stores a look-ahead performance pattern determination table, a basic performance pattern determination table, a chance-up performance pattern determination table, a stop symbol pattern determination table, and the like. These decision tables are referred to by the production control microcomputer 91 in sub-control main processing (described later) that the production control microcomputer 91 executes.

The sub RAM 94 (FIG. 5(D)) is provided with a command storage area 94a, an effect command set area 94b, and a counter set area 94c. The command storage area 94a is an area (input buffer) in which commands input from the main control unit side are stored in sub-control main processing (described later), including advance judgment commands, pending pitch count commands, fluctuation start commands, and fluctuation commands. A stop command, an opening command, a round designation command, an ending command, a game state designation command, etc. are stored. The effect command set area 94b is an area where commands output from the sub-control board 90 to the image control board 100, the audio control board 106, the lamp control board 107, and the relay board 108 are set in the sub-control main processing (described later). It is an output buffer) in which a variable performance start command, a fluctuation before end command, a variable performance end command, an opening performance start command, a round performance start command, an ending performance start command, etc. are set. The counter set area 94c is an area where counters used in the sub-control main process (described later) are set, including a random number counter, a first special symbol reservation performance counter, a second special symbol reservation performance counter, and a regular symbol reservation performance counter. , game number counter, etc. are set.

Here, various random numbers acquired by the game control microcomputer 81 in the gaming machine 1 will be explained.
The game control microcomputer 81 inputs a "jackpot random number," a "fall random number," a "jackpot type random number," a "reach random number," a "fluctuating pattern random number," and a "normal symbol random number" at the timings described later. is configured to retrieve.

The “random winning number” is a random number used for lottery to determine whether or not it is a jackpot (jackpot determination), and takes a value in the range of 0 to 65535.
The "fall random number" is a random number used for lottery to determine whether or not a person has fallen from a variable probability state (fall determination), and takes a value in the range of 0 to 65535.
The “jackpot type random number” is a random number used for lottery of the winning jackpot type (jackpot type determination), and takes a value in the range of 0 to 127.

"Reach Random Number" is a random number used to determine whether or not to generate a reach in the performance symbol variation performance that indicates the result when the jackpot judgment is a loss, and has a value in the range of 0 to 127. Take. Reach is a state in which there is only one fluctuating performance symbol remaining among multiple performance symbols (decorative symbols), and it depends on which symbol the fluctuating performance symbol is stopped and displayed. This is a state in which a combination of performance symbols indicates a jackpot (for example, a state of "7↓7"). Note that the performance symbols that are displayed in a stopped state in the ready-to-win state may be displayed as if they are shaking within the display screen 7a.

The "variation pattern random number" is a random number used to determine a variation pattern including variation time, and takes a value in the range of 0 to 127.
The "normal symbol random number" is used for a lottery (normal symbol lottery) to determine whether or not to play an auxiliary game that opens the electric chew 22. Normal symbol random numbers take values in the range from 0 to 255.

“Jackpot random number”, “fall random number”, “jackpot type random number”, “reach random number”, and “fluctuation pattern random number” are based on the ball entering the starting hole (first starting hole 20 or second starting hole 21). be obtained. The random number group obtained based on the ball entering the first starting port 20 is stored in the first special figure reservation storage area, and the random number group obtained based on the ball entering the second starting port 21 is stored in the first special symbol holding storage area. 2 is stored in the special figure reservation storage area. The “normal symbol random number (winning random number)” is obtained based on passing through the gate 28. The acquired normal symbol random number value is stored in the ordinary symbol retention storage area 84f.

Next, various random numbers acquired by the performance control microcomputer 91 in the gaming machine 1 will be explained.
The performance control microcomputer 91 is configured to obtain a "pre-read performance random number" and a "chance up random number".

The "pre-read effect random number" is a random number that is obtained as the value of the pre-read effect counter set in the counter set area 94c and is used to determine the pre-read effect during the variable effect, and has a value in the range of 0 to 127. Take. The "pre-read effect random number" is acquired based on the output of a preliminary determination command from the main control section to the sub-control section.

The "chance up random number" is a random number used to determine the chance up performance during the fluctuating performance, and takes a value in the range of 0 to 127. The "chance up random number" is acquired based on a fluctuation start command being output from the main control unit to the sub control unit. The obtained random number value is stored in the sub-RAM 94.

4. Description of Various Tables FIG. 6(A) is a diagram for explaining the hit determination table.
The win determination table is used by the game control microcomputer 81 to determine whether the acquired random win value (any one from 0 to 65535) corresponds to a "jackpot" or a "loss" in the main control main processing (described later). This table is referred to for determination. FIG. 6(B) is a diagram for explaining a fall determination table.

As shown in FIG. 6(A), in the low probability state (normal state), if the winning random number value is "0 to 217" in the first special symbol (special symbol 1), it is determined to be a "jackpot", It is shown that if the winning random number value is "a number between 218 and 65535", it is determined that the game is a "lose". On the other hand, in the second special pattern (special pattern 2), if the winning random number is "0 to 217", it is determined to be a "jackpot", and if the winning random number is "218 to 872", it is determined to be a "loss". (Sudden time saving)", and if the winning random number is "a number between 873 and 65535", it is determined to be a "loss". In the low probability state (normal state), the probability of hitting the jackpot is approximately 1/300. Furthermore, the probability that the time will suddenly be shortened is approximately 1/100.

As shown in FIG. 6(A), in the high probability state (probability variable state), if the winning random number value is "0 to 872" in the first special symbol (special symbol 1), it is determined to be a "jackpot", It is shown that if the winning random number value is "a number between 873 and 65535", it is determined that the game is a "lose". On the other hand, in the second special pattern (special pattern 2), if the winning random number is "0 to 872", it is determined to be a "jackpot", and if the winning random number is "873 to 65535", it is determined to be a "loss". ”. In the high probability state (variable probability state), the probability of hitting the jackpot is approximately 1/75.

As shown in FIG. 6(B), if the random fall value is “0 to 327”, it is determined that the person will “fall”, and if the random fall value is “328 to 65535”, it is determined that “he will not fall”. be done. The probability of falling is approximately 1/200.

The reach determination table indicates whether the reach random value (one of 0 to 127) acquired by the game control microcomputer 81 in the main control main processing (described later) corresponds to "reach" or "no reach". This is a table that is referenced to determine the The reach determination in the reach determination table is performed based on the gaming state of the gaming machine 1. In this embodiment, in the "non-time saving state", if the reach random value is "0 to 13", it is determined that there is a "reach", and if the reach random value is "a number other than 0 to 13 (14 to 127)" ”, it is determined that there is no reach. In addition, in the "time saving state", if the reach random value is "0 to 5", it is determined that there is a "reach", and if the reach random value is "a number other than 0 to 5 (6 to 127)", it is determined that there is a reach. is determined to be "out of reach".

The normal symbol winning determination table indicates whether the normal symbol random number value (any of 0 to 255) acquired by the game control microcomputer 81 in the main control main processing (described later) corresponds to a "win" or a "loss". This is a table that is referenced to determine whether the The determination in the normal symbol hit determination table is performed based on the gaming state of the gaming machine 1. In this embodiment, in the "non-time saving state", if the normal symbol random number value is "0 to 2", it is determined to be a "win", and if the normal symbol random number value is "a number other than 0 to 2 (3 to 255 )”, it is determined as a “lose”. In addition, in the "time saving state", if the normal symbol random number value is "0 to 254", it will be determined as a "win", and if the normal symbol random number value is "a number other than 0 to 254 (255)", it will be determined as a "win". , it is judged as a "lose".

In the normal symbol fluctuation pattern determination table, the game control microcomputer 81 determines how many seconds the normal symbol fluctuation time is according to the gaming state (non-time saving state or time saving state) in the main control main processing (described later). This is the table referenced for this purpose. In this embodiment, in the "non-time saving state", the fluctuation time of the normal symbols is determined to be "30 seconds", and in the "time saving state", the fluctuation time of the normal symbols is determined to be "1 second".

FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining the jackpot type determination table. The jackpot type determination table is referred to by the gaming control microcomputer 81 in the main control main processing (described later) to determine the "jackpot type" according to the acquired jackpot type random value (any of 0 to 127). This is the table that will be used.

When you win in the lottery of the first special symbol (special symbol 1), if the jackpot type random number is "0 to 3", it is determined as "10R guaranteed variable jackpot (densapo 100+α)", and the jackpot type random number is If it is "4-65", it will be judged as "4R definite strange jackpot (densapo 100+α)", and if the jackpot type random number is "66-127", it will be judged as "4R normal jackpot (densapo 100)". It will be judged. When the second special symbol (special symbol 2) is won in the lottery, it is determined to be a "10R surefire jackpot (den support 100+α)". Note that the "probable variable jackpot" is a V-passing expected jackpot in which the game ball in the V area 39 is scheduled to pass. On the other hand, the "normal jackpot" is a jackpot that is not expected to pass through the V area 39 because it is not expected that the game ball will pass through the V area 39. Moreover, "electric support" is the number of times that so-called electric support control is continued, as described later. "100+α" means that the game continues until the jackpot is reached or the lottery is won.

FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining a fluctuation pattern determination table in a non-time saving state. FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining a fluctuation pattern determination table in a time saving state. The fluctuation pattern determination table is a table that is referred to by the game control microcomputer 81 in the main control main processing (described later) to determine the fluctuation pattern according to the acquired fluctuation pattern random number value (0 to 127).

In a non-time-saving state, a prize is entered in the first starting slot 20, the jackpot determination table determines that it is a "lose", the reach determination table determines that there is a "reach", the number of pending balls is "1 to 2", and the fluctuation pattern It is shown that when the random number value is "0 to 60", the fluctuation pattern is determined to be "P7".

If you win a prize in the second starting slot 21 in the time saving state, it is determined to be a "jackpot" in the jackpot determination table, and the fluctuation pattern random value is "64 to 127", the fluctuation pattern may be determined to be "P63". It is shown.

As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, once the fluctuation pattern is determined, the fluctuation time is also determined. In addition, when reaching a reach, it is also determined whether the reach will be a normal reach or a super reach (SP reach). Super reach is a reach effect that takes longer to fluctuate after forming a reach than normal reach. Here, three types of super reach (SP1, SP2, SP3) are set. SP1-3 are progressively executed after normal reach.

The electric chew opening pattern determination table is referred to by the game control microcomputer 81 in the main control main processing (described later) to determine the opening pattern of the electric chew 22 according to the gaming state (non-time saving state or time saving state). This is the table that will be used. In the present embodiment, when the electric chew 22 is in the "non-time saving state", the opening pattern of the electric chew 22 is determined to be the "opening pattern 11", and when it is in the "time saving state", the opening pattern is determined to be the "opening pattern 12". In the opening pattern 11, the electric chew 22 is opened once for an opening time of 0.2 seconds. In the opening pattern 12, the electric chew 22 is opened three times, each opening time is 2.0 seconds, and the interval (opening interval) is 1.0 seconds.

The big winning hole opening pattern determination table is a table that is referred to by the game control microcomputer 81 in order to determine the opening pattern of the first big winning hole 30 and the second big winning hole 35 in the main control main processing (described later). be.

In the case of "10R guaranteed variable jackpot", in the 1st round, the first big prize opening 30 is opened long for one opening time and 29.5 seconds. In addition, in the 2nd to 10th R, the second grand prize opening 35 is opened long for one opening time and 29.5 seconds. In the case of "4R definite strange jackpot" and "4R normal jackpot", in the 1st round, the first big prize opening 30 is opened once for a long opening time of 29.5 seconds. In addition, in the 2nd to 4th R, the second big prize opening 35 is opened once for a long opening time of 29.5 seconds. However, the first grand prize opening 30 and the second grand prize opening 35 are closed even if the opening time remains when a predetermined number of game balls are won (regular winning number).

In addition, the opening pattern of the V opening/closing member solenoid 73 is also determined in correspondence with the jackpot type. In the case of a "probable jackpot", the V opening/closing member solenoid 73 is in the first state (rotating state) during the long opening of the first big prize opening 30 in the 1R. As a result, at least one of the game balls that have entered the first big prize opening 30 is distributed to the V area 39. On the other hand, in the case of a "normal jackpot", during the long opening of the first big prize opening 30 in the 1R, the V opening/closing member solenoid 73 is not in the first state (rotating state) but in the second state (stopping state). ). As a result, game balls that have entered the first big prize opening 30 are distributed to the non-V area 70.

5. Explanation of Jackpot etc. When a jackpot is achieved, a "jackpot game" is executed. A jackpot game is an example of a special game. A jackpot game includes multiple round games (unit open games), an opening (OP) before the first round game starts, and an ending (ED) after the final round game ends. There is. Each round game starts with the end of the opening or the end of the previous round game, and ends with the start of the next round game. The closing time (interval time) of the big prize opening between round games is included in the open round game before the closing.

6. Description of gaming state The gaming state of the gaming machine 1 will be explained. The game control microcomputer 81 can perform "probability variation control" and "variation time shortening control" on the special symbols displayed on the special symbol display 41 and the normal symbols displayed on the normal symbol display 42, respectively. It is. Here, the state in which the game control microcomputer 81 performs probability variation control on the special symbols on the special symbol display 41 is referred to as a "high probability state (probability variation state)", and the state in which probability variation control is not performed is simply " This is called the "low probability state (normal state)". The game control microcomputer 81 performs jackpot judgment using a jackpot judgment table (FIG. 6) in which the number of jackpot random numbers that are judged to be jackpots is higher in a high probability state than in a low probability state, as probability fluctuation control for special symbols. By doing this, a high probability state is achieved. Therefore, a high probability state has a higher probability of hitting the jackpot than a low probability state. In other words, when the game control microcomputer 81 executes probability variation control on the special symbols on the special symbol display 41, compared to the case where the probability variation control is not executed, The probability that the display result (stopping symbol) of the variable display of the special symbol will be a jackpot symbol is increased.

In addition, the state in which the game control microcomputer 81 controls the special symbols on the special symbol display 41 to shorten the fluctuation time is referred to as a "time-saving state", and the state in which the fluctuation time is not controlled to shorten is simply referred to as a "non-time-saving state". That's what it means. In the time saving state, the variation time of the special symbol (the time from the start of the variable display to the time of derivation and display of the display result) is shorter than in the non-time saving state. The game control microcomputer 81 uses a fluctuation pattern determination table (FIGS. 8 and 9) that is determined so that a fluctuation pattern with a short fluctuation time is selected more often in a time-saving state than in a non-time-saving state. Determine the fluctuation pattern that has occurred. In other words, when the game control microcomputer 81 executes the variable time reduction control for the special symbols on the special symbol display 41, the variation of the special symbol is greater than when the variable time reduction control is not executed. A short variation time is more likely to be selected as the display variation time. As a result, in the time-saving state, the pace at which the reserved special drawings are consumed becomes faster, and effective winnings in the starting opening (winnings that can be stored as reserved special drawings) are more likely to occur. This allows players to aim for a jackpot while the game progresses smoothly. It should be noted that the game control microcomputer 81 may perform probability fluctuation control and fluctuation time reduction control simultaneously, or only one of them, for the special symbols on the special symbol display 41.

The game control microcomputer 81 executes probability variation control and variation time reduction control for the normal symbols on the normal symbol display 42 in parallel with variation time reduction control for the special symbols on the special symbol display 41. That is, the game control microcomputer 81 executes the probability fluctuation control and the fluctuation time reduction control for the normal symbols in the time-saving state, but does not perform them in the non-time-saving state. The game control microcomputer 81 uses a normal symbol hit determination table in which the number of normal symbol random numbers (winning random numbers) that are determined to be hits is greater in the time-saving state than in the non-time-saving state, as probability fluctuation control for the normal symbols. Then, make a hit judgment (normal pattern judgment). Therefore, in the time saving state, the winning probability is higher than in the normal symbol normal probability state. In other words, when the game control microcomputer 81 executes probability variation control on the normal symbols on the normal symbol display 42, compared to the case where the probability variation control is not executed, the normal symbol display 42 The probability that the display result of the variable display of the normal symbol (stopped symbol) becomes a winning symbol is increased. In the time saving state, the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is shorter than in the non-time saving state. Here, the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is 30 seconds in the non-time saving state, but it is 1 second in the time saving state. Furthermore, in the time-saving state, the opening time of the electric chew 22 in the auxiliary game is longer than in the non-time-saving state. That is, the game control microcomputer 81 executes open time extension control on the electric chew 22. In addition, in the time-saving state, the number of times the electric chew 22 is opened in the auxiliary game is greater than in the non-time-saving state. That is, the game control microcomputer 81 executes control to increase the number of times the electric chew 22 is opened. Under the situation where the game control microcomputer 81 is executing probability fluctuation control and fluctuation time shortening control for the normal symbols on the normal symbol display 42, and control for extending the opening time and increasing number of openings for the electric chew 22, Compared to the case where these controls are not executed, the electric chew 22 is opened more frequently, and the game ball enters the second starting port 21 more frequently. As a result, the base, which is the ratio of the number of prize balls to the number of fired balls, increases. Therefore, a state where these controls are being executed is called a "high base state", and a state where these controls are not being executed is called a "low base state". In a high base state, you can aim for a jackpot without significantly reducing the number of game balls you have. Note that the high base state is a state in which so-called electric support control (control that supports winning to the second starting port 21 by the electric chew 22) is being executed. The high base state (electric support control state) does not need to execute all of the above controls. That is, among the probability fluctuation control for the normal symbols on the normal symbol display 42, the variation time shortening control for the normal symbols on the normal symbol display 42, the opening time extension control for the electric chew 22, and the control for increasing the number of openings for the electric chew 22. It is only necessary that by executing one or more controls, the electric chew 22 can be opened more easily than when the controls are not executed. Further, the high base state (electric support control state) may be controlled independently without being associated with the time saving state.

In the gaming machine 1, the gaming state after a jackpot game due to winning the V passing scheduled jackpot is a high probability state, a time saving state, and a high base state if the player passes to the V area 39 during the jackpot game. . This gaming state is particularly referred to as a "variable probability state," a "high probability high base state," or a "high probability time saving state." The variable probability state ends when the player wins a falling lottery or wins a jackpot and executes the jackpot game. In addition, the gaming state after a jackpot game due to winning a jackpot that is not expected to pass through V will be a low probability state, a time saving state, and a High base condition. This gaming state is particularly referred to as a "time saving state", "low probability high base state", or "low probability time saving state". The time saving state ends when the variable display of special symbols is executed a predetermined number of times, or when a jackpot is won and the jackpot game is executed.

When playing the gaming machine 1 for the first time, the gaming state after the power is turned on is a normal probability state, a non-time saving state, and a low base state (non-electric support control state). This gaming state may be particularly referred to as a "normal state," "low probability low base state," "normal gaming state," or "low probability non-time saving state (also simply referred to as a non-time saving state)." Further, the state in which a special game (big hit game) is being executed will be referred to as a "special game state (big hit game state)".

In a high base state such as a high probability high base state or a low probability high base state, the game can be progressed more advantageously if the game ball enters the right game area 3B (FIG. 1) by hitting right. Due to the electric support control, the electric chew 22 is opened more easily than in the low base state, and it is easier to win a prize in the second starting port 21 than to win a prize in the first starting port 20. be. Therefore, in the high base state, the game ball is hit to the right in order to enter the second starting port 21 while passing the game ball to the gate 28 which is the trigger for the normal symbol lottery. This allows you to get more starting prizes (winning into the starting hole) than if you hit left-handed. In addition, in the gaming machine 1, even during the jackpot game, the game is played with the right hand. On the other hand, in the low base state, the game can be progressed more advantageously if the game ball enters the left game area 3A (FIG. 1) by hitting the ball to the left. Since the electric support control is not executed, the electric chew 22 is more difficult to open than in the high base state, and it is easier to win a prize in the first starting port 20 than to win a prize in the second starting port 21. This is because For this reason, in the low base state, the game ball is hit to the left in order to cause the game ball to enter the first starting port 20. This allows you to win more starting prizes than if you hit right-handed.

In addition, the time saving state includes a time saving state that shifts after a jackpot game (a time saving) and a time saving state that shifts to when the special symbol becomes a specific losing symbol as a result of the special symbol lottery (sudden time saving, c time saving). .

7. Operation of the game control microcomputer 81 The operation of the game control microcomputer 81 provided on the main control board 80 (FIG. 2) will be described below. Counters, flags, status, buffers, etc. that appear in the explanation of the operation of the game control microcomputer 81 are provided in the main RAM 84.

[Main control main processing]
FIG. 10 is a flowchart of main control main processing. When the game machine 1 is powered on, the game control microcomputer 81 reads a program for executing main control main processing from the main ROM 83. In the main control main processing, the game control microcomputer 81 first performs initialization processing (step S001). In the initialization process, for example, various flags, statuses, counters, etc. are reset. The initial value of the flag is "0", that is, "OFF", the initial value of the status is "1", and the initial value of the counter is "0". Note that the initialization process is executed only once after the power is turned on, and is not executed thereafter.

After the initialization process, the game control microcomputer 81 prohibits the interruption of the interrupt process (step S002), and performs the normal symbol/special symbol main random number update process (step S003). In this normal symbol/special symbol main random number update process, the game control microcomputer 81 updates various random number counter values (hit random number, jackpot type random number, reach random number, variable pattern random number, normal symbol random number) to 1. Add and update. When each random number counter value reaches the set upper limit value, it returns to "0" and is added again. Note that the initial value of each random number counter may be a value other than "0" or may be changed randomly. Further, each random number may be a so-called hardware random number generated using a known random number generation circuit such as a counter IC.

After the normal symbol/special symbol main random number update process, the game control microcomputer 81 allows an interrupt of the interrupt process (step S004). While interrupts are enabled, main side timer interrupt processing (step S005) can be executed. The main timer interrupt process is executed based on interrupt pulses that are repeatedly input at a predetermined cycle (for example, a 4 msec cycle). That is, the main side timer interrupt process is executed at predetermined intervals (for example, every 4 msec). Then, after the main side timer interrupt processing ends and until the next main side timer interrupt processing starts, the updating processing of various counter values by the normal symbol / special symbol main random number updating processing is repeatedly executed. . Note that if an interrupt pulse is input while the interrupt is disabled, the main timer interrupt processing is not started immediately, but is started after the interrupt is enabled.

[Main side timer interrupt processing]
FIG. 11 is a flowchart of the main side timer interrupt processing (FIG. 10: step S005). In the main side timer interrupt process, the game control microcomputer 81 first performs a random number update process (step S101). Specifically, the game control microcomputer 81 updates various random number counter values. This random number update process is the same as the normal symbol/special symbol main random number update process performed in the main control main process (FIG. 10) described above. In other words, the update processing of various random number counter values is performed during the execution period of the main side timer interrupt processing and other periods (the period from the end of the main side timer interrupt processing until the start of the next main side timer interrupt processing). It is carried out both.

After the random number update process, the game control microcomputer 81 performs input processing (step S10).
2). In input processing, the game control microcomputer 81 reads detection signals detected by various sensors attached to the gaming machine 1, and outputs payout data to the main RAM 84 for paying out prize balls according to the type of winning opening. Set in buffer. The various sensors are, for example, the first starting hole sensor 20a, the second starting hole sensor 21a, the first big winning hole sensor 30a, the second big winning hole sensor 35a, and the normal winning hole sensor 27a (FIG. 3).

After the input process, the game control microcomputer 81 performs a starting port sensor detection process (step S103). In the starting port sensor detection process, the game control microcomputer 81 determines whether the game ball passes through the gate 28, acquires the value of the normal symbol random number counter, and stores the acquired random value in the regular symbol holding storage area 84f of the main RAM 84. Among the first to fourth storage areas, the normal symbol is stored in a storage area corresponding to the current number of reserved balls. In addition, the game control microcomputer 81 determines whether the game ball enters the first starting port 20, and calculates the value of the hit random number counter, the value of the jackpot type random number counter, the value of the reach random number counter, and the value of the fluctuation pattern random number counter. get. The game control microcomputer 81 stores the obtained random number group in a storage area corresponding to the current number of special figure 1 reserved balls among the first to fourth storage areas of the first special figure reserved storage area. Furthermore, the game control microcomputer 81 determines whether the game ball enters the second starting port 21 and determines the value of the hit random number counter, the value of the jackpot type random number counter, the value of the reach random number counter, and the value of the fluctuation pattern random number counter. get. The game control microcomputer 81 stores the obtained random value group in the storage area corresponding to the current number of special figure 2 reserved balls among the first to fourth storage areas of the second special figure reserved storage area.

The game control microcomputer 81 performs a preliminary judgment of a jackpot in the starting port sensor detection process. Based on the random number group described above, it is determined in advance whether or not it is a jackpot, and if it is a jackpot, the type of jackpot and the fluctuation pattern. Then, a preliminary determination command is created from the preliminary determination result and set in the command set area 84a of the main RAM 84.

Next, the game control microcomputer 81 performs normal operation processing (step S104). In the normal operation process, the game control microcomputer 81 controls the operation of the electric chew 22. Specifically, the game control microcomputer 81 determines whether the number of reserved balls of the normal symbol is "0" or not, and if the number of reserved balls is 1 or more, it refers to the normal symbol hit determination table. Make a hit judgment. Next, the game control microcomputer 81 selects a variation pattern by referring to the normal symbol variation pattern determination table. The game control microcomputer 81 starts the variable display of normal symbols by setting the selected normal symbol variation pattern. Thereafter, the variable display is stopped, and in the case of a "win", an electric chew opening pattern is set with reference to the electric chew opening pattern determination table, and the electric chew 22 is activated.

Next, the game control microcomputer 81 performs special operation processing (step S105). This special operation process will be described later.
Next, the game control microcomputer 81 performs a V area sensor detection process (step S106). In the V area sensor detection process, the game control microcomputer 81 first determines whether or not a game ball is detected by the V area sensor 39a, and if detected, determines whether or not the V valid period is in effect. If it is within the V validity period, the V flag is turned on and a V passing command is set.

Next, the game control microcomputer 81 performs a pending ball number process (step S107). The game control microcomputer 81 first reads out the number of special symbol 1 reserved balls, the number of special symbol 2 reserved balls, and the number of normal symbol reserved balls stored in the main RAM 84. Next, the game control microcomputer 81 sets the number of reserved balls command in the command set area (output buffer) 84a of the main RAM 84. The number of reserved balls command is a command for notifying the sub-control board 90 of the number of reserved balls, and includes information regarding the number of reserved balls for special symbol 1, the number of reserved balls for special symbol 2, and the number of regular symbol reserved balls. .

After processing the number of reserved balls, the game control microcomputer 81 performs output processing (step S108). In the output process, the game control microcomputer 81 outputs the commands and the like set in the command set area 84a of the main RAM 84 in each of the above processes to the sub control board 90. After the output process, the game control microcomputer 81 performs other processes (step S109). In other processes, for example, the display 40 is controlled to display the number based on the number of reserved balls for special figure 2, which will be described later, and the display 40 is controlled to display the number based on the number of reserved balls for special figure 1. control in various ways.

[Special operation processing]
FIG. 12 is a flowchart of the special operation process (FIG. 11: step S105). Here, the processing related to the display device 40 and the grand prize device (the first grand prize device 31 and the second grand prize device 36) is divided into four stages, and each stage is divided into "1" and "2" of the "special operation status". ”, “3”, and “4”. When the "special operation status" is "1" (step S1301: YES), the game control microcomputer 81 performs special symbol standby processing (step S1302). In the special symbol standby process, jackpot determination, variation pattern selection, etc. are executed.

When the "special operation status" is "2" (step S1301: NO, step S1303: YES), special symbol fluctuation processing is performed (step S1304). In the special symbol fluctuation processing, output of a fluctuation stop command etc. is executed after the fluctuation time has elapsed. Specifically, the game control microcomputer 81 first determines whether the special symbol fluctuation time has elapsed and ended, and if the fluctuation time has elapsed, sets a fluctuation stop command and changes the special operation status. Set to "3".

When the "special operation status" is "3" (step S1301, step S1303: NO, step S1305: YES), special symbol confirmation processing is performed (step S1306). In the special symbol confirmation process, the game control microcomputer 81 executes the game state management process. The game state management process is a process for managing the number of time reductions.

When the "special operation status" is "4" (step S1301, step S1303, step S1305: NO), special electric accessory processing is performed (step S1307). In the special electric accessory processing, a jackpot game is executed. Specifically, opening of the first big winning hole 30 and the second big winning hole 35 is controlled according to an opening pattern based on a round counter.

[Special symbol standby processing]
FIG. 13 is a flowchart of the special symbol standby process (FIG. 12: Step S1302). In the special symbol standby process, the game control microcomputer 81 first determines whether the number of special symbol 2 reserved balls is "0" (step S1401). If the number of special figure 2 reserved balls is "0" (step S1401: YES), that is, the random value group acquired due to winning in the second starting opening 21 is stored in the second special figure reservation storage area. If there is no such file, the process moves to step S1407. When the special figure 2 reserved ball number is "1" or more (step S1401: NO), the game control microcomputer 81 executes a hit determination process (step S1402).

Next, the game control microcomputer 81 executes a variation pattern selection process (step S1403). In the fluctuation pattern selection process, the fluctuation pattern determination table (FIGS. 8 and 9) is referred to, and the gaming state of the gaming machine 1 (time-saving state or non-time-saving state), the determination result of the hit determination process (step S1402), and the reserved balls are determined. Select a variation pattern based on the number. After the fluctuation pattern selection process, the number of special figure 2 reserved balls is decremented (step S1404).

Next, the game control microcomputer 81 changes the storage location of the reservation information (various random numbers) stored in the first to fourth storage areas of the second special figure reservation storage area from the current position to the side from which it is read out. At the same time, the reservation information stored in the farthest location from the read side in the second special figure reservation storage area is cleared (step S1405). For example, if pending information is stored in the first to third storage areas, the pending information stored in the third storage area is cleared and the pending information is stored in the first to fourth storage areas. If so, the pending information stored in the fourth storage area is cleared. Through the above steps, the second special figure reservations are consumed in the order in which they were reserved. In this case, on the display screen 7a of the image display device 7, the reserved image 9B (the leftmost reserved image 9B among the four reserved images 9B) corresponding to the first storage area of the second special figure reserved storage area is reserved. It is shifted to the digested image display area side and displayed as the held digested image 9C. In addition, the reserved images 9B (the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th reserved images 9B from the left among the 4 reserved images 9B) corresponding to the 2nd to 4th storage areas of the 2nd special figure reserved storage area are 1 on the left side, respectively. (Figure 1). Thereby, the player can recognize that one second special figure reservation has been used up.

Next, the game control microcomputer 81 performs special figure 2 fluctuation start processing (step S1406). In the special figure 2 variation start process, a variation start command is set in the command set area 84a of the main RAM 84, a variation display of the second special symbol is started, and a variation time timer is set. A variation time determined according to the variation pattern selected in the variation pattern selection process is set in the variation time timer. Further, the game control microcomputer 81 sets the special operation status to "2". In addition, the variation start command (special figure 2 variation start command) set in the special figure 2 variation start process includes information regarding the special figure stop symbol data set in the hit determination process (step S1402) and the variation pattern selection process ( Information regarding the fluctuation pattern set in step S1403) (including information regarding fluctuation time) is included.

In step S1401, if the number of reserved balls for special drawing 2 is "0" (step S1401: YES), the game control microcomputer 81 determines whether the number of reserved balls for special drawing 1 is "0" ( Step S1407). If the number of special figure 1 reserved balls is "0" (step S1407: YES), that is, the random value group acquired due to winning in the first starting opening 20 is stored in the first special figure reservation storage area. If there is no such file, the process moves to step S1413. When the number of special figure 1 reserved balls is "1" or more (step S1407: NO), the game control microcomputer 81 executes a hit determination process (step S1408). Details of the hit determination process will be described later.

Next, the game control microcomputer 81 executes a variation pattern selection process (step S1409). In the fluctuation pattern selection process, the fluctuation pattern determination table (FIG. 8, FIG. 9) is referred to, and the gaming state of the gaming machine 1 (time-saving state or non-time-saving state), the determination result of the hit determination process (step S1408), and the reserved balls are determined. Select a variation pattern based on the number. After the fluctuation pattern selection process, the number of special figure 1 reserved balls is decremented (step S1410).

Next, the game control microcomputer 81 shifts the storage locations of the various random numbers stored in the first to fourth storage areas of the first special figure reservation storage area by one position from the current position to the side where they are read out. , clears the reservation information stored in the farthest location from the read side in the first special figure reservation storage area (step S1411). Through the above steps, the first special figure reservations are consumed in the order in which they were reserved. In this case, on the display screen 7a of the image display device 7, the reserved image 9A (the rightmost reserved image 9A among the four reserved images 9A) corresponding to the first storage area of the first special figure reserved storage area is reserved. It is shifted to the digested image display area side and displayed as the held digested image 9C. In addition, the reserved images 9A (the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th reserved images 9A from the right among the 4 reserved images 9A) corresponding to the 2nd to 4th storage areas of the 1st special figure reserved storage area are 1 on the right side, respectively. (Figure 1). Thereby, the player can recognize that one first special symbol reservation has been used up.

Next, the game control microcomputer 81 performs special figure 1 fluctuation start processing (step S1412). In the special figure 1 variation start process, a variation start command is set in the command set area 84a of the main RAM 84, and a variation display of the first special symbol is started, and a variation time timer is set. A variation time determined according to the variation pattern selected in the variation pattern selection process is set in the variation time timer. Furthermore, the game control microcomputer 81 sets the special operation status to "2" (step S1412). In addition, the variation start command (special figure 1 variation start command) set in the special figure 1 variation start process includes information regarding the special figure stop symbol data set in the hit determination process (step S1408) and the variation pattern selection process ( Information regarding the fluctuation pattern set in step S1409) (including information regarding fluctuation time) is included.

In step S1407, if the number of reserved balls for special drawing 1 is "0" (step S1407: YES), the game control microcomputer 81 determines whether the display screen 7a of the image display device 7 is a standby screen (step S1413). The standby screen is a demo screen for waiting for customers. The game control microcomputer 81 may determine, for example, by turning on/off a demonstration screen display flag for waiting for customers. If it is a standby screen (step S1413: YES), this process ends. If it is not the standby screen (step S1413: NO), the gaming control microcomputer 81 sets a customer waiting standby command for displaying the standby screen in the command set area 84a of the main RAM 84 after a predetermined standby time has elapsed. (Step S1414), this process ends. As described above, according to the special symbol standby process of this embodiment, the variable display of the special symbol based on the first special symbol reservation is executed only when the second special symbol reservation is "0". That is, the extinguishment of the second special figure reservation is executed in priority to the extinguishment of the first special figure reservation. Furthermore, according to the jackpot type determination table of the present embodiment, the lottery based on the second special symbol reservation results in a jackpot (V-passing scheduled jackpot) that is more profitable for the player than the lottery based on the first special symbol reservation. He is set to be elected.

[Hit judgment processing]
FIG. 14 is a flowchart of the hit determination process (FIG. 13: steps S1402 and S1408). The hit determination process for special figure 2 (step S1402) and the hit determination process for special figure 1 (step S1408) have the same process flow, so they will be explained together.

In the winning determination process, first, the game control microcomputer 81 determines whether the probability change flag is ON (step S1501). If it is determined that the probability change flag is ON (step S1501: YES), a fall determination is made (step S1502), and then the process moves to step S1503. The fall determination is performed with reference to the fall determination table (FIG. 6(B)). On the other hand, if it is determined that the probability variation flag is not ON (step S1501: NO), that is, if the probability variation flag is OFF, the process moves to step S1505.

In step S1503, the game control microcomputer 81 determines whether or not the player has fallen. If it is determined that the user has fallen (step S1503: YES), the probability change flag is turned off (step S1504), and the process moves to step S1505. On the other hand, if it is determined that the user has not fallen (step S1503: NO), the process proceeds to step S1505 without executing the process of step S1504.

In step S1505, the game control microcomputer 81 performs a hit determination. The hit determination is performed with reference to the jackpot determination table (FIG. 6(A)).

Next, the game control microcomputer 81 determines whether or not it is a jackpot (step S1506). If it is determined that it is a jackpot (step S1506: YES), the jackpot flag is turned on, the jackpot type is determined (step S1507), and then the win determination process is ended. On the other hand, if it is determined that it is not a jackpot (step S1506: NO), the process moves to step S1508.

In step S1508, the game control microcomputer 81 determines whether or not the time is suddenly shortened. Strictly speaking, it is determined whether or not there is a sudden time reduction during a time reduction (c time reduction). If it is determined that the time is suddenly shortened (step S1508: YES), the sudden time shortening flag is turned ON (step S1509), and the hit determination process is ended. On the other hand, if it is suddenly determined that the time is not short (step S1508: NO), the process of step S1509 is not executed and the hit determination process is ended.

[Special design confirmation process]
FIG. 15 is a flowchart of the special symbol determination process (step S1306 in FIG. 12).
In the special symbol confirmation process, the game control microcomputer 81 first executes a game state management process (step S1901), and then moves to step S1902.

In step S1902, the game control microcomputer 81 determines whether the jackpot flag is turned on. If it is determined that the jackpot flag is ON (step S1902: YES), the process moves to step S1903. On the other hand, if the jackpot flag is not ON (step S1902: NO), the process moves to step S1907.

In step S1903, the game control microcomputer 81 sets an opening pattern. The opening pattern is set according to the jackpot type.
Next, the game control microcomputer 81 executes a game state reset process (step S1904). In the game state reset process, the time saving flag etc. are reset.

Next, the game control microcomputer 81 sets the opening command (step S1905), sets the special operation status to "4" (step S1906), and ends the special symbol confirmation process.

In step S1907, the game control microcomputer 81 determines whether or not the time saving flag is suddenly turned on. Here, if the time saving flag is suddenly turned ON (step S1907: YES), the process moves to step S1908. On the other hand, if the time saving flag is not suddenly turned ON (step S1907: NO), the special symbol confirmation process is ended without executing the subsequent process.

In step S1908, the game control microcomputer 81 turns on the time saving flag.
Next, the game control microcomputer 81 sets the time saving counter to "1000" (step S1909), sets the special operation status to "1" (step S1910), and ends the special symbol confirmation process.

[Game state management processing]
FIG. 16 is a flowchart of the gaming state management process (step S1901 in FIG. 15).
In the game state management process, the game control microcomputer 81 first determines whether or not the time saving flag is ON (step S2001). If it is determined that the time saving flag is ON (step S2001: YES), the process moves to step S2002. On the other hand, if it is determined that the time saving flag is not ON (step S2001: NO), the process moves to step S2009.

In step S2002, the game control microcomputer 81 determines whether the time saving counter is greater than "0". Here, if the time saving counter is larger than "0" (step S2002: YES), the time saving counter is decremented (step S2003), and the process moves to step S2004. On the other hand, if the time saving counter is less than or equal to "0" (step S2002: NO), the process moves to step S2005.

In step S2004, the game control microcomputer 81 determines whether or not the time saving counter is "0". If it is determined that the time saving counter is "0" (step S2004: YES), the process moves to step S2005. On the other hand, if it is determined that the time saving counter is not "0" (step S2004: NO), the process moves to step S2009.

In step S2005, the game control microcomputer 81 determines whether the probability change flag is ON. If it is determined that the probability variation flag is ON (step S2005: YES), the probability variation counter is decremented (step S2006), and the process moves to step S2007. On the other hand, if it is determined that the variable probability flag is not ON (step S2005: NO), that is, if the variable probability flag is OFF, the time saving flag is turned OFF (step S2008) and the process moves to step S2009.

In step S2007, the game control microcomputer 81 determines whether the probability change counter is "0" or not. If it is determined that the probability change counter is "0" (step S2007: YES), the time saving flag is turned OFF (step S2008), and the process moves to step S2009. On the other hand, if it is determined that the probability variation counter is not "0" (step S2007: NO), the process proceeds to step S2009 without executing the process of step S2008.

In step S2009, the gaming control microcomputer 81 sets a gaming state designation command. After that, the gaming state management process is ended.

[Special electric accessory processing]
FIG. 17 is a flowchart of the special electric accessory processing (step S1307 in FIG. 12).
In the special electric accessory processing, first, the game control microcomputer 81 determines whether the jackpot end flag is ON (step S2101). If it is determined that the jackpot end flag is ON (step S2101: YES), an ending process is executed (step S2102), and the special electric accessory process is ended. In the ending process, it is determined whether the ending time has elapsed or not, and if it has elapsed, the jackpot end flag is turned OFF, the jackpot flag is turned OFF, the special operation status is set to "1", and the game state is set. After executing the process (step S2103), the special electric accessory process is ended. The game state setting process will be described later. On the other hand, if it is determined that the jackpot end flag is not ON (step S2101: NO), that is, if the jackpot end flag is OFF, the process moves to step S2104.

In step S2104, it is determined whether or not a prize has been won in the big prize opening. This process is a process for determining whether or not there is a winning in the big winning hole 30 based on the signal from the big winning hole sensor 30a. If it is determined that a prize has been won in the big winning opening (step S2104: YES), a big winning opening command is set (step S2105), and the process moves to step S2106. On the other hand, if it is determined that there is no prize in the big winning opening (step S2104: NO), the process proceeds to step S2106 without executing the process of step S2105.

In step S2106, it is determined whether the big prize opening is open. This process is a process for determining whether or not the big prize opening 30 is open. If it is determined that the big winning hole is open (step S2106: YES), the big winning hole closing process is executed (step S2107), and the special electric accessory process is ended. The big winning opening closing process is a process of determining whether the closing conditions of the big winning opening 30 are satisfied or not, and closing the big winning opening 30 if the closing conditions are satisfied. On the other hand, if it is determined that the big winning hole is not open (step S2106: NO), that is, if the big winning hole is closed, the process moves to step S2108.

In step S2108, the game control microcomputer 81 determines whether or not it is the big winning opening opening period. This process is a process for determining whether or not it is the opening period of the big winning a prize opening 30. If it is determined that it is the big winning hole opening period (step S2108: YES), the big winning hole opening process is executed (step S2110), a round designation command is set (step S2111), and the special electric accessory Finish the process. On the other hand, when it is determined that it is not the big winning opening opening period (step S2108: NO), a round process is executed (step S2109), and the special electric accessory process is ended. In the round process, it is determined whether or not the round has ended, and at the end of the round, the round counter is decremented, and when the round counter reaches "0", an ending command is set and the jackpot end flag is turned ON.

[Game status setting process]
FIG. 18 is a flowchart of the gaming state setting process (step S2103 in FIG. 17).
In the game state setting process, first, the game control microcomputer 81 determines whether the game ball has passed through the V area 39 (step S2201). This process is determined based on whether or not the V flag is ON. If it is determined that the V area 39 has been passed (step S2201: YES), the probability variation flag is turned on (step S2202), the probability variation counter is set to "10000" (step S2203), and the process proceeds to step S2204. . On the other hand, if it is determined that the vehicle has not passed through the V area 39 (step S2201: NO), the processing of steps S2202 and S2203 is not executed, and the process moves to step S2204.

In step S2204, the game control microcomputer 81 turns on the time saving flag.
Next, the gaming control microcomputer 81 sets the time saving counter to "100" (step S2205), sets the gaming state designation command (step S2206), and ends the gaming state setting process.

8. Operation of the production control microcomputer 91 The operation of the production control microcomputer 91 provided on the sub-control board 90 (FIG. 4) will be described below. Counters, flags, status, buffers, etc. that appear in the explanation of the operation of the production control microcomputer 91 are provided in the sub-RAM 94.

[Sub control main processing]
FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the sub-control main processing. When the gaming machine 1 is powered on, the performance control microcomputer 91 reads a program for executing the sub-control main process from the sub-ROM 93. In the sub-control main processing, the production control microcomputer 91 first performs initialization processing (step S4000). In the initialization process, for example, settings of the sub CPU 92, reset of various flags, statuses, counters, etc. are performed. The initial value of the flag is "0", that is, "OFF", the initial value of the status is "1", and the initial value of the counter is "0". Note that the initialization process is executed only once after the power is turned on, and is not executed thereafter.

After the initialization process, the production control microcomputer 91 prohibits the interruption of the interrupt process (step S4001), and performs the random number update process (step S4002). In this random number update process, the performance control microcomputer 91 updates the random number counter value shown in FIG. 6(B) by adding one. When each random number counter value reaches the set upper limit value, it returns to "0" and is added again. Note that the initial value of each random number counter may be a value other than "0" or may be changed randomly. Furthermore, instead of adding up the random numbers one by one, two or more may be added. Each random number may be a so-called hardware random number.

After the random number update process, the production control microcomputer 91 allows the interruption of the interrupt process (step S4003). While interrupts are enabled, sub-side timer interrupt processing (step S4004) can be executed. The sub-side timer interrupt process is executed based on interrupt pulses that are repeatedly input to the sub CPU 92 at predetermined intervals. That is, the sub-side timer interrupt process is executed at predetermined intervals. Then, the random number update process is repeatedly executed between the end of the sub-side timer interrupt process and the start of the next sub-side timer interrupt process.

[Sub-side timer interrupt processing]
FIG. 20 is a flowchart of the sub-side timer interrupt processing (step S4004 in FIG. 19). The production control microcomputer 91 first performs received command analysis processing (step S4100). Details of the received command analysis process will be described later. After the received command analysis process, the performance control microcomputer 91 performs a variable performance process (step S4110). The processing during the variable performance will be described later. After the process during the variable performance, the performance control microcomputer 91 performs a switch process (step S4120). After the switch process, the production control microcomputer 91 performs a command transmission process (step S4130). In the command transmission process, the production control microcomputer 91 sends various commands set in the production command set area 94b (output buffer) of the sub-RAM 94 by the received command analysis process to the image control board 100, the audio control board 106, and the lamp control board 107. , is transmitted to the relay board 108. The image control board 100 that has received various commands uses the image display device 7 to execute display effects according to the received commands. Furthermore, the audio control board 106 that has received various commands executes audio production to output audio from the speaker 67 in accordance with the received commands. The lamp control board 107 that has received the various commands executes a lamp effect that controls the light emission of the board lamp 5 and the frame lamp 66 in accordance with the received commands. After the command transmission process, the production control microcomputer 91 performs other processes (step S4140), and ends this process. Other processes include random number update processing and the like.

[Received command analysis processing]
FIG. 21 is a flowchart of the received command analysis process (step S4100 in FIG. 20). The performance control microcomputer 91 first determines whether or not a preliminary determination command has been received from the main control board 80 (step S4180). If it has been received (step S4180: YES), prefetch processing is performed (step S4190). On the other hand, if it has not been received (step S4180: NO), the above-mentioned prefetch process is skipped.

Next, the performance control microcomputer 91 determines whether or not a command for the number of reserved balls has been received from the main control board 80 (step S4200). If it has been received (step S4200: YES), a hold display process is performed (step S4210). In the hold display process, information is set in the counter set area 94c of the sub-RAM 94 based on information regarding the number of special figure 1 held balls, the number of special figure 2 held balls, and the number of normal pattern held balls included in the number of held balls command. The values of the first special symbol reservation performance counter, the second special symbol reservation performance counter, and the regular symbol reservation performance counter are updated. Thereby, information on each number of reserved balls can be held not only on the main control board 80 side but also on the sub control board 90 side. Furthermore, the production control microcomputer 91 controls the pending image 9A displayed on the display screen 7a, Update 9B. On the other hand, if the pending pitch count command has not been received (step S4200: NO), the above-described pending display process is skipped.

Subsequently, the production control microcomputer 91 determines whether or not a variation start command has been received from the main control board 80 (step S4220). If it has been received (step S4220: YES), a variable effect start process is performed (step S4230). "Variation performance start processing" is a process of selecting a fluctuation performance pattern (content) to be executed during special symbol fluctuation. On the other hand, if it has not been received (step S4220: NO), the above-described variable effect start process is skipped.

Subsequently, the performance control microcomputer 91 determines whether or not a fluctuation stop command has been received from the main control board 80 (step S4240). If it has been received (step S4240: YES), a variable effect end process is performed (step S4250). "Fluctuation performance end processing" is a process for stopping the fluctuation performance executed during special symbol fluctuation. In the fluctuating performance end process, the performance control microcomputer 91 sets a counter etc. based on the analysis result of the fluctuation stop command, and also sets a fluctuating performance end command for ending the fluctuating performance. As a result, the effect pattern corresponding to the special figure 1 or special figure 2 which is changing is stopped and displayed. In addition, when the fluctuation stop command is not received (step S4240: NO), the above-mentioned fluctuation production end process is skipped.

Subsequently, the performance control microcomputer 91 determines whether or not a winning related command has been received from the main control board 80 (step S4260). The winning-related commands include a jackpot opening command, a round designation command, an ending command, a small win opening command, a round designation command, an ending command, and the like. Here, if it has been received (step S4260: YES), a win-related performance pattern determination process corresponding to each command is performed (step S4270). For example, when receiving an opening command for a jackpot, select an opening production pattern preset corresponding to the jackpot type, and send an opening production start command to the sub RAM 94 to start the selected opening production. Set it in the production command set area 94b. When the opening performance start command set in the performance command set area 94b is transmitted to the image control board 100 in the command transmission process (step S4130), the image control board 100 reads out a predetermined opening performance image and displays it on the image display device. 7 on the display screen 7a. The same applies to other commands. On the other hand, if it has not been received (step S4260: NO), the process of step S4270 is skipped.
Subsequently, the production control microcomputer 91 executes other processes (step S4280), and ends the received command analysis process.

[Variable effect start processing]
FIG. 22 is a flowchart of the variable performance start process (step S4230 in FIG. 21). The performance control microcomputer 91 first analyzes the fluctuation start command (step S4401). Here, the performance control microcomputer 91 sets information regarding the special figure stop symbol data included in the fluctuation start command and information regarding the fluctuation pattern in the sub-RAM 94. The set information includes game status information indicating the current gaming status, symbol information indicating the symbol as a determination result of the winning determination process of special symbol 1 or special symbol 2, and the like. The gaming state information and symbol information acquired here can be appropriately referred to by the performance control microcomputer 91.

Subsequently, the performance control microcomputer 91 performs basic performance pattern determination processing (step S4402). The basic performance pattern determination process is a process for determining the basic structure of the variable performance using the performance pattern table. The basic structure of the variable production includes, for example, the display and switching of background images on the image display device 7, the display and movement of predetermined characters, the output of melodies and sound effects using the speaker 67, and the lighting control of lamps. Including. The variable performance is completed by superimposing additional performances such as a chance-up performance on this basic performance.

The performance control microcomputer 91 refers to the performance pattern table stored in the sub-ROM 93 and determines the basic performance pattern. After determining the basic performance pattern, the performance control microcomputer 91 performs a chance-up performance pattern determination process (step S4403). The chance-up effect pattern determination process is a process for determining an additional effect to be superimposed on the variable effect. The performance control microcomputer 91 acquires the value of the chance up random number counter, and determines the chance up performance pattern by referring to the acquired random number value and the chance up performance pattern determination table stored in the sub ROM 93. After determining the chance-up performance pattern, the performance control microcomputer 91 may further refer to the random number value and the stop symbol pattern determination table to determine the combination of the performance symbols 8L, 8C, and 8R to be stopped and displayed. .

The performance control microcomputer 91 sets a variable performance start command in the performance command set area 94b (output buffer) of the sub-RAM 94 so that a variable performance based on the variable performance pattern determined in steps S4401 to S4403 described above is realized. Step S4404). When the variable effect start command set in the effect command set area 94b of the sub-RAM 94 is transmitted to the image control board 100 in the command transmission process (step S4130), the image control board 100 reads the variable effect image and displays it on the image display device. 7 on the display screen 7a.

Subsequently, the production control microcomputer 91 sets a variable production timer (step S4405), and ends this process. A variation time corresponding to the variation pattern included in the variation start command is set in the variation production timer.

9. Example of presentation of this embodiment Below, an example of presentation of this embodiment is shown.

[Rush performance A]
FIG. 23 is a diagram for explaining the rush effect A. The rush performance A is a performance executed after the end of the probability-variable jackpot. In the probability variable jackpot, the so-called electric support control is "100+α" (Figure 7). This means that electric support control will be performed until the number of fluctuations reaches at least 100 times, and if you have not won the falling lottery by the 100th time, the electric support will be controlled until you hit the jackpot or win the falling lottery. This means that support control is performed.

First, as shown in FIG. 23(A), a rush start effect is executed. The rush start performance is a performance that notifies the player that a game with variable probability will start. Here, a message image MSG1 "rush rush" is displayed in the center of the display screen 7a. Furthermore, a right-handed driving promotion image MUG consisting of the words "right-handed hitting" and an arrow image is displayed at the upper right of the display screen 7a. Furthermore, a message image MSG2 saying "100 times left" is displayed at the lower left of the display screen 7a.

Next, as shown in FIG. 23(B), a variation start effect is executed. The fluctuation start performance is a performance in which the performance symbols start to fluctuate. Here, the effect symbols 8L, 8C, and 8R on the left center right are fluctuating at high speed. Here, a message image MSG2 saying "30 times remaining" is displayed at the lower left of the display screen 7a. From this, it can be seen that the fluctuation occurred at the 70th revolution after the state of definite variation occurred. Furthermore, four pending icons 9B and the corresponding fluctuation icon 9C are displayed at the bottom of the display screen 7a.

Next, as shown in FIG. 23(C), a confirmed stop effect is executed. The definite stop performance is a performance in which the performance symbols are determined to stop. Here, the left performance symbol 8L is determined and stopped at the "5" symbol, the middle performance symbol 8C is determined and stopped at the "6" symbol, and the right performance symbol 8R is determined and stopped at the "3" symbol. As a result, a losing mode is formed by the effect patterns 8L, 8C, and 8R on the left and right sides. It is assumed that the person wins the falling lottery due to this change. As a result, the probability variable state shifts to the non-probability variable state (time saving state, a time saving), and the jackpot probability becomes from about 1/75 to about 1/300. Further, by shifting to the time saving state (a time saving), the probability of suddenly winning the time saving state (c time saving) is about 1/100. Here, too, a message image MSG1 is displayed at the top of the display screen 7a that reads, ``Even though I fell, I still have a chance.'' Further, a message image MSG2 saying "30 times left" is displayed at the lower left of the display screen 7a. Furthermore, four pending icons 9B and the corresponding fluctuation icon 9C are displayed at the bottom of the display screen 7a. The game progresses from a variable start performance to a fixed stop performance as one fluctuation.

Next, as shown in FIG. 23(D), a variation start effect is executed. The fluctuation start performance is a performance in which the performance symbols start to fluctuate. Here, the effect symbols 8L, 8C, and 8R on the left center right are fluctuating at high speed. Here, a message image MSG2 saying "10 times left" is displayed at the lower left of the display screen 7a. From this, it can be seen that the fluctuation occurs at the 90th revolution after the state of definite variation occurs. Furthermore, a hold icon 9B and a change icon 9C are displayed at the bottom of the display screen 7a.

Next, as shown in FIG. 23(E), a reach formation effect is executed. The reach formation performance is a performance in which the performance symbols stop in a predetermined reach mode. Here, the left and right performance symbols 8L and 8R are stopped at the "5" symbol. The middle effect pattern 8C is changing at high speed. Here again, a message image MSG2 saying "10 times left" is displayed at the lower left of the display screen 7a. From this, it can be seen that the fluctuation occurs at the 90th revolution after the state of definite variation occurs. Furthermore, a hold icon 9B and a change icon 9C are displayed at the bottom of the display screen 7a.

Next, as shown in FIG. 23(F), a jackpot notification effect is executed. The jackpot notification performance is a performance in which the performance symbols stop in a predetermined jackpot mode to notify that the player has won a jackpot. Here, the production symbols 8L, 8C, and 8R on the left center right are all stopped at the "5" symbol. It should be noted that since the jackpot was achieved in a short time after winning the falling lottery, approximately 1/300 of the lottery winners were won. Here again, a message image MSG2 saying "10 times left" is displayed at the lower left of the display screen 7a. From this, it can be seen that the fluctuation occurs at the 90th revolution after the state of definite variation occurs. Furthermore, a hold icon 9B and a change icon 9C are displayed at the bottom of the display screen 7a.

[Rush performance B]
FIG. 24 is a diagram for explaining the rush effect B. The rush performance B is a performance executed after the end of the probability-variable jackpot. In the probability variable jackpot, the so-called electric support control is "100+α" (Figure 7). This means that electric support control will be performed until the number of fluctuations reaches at least 100 times, and if you have not won the falling lottery by the 100th time, the electric support will be controlled until you hit the jackpot or win the falling lottery. This means that support control is performed.

First, as shown in FIG. 24(A), a rush start effect is executed. The rush start performance is a performance that notifies the player that a game with variable probability will start. Here, a message image MSG1 "rush rush" is displayed in the center of the display screen 7a. In addition, a right-handed driving promotion image MUG consisting of the words "right-handed hitting" and an arrow image is displayed at the upper right of the display screen 7a. Furthermore, a message image MSG2 saying "100 times left" is displayed at the lower left of the display screen 7a.

Next, as shown in FIG. 24(B), a variation start effect is executed. The fluctuation start performance is a performance in which the performance symbols start to fluctuate. Here, the effect symbols 8L, 8C, and 8R on the left center right are fluctuating at high speed. Here, a message image MSG2 saying "30 times remaining" is displayed at the lower left of the display screen 7a. From this, it can be seen that the fluctuation occurred at the 70th revolution after the state of definite variation occurred. Furthermore, four pending icons 9B and the corresponding fluctuation icon 9C are displayed at the bottom of the display screen 7a.

Next, as shown in FIG. 24(C), a confirmed stop effect is executed. The definite stop performance is a performance in which the performance symbols are determined to stop. Here, the left performance symbol 8L is determined and stopped at the "5" symbol, the middle performance symbol 8C is determined and stopped at the "6" symbol, and the right performance symbol 8R is determined and stopped at the "3" symbol. As a result, a losing mode is formed by the effect patterns 8L, 8C, and 8R on the left and right sides. It is assumed that the person wins the falling lottery due to this change. As a result, the probability variable state shifts to the non-probability variable state (time saving state, a time saving), and the jackpot probability becomes about 1/75 to about 1/300. Furthermore, by shifting to the time saving state (a time saving), the probability of suddenly winning the time saving state (c time saving) is approximately 1/100. Here again, a message image MSG2 saying "30 times remaining" is displayed at the lower left of the display screen 7a. Furthermore, four pending icons 9B and the corresponding fluctuation icon 9C are displayed at the bottom of the display screen 7a. The game progresses from a variable start performance to a fixed stop performance as one fluctuation.

Next, as shown in FIG. 24(D), a variation start effect is executed. The fluctuation start performance is a performance in which the performance symbols start to fluctuate. Here, the effect symbols 8L, 8C, and 8R on the left center right are fluctuating at high speed. Here, a message image MSG2 saying "10 times left" is displayed at the lower left of the display screen 7a. From this, it can be seen that the fluctuation occurs at the 90th revolution after entering the variable probability state. Furthermore, two hold icons 9B and the fluctuation icon 9C are displayed at the bottom of the display screen 7a.

Next, as shown in FIG. 24(E), a reach formation effect is executed. The reach formation performance is a performance in which the performance symbols stop in a predetermined reach mode. Here, the left and right performance symbols 8L and 8R are stopped at the "5" symbol. The middle effect pattern 8C is changing at high speed. Here again, a message image MSG2 saying "10 times left" is displayed at the lower left of the display screen 7a. From this, it can be seen that the fluctuation occurs at the 90th revolution after the state of definite variation occurs. Furthermore, two hold icons 9B and the fluctuation icon 9C are displayed at the bottom of the display screen 7a.

Next, as shown in FIG. 24(F), a time saving notification effect is suddenly executed. The sudden time saving notification performance is a performance in which the performance symbols stop in a predetermined manner to notify you that you have won the sudden time saving (c time saving). Here, the left and right performance symbols 8L and 8R stop at the "5" symbol, and the middle performance symbol 8C stops at the special symbol of the smile image. In addition, since the time is suddenly short, about 1/100 of them win the lottery. Here again, a message image MSG2 saying "10 times left" is displayed at the lower left of the display screen 7a. From this, it can be seen that the fluctuation occurs at the 90th revolution after the state of definite variation occurs. Furthermore, two hold icons 9B and the fluctuation icon 9C are displayed at the bottom of the display screen 7a.

Next, as shown in FIG. 24(G), a chance start effect is executed. The chance start performance is a performance that notifies the user of suddenly entering a time shortening (c time shortening). Here, a message image MSG1 saying "Chance time has arrived" is displayed in the center of the display screen 7a. In addition, a right-handed driving promotion image MUG consisting of the words "right-handed hitting" and an arrow image is displayed at the upper right of the display screen 7a. Furthermore, a message image MSG2 saying "1000 times left" is displayed at the lower left of the display screen 7a.

Next, as shown in FIG. 24(H), a variation start effect is executed. The fluctuation start performance is a performance in which the performance symbols start to fluctuate. Here, the effect symbols 8L, 8C, and 8R on the left center right are fluctuating at high speed. Here, a message image MSG2 saying "999 times left" is displayed at the lower left of the display screen 7a. This shows that the fluctuation is the first rotation after entering the time saving state (c time saving). Furthermore, a hold icon 9B and a change icon 9C are displayed at the bottom of the display screen 7a.

The rush effects A and B have been explained above. If the number of wins in the fall lottery is less than 100 rotations, electric support control is performed until the 100th rotation. At this time, the jackpot probability is about 1/75 to about 1/300. However, in this embodiment, the probability of suddenly winning a time saver (c time saver) is about 1/100 in the case of fluctuations up to the 100th spin after winning the falling lottery. Therefore, with respect to fluctuations up to the 100th rotation after winning the falling lottery, the probability of winning the jackpot and the probability of suddenly winning the time saver (c time saver) are approximately 1/75. If you suddenly win the time saving (c time saving), the probability of winning the jackpot lottery of about 1/300 is extremely high since the number of time saving times is 1000 times. In other words, if the number of winnings in the falling lottery is less than 100 times, the actual jackpot probability can be set to about 1/75 until the 100th time.

Furthermore, in the present embodiment, if a sudden time reduction (c time reduction) is won and then a sudden time reduction (c time reduction) is won again, switching to a new sudden time reduction (c time reduction) is not performed.

10. Effect examples, modification examples, and mode examples of this embodiment [Effect examples]
Examples of the effects of this embodiment are shown below.
[Effect 1]
The gaming machine 1 of the above embodiment suddenly shortens the working hours (c. ), the time saving state is extended (FIG. 24(G)). Specifically, instead of time saving a, a sudden time saving with a continuation count of 1000 times (c working time saving) is set. According to this configuration, even if the player wins the falling lottery before reaching the 100th spin, he can expect to suddenly win the time saver (c time saver) until the 100th spin, and the interest of the game can be improved. In addition, the game control microcomputer 81 corresponds to the "falling lottery means", and the sudden time saving (c time saving) corresponds to "the result of the special symbol lottery is a specific losing symbol".

[Effect 2]
In the gaming machine 1 of the above embodiment, the probability of winning a special symbol lottery in the time saving state (low probability state) (approximately 1/300) and the probability of sudden time saving (c time saving) (approximately 1/100) are summed up. , is the same as the winning probability (approximately 1/75) of the special symbol lottery in the variable probability state (high probability state) (FIG. 6). According to this configuration, even in the time saving state, when including the probability of suddenly winning the time saving (c time saving), the winning probability is the same as in the probability variable state, so it is possible to improve the interest of the game. Note that "similar" is used to mean that they do not have to be exactly the same.

[Effect 3]
In the gaming machine 1 of the above embodiment, the number of consecutive times of sudden time saving (c time saving) is 1000 (FIGS. 15 and 24 (G)), and the probability denominator (300) is low probability (approximately 1/300). It is more than three times as large as the previous year. According to this configuration, winning a sudden time saver (c time saver) is substantially the same as winning a jackpot, and it is possible to improve the interest of the game.

[Effect 4]
In the gaming machine 1 of the above embodiment, the time-saving state after winning the falling lottery and falling before the number of fluctuations reaches 100 continues until the number of fluctuations reaches 100. According to this configuration, it is possible to have expectations until the number of fluctuations reaches 100, and it is possible to improve the interest of the game.

[Effect 5]
In the gaming machine 1 of the above embodiment, when a player wins a fall lottery and falls, it is suggested that the player has won a fall lottery (FIGS. 23(C) and 24(C)). According to this configuration, the game status can be easily understood and the interest in the game can be improved.

[Effect 6]
In the gaming machine 1 of the above embodiment, the time-saving state after winning the falling lottery and falling suggests that it is an advantageous state for the player (FIGS. 23(C) and 24(C)). According to this configuration, it is possible to improve the interest of the game because it is known that the player is in an advantageous state even after falling.

[Effect 7]
In the gaming machine 1 of the above embodiment, if you suddenly win the time saver (c time saver) in the time saver a which is the time saver state after winning the falling lottery and transitioning to the non-probability variable state, the number of continuations is greater than the time saver a. The time saving state is extended by suddenly switching to time saving (c time saving). According to this configuration, the range of games can be expanded with a relatively simple configuration, and the interest in the game can be improved. Note that the time saving state (a time saving) corresponds to the "first high base state", and the sudden time saving state (c time saving) corresponds to the "second high base state".

[Effect 8]
In the game machine 1 of the embodiment described above, if the sudden time reduction (c time reduction) is won in the sudden time reduction state (c time reduction), the switching from the sudden time reduction state (c time reduction) to a new sudden time reduction state (c time reduction) is performed. Not performed. According to this configuration, the situation where the time saver (c time saver) is repeatedly won suddenly can be eliminated, and the interest of the game can be improved.

[Modified example]
A modification of this embodiment is shown.
[Modification 1]
In the embodiment described above, even when winning the falling lottery, the variable pattern is selected in the same way as in normal times (FIG. 9). On the other hand, if the player wins the falling lottery, a specific variation pattern may be selected.

[Modification 2]
In the embodiment described above, a display is displayed that suggests that the user has fallen and that there is a chance even after falling (FIG. 23(C), FIG. 24(C)). On the other hand, only one of the fall suggestion and the chance suggestion may be displayed, or both may be displayed. By not displaying the information, the player's imagination can be stimulated and the interest of the game can be improved.

[Modification 3]
In the above embodiment, the number of remaining variations is displayed at the lower left of the display screen 7a, but the number of games that directly indicates the number of variations may be displayed. Further, the remaining number of fluctuations and the number of games may not be displayed, or may be displayed inconspicuously.

[Modification 4]
The above embodiment has a configuration in which when the sudden time reduction (c time reduction) is won again during the sudden time reduction (c time reduction), switching to a new sudden time reduction (c time reduction) is not performed. On the other hand, if the sudden time reduction (c time reduction) is won again during the sudden time reduction (c time reduction), it may be configured to switch to a new sudden time reduction (c time reduction).

[Example of mode]
The gaming machine of this embodiment can realize the following aspects.
[Aspect 1]
A gaming machine,
A falling lottery for transitioning from the high probability state to the low probability state in a high probability state where the probability of winning a special symbol lottery is higher than in a low probability state in a high base state where the number of game balls is not significantly reduced. Equipped with a falling lottery means to perform
In the high base state after winning the falling lottery by the falling lottery means and shifting to the low probability state, if the result of the lottery of the special symbol is a specific losing symbol, the high base state is extended. ,
A gaming machine characterized by:

[Aspect 2]
The gaming machine according to aspect 1,
If you add up the winning probability of the special symbol lottery in the low probability state and the probability that the result of the special symbol lottery will be a specific losing symbol, the probability of winning the special symbol lottery in the high probability state is the same as the probability of winning the special symbol lottery in the high probability state. Become,
A gaming machine characterized by:

[Aspect 3]
The gaming machine according to aspect 1 or aspect 2,
If the result of the special symbol lottery is a specific losing symbol, the number of times the high base state continues is set to be three times or more the probability denominator of the winning probability of the special symbol lottery in the low probability state;
A gaming machine characterized by:

[Aspect 4]
The gaming machine according to any one of aspects 1 to 3,
The high base state after winning the falling lottery by the falling lottery means and shifting to the low probability state until the number of fluctuations after winning the special symbol lottery reaches a predetermined number of times is the number of fluctuations. continues until reaching the predetermined number of times,
A gaming machine characterized by:

[Aspect 5]
The gaming machine according to any one of aspects 1 to 4,
When the falling lottery by the falling lottery means is won and the state shifts to the low probability state, it indicates that the falling lottery has been won.
A gaming machine characterized by:

[Aspect 6]
The gaming machine according to any one of aspects 1 to 5,
The high base state after winning the fall lottery by the fall lottery means and shifting to the low probability state suggests that the high base state is an advantageous state for the player;
A gaming machine characterized by:

[Aspect 7]
The gaming machine according to any one of aspects 1 to 6,
In the first high base state which is the high base state after winning the falling lottery by the falling lottery means and shifting to the low probability state, when the result of the lottery of the special symbol is a specific losing symbol, Extending the high base state by switching to a second high base state, which is the high base state that continues more often than the first high base state;
A gaming machine characterized by:

[Aspect 8]
The gaming machine according to aspect 7,
In the second high base state, if the result of the lottery of the special symbol is a specific losing symbol, the second high base state is not switched to the new second high base state;
A gaming machine characterized by:

[Other variations]
Among the various display effects described above, a configuration that does not include some effects or effects other than those described above may be included.

Although the gaming machine 1 of the above embodiment has been described using a pachinko gaming machine as an example, it is not limited to this. For example, instead of a pachinko game machine, the present invention may be applied to a reel type game machine such as a slot machine, an arranged ball game machine, or a mahjong ball game machine. When the gaming machine 1 is a slot machine, the gaming medium may be changed from gaming balls to gaming medals.

Although the gaming machine 1 of the embodiment described above is a gaming machine equipped with a payout device for paying out balls, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, instead of the gaming machine 1 described above, the present invention may be applied to a gaming machine that is not equipped with a payout device, such as a so-called enclosed gaming machine.

Furthermore, two or more production examples and/or modifications among the plurality of production examples and/or modifications described above may be combined. Furthermore, the gaming machine 1 may include a sub-display device in addition to the image display device 7. In this case, the above-described display effect may be executed on the sub display device.

Although the present aspect has been described above based on the embodiments and modified examples, the embodiments of the above-described aspect are for facilitating understanding of the present aspect, and do not limit the present aspect. This aspect may be modified and improved without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims, and this aspect includes equivalents thereof.

1...Game machine 3...Game area 7...Image display device 7a...Display screen 81...Microcomputer for game control 91...Microcomputer for performance control

Claims (8)

A gaming machine,
A falling lottery for transitioning from the high probability state to the low probability state in a high probability state where the probability of winning a special symbol lottery is higher than in a low probability state in a high base state where the number of game balls is not significantly reduced. Equipped with a falling lottery means to perform
In the high base state after winning the falling lottery by the falling lottery means and shifting to the low probability state, if the result of the lottery of the special symbol is a specific losing symbol, the high base state is extended. ,
A gaming machine characterized by: The gaming machine according to claim 1,
If you add up the winning probability of the special symbol lottery in the low probability state and the probability that the result of the special symbol lottery will be a specific losing symbol, the probability of winning the special symbol lottery in the high probability state is the same as the probability of winning the special symbol lottery in the high probability state. Become,
A gaming machine characterized by: The gaming machine according to claim 1 or claim 2,
If the result of the special symbol lottery is a specific losing symbol, the number of times the high base state continues is set to be three times or more the probability denominator of the winning probability of the special symbol lottery in the low probability state;
A gaming machine characterized by: The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
The high base state after winning the falling lottery by the falling lottery means and shifting to the low probability state until the number of fluctuations after winning the special symbol lottery reaches a predetermined number of times is the number of fluctuations. continues until reaching the predetermined number of times,
A gaming machine characterized by: The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
When the falling lottery by the falling lottery means is won and the state shifts to the low probability state, it indicates that the falling lottery has been won.
A gaming machine characterized by: The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
The high base state after winning the falling lottery by the falling lottery means and shifting to the low probability state suggests that the high base state is an advantageous state for the player.
A gaming machine characterized by: The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 6,
In the first high base state which is the high base state after winning the falling lottery by the falling lottery means and shifting to the low probability state, when the result of the lottery of the special symbol is a specific losing symbol, Extending the high base state by switching to a second high base state, which is the high base state that continues more often than the first high base state;
A gaming machine characterized by: The gaming machine according to claim 7,
In the second high base state, if the result of the lottery of the special symbol is a specific losing symbol, the second high base state is not switched to the new second high base state;
A gaming machine characterized by:

Images