JP2024058312A - Gaming Machines - Google Patents

Abstract

[Problem] To improve interest. [Solution] When the game ball passes through a specific area during a small win game, it is more advantageous for the player than when the game ball does not pass through the specific area during the small win game. The small win game includes a fourth small win game or a fifth small win game that is awarded when the result of a predetermined lottery is a first special result, and a sixth small win game that is awarded when the result of a predetermined lottery is a second special result. There are a plurality of game states including a normal state, a second time-saving state that is more advantageous for the player than the normal state, and a fourth time-saving state that is more advantageous for the player than the second time-saving state. When the fourth small win game or the fifth small win game is awarded while controlled to the second time-saving state, the game can be controlled to the fourth time-saving state, while when the sixth small win game is awarded while controlled to the second time-saving state, the game is not controlled to the fourth time-saving state. [Selected Figure] FIG. 9

Description

The present invention relates to an amusement machine.

Conventionally, a pachinko gaming machine, which is an example of a gaming machine, is configured so that it can be controlled to a number of different gaming states (for example, see Patent Document 1). Some of these gaming machines are configured so that they can be controlled to a gaming state that is more advantageous than the normal state.

JP 2019-115547 A

In recent years, there has been a desire to increase interest by making further improvements to the control of the game state.

The gaming machine that solves the above problem is a gaming machine in which a special winning game is awarded when a predetermined lottery result is a special result, and is equipped with a specific winning port into which a gaming ball can enter when the special winning game is awarded, specific detection means capable of detecting that a gaming ball that has entered the specific winning port has passed through a specific area, and a gaming state control means for controlling the gaming state, and when a gaming ball passes through the specific area during the special winning game, it is more advantageous for the player than when the gaming ball does not pass through the specific area during the special winning game, and the special results include a first special result and a second special result, and the special winning game is awarded when the result of the predetermined lottery is the first special result. There is a first special winning game, and a second special winning game that is awarded when the result of the predetermined lottery is the second special result, and the game state includes a normal state, a first special state, and a second special state, and the first special state is a state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal state, and the second special state is a state that is more advantageous to the player than the first special state, and when the first special winning game is awarded while controlled to the first special state, the game can be controlled to the second special state, but when the second special winning game is awarded while controlled to the first special state, the game is not controlled to the second special state.

The present invention can increase interest.

FIG. 1 is a front view showing a schematic diagram of a pachinko gaming machine. FIG. 2 is a front view showing a schematic diagram of a game board. FIG. 1A is an explanatory diagram for explaining the types of first special symbols, and FIG. 1B is an explanatory diagram for explaining the types of second special symbols. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram for explaining types of game states. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the pachinko game machine; 11 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the transition of game states and presentation modes. FIG. 13A to 13F are schematic diagrams showing examples of the display contents of the performance display device in each performance mode. 11 is a timing chart showing an example of a transition of a game state and a presentation mode. 11 is a timing chart showing an example of a transition of a game state and a presentation mode. 11 is a timing chart showing an example of a transition of a game state and a presentation mode. 11 is a timing chart showing an example of a transition of a game state and a presentation mode. 11 is a timing chart showing an example of a transition of a game state and a presentation mode. 11 is a timing chart showing an example of a transition of a game state. 11 is a timing chart showing an example of a transition of a game state. 11 is a timing chart showing an example of a transition of a game state.

An embodiment of a pachinko gaming machine will be described below. In the following description, up, down, left, right, front (front), and back (rear) indicate the respective directions as seen by a player.
As shown in FIG. 1, a pachinko game machine 10 (hereinafter, referred to as the game machine 10), which is an example of a game machine, includes a frame 11. The frame 11 includes an installation frame for fixing the game machine 10 to an island facility of an amusement parlor or the like, and a mounting frame for mounting various game components. The game machine 10 includes a game board YB. The game board YB is mounted on the mounting frame. The game machine 10 includes a launch handle HD. In the game machine 10, the launch strength is adjusted by operating the launch handle HD, and the game ball is launched with the adjusted launch strength. The game machine 10 includes a decorative lamp LA. The decorative lamp LA executes a performance (hereinafter, referred to as a light-emitting performance) in which a built-in light-emitting body is turned on, blinked, and turned off. The game machine 10 includes a speaker SP. The speaker SP executes a performance (hereinafter, referred to as a sound performance) in which sound effects, music, and the like are output.

As shown in FIG. 2, a game area YBa is formed on the front side of the game board YB, where game balls, which are an example of a game medium, flow down. An opening window YBb is formed on the game board YB at approximately the center when viewed from the front. A center frame W with various designs is attached to the opening window YBb. The gaming machine 10 is equipped with a performance display device 12. The performance display device 12 has an image display unit GH that can display images. The performance display device 12 is attached to the game board YB so that the image display area of the image display unit GH is visible through the opening window YBb (center frame W) of the game board YB when viewed from the front. The performance display device 12 executes a performance (hereinafter referred to as a display performance) that displays an image that imitates a predetermined character or letter. In this embodiment, the performance display device 12, the decorative lamp LA, and the speaker SP are each a performance device that executes a performance, and these are examples of a performance execution means. The performance execution means does not necessarily include all of the performance display device 12, the decorative lamp LA, and the speaker SP, but may be composed of one or more performance devices that can be arbitrarily selected from among these performance devices.

The game board YB is equipped with an information display device 13 that displays various information. The information display device 13 includes a first special symbol display section 13a, a second special symbol display section 13b, a first special hold display section 13c, a second special hold display section 13d, a normal symbol display section 13e, and a normal hold display section 13f. The multiple display sections 13a to 13f are arranged in a portion that is visible to the player. The first special symbol display section 13a and the second special symbol display section 13b are display sections that can display a special symbol change game (hereinafter referred to as a special game). The special game is an example of a change game. The special symbol change game includes a first special symbol change game (hereinafter referred to as a first special game) and a second special symbol change game (hereinafter referred to as a second special game). In the first special game, a predetermined symbol is displayed in a changeable manner, and finally, the first special symbol, which is an example of a special symbol, is displayed as a fixed stop. In the second special game, the predetermined pattern is displayed in a variable manner, and finally, the second special pattern, which is an example of a special pattern, is displayed as a fixed, stopped pattern. The special pattern is a pattern for notifying the results of the small win lottery and the small win pattern lottery, which will be described later, as the result of the special game. The small win lottery is an example of a predetermined lottery. The small win pattern lottery is an example of a predetermined lottery.

The first special symbol display unit 13a displays the first special game. The second special symbol display unit 13b displays the second special game. In this specification, "variable display" means a state in which the type of the displayed symbol changes over time. In this specification, "fixed stop display" means a state in which the symbol is fixedly displayed and the type of the displayed symbol does not change. With respect to symbols, "fixed stop display" and "derivation" have the same meaning. The second special game is executed with priority over the first special game. The first special game and the second special game are not executed simultaneously in parallel. As a result of the special game, the special symbols include a small win symbol, which is an example of a small win display result, and a loss symbol, which is an example of a loss display result. In the gaming machine 10, when a small win is won in the small win lottery, a small win symbol is derived in the special game, and a small win game is awarded (occurs) after the end of the small win special game. In the gaming machine 10, if a small win is not won in the small win lottery, a losing symbol is drawn in the special game.

The first special hold display unit 13c displays information that can identify the number of first special games whose execution is on hold because the hold conditions have been met but the execution conditions have not yet been met (hereinafter referred to as the first special hold number). The second special hold display unit 13d displays information that can identify the number of second special games whose execution is on hold because the hold conditions have been met but the execution conditions have not yet been met (hereinafter referred to as the second special hold number). As an example, the upper limit for the first special hold number and the second special hold number is 4 each.

The normal symbol display section 13e displays the normal game. In the normal game, a predetermined symbol is displayed in a variable manner, and finally, a normal symbol is derived. The normal symbol is a symbol for notifying the result of the normal lottery, which will be described later, as the result of the normal game. The normal symbols include a normal winning symbol and a normal losing symbol. In the gaming machine 10, when a normal winning symbol is won in the normal lottery, a normal winning symbol is derived in the normal game, and after the normal winning normal game ends, a normal winning game is awarded (occurs). The normal hold display section 13f displays information that can identify the number of normal games that have been held for execution because the hold condition has been met but the execution condition has not yet been met (hereinafter, referred to as the normal hold number). As an example, the upper limit of the normal hold number is 4.

The game board YB is formed with a number of winning holes through which game balls can enter. These winning holes open into the game area YBa. The winning holes include a first starting hole 14, a second starting hole 15, a first large winning hole 18, and a second large winning hole 20. The winning holes may include a winning hole different from these winning holes.

The first start hole 14 is a winning hole through which a game ball is inserted to satisfy the conditions for awarding prize balls and the reservation conditions for the first special game. As an example, the first start hole 14 is located below the performance display device 12. The first start hole 14 is always open so that game balls can be inserted. The game board YB is equipped with a first start winning sensor SE1 that detects game balls that have entered the first start hole 14 (see Figure 5).

The second starting port 15 is a winning port through which a game ball is inserted to establish the conditions for awarding a prize ball and the reservation conditions for the second special game. As an example, the second starting port 15 is located to the right of the performance display device 12. The second starting port 15 is an example of a specific starting port through which a game ball can be inserted. The game board YB is equipped with a normal movable piece 16. The normal movable piece 16 can be operated in a first state and a second state. The first state of the normal movable piece 16 is a state in which a game ball cannot be inserted into the second starting port 15 or it is difficult to insert the game ball. The second state of the normal movable piece 16 is a state in which a game ball can be inserted into the second starting port 15 or it is easy to insert the game ball. As an example, when the normal movable piece 16 is in the first state, the normal movable piece 16 is in an open state, so that the game ball that reaches the normal movable piece 16 does not flow down toward the second starting port 15 but flows down a passage below the normal movable piece 16. As an example, when the normal movable piece 16 is in the second state, the normal movable piece 16 is in the closed state, which closes the passage below the normal movable piece 16, and the game ball that reaches the normal movable piece 16 flows down toward the second start port 15. The normal movable piece 16 is in the first state when a normal winning game is not awarded. The normal movable piece 16 operates in the second state when a normal winning game is awarded. The game board YB is equipped with a first solenoid SL1 as a means for operating the normal movable piece 16 (see FIG. 5). The game board YB is equipped with a second start winning sensor SE2 that detects a game ball that has entered the second start port 15 (see FIG. 5).

The first large prize opening 18 is an opening through which the game ball enters in order to satisfy the conditions for awarding the prize ball. As an example, the first large prize opening 18 is located below the second starting opening 15. The game board YB is provided with a first special movable piece 19. The first special movable piece 19 is operable in a first state and a second state. The first state of the first special movable piece 19 is a state in which the game ball cannot enter the first large prize opening 18 or is difficult to enter. The second state of the first special movable piece 19 is a state in which the game ball can enter the first large prize opening 18 or is easy to enter. As an example, when the first special movable piece 19 is in the first state, the first special movable piece 19 is in a closed state, so that the game ball that reaches the first special movable piece 19 does not enter the first large prize opening 18. As an example, when the first special movable piece 19 is in the second state, the first special movable piece 19 is in the open state, and the game ball that reaches the first special movable piece 19 enters the first large winning hole 18. The first special movable piece 19 is in the first state when a small winning game is not awarded. The first special movable piece 19 operates to the second state when a small winning game is awarded. The game board YB is equipped with a second solenoid SL2 as a means for operating the first special movable piece 19 (see FIG. 5). Below the first large winning hole 18, a passage 26 is formed through which the game ball that entered the first large winning hole 18 can pass. The passage 26 is formed to branch into a first passage 26a and a second passage 26b at a branching portion 27.

The branching section 27 is provided with a distribution member 28 that distributes game balls that have entered the first large winning opening 18 to either the first passage 26a or the second passage 26b. The distribution member 28 can be operated in a first state and a second state. The first state of the distribution member 28 is a state in which the game balls that have entered the first large winning opening 18 are distributed to the first passage 26a. The second state of the distribution member 28 is a state in which the game balls that have entered the first large winning opening 18 are distributed to the second passage 26b. The distribution member 28 operates in a predetermined operating pattern when a small win is awarded. The game board YB is equipped with a fourth solenoid SL4 as a means for operating the distribution member 28 (see FIG. 5).

The game board YB is equipped with a first count sensor SE3 that detects game balls that enter the first large winning opening 18 (see FIG. 5). The first count sensor SE3 detects game balls that pass through the passage 26. The game board YB is equipped with a specific passage sensor SE5 that detects game balls that are distributed to the first passage 26a (see FIG. 5). The specific passage sensor SE5 detects game balls that pass through a specific area 29 that is part of the first passage 26a. The specific passage sensor SE5 is an example of a specific detection means that can detect that a game ball that enters the first large winning opening 18 has passed through the specific area 29. The specific area 29 is an area through which the game ball passes in order to establish the conditions for granting a bonus. As an example, the bonus is a big win game. The specific area 29 is a so-called "V area". The game ball passing through the specific area 29 is a so-called "V prize". This will be described in more detail later, but in the gaming machine 10, when a game ball enters the first large prize opening 18 during a small prize game, passes through the specific area 29, and the specific passing sensor SE5 detects the game ball passing through the specific area 29, a big prize is awarded (occurs), and the big prize game is awarded (occurs).

The second large prize opening 20 is an opening through which the game ball enters in order to satisfy the conditions for awarding the prize ball. As an example, the second large prize opening 20 is located below the first large prize opening 18. The game board YB is provided with a second special movable piece 21. The second special movable piece 21 is operable in a first state and a second state. The first state of the second special movable piece 21 is a state in which the game ball cannot enter the second large prize opening 20 or is difficult to enter. The second state of the second special movable piece 21 is a state in which the game ball can enter the second large prize opening 20 or is easy to enter. As an example, when the second special movable piece 21 is in the first state, the second special movable piece 21 is in a closed state, so that the game ball that reaches the second special movable piece 21 does not enter the second large prize opening 20. As an example, when the second special movable piece 21 is in the second state, the second special movable piece 21 is in the open state, and the game ball that reaches the second special movable piece 21 enters the second large winning opening 20. The second special movable piece 21 is in the first state when a big win game is not awarded. The second special movable piece 21 operates to the second state when a big win game is awarded. The game board YB is equipped with a third solenoid SL3 as a means for operating the second special movable piece 21 (see FIG. 5). The game board YB is equipped with a second count sensor SE4 that detects the game ball that enters the second large winning opening 20 (see FIG. 5).

The game board YB has a gate 23. As an example, the gate 23 is located above the second start opening 15. The gate 23 has a gate opening 23a. The gate opening 23a is configured to always allow game balls to pass (enter). The gate 23 is an entrance for game balls to enter in order to establish the reserve condition of the normal game. Even if a game ball enters the gate 23, the condition for awarding a prize ball is not established. The game board YB has a gate sensor SE6 that detects game balls that have entered the gate opening 23a (see FIG. 5). The game board YB has an outlet 30. Of the game balls that have been launched into the game area YBa, those that have not entered any of the first start opening 14, the second start opening 15, the first large winning opening 18, and the second large winning opening 20 are discharged from the outlet 30 to the outside of the machine.

Next, the path along which the game ball flows will be described.
The gaming machine 10 can adjust the launch strength of the game ball according to the operation amount (rotation amount) of the launch handle HD. In the gaming machine 10, the game ball can be hit so as to flow down either the left region R1a of the center frame W or the right region R2a of the center frame W. A first starting hole 14 is arranged in the first flow path R1 of the game ball in the left region R1a. In the gaming machine 10, the game ball can be launched to flow down the left region R1a of the game area YBa, so that the game ball enters the first starting hole 14. In the following description, the launch of the game ball with a launch strength that launches the game ball so as to flow down the left region R1a is referred to as "left shot". A gate 23, a second starting hole 15, a first large winning hole 18, and a second large winning hole 20 are arranged in the second flow path R2 of the game ball in the right region R2a. In the gaming machine 10, by shooting the gaming ball so that it flows down the right-side region R2a of the gaming area YBa, it is possible for the ball to enter the gate 23, the second starting hole 15, the first large prize hole 18, and the second large prize hole 20. In the following explanation, shooting the gaming ball with a shooting strength that causes the gaming ball to flow down the right-side region R2a is referred to as a "right hit."

Next, the gaming state of the gaming machine 10 will be described.
The gaming machine 10 is equipped with a ball entry assist function that assists ball entry into the second starting hole 15. The ball entry assist function is a function that assists ball entry into the second starting hole 15, and is a so-called "electric support function." The gaming machine 10 has a plurality of ball entry states that are states in which the ball entry rate of the game ball into the second starting hole 15 is different. The plurality of ball entry states include a non-ball entry rate improvement state and a ball entry rate improvement state in which the ball entry rate of the game ball into the second starting hole 15 per unit time is higher than that in the non-ball entry rate improvement state. The ball entry rate improvement state is a so-called "electric support state" or "high base state." The non-ball entry rate improvement state is a so-called "non-electric support state" or "low base state."

In the improved ball entry rate state and the non-improved ball entry rate state, the ball entry rate per unit time into the first starting hole 14 is the same. In the improved ball entry rate state, the ball entry rate per unit time into the second starting hole 15 is improved, and the ball is easier to enter the second starting hole 15 than the first starting hole 14. For this reason, in the improved ball entry rate state, it is recommended to hit the ball to the right so that the ball is easier to enter the second starting hole 15. On the other hand, in the non-improved ball entry rate state, the ball entry rate per unit time into the second starting hole 15 is lower than in the improved ball entry rate state, and it is more difficult for the ball to enter the second starting hole 15 than the first starting hole 14, so it is recommended to hit the ball to the left. In the gaming machine 10, when the ball entry assistance function is activated, the ball entry state is controlled from the non-improved ball entry rate state to the improved ball entry rate state. In the improved ball entry rate state, the rate at which game balls enter the second starting hole 15 per unit time increases, making it easier to establish the reservation conditions for the second special game. In this way, the improved ball entry rate state is more advantageous for game balls to enter the second starting hole 15 than the non-improved ball entry rate state. Therefore, the improved ball entry rate state can be said to be a more advantageous state for the player than the non-improved ball entry rate state.

The ball entry rate improvement state can be realized by executing one of the three controls described below, which can be selected arbitrarily, or by executing a combination of multiple controls. The first control is a control that shortens the fluctuation time of the normal game compared to the non-ball entry rate improvement state. The second control is a control that changes the normal hit probability in the normal lottery to a higher probability than in the non-ball entry rate improvement state. The third control is a control that makes the total time that the normal movable piece 16 is in the second state in one normal hit game longer than in the non-ball entry rate improvement state. Note that, as the third control, at least one of the following controls may be performed: a control that increases the number of times that the normal movable piece 16 is in the second state in one normal hit game compared to the non-ball entry rate improvement state, and a control that makes the time from when the normal movable piece 16 is in the second state to when it is in the first state in a normal hit game longer than in the non-ball entry rate improvement state.

The improved goal scoring rate state may also be achieved by combining it with the fourth control described below. The fourth control is a control that shortens the fluctuation time (average fluctuation time) of special games compared to the non-improved goal scoring rate state. As a result, the average fluctuation time of special games in the improved goal scoring rate state is shorter than in the non-improved goal scoring rate state. The average fluctuation time of special games can be calculated by dividing the cumulative time of fluctuation times in a unit number of special games by the unit number of times, assuming that a unit number of special games have been played. In the improved goal scoring rate state, the number of special games that can actually be played per unit time increases compared to the non-improved goal scoring rate state. In other words, the efficiency of consuming reserved special games improves.

There are a normal state, a first time-saving state, a second time-saving state, a third time-saving state, and a fourth time-saving state. The normal state is a game state in which the ball entry assistance function is not activated. In other words, in the normal state, the game is controlled to a non-ball entry rate improvement state. The first time-saving state, the second time-saving state, the third time-saving state, and the fourth time-saving state are game states in which the ball entry assistance function is activated. In other words, in the first time-saving state, the second time-saving state, the third time-saving state, and the fourth time-saving state, the game is controlled to a ball entry rate improvement state. In the first time-saving state, the second time-saving state, the third time-saving state, and the fourth time-saving state, the ball entry rate per unit time into the second starting hole 15 is higher than in the normal state. In other words, in the first time-saving state, the second time-saving state, the third time-saving state, and the fourth time-saving state, the game ball is more likely to enter the second starting hole 15 than in the normal state. For this reason, the first time-saving state, the second time-saving state, the third time-saving state, and the fourth time-saving state are states that are more advantageous to the player than the normal state. The first time-saving state is an example of a predetermined state. The second time-saving state is an example of a first special state. The second time-saving state is an example of a predetermined state. The third time-saving state is an example of a first specific state. The fourth time-saving state is an example of a second specific state. The fourth time-saving state is an example of a second special state. The fourth time-saving state is an example of a special state.

Next, we will explain small hits.
As shown in Fig. 3(a) and Fig. 3(b), the gaming machine 10 has a plurality of types of small win symbols as small win symbols of special symbols. That is, the gaming machine 10 has a plurality of types of small win symbols that can be derived in a special game as a result of the special game. The gaming machine 10 has a small win symbol ZA, a small win symbol ZB, and a small win symbol ZC as small win symbols of the first special symbol. The gaming machine 10 has a small win symbol Za, a small win symbol Zb, and a small win symbol Zc as small win symbols of the second special symbol. The small win symbol Za is an example of a special win result. The small win symbol Za is an example of a first special win result. The small win symbol Zb is an example of a special win result. The small win symbol Zb is an example of a first special win result. The small win symbol Zc is an example of a special win result. The small win symbol Zc is an example of a second special win result.

In the gaming machine 10, when a small win is won in the small win lottery (hereinafter referred to as the first small win lottery) executed based on the game ball entering the first starting hole 14, a small win pattern random number is used to determine one of the small win patterns ZA to ZC. In the gaming machine 10, when a small win is won in the small win lottery (hereinafter referred to as the second small win lottery) executed based on the game ball entering the second starting hole 15, a small win pattern random number is used to determine one of the small win patterns Za to Zc. In the following description, a small win game based on the small win pattern ZA is referred to as the "first small win game," a small win game based on the small win pattern ZB is referred to as the "second small win game," and a small win game based on the small win pattern ZC is referred to as the "third small win game." In the following description, the small win game based on the small win symbol Za is referred to as the "fourth small win game," the small win game based on the small win symbol Zb is referred to as the "fifth small win game," and the small win game based on the small win symbol Zc is referred to as the "sixth small win game." As an example, in the gaming machine 10, when a small win is won in the small win lottery and the small win symbol Za is determined by the small win symbol lottery, the fourth small win game is awarded (occurs) after the small win symbol Za is derived in the special game.

The gaming machine 10 is configured so that the probability of winning a small win in the first small win lottery is the same regardless of the gaming state. As an example, the probability of winning a small win in the first small win lottery is about 1/319 regardless of the gaming state. The gaming machine 10 is configured so that the probability of winning a small win in the second small win lottery is the same regardless of the gaming state. As an example, the probability of winning a small win in the second small win lottery is about 1/50 regardless of the gaming state. And, the winning probability of the small win patterns ZA to ZC, Za to Zc by the small win pattern lottery is set to a predetermined probability. The winning probability of the small win patterns ZA to ZC, Za to Zc by the small win pattern lottery is determined by the number of possible values (for example, 0 to 99) of the small win pattern random number that are allocated as the value that wins each small win pattern. The number of pieces allocated as winning values for each small win pattern is an example of a small win pattern determination value.

Figure 3(a) illustrates the allocation of winning values to small win symbols ZA to ZC when a small win is won in the first small win lottery. Specifically, the possible values of the small win symbol random number are 0 to 99 (total of 100), with 25 values being allocated to small win symbol ZA, 35 values being allocated to small win symbol ZB, and 40 values being allocated to small win symbol ZC. Figure 3(b) illustrates the allocation of winning values to small win symbols Za to Zc when a small win is won in the second small win lottery. Specifically, the possible values of the small win symbol random number are 0 to 99 (total of 100), with 30 values being allocated to small win symbol Za, 50 values being allocated to small win symbol Zb, and 20 values being allocated to small win symbol Zc.

We will explain about small win games.
In the small win game, first, an opening performance that can specify the start of the small win game is performed for a predetermined opening time. In the small win game, after the opening time has elapsed, a small win round game is performed in which the first special movable piece 19 operates in an operation pattern that allows a game ball to enter the first large winning hole 18. As an example, in the small win round game, the first special movable piece 19 alternates between a first state in which a game ball cannot be entered into the first large winning hole 18 or is difficult to enter, and a second state in which a game ball can be entered into the first large winning hole 18 or is easy to enter. As a result, in the gaming machine 10, when a small win game is awarded, a game ball can enter the first large winning hole 18. The first large winning hole 18 is an example of a specific winning hole into which a game ball can enter when a small win game is awarded. The small win round game ends when a predetermined upper limit number (for example, 10 balls) of game balls enter the first large winning hole 18 or when a predetermined upper limit time (for example, 10 seconds) has elapsed. The small win game ends with the end of the small win round game.

In addition, in a small win round game, the distribution member 28 operates in an operation pattern that allows the game ball that entered the first large winning opening 18 to be distributed to the first passage 26a. As an example, in a small win round game, the distribution member 28 operates in a first state in which the game ball that entered the first large winning opening 18 is distributed to the first passage 26a, and then when the specific passage sensor SE5 detects a game ball passing through the specific area 29, the distribution member 28 operates in a second state in which the game ball that entered the first large winning opening 18 is distributed to the second passage 26b. In the gaming machine 10, in a small win game (small win round game), if the game ball distributed to the first passage 26a passes through the specific area 29 and the specific passage sensor SE5 detects the game ball passing through the specific area 29, a big win game is awarded (occurs) after the small win game ends. In the gaming machine 10, if the specific passage sensor SE5 does not detect a game ball during a small win game (small win round game), a big win game is not awarded (occurs) after the small win game ends. In this way, in the gaming machine 10, a big win game is awarded if the game ball passes through the specific area 29 during a small win game, but a big win game is not awarded if the game ball does not pass through the specific area 29 during a small win game. For this reason, if the game ball passes through the specific area 29 during a small win game, it is more advantageous for the player than if the game ball does not pass through the specific area 29 during a small win game.

We will explain about jackpot games.
The jackpot game starts after the end of the small jackpot game, on the condition that the specific passing sensor SE5 detects a game ball in the small jackpot game. In the jackpot game, a predetermined performance is first performed for a predetermined opening time. In the jackpot game, after the opening time has elapsed, the jackpot round game is performed up to a predetermined upper limit number of times (for example, 9 times). One jackpot round game ends when a predetermined upper limit number of game balls (for example, 10 balls) enter the second large winning hole 20 or a predetermined upper limit time (for example, 25 seconds) has elapsed. When the jackpot round game starts, the second special movable piece 21 moves from the first state to the second state. When the jackpot round game ends, the second special movable piece 21 moves from the second state to the first state. In each round game, a round performance is performed. In the jackpot game, when the final jackpot round game ends, an ending presentation that can specify the end of the jackpot game is performed for a predetermined ending time. The jackpot game ends with the lapse of the ending time.

In the following description, the jackpot game that starts after the first small hit game is finished is referred to as the "first jackpot game", the jackpot game that starts after the second small hit game is finished is referred to as the "second jackpot game", and the jackpot game that starts after the third small hit game is finished is referred to as the "third jackpot game". In addition, in the following description, the jackpot game that starts after the fourth small hit game is finished is referred to as the "fourth jackpot game", the jackpot game that starts after the fifth small hit game is finished is referred to as the "fifth jackpot game", and the jackpot game that starts after the sixth small hit game is finished is referred to as the "sixth jackpot game". As an example, in the gaming machine 10, the specific passing sensor SE5 detects a game ball during the fourth small hit game, and the fourth jackpot game is awarded (occurs) after the fourth small hit game is finished.

The gaming state after the big win game ends will be explained.
In the gaming machine 10, the game state controlled after the end of the big win game differs depending on the ball entry state during the small win game and the type of the big win game. If the specific passing sensor SE5 does not detect a game ball during the small win game, the big win game is not awarded after the end of the small win game and the game is controlled to the normal state.

As shown in FIG. 3(a) and FIG. 3(b), in the gaming machine 10, if the ball-entering state during the first small win game is a non-ball-entering rate-improved state, the gaming machine 10 is controlled to the first time-shortening state after the end of the first big win game. In the gaming machine 10, if the ball-entering state during the first small win game is a ball-entering rate-improved state, the gaming machine 10 is controlled to the first time-shortening state after the end of the first big win game. In the gaming machine 10, if the ball-entering state during the second small win game is a non-ball-entering rate-improved state, the gaming machine 10 is controlled to the second time-shortening state after the end of the second big win game. In the gaming machine 10, if the ball-entering state during the second small win game is a ball-entering rate-improved state, the gaming machine 10 is controlled to the first time-shortening state after the end of the second big win game. In the gaming machine 10, if the ball-entering state during the third small win game is a non-ball-entering rate-improved state, the gaming machine 10 is controlled to the normal state after the end of the third big win game. In the gaming machine 10, if the ball-entering state during the third small win game is a ball-entering rate improvement state, the game is controlled to the first time-saving state after the third big win game ends. In the gaming machine 10, if the ball-entering state during the fourth small win game is a non-ball-entering rate improvement state, the game is controlled to the third time-saving state after the fourth big win game ends. In the gaming machine 10, if the ball-entering state during the fourth small win game is a ball-entering rate improvement state, the game is controlled to the fourth time-saving state after the fourth big win game ends. In the gaming machine 10, if the ball-entering state during the fifth small win game is a non-ball-entering rate improvement state, the game is controlled to the third time-saving state after the fifth big win game ends. In the gaming machine 10, if the ball-entering state during the fifth small win game is a ball-entering rate improvement state, the game is controlled to the fourth time-saving state after the fifth big win game ends. In the gaming machine 10, if the ball entry state during the sixth small win game is a non-ball entry rate improvement state, the machine is controlled to the third time-saving state after the sixth big win game ends. In the gaming machine 10, if the ball entry state during the sixth small win game is a ball entry rate improvement state, the machine is controlled to the normal state after the sixth big win game ends.

As shown in FIG. 4, the first time-saving state is configured to be controllable until the end condition of the first time-saving state is satisfied. The end conditions of the first time-saving state include the first condition to the ninth condition. In the gaming machine 10, when any of the first condition to the ninth condition of the first time-saving state is satisfied, the gaming machine 10 is controlled from the first time-saving state to the normal state.

The first condition for the first time-saving state is met when the number of times the first special game has been played since control was placed in the first time-saving state reaches a first upper limit (10 times, for example). The second condition for the first time-saving state is met when the number of times the second special game has been played since control was placed in the first time-saving state reaches a second upper limit (10,000 times, for example).

The third condition of the first time-saving state is met when the number of times that the small win symbol ZA is derived in the first special game after being controlled to the first time-saving state reaches a third upper limit (10 times, for example). The fourth condition of the first time-saving state is met when the number of times that the small win symbol ZB is derived in the first special game after being controlled to the first time-saving state reaches a third upper limit. The fifth condition of the first time-saving state is met when the number of times that the small win symbol ZC is derived in the first special game after being controlled to the first time-saving state reaches a third upper limit. In this way, the condition for controlling from the first time-saving state to the normal state can be met when the number of times that the small win symbols ZA to ZC are derived in the special game executed while being controlled to the first time-saving state becomes multiple.

The sixth condition of the first time-saving state is met when the number of times that the small win symbol Za is derived in the second special game after being controlled to the first time-saving state reaches the fourth upper limit (10 times as an example). The seventh condition of the first time-saving state is met when the number of times that the small win symbol Zb is derived in the second special game after being controlled to the first time-saving state reaches the fourth upper limit. The eighth condition of the first time-saving state is met when the number of times that the small win symbol Zc is derived in the second special game after being controlled to the first time-saving state reaches the fourth upper limit. In this way, the condition for controlling from the first time-saving state to the normal state can be met when the number of times that the small win symbols Za to Zc are derived in the special game executed while being controlled to the first time-saving state becomes multiple. Also, the ninth condition of the first time-saving state is met when the small win game ends.

In this way, the condition for controlling from the first time-saving state to the normal state can be met when the number of times that the small win symbols ZA to ZC are derived in the special game executed while controlled to the first time-saving state becomes multiple. Also, the condition for controlling from the first time-saving state to the normal state can be met when the number of times that the small win symbols Za to Zc are derived in the special game executed while controlled to the first time-saving state becomes multiple. The condition that can be met when the number of times that the small win symbols Za to Zc are derived in the special game executed while controlled to the first time-saving state becomes multiple is an example of a predetermined condition.

Specifically, the predetermined condition is met when the number of times that the small win pattern Za is derived in the special game executed while controlled in the first time-saving state becomes a first number of times (10 times as an example). The predetermined condition is met when the number of times that the small win pattern Zb is derived in the special game executed while controlled in the first time-saving state becomes a first number of times (10 times as an example). The predetermined condition is met when the number of times that the small win pattern Zc is derived in the special game executed while controlled in the first time-saving state becomes a second number of times (10 times as an example).

The second time-saving state is configured to be controllable until the end condition of the second time-saving state is met. The end conditions of the second time-saving state include the first condition to the ninth condition. In the gaming machine 10, when any of the first condition to the ninth condition of the second time-saving state is met, the gaming machine 10 is controlled to switch from the second time-saving state to the normal state.

The first condition and the third to ninth conditions of the second time-saving state are obtained by replacing the "first time-saving state" with the "second time-saving state" in the first condition and the third to ninth conditions of the first time-saving state, and therefore a detailed explanation thereof will be omitted. The second condition of the second time-saving state is met when the number of times the second special game has been played since control was put into the second time-saving state reaches a fifth upper limit (for example, 50 times).

In this way, the condition for controlling from the second time-saving state to the normal state can be met when the number of times that the small win symbols ZA to ZC are derived in the special game executed while controlled to the second time-saving state becomes multiple. Also, the condition for controlling from the second time-saving state to the normal state can be met when the number of times that the small win symbols Za to Zc are derived in the special game executed while controlled to the second time-saving state becomes multiple. The condition that can be met when the number of times that the small win symbols Za to Zc are derived in the special game executed while controlled to the second time-saving state becomes multiple is an example of a predetermined condition.

Specifically, the predetermined condition is met when the number of times that the small win pattern Za is derived in the special game executed while controlled in the second time-saving state becomes a first number of times (10 times as an example). The predetermined condition is met when the number of times that the small win pattern Zb is derived in the special game executed while controlled in the second time-saving state becomes a first number of times (10 times as an example). The predetermined condition is met when the number of times that the small win pattern Zc is derived in the special game executed while controlled in the second time-saving state becomes a second number of times (10 times as an example).

The third time-saving state is configured to be controllable until the end condition of the third time-saving state is met. The end conditions of the third time-saving state include the first condition to the ninth condition. In the gaming machine 10, when any of the first condition to the ninth condition of the third time-saving state is met, the gaming machine 10 is controlled to switch from the third time-saving state to the normal state.

The first, third to sixth, and ninth conditions of the third time-saving state are obtained by replacing the first, third to sixth, and ninth conditions of the first time-saving state with the third time-saving state, and therefore will not be described in detail. The second condition of the third time-saving state is met when the number of times the second special game has been played since the third time-saving state was controlled to reach the sixth upper limit (70 times, for example). The seventh condition of the third time-saving state is met when the number of times the small win symbol Zb has been derived in the second special game since the third time-saving state was controlled to reach the seventh upper limit (1 time, for example). The eighth condition of the third time-saving state is met when the number of times the small win symbol Zc has been derived in the second special game since the third time-saving state was controlled to reach the seventh upper limit.

In this way, the condition for controlling from the third time-saving state to the normal state can be met when the number of times that the small win symbols ZA to ZC have been derived in the special game executed while controlled in the third time-saving state is multiple. Also, the condition for controlling from the third time-saving state to the normal state can be met when the number of times that the small win symbol Za has been derived in the special game executed while controlled in the third time-saving state is multiple. The condition for controlling from the third time-saving state to the normal state can be met when the number of times that the small win symbol Zb and the small win symbol Zc have been derived in the special game executed while controlled in the third time-saving state is 1.

The fourth time-saving state is configured to be controllable until the end condition of the fourth time-saving state is met. The end conditions of the fourth time-saving state include the first condition to the ninth condition. In the gaming machine 10, when any of the first condition to the ninth condition of the fourth time-saving state is met, the gaming machine 10 is controlled to switch from the fourth time-saving state to the normal state.

The first to fifth conditions and the ninth condition of the fourth time-saving state are conditions obtained by replacing the "first time-saving state" with the "fourth time-saving state" in the first to fifth conditions and the ninth condition of the first time-saving state, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted. The sixth condition of the fourth time-saving state is met when the number of times that the small win symbol Za is derived in the second special game after being controlled to the fourth time-saving state reaches the seventh upper limit. The seventh condition of the fourth time-saving state is met when the number of times that the small win symbol Zb is derived in the second special game after being controlled to the fourth time-saving state reaches the seventh upper limit. The eighth condition of the fourth time-saving state is met when the number of times that the small win symbol Zc is derived in the second special game after being controlled to the fourth time-saving state reaches the seventh upper limit.

In this way, the condition for controlling from the fourth time-saving state to the normal state can be met when the number of times that the small win symbols ZA-ZC have been derived in the special game executed while controlled to the fourth time-saving state reaches multiple times. Also, the condition for controlling from the fourth time-saving state to the normal state is met when the number of times that the small win symbols Za-Zc have been derived in the special game executed while controlled to the fourth time-saving state reaches 1. The condition that is met when the number of times that the small win symbols Za-Zc have been derived in the special game executed while controlled to the fourth time-saving state reaches 1 is an example of a special condition.

Specifically, the special condition is met when the number of times that the small win pattern Za is derived in the special game executed while controlled in the fourth time-saving state becomes 1. The special condition is met when the number of times that the small win pattern Zb is derived in the special game executed while controlled in the fourth time-saving state becomes 1. The special condition is met when the number of times that the small win pattern Zc is derived in the special game executed while controlled in the fourth time-saving state becomes 1.

The display effects that can be executed by the effect display device 12 will be described.
The effect display device 12 displays an effect game as an example of a display effect. In the effect game, multiple rows of effect symbols are displayed in a variable manner, and a combination of effect symbols (hereinafter, referred to as a symbol combination) is ultimately derived. The effect symbols are also called "decorative symbols" or "ornamental symbols." As an example, the effect game is performed by displaying (scrolling) the effect symbols of the left, center, and right pattern rows in a variable manner in a predetermined direction.

The performance game starts with the special game and ends with the special game. In the performance game, a symbol combination according to the special symbol derived in the special game is derived. When a small winning symbol is derived in the special game, a small winning symbol combination is derived in the performance game. A small winning symbol combination is a symbol combination in which the performance symbols in all rows are the same, such as "777". When a losing symbol is derived in the special game, a losing symbol combination is derived in the performance game. A losing symbol combination is a symbol combination in which the performance symbols in at least some of the symbol rows are different from the performance symbols in the other symbol rows, such as "738" or "787", for example.

In a performance game, when a reach is formed, a reach performance is executed. A reach is a state in which the same performance pattern is temporarily stopped and displayed in a specific number of symbol rows, and the performance pattern continues to be displayed in a variable manner in the other symbol rows. As an example, in this embodiment, the left and right symbol rows correspond to the specific symbol rows, and the center symbol row corresponds to the other symbol rows. Reach performances include normal reach performances and super reach performances, which have a higher expectation of a small win compared to the normal reach performances. The expectation of a small win can be calculated as the ratio of the appearance rate of a small win to the total appearance rate, which is the sum of the appearance rate of a miss and the appearance rate of a small win.

The electrical configuration of the gaming machine 10 will be described.
As shown in Fig. 5, the gaming machine 10 includes a main control board 40 and a sub-control board 50. The main control board 40 and the sub-control board 50 are connected so that a control signal can be output in one direction from the main control board 40 to the sub-control board 50. The main control board 40 performs various controls and outputs various control information (control commands). The sub-control board 50 controls the performance device based on the various control commands output by the main control board 40.

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

The main ROM 41b stores judgment values and tables used for various judgments and lotteries. The main ROM 41b stores a small win judgment value used to judge whether or not a small win has been won in the small win lottery. The main ROM 41b stores a small win pattern judgment value used in the small win pattern lottery. The main ROM 41b stores a performance judgment value used in the performance lottery. The performance lottery is a lottery that determines whether or not a reach performance will be executed.

The main ROM 41b stores multiple types of fluctuation patterns. The fluctuation pattern is information that can identify the fluctuation time from when the special game starts to when it ends. The fluctuation pattern is information that can identify at least a part of the presentation content (variation content) of the presentation game performed while the special game is being executed. There are small win fluctuation patterns and miss fluctuation patterns. The small win fluctuation pattern is a fluctuation pattern that ultimately derives a small win pattern combination. The miss fluctuation pattern is a fluctuation pattern that ultimately derives a miss pattern combination.

There are fluctuation patterns that can be determined in the normal state, fluctuation patterns that can be determined in the first time-saving state, fluctuation patterns that can be determined in the second time-saving state, fluctuation patterns that can be determined in the third time-saving state, and fluctuation patterns that can be determined in the fourth time-saving state. In the gaming machine 10, some or all of the fluctuation patterns that can be determined differ depending on the gaming state. As an example, some or all of the fluctuation patterns that can be determined in the second time-saving state differ from those that can be determined in the fourth time-saving state.

The fluctuation time set in the fluctuation pattern that can be determined when the game state is different from the normal state (any of the first to fourth time-saving states) is shorter, or often shorter, than the fluctuation time set in the fluctuation pattern that can be determined when the game state is normal. In other words, the average fluctuation time of the special game is shorter in the game state different from the normal state than in the normal state. Also, the fourth time-saving state has a shorter average fluctuation time of the special game than the first to third time-saving states. The first time-saving state has a shorter average fluctuation time of the special game than the second and third time-saving states. The third time-saving state has a shorter average fluctuation time of the special game than the second time-saving state.

The main RAM 41c stores various information that is rewritten depending on the results of processing by the main CPU 41a. As an example, information stored in the main RAM 41c includes flags, counters, and timers. The microprocessor 41 is equipped with a random number circuit (not shown) that generates hardware random numbers. The microprocessor 41 may also be capable of generating software random numbers through random number generation processing by the main CPU 41a.

The main control board 40 is connected to the sensors SE1 to SE6. The main CPU 41a is configured to be able to input the detection signal output when the sensors SE1 to SE6 detect a game ball. The main control board 40 is connected to the display units 13a to 13f. The main CPU 41a is configured to be able to control the display contents of the display units 13a to 13f. The main control board 40 is connected to the solenoids SL1 to SL4. The main CPU 41a is configured to be able to control the operation of the normal movable piece 16 by controlling the operation of the first solenoid SL1. The main CPU 41a is configured to be able to control the operation of the first special movable piece 19 by controlling the operation of the second solenoid SL2. The main CPU 41a is configured to be able to control the operation of the second special movable piece 21 by controlling the operation of the third solenoid SL3. The main CPU 41a is configured to be able to control the operation of the distribution member 28 by controlling the operation of the fourth solenoid SL4.

The sub-control board 50 will now be described.
The sub-control board 50 includes a sub-CPU 50a, a sub-ROM 50b, and a sub-RAM 50c. The sub-CPU 50a executes a program for sub-control to perform various processes related to the performance. The sub-CPU 50a executes processes related to the execution of the performance based on a control command input from the main CPU 41a. The sub-ROM 50b stores the sub-control program and a judgment value used for drawing the performance. The sub-ROM 50b stores display performance data used for the display performance, light-emitting performance data used for the light-emitting performance, and sound performance data used for the sound performance. The sub-RAM 50c stores various information that is rewritten during the operation of the gaming machine 10. As an example, the information stored in the sub-RAM 50c is a flag, a counter, a timer, and the like. The sub-control board 50 is configured to be able to generate software random numbers by the random number generation process by the sub-CPU 50a. The sub-control board 50 may be equipped with a random number circuit and be able to generate hardware random numbers.

The sub-control board 50 is connected to the performance display device 12. The sub-CPU 50a is configured to be able to control the display contents of the performance display device 12. The sub-control board 50 is connected to a decorative lamp LA. The sub-CPU 50a is configured to be able to control the light emission mode of the decorative lamp LA. The sub-control board 50 is connected to a speaker SP. The sub-CPU 50a is configured to be able to control the output mode of the speaker SP. The sub-CPU 50a is an example of a performance control means that controls the performance display device 12, the decorative lamp LA, and the speaker SP as performance execution means.

Next, various processes performed by the main CPU 41a of the main control board 40 will be described.
The main CPU 41a executes a timer interrupt process every predetermined period (e.g., 4 ms) including special symbol input process, special symbol start process, small win game process, big win game process, normal symbol input process, normal symbol start process, and normal win game process. In this embodiment, the control information (control command) stored in the output buffer is output to the sub-control board 50 by an information output process executed as a timer interrupt process.

First, the special symbol input process will be described.
In the special symbol input process, the main CPU 41a judges whether the game ball has entered the first start hole 14 based on whether a detection signal has been input from the first start winning sensor SE1. When the game ball has entered the first start hole 14, the main CPU 41a judges whether the first special reserved number stored in the main RAM 41c is less than the upper limit number. When the first special reserved number is less than the upper limit number, the main CPU 41a adds 1 to the first special reserved number to update it. Next, the main CPU 41a controls the first special reserved display unit 13c to display information that can identify the updated first special reserved number. The main CPU 41a stores a control command (hereinafter referred to as the first reserved command) that can identify the first special reserved number in the output buffer.

Next, the main CPU 41a acquires the random numbers generated by the random number circuit, and stores random number information based on the acquired random numbers in the main RAM 41c. As an example, the random numbers are small win random numbers used in the small win lottery, small win pattern random numbers used to determine the small win pattern, variation pattern random numbers used to determine the variation pattern, and effect determination random numbers used in the effect lottery. The main CPU 41a stores the random number information so that it is possible to identify that it is random number information for the first special game, and the storage order of the random number information. The random number information may be the acquired random number itself, or may be information obtained by processing the random number using a predetermined method. By storing the random number information used for the first special game in the main RAM 41c, the gaming machine 10 can suspend the execution of the first special game until the execution conditions for the first special game are met.

When the random number information for the first special game is stored in the main RAM 41c, if a game ball has not entered the first start port 14 and if the first special reserved number is not less than the upper limit number, the main CPU 41a judges whether a game ball has entered the second start port 15 based on whether a detection signal has been input from the second start winning sensor SE2. If a game ball has not entered the second start port 15, the main CPU 41a ends the special symbol input process. If a game ball has entered the second start port 15, the main CPU 41a judges whether the second special reserved number stored in the main RAM 41c is less than the upper limit number. If the second special reserved number is not less than the upper limit number, the main CPU 41a ends the special symbol input process. If the second special reserved number is less than the upper limit number, the main CPU 41a adds 1 to the second special reserved number to update it. The main CPU 41a controls the second special reserved display unit 13d to display information that can identify the updated second special reserved number. The main CPU 41a stores a control command capable of identifying the second special reserved number (hereinafter referred to as the second reserved command) in the output buffer.

The main CPU 41a then acquires the random numbers generated by the random number circuit, and stores random number information based on the acquired random numbers in the main RAM 41c. The main CPU 41a stores the random number information so that it is possible to identify that the information is for use in the second special game, and the order in which the random number information is stored. By storing the random number information for use in the second special game in the main RAM 41c, the gaming machine 10 can suspend the execution of the second special game until the execution conditions for the second special game are met. The main CPU 41a then ends the special symbol input process.

Next, the special symbol start process will be described.
In the special symbol start process, the main CPU 41a judges whether or not a special game can be executed. The main CPU 41a judges positively when neither a small win game nor a big win game is being played, and when a special game is not being played. On the other hand, the main CPU 41a judges negatively when a small win game, a big win game, or a special game is being played. When a special game cannot be executed, the main CPU 41a ends the special symbol start process. When a special game can be executed, the main CPU 41a judges whether or not the second special reserved number is 1 or more. When the second special reserved number is not 1 or more, the main CPU 41a judges whether or not the first special reserved number is less than 1. When the first special reserved number is less than 1, the main CPU 41a ends the special symbol start process.

If the first special reserved number is not less than 1, the main CPU 41a performs processing to execute the first special game. Specifically, the main CPU 41a updates the first special reserved number by subtracting 1. The main CPU 41a controls the first special reserved display unit 13c to display information that can identify the updated first special reserved number. The main CPU 41a then performs a first small win lottery. The main CPU 41a acquires the random number information stored first from the random number information for the first special game from the main RAM 41c. Next, the main CPU 41a performs a first small win lottery to determine whether or not a small win has been won, using the small win random number and small win determination value identified from the acquired random number information. As an example, the small win random number can have a value between 0 and 65535.

The main CPU 41a performs a first small win lottery in which the probability of winning a small win is the same regardless of the game state. In other words, the main CPU 41a performs a first small win lottery in which there is always a fixed probability of winning a small win. As an example, in the first small win lottery, the main CPU 41a determines that a small win has occurred when the numerical value of the acquired small win random number is a numerical value (0 to 204) equal to or less than the small win determination value (for example, 204). Therefore, the probability of a small win in the first small win lottery is "205/65536". In this way, in the gaming machine 10, a small win lottery is performed based on the entry of a gaming ball into the first starting hole 14.

When a small win is won, the main CPU 41a performs a small win game process. In the small win game process, the main CPU 41a performs a small win pattern lottery using a small win pattern random number and a small win pattern determination value that can be specified from the random number information, and determines the small win pattern to be derived in the first special game. In this way, in the gaming machine 10, a small win pattern lottery is executed based on the entry of a gaming ball into the first starting hole 14. The small win pattern determination value is the same value regardless of the gaming state. The main CPU 41a determines the type of variation pattern table. The type of variation pattern table differs depending on the gaming state. The main CPU 41a executes a process (hereinafter referred to as a variation pattern determination process) to determine a variation pattern based on the determined variation pattern table. In the variation pattern determination process, the main CPU 41a determines a small win variation pattern using a variation pattern random number that can be specified from the random number information. After that, the main CPU 41a ends the special pattern start process.

If the small win is not won, the main CPU 41a performs a loss game process. In the loss game process, the main CPU 41a determines a loss symbol as the special symbol to be derived in the first special game. The main CPU 41a performs a performance lottery and determines whether or not to execute a reach performance. The main CPU 41a determines the loss variation pattern by executing a variation pattern determination process. After that, the main CPU 41a ends the special symbol start process.

If the second special reserve number is 1 or more, the main CPU 41a performs processing to execute a second special game. The processing to execute a second special game is the same as the processing to execute a first special game, except that "first special game" is replaced with "second special game", "first special reserve number" is replaced with "second special reserve number", "first special reserve display section 13c" is replaced with "second special reserve display section 13d", and "first start port 14" is replaced with "second start port 15", and therefore a detailed explanation thereof will be omitted.

The process for executing the second special game is a process in which the "first small win lottery" in the process for executing the first special game is replaced with the "second small win lottery." The main CPU 41a performs a second small win lottery in which the probability of winning a small win is the same regardless of the game state. In other words, the main CPU 41a performs a second small win lottery in which the small win is always won with a certain probability. As an example, in the second small win lottery, the main CPU 41a judges that a small win has occurred when the numerical value of the acquired small win random number is a numerical value (0 to 1309) equal to or less than the small win judgment value (1309 as an example). Therefore, the probability of a small win in the second small win lottery is "1310/65536." Then, when a small win is won, the main CPU 41a performs a small win pattern lottery and determines the small win pattern to be derived in the second special game. In this way, in the gaming machine 10, a small win lottery and a small win symbol lottery are executed based on the entry of the gaming ball into the second starting hole 15.

As described above, in the gaming machine 10, as a result of the small win lottery and small win pattern lottery, one of the small win patterns ZA-ZC, Za-Zc, or a losing pattern is determined. Determining one of the small win patterns ZA-ZC, Za-Zc in the small win lottery and small win pattern lottery is an example of the result of the small win lottery and small win pattern lottery being a specific result. Determining the small win pattern Za in the small win lottery and small win pattern lottery is an example of the result of the small win lottery and small win pattern lottery being a first specific result. Determining the small win pattern Zb in the small win lottery and small win pattern lottery is an example of the result of the small win lottery and small win pattern lottery being a second specific result. Determining the small win pattern Zc in the small win lottery and the small win pattern lottery is an example of the result of the small win lottery and the small win pattern lottery being the second specific result.

In addition, the determination of one of the small win patterns ZA-ZC, Za-Zc in the small win lottery and small win pattern lottery is an example of the result of the small win lottery and small win pattern lottery being a special result. The determination of the small win pattern Za in the small win lottery and small win pattern lottery is an example of the result of the small win lottery and small win pattern lottery being a first special result. The determination of the small win pattern Zb in the small win lottery and small win pattern lottery is an example of the result of the small win lottery and small win pattern lottery being a first special result. The determination of the small win pattern Zc in the small win lottery and small win pattern lottery is an example of the result of the small win lottery and small win pattern lottery being a second special result.

In the gaming machine 10, the small win determination value used in the small win lottery is the same regardless of the gaming state, and the small win pattern determination value used in the small win pattern lottery is the same regardless of the gaming state. In other words, the normal state, the first time-saving state, the second time-saving state, the third time-saving state, and the fourth time-saving state have the same probability of determining one of the small win patterns ZA to ZC, Za to Zc in the small win lottery and small win pattern lottery executed based on the game ball entering the first starting hole 14. Also, the normal state, the first time-saving state, the second time-saving state, the third time-saving state, and the fourth time-saving state have the same probability of determining one of the small win patterns ZA to ZC, Za to Zc in the small win lottery and small win pattern lottery executed based on the game ball entering the second starting hole 15.

The main CPU 41a stores a variation start command and a special pattern command in an output buffer during small win game processing or loss game processing. The variation start command is a control command that can identify the variation pattern determined in each game processing and the start of a special game (performance game). The special pattern command is a control command that can identify the special pattern determined in each game processing. Note that the variation start command and the special pattern command are different control commands when the game processing of the first special game is executed and when the game processing of the second special game is executed.

When the special symbol start process is completed, the main CPU 41a executes the first special game or the second special game by a process separate from the special symbol start process. Specifically, when the main CPU 41a executes the first special game, it controls the first special symbol display unit 13a to start displaying a predetermined symbol. The main CPU 41a measures the change time set in the change pattern. When the change time set in the change pattern has elapsed, the main CPU 41a controls the first special symbol display unit 13a to derive the special symbol determined in the special symbol start process. When the change time set in the change pattern has elapsed, the main CPU 41a stores a control command (hereinafter referred to as a change end command) capable of identifying the end of the special game in the output buffer. As described above, in the gaming machine 10, a special game is executed based on the entry of a gaming ball into the first start hole 14.

On the other hand, when the main CPU 41a executes the second special game, it controls the second special symbol display unit 13b to start displaying a predetermined symbol. The main CPU 41a measures the change time set in the change pattern. When the change time set in the change pattern has elapsed, the main CPU 41a controls the second special symbol display unit 13b to derive the special symbol determined in the special symbol start process. When the change time set in the change pattern has elapsed, the main CPU 41a stores a change end command in the output buffer. As described above, in the gaming machine 10, a special game is executed based on the entry of a gaming ball into the second start hole 15.

Next, the small win game processing and the big win game processing will be explained.
The small win game process is a process for awarding a small win game. When the main CPU 41a causes a small win symbol to be derived in the special game, the main CPU 41a executes the small win game process after the end of the small win special game. The main CPU 41a awards a small win game based on the small win symbol (i.e., the type of small win) determined in the special symbol start process.

There are three types of small win games: a first small win game that is awarded when a small win pattern ZA is determined in the small win lottery and small win pattern lottery, a second small win game that is awarded when a small win pattern ZB is determined in the small win lottery and small win pattern lottery, and a third small win game that is awarded when a small win pattern ZC is determined in the small win lottery and small win pattern lottery. There are four small win games that are awarded when a small win pattern Za is determined in the small win lottery and small win pattern lottery, a fifth small win game that is awarded when a small win pattern Zb is determined in the small win lottery and small win pattern lottery, and a sixth small win game that is awarded when a small win pattern Zc is determined in the small win lottery and small win pattern lottery. The fourth small win game is an example of a first specific win game. The fourth small win game is an example of a first special win game. The fourth small win game is an example of a special win game. The fifth small win game is an example of a second specific win game. The fifth small win game is an example of a first special win game. The fifth small win game is an example of a special win game. The sixth small win game is an example of a second specific win game. The sixth small win game is an example of a second special win game. The sixth small win game is an example of a special win game. In the gaming machine 10, regardless of whether the awarded small win game is any of the first to sixth small win games, the small win game processing described below is executed.

In the small win game processing, the main CPU 41a stores a control command (hereinafter, referred to as a small win opening command) capable of identifying the start of the opening time of the small win game in the output buffer. When the opening time has elapsed, the main CPU 41a performs processing to execute the small win round game. In other words, the main CPU 41a controls the second solenoid SL2 so that the first special movable piece 19 operates in an operating pattern that allows the game ball to enter the first large winning opening 18. In addition, the main CPU 41a controls the fourth solenoid SL4 so that the distribution member 28 operates in a predetermined operating pattern that allows the game ball that has entered the first large winning opening 18 to be distributed to the first passage 26a.

When the specific passage sensor SE5 detects a game ball during a small win game (small win round game), the main CPU 41a stores in the main RAM 41c information (hereinafter referred to as specific passage information) that can identify that the game ball that entered the first large winning opening 18 during the small win game has passed through the specific area 29. The main CPU 41a also stores in the output buffer a control command (hereinafter referred to as specific passage command) that can identify that the game ball that entered the first large winning opening 18 during the small win game has passed through the specific area 29. When the number of game balls detected by the first count sensor SE3 reaches the above-mentioned upper limit number or the above-mentioned upper limit time has elapsed, the main CPU 41a ends the small win round game and ends the small win game. In this way, in the gaming machine 10, a small win game is awarded when the result of the small win lottery and the small win pattern lottery is one of the small win patterns ZA to ZC, Za to Zc. A small win game is an example of a specific win game. A small win game is an example of a special win game.

When the main CPU 41a ends the small win game, it determines whether or not specific passing information is stored in the main RAM 41c. If specific passing information is not stored in the main RAM 41c, the main CPU 41a does not award a big win game after ending the small win game. If specific passing information is stored in the main RAM 41c, the main CPU 41a executes a big win game process as a process for awarding a big win game after ending the small win game. The main CPU 41a specifies the type of big win game based on the type of the ended small win game. The main CPU 41a awards the specified type of big win game. In the gaming machine 10, the big win game process described below is executed regardless of whether the awarded big win game is any of the first to sixth big win games.

In the jackpot game processing, the main CPU 41a stores a control command (hereinafter referred to as the jackpot opening command) capable of identifying the start of the opening time of the jackpot game in the output buffer. When the opening time has elapsed, the main CPU 41a performs processing to execute the jackpot round game. In other words, the main CPU 41a controls the third solenoid SL3 so that the second special movable piece 21 operates in an operating pattern that allows the game ball to enter the second large prize opening 20. When the number of game balls detected by the first count sensor SE3 reaches the above-mentioned upper limit number or the above-mentioned upper limit time has elapsed, the main CPU 41a ends the jackpot round game.

The main CPU 41a repeats the jackpot round play a predetermined maximum number of times (for example, nine times) until it is completed. Each time the main CPU 41a starts a jackpot round play, it stores a control command capable of identifying the start of the jackpot round play (hereafter referred to as a jackpot round command) in the output buffer. When the main CPU 41a ends the final jackpot round play, it stores a control command capable of identifying the start of the ending time (hereafter referred to as a jackpot ending command) in the output buffer. When the ending time has elapsed, the main CPU 41a ends the jackpot play.

Next, the processing related to the game state performed by the main CPU 41a will be described. The main CPU 41a that performs the processing related to the game state is an example of a game state control means that controls the game state.
The main CPU 41a is configured to be able to control the game state by updating the game state information stored in the main RAM 41c. Specifically, when the main CPU 41a controls to the normal state, it stores information that can specify that the game is being controlled to the normal state (hereinafter referred to as normal information) in the main RAM 41c as game state information. At this time, the main CPU 41a stores information that can specify that the game is being controlled to the normal state (hereinafter referred to as normal command) in the output buffer. Also, when the main CPU 41a controls to the normal state, it stores information that can specify that the ball-scoring state is a non-ball-scoring rate improvement state (hereinafter referred to as non-ball-scoring rate improvement information) in the main RAM 41c as ball-scoring state information. In this way, the main CPU 41a controls the ball-scoring state to a non-ball-scoring rate improvement state.

When the main CPU 41a controls to the first time-saving state, it stores information that can identify that it is being controlled to the first time-saving state (hereinafter referred to as the first time-saving information) in the main RAM 41c as game status information. At this time, the main CPU 41a stores information that can identify that it is being controlled to the first time-saving state (hereinafter referred to as the first time-saving command) in the output buffer. When the main CPU 41a controls to the second time-saving state, it stores information that can identify that it is being controlled to the second time-saving state (hereinafter referred to as the second time-saving information) in the main RAM 41c as game status information. At this time, the main CPU 41a stores information that can identify that it is being controlled to the second time-saving state (hereinafter referred to as the second time-saving command) in the output buffer.

When the main CPU 41a controls the game to the third time-saving state, the main CPU 41a stores information that can identify that the game is being controlled to the third time-saving state (hereinafter referred to as the third time-saving information) in the main RAM 41c as game state information. At this time, the main CPU 41a stores information that can identify that the game is being controlled to the third time-saving state (hereinafter referred to as the third time-saving command) in the output buffer. When the main CPU 41a controls the game to the fourth time-saving state, the main CPU 41a stores information that can identify that the game is being controlled to the fourth time-saving state (hereinafter referred to as the fourth time-saving information) in the main RAM 41c as game state information. At this time, the main CPU 41a stores information that can identify that the game is being controlled to the fourth time-saving state (hereinafter referred to as the fourth time-saving command) in the output buffer. In addition, when the main CPU 41a controls the game to any of the first to fourth time-saving states, the main CPU 41a stores information that can identify that the game is being controlled to a ball-scoring rate improvement state (hereinafter referred to as the ball-scoring rate improvement information) in the main RAM 41c as game state information. This allows the main CPU 41a to control the scoring state to improve the scoring rate.

During a small win game, the main CPU 41a stores information (hereinafter referred to as small win ball winning state information) in the main RAM 41c that can identify whether the winning state during a small win game is a non-ball winning rate improvement state or a ball winning rate improvement state.

When the main CPU 41a ends the first jackpot game, it identifies the ball entry state during the first small jackpot game before the first jackpot game starts. The main CPU 41a determines the game state to be controlled after the end of the first jackpot game according to the ball entry state during the first small jackpot game. If the ball entry state during the first small jackpot game is a non-ball entry rate improvement state, the main CPU 41a controls the game to the first time-shortening state when the first jackpot game ends. If the ball entry state during the first small jackpot game is a ball entry rate improvement state, the main CPU 41a controls the game to the first time-shortening state when the first jackpot game ends. When the main CPU 41a ends the second jackpot game, it identifies the ball entry state during the second small jackpot game before the second jackpot game starts. The main CPU 41a determines the game state to be controlled after the end of the second big win game according to the ball entry state during the second small win game. If the ball entry state during the second small win game is a non-ball entry rate improvement state, the main CPU 41a controls the game to the second time-saving state when the second big win game is ended. If the ball entry state during the second small win game is a ball entry rate improvement state, the main CPU 41a controls the game to the first time-saving state when the second big win game is ended. When the main CPU 41a ends the third big win game, it specifies the ball entry state during the third small win game before the third big win game starts. The main CPU 41a determines the game state to be controlled after the end of the third big win game according to the ball entry state during the third small win game. If the ball entry state during the third small win game is a non-ball entry rate improvement state, the main CPU 41a controls the game to the normal state when the third big win game ends. If the ball entry state during the third small win game is a ball entry rate improvement state, the main CPU 41a controls the game to the first time-saving state when the third big win game ends.

When the main CPU 41a ends the fourth jackpot game, it identifies the ball entry state during the fourth small jackpot game before the fourth jackpot game starts. The main CPU 41a determines the game state to be controlled after the fourth jackpot game ends according to the ball entry state during the fourth small jackpot game. If the ball entry state during the fourth small jackpot game is a non-ball entry rate improvement state, the main CPU 41a controls the game to the third time-shortening state when the fourth jackpot game ends. If the ball entry state during the fourth small jackpot game is a ball entry rate improvement state, the main CPU 41a controls the game to the fourth time-shortening state when the fourth jackpot game ends. When the main CPU 41a ends the fifth jackpot game, it identifies the ball entry state during the fifth small jackpot game before the fifth jackpot game starts. The main CPU 41a determines the game state to be controlled after the end of the fifth big win game according to the ball entry state during the fifth small win game. If the ball entry state during the fifth small win game is a non-ball entry rate improvement state, the main CPU 41a controls the game to the third time-saving state when the fifth big win game is ended. If the ball entry state during the fifth small win game is a ball entry rate improvement state, the main CPU 41a controls the game to the fourth time-saving state when the fifth big win game is ended. When the main CPU 41a ends the sixth big win game, it specifies the ball entry state during the sixth small win game before the sixth big win game starts. The main CPU 41a determines the game state to be controlled after the end of the sixth big win game according to the ball entry state during the sixth small win game. If the ball entry state during the sixth small win game is a non-ball entry rate improvement state, the main CPU 41a controls the game to the third time-saving state when the sixth big win game ends. If the ball entry state during the sixth small win game is a ball entry rate improvement state, the main CPU 41a controls the game to the normal state when the sixth big win game ends.

When the main CPU 41a ends the jackpot game, the main CPU 41a stores information regarding the end of the game state according to the game state controlled after the end of the jackpot game. Specifically, when the main CPU 41a controls the game state to one of the first time-saving state to the fourth time-saving state after the end of the jackpot game, the main CPU 41a stores the first upper limit number (10 times as an example), which is the upper limit number of times that the first special game can be executed in the controlled game state, as the first time-saving number in the main RAM 41c. The first time-saving number is information that can specify the remaining number of times that the first special game can be executed in the controlled game state when the game state is controlled after the game state is controlled to one of the first time-saving state to the fourth time-saving state and a small jackpot game is not awarded. The main CPU 41a stores a control command that can specify the first time-saving number (hereinafter referred to as the first time-saving number command) in the output buffer.

After controlling the state to one of the first time-saving state to the fourth time-saving state, the main CPU 41a updates the first time-saving count stored in the main RAM 41c (subtracts 1, for example) each time the first special game ends. When the main CPU 41a updates the first time-saving count, it stores a first time-saving count command capable of identifying the updated first time-saving count in the output buffer. When the updated first time-saving count becomes 0, the main CPU 41a controls the state to the normal state. In other words, when the updated first time-saving count becomes 0, the main CPU 41a controls the state to the non-goal-scoring rate improvement state.

When the main CPU 41a controls the game to either the first time-saving state or the fourth time-saving state after the end of the jackpot game, the second upper limit number (10,000 times as an example) which is the upper limit number of times the second special game can be executed in the controlled game state is stored in the main RAM 41c as the second time-saving number. When the main CPU 41a controls the game to the second time-saving state after the end of the jackpot game, the fifth upper limit number (50 times as an example) which is the upper limit number of times the second special game can be executed in the second time-saving state is stored in the main RAM 41c as the second time-saving number. When the main CPU 41a controls the game to the third time-saving state after the end of the jackpot game, the sixth upper limit number (70 times as an example) which is the upper limit number of times the second special game can be executed in the third time-saving state is stored in the main RAM 41c as the second time-saving number. The second time-saving count is information that can identify the remaining number of times that the second special game can be executed in the game state that is controlled when no small win is awarded after control has been placed in any of the first to fourth time-saving states. The main CPU 41a stores a control command that can identify the second time-saving count (hereinafter referred to as the second time-saving count command) in the output buffer.

After controlling the state to one of the first to fourth time-saving states, the main CPU 41a updates the second time-saving count stored in the main RAM 41c (subtracts 1, for example) each time the second special game ends. When the main CPU 41a updates the second time-saving count, it stores a second time-saving count command capable of identifying the updated second time-saving count in the output buffer. When the updated second time-saving count becomes 0, the main CPU 41a controls the state to the normal state. In other words, when the updated second time-saving count becomes 0, the main CPU 41a controls the state to the non-goal-scoring rate improvement state.

In this way, the first time-saving state can be controlled so that the number of times the second special game is executed after being controlled to the first time-saving state reaches the second upper limit number. The second time-saving state can be controlled so that the number of times the second special game is executed after being controlled to the second time-saving state reaches the fifth upper limit number. The fifth upper limit number is an example of the first special upper limit number. The third time-saving state can be controlled so that the number of times the second special game is executed after being controlled to the third time-saving state reaches the sixth upper limit number. The sixth upper limit number is an example of the first specific upper limit number. The fourth time-saving state can be controlled so that the number of times the second special game is executed after being controlled to the fourth time-saving state reaches the second upper limit number. The second upper limit number is an example of the second specific upper limit number. The second upper limit number is an example of the second special upper limit number. The second upper limit number is greater than the fifth upper limit number. The second upper limit number is greater than the sixth upper limit number.

When the main CPU 41a controls the game state to any one of the first to fourth time-saving states after the end of a big win game, it stores the third upper limit number (10 times as an example), which is the upper limit number of times that the small win pattern ZA can be derived in the controlled game state, in the main RAM 41c as the first derivation number. The first derivation number is information that can identify the remaining number of times that the small win pattern ZA can be derived in the controlled game state after the game state is controlled to any one of the first to fourth time-saving states.

After controlling the main CPU 41a to one of the first time-saving state to the fourth time-saving state, when a small winning pattern ZA is derived, the main CPU 41a updates the first number of derivations stored in the main RAM 41c (subtracts 1, for example). If the updated first number of derivations becomes 0, the main CPU 41a controls the state to the normal state. In other words, if the updated first number of derivations becomes 0, the main CPU 41a controls the state to the non-ball-entry rate improvement state.

When the main CPU 41a controls the game state to any one of the first to fourth time-saving states after the end of a big win game, it stores the third upper limit number, which is the upper limit number of times that the small win pattern ZB can be derived in the controlled game state, in the main RAM 41c as the second derivation number. The second derivation number is information that can identify the remaining number of times that the small win pattern ZB can be derived in the controlled game state after the game state is controlled to any one of the first to fourth time-saving states.

After controlling the main CPU 41a to one of the first to fourth time-saving states, when the small winning symbol ZB is derived, the main CPU 41a updates the second number of derivations stored in the main RAM 41c (subtracts 1, for example). If the updated number of second derivations becomes 0, the main CPU 41a controls the state to the normal state. In other words, if the updated number of second derivations becomes 0, the main CPU 41a controls the state to the non-ball-entry rate improvement state.

When the main CPU 41a controls the game state to any one of the first to fourth time-saving states after the end of a big win game, it stores the third upper limit number, which is the upper limit number of times that the small win pattern ZC can be derived in the controlled game state, in the main RAM 41c as the third derivation number. The third derivation number is information that can identify the remaining number of times that the small win pattern ZC can be derived in the controlled game state after the game state is controlled to any one of the first to fourth time-saving states.

After controlling the main CPU 41a to one of the first time-saving state to the fourth time-saving state, when a small winning symbol ZC is derived, the main CPU 41a updates the third derivation count stored in the main RAM 41c (subtracts 1, for example). If the updated third derivation count becomes 0, the main CPU 41a controls it to the normal state. In other words, if the updated third derivation count becomes 0, the main CPU 41a controls it to the non-ball-entry rate improvement state.

When the main CPU 41a controls the game to be in any one of the first to third time-saving states after the end of a big win game, it stores in the main RAM 41c the fourth upper limit number (10 times as an example), which is the upper limit number of times that the small win pattern Za can be derived in the controlled game state, as the fourth derivation number. When the main CPU 41a controls the game to be in the fourth time-saving state after the end of a big win game, it stores in the main RAM 41c the seventh upper limit number (1 time as an example), which is the upper limit number of times that the small win pattern Za can be derived in the fourth time-saving state, as the fourth derivation number. The fourth derivation number is information that can identify the remaining number of times that the small win pattern Za can be derived in the controlled game state after being controlled to be in any one of the first to fourth time-saving states.

After controlling the main CPU 41a to one of the first time-saving state to the fourth time-saving state, when a small winning symbol Za is derived, the main CPU 41a updates the fourth number of derivations stored in the main RAM 41c (subtracts 1, for example). If the updated fourth number of derivations becomes 0, the main CPU 41a controls the state to the normal state. In other words, if the updated fourth number of derivations becomes 0, the main CPU 41a controls the state to the non-ball-entry rate improvement state.

When the main CPU 41a controls the game to be in either the first time-saving state or the second time-saving state after the end of a jackpot game, the main CPU 41a stores in the main RAM 41c the fourth upper limit number (10 times as an example), which is the upper limit number of times that the small win pattern Zb can be derived in the controlled game state, as the fifth derivation number. When the main CPU 41a controls the game to be in either the third time-saving state or the fourth time-saving state after the end of a jackpot game, the main RAM 41c stores in the main RAM 41c the seventh upper limit number (1 time as an example), which is the upper limit number of times that the small win pattern Zb can be derived in the controlled game state, as the fifth derivation number. The fifth derivation number is information that can identify the remaining number of times that the small win pattern Zb can be derived in the controlled game state after being controlled to be in either the first time-saving state to the fourth time-saving state.

After controlling the main CPU 41a to one of the first time-saving state to the fourth time-saving state, when the small winning symbol Zb is derived, the main CPU 41a updates the fifth derivation count stored in the main RAM 41c (subtracts 1, for example). If the fifth derivation count after the update is 0, the main CPU 41a controls it to the normal state. In other words, if the fifth derivation count after the update is 0, the main CPU 41a controls it to the non-ball-entry rate improvement state.

When the main CPU 41a controls the game to either the first time-saving state or the second time-saving state after the end of the jackpot game, the main CPU 41a stores the fourth upper limit number (10 times as an example), which is the upper limit number of times that the small win pattern Zc can be derived in the controlled game state, as the sixth derivation number in the main RAM 41c. When the main CPU 41a controls the game to either the third time-saving state or the fourth time-saving state after the end of the jackpot game, the main CPU 41a stores the seventh upper limit number (1 time as an example), which is the upper limit number of times that the small win pattern Zc can be derived in the controlled game state, as the sixth derivation number in the main RAM 41c. The sixth derivation number is information that can identify the remaining number of times that the small win pattern Zc can be derived in the controlled game state after being controlled to either the first time-saving state to the fourth time-saving state.

After controlling the main CPU 41a to one of the first time-saving state to the fourth time-saving state, when a small winning symbol Zc is derived, the main CPU 41a updates the sixth number of derivations stored in the main RAM 41c (subtracts 1, for example). If the sixth number of derivations after the update is 0, the main CPU 41a controls the state to the normal state. In other words, if the sixth number of derivations after the update is 0, the main CPU 41a controls the state to the non-ball-entry rate improvement state.

When the main CPU 41a ends a small win game, it controls it to the normal state. In other words, when the main CPU 41a ends a small win game, it controls it to the non-ball entry rate improvement state. For this reason, for example, if the specific passing sensor SE5 detects a game ball during a small win game and a big win game is awarded after the small win game ends, it is controlled to the normal state (non-ball entry rate improvement state) during the big win game. Also, for example, if the specific passing sensor SE5 does not detect a game ball during a small win game and a big win game is not awarded, it is controlled to the normal state (non-ball entry rate improvement state) after the small win game ends. As a result, the main CPU 41a can control different game states when the game ball passes through the specific area 29 during a small win game and when the game ball does not pass through the specific area 29 during a small win game.

As described above, in the gaming machine 10, if a small win game is awarded before the first time-saving count becomes 0, the machine is controlled to the normal state even if the first time-saving count does not become 0. In the gaming machine 10, if a small win game is awarded before the second time-saving count becomes 0, the machine is controlled to the normal state even if the second time-saving count does not become 0. In the gaming machine 10, if a small win game is awarded before the first lead-out count becomes 0, the machine is controlled to the normal state even if the first lead-out count does not become 0. In the gaming machine 10, if a small win game is awarded before the second lead-out count becomes 0, the machine is controlled to the normal state even if the second lead-out count does not become 0. In the gaming machine 10, if a small win game is awarded before the third lead-out count becomes 0, the machine is controlled to the normal state even if the third lead-out count does not become 0. In the gaming machine 10, if a small win game is awarded before the fourth lead-out count becomes 0, the machine is controlled to the normal state even if the fourth lead-out count does not become 0. In the gaming machine 10, if a small win game is awarded before the fifth number of times of dispensation becomes 0, the machine is controlled to the normal state even if the fifth number of times of dispensation does not become 0. In the gaming machine 10, if a small win game is awarded before the sixth number of times of dispensation becomes 0, the machine is controlled to the normal state even if the sixth number of times of dispensation does not become 0.

Here, the upper limit of the number of times that the second special game can be executed in the second time-saving state is 50 times. The upper limit of the number of times that the second special game can be executed in the third time-saving state is 70 times. In the first to fourth time-saving states, it is recommended to hit the ball from the right so that the game ball is more likely to enter the second starting hole 15, so the second special game is easier to execute than the first special game. In the third time-saving state, the upper limit of the number of times that the second special game can be executed in the controlled game state is higher than in the second time-saving state. Therefore, in the third time-saving state, the probability of a small win being awarded before the upper limit of the number of times that the second special game can be executed in the controlled game state is reached and the game is controlled to the normal state is higher than in the second time-saving state. Therefore, the third time-saving state is a state that is more advantageous for the player than the second time-saving state.

In addition, the upper limit of the number of times the second special game can be executed in the first time-saving state is 10,000 times. In the first time-saving state, the upper limit of the number of times the second special game can be executed in the controlled game state is greater than in the third time-saving state. For this reason, in the first time-saving state, the probability of a small win being awarded before the upper limit of the number of times the second special game can be executed in the controlled game state is reached and the state is controlled to the normal state is greater than in the third time-saving state. Therefore, the first time-saving state is a more advantageous state for the player than the third time-saving state. In addition, the first time-saving state is a more advantageous state for the player than the second time-saving state.

In addition, the upper limit of the number of times the second special game can be executed in the fourth time-saving state is 10,000 times. In the fourth time-saving state, the upper limit of the number of times the second special game can be executed in the controlled game state is greater than in the third time-saving state. For this reason, in the fourth time-saving state, the probability of a small win being awarded before the upper limit of the number of times the second special game can be executed in the controlled game state is reached and the state is controlled to the normal state is greater than in the third time-saving state. Therefore, the fourth time-saving state is a more advantageous state for the player than the third time-saving state. In addition, the fourth time-saving state is a more advantageous state for the player than the second time-saving state.

Next, the normal symbol input process performed by the main CPU 41a will be described.
In the normal symbol input process, the main CPU 41a judges whether the game ball has passed (entered) the gate 23 based on whether a detection signal has been input from the gate sensor SE6. If the game ball has not passed through the gate 23, the main CPU 41a ends the normal symbol input process. On the other hand, if the game ball has passed through the gate 23, the main CPU 41a judges whether the normal reserved number stored in the main RAM 41c is less than the upper limit number. If the normal reserved number is not less than the upper limit number, the main CPU 41a ends the normal symbol input process. If the normal reserved number is less than the upper limit number, the main CPU 41a adds 1 to the normal reserved number to update it. The main CPU 41a controls the normal reserved display unit 13f to display information that can identify the updated normal reserved number. Next, the main CPU 41a acquires the random number generated by the random number circuit, and stores random number information based on the acquired random number in the main RAM 41c. The main CPU 41a stores the random number information so that it is possible to identify that it is random number information for the normal game and the storage order of the random number information. After that, the main CPU 41a ends the normal symbol input process. By storing the random number information used for the normal game in the main RAM 41c, the gaming machine 10 can suspend the execution of the normal game until the execution condition of the normal game is satisfied.

Next, the normal symbol start processing performed by the main CPU 41a will be described.
In the normal symbol start process, the main CPU 41a judges whether the execution conditions of the normal game are met. The main CPU 41a judges positively when the normal winning game is not being played and the normal game is not being played, whereas it judges negatively when the normal winning game is being played or the normal game is being played. If the execution conditions of the normal game are not met, the main CPU 41a ends the normal symbol start process. If the execution conditions of the normal game are met, the main CPU 41a judges whether the normal reserved number is greater than 0. If the normal reserved number is 0, the main CPU 41a ends the normal symbol start process. If the normal reserved number is greater than 0, the main CPU 41a performs a process to execute the normal game. Specifically, the main CPU 41a updates the normal reserved number by subtracting 1. The main CPU 41a controls the normal reserved display unit 13f to display information that can identify the updated normal reserved number.

Then, the main CPU 41a obtains from the main RAM 41c the random number information that was stored first among the random number information for the normal game. Next, the main CPU 41a uses the obtained random number information to perform a normal lottery (normal hit determination) to determine whether or not a normal hit has been won. The main CPU 41a performs a normal lottery with a normal hit probability according to the current ball-scoring state (either a non-ball-scoring rate improved state or a ball-scoring rate improved state) and determines whether or not a normal hit has been won. The normal hit probability in a ball-scoring rate improved state is higher than the normal hit probability in a non-ball-scoring rate improved state. In a non-ball-scoring rate improved state, it may be possible to prevent a normal hit from being won.

If a normal win is won, the main CPU 41a determines the normal winning symbol to be derived in the normal game and the fluctuation time of the normal game, and then ends the normal symbol start process. If a normal win is not won, the main CPU 41a determines the normal losing symbol to be derived in the normal game and the fluctuation time of the normal game, and then ends the normal symbol start process. The fluctuation time of the normal game when the ball-entering rate is increased is shorter than the fluctuation time of the normal game when the ball-entering rate is not increased. Therefore, in the ball-entering rate increased state, the number of normal lotteries executed per unit time is likely to be greater than in the non-ball-entering rate increased state. As a result, the ball-entering rate increased state is likely to have a greater number of normal wins per unit time than in the non-ball-entering rate increased state. In this way, the ball-entering rate increased state has a higher advantage in terms of ball-entering into the second starting hole 15 than the non-ball-entering rate increased state. When the normal symbol start process is ended, the main CPU 41a executes the normal game by a process other than the normal symbol start process. Specifically, the main CPU 41a starts the normal game and controls the normal symbol display unit 13e so that the normal symbol determined in the normal symbol start process is displayed as a fixed stop when the variable time determined in the normal symbol start process has elapsed.

Next, the normal winning game process performed by the main CPU 41a will be described.
The normal winning game process is a process for granting a normal winning game. When the main CPU 41a derives a normal winning symbol in a normal game, the main CPU 41a executes the normal winning game process after the end of the normal game of the normal winning. In the normal winning game process, when the ball-entering rate is in an improved ball-entering rate state, the main CPU 41a controls the first solenoid SL1 so that the normal movable piece 16 operates in the operating mode when the ball-entering rate is in an improved ball-entering rate state. When the ball-entering rate is not in an improved ball-entering rate state, the main CPU 41a controls the first solenoid SL1 so that the normal movable piece 16 operates in the operating mode when the ball-entering rate is not in an improved ball-entering rate state. In the operating mode of the normal movable piece 16 in the improved ball-entering rate state, the normal movable piece 16 is in the second state more frequently in one normal winning game, and the total time that the normal movable piece 16 is in the second state is longer than the operating mode of the normal movable piece 16 in the non-improved ball-entering rate state. Therefore, when the normal movable piece 16 is operated in the operating mode in the ball entry rate improved state, it is easier to get the game ball to enter the second starting hole 15 than when the normal movable piece 16 is operated in the operating mode in the non-ball entry rate improved state. In this way, the ball entry rate improved state has a higher advantage in terms of getting the game ball to enter the second starting hole 15 than the non-ball entry rate improved state.

Next, the winning process performed by the main CPU 41a will be described.
When the main CPU 41a receives a detection signal from the first start winning sensor SE1, it controls to award a predetermined number of game balls (for example, one). When the main CPU 41a receives a detection signal from the second start winning sensor SE2, it controls to award a predetermined number of game balls (for example, one). When the main CPU 41a receives a detection signal from the first count sensor SE3, it controls to award a predetermined number of game balls (for example, 15). When the main CPU 41a receives a detection signal from the second count sensor SE4, it controls to award a predetermined number of game balls (for example, 15). When the main CPU 41a controls to award game balls, it stores a control command capable of identifying the number of awarded game balls in the output buffer.

Next, various processes executed by the secondary CPU 50a of the secondary control board 50 will be described.
First, the process when a control command is input will be described.
When the secondary CPU 50a inputs a normal command, it stores in the secondary RAM 50c information that can identify that the game is being controlled in the normal state. When the secondary CPU 50a inputs a first time-saving command, it stores in the secondary RAM 50c information that can identify that the game is being controlled in the first time-saving state. When the secondary CPU 50a inputs a second time-saving command, it stores in the secondary RAM 50c information that can identify that the game is being controlled in the second time-saving state. When the secondary CPU 50a inputs a third time-saving command, it stores in the secondary RAM 50c information that can identify that the game is being controlled in the third time-saving state. When the secondary CPU 50a inputs a fourth time-saving command, it stores in the secondary RAM 50c information that can identify that the game is being controlled in the fourth time-saving state.

When the sub-CPU 50a inputs a first time-saving count command, it stores in the sub-RAM 50c information that can specify the remaining number of times that the first special game can be played in the first time-saving state to the fourth time-saving state. When the sub-CPU 50a inputs a second time-saving count command, it stores in the sub-RAM 50c information that can specify the remaining number of times that the second special game can be played in the first time-saving state to the fourth time-saving state.

Next, the effect game process will be described.
The effect game process is a process for executing an effect game as one of the display effects related to a special game during execution of the special game. When the sub-CPU 50a inputs a variable start command and a special symbol command, the sub-CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 to execute an effect game corresponding to the special game. When the sub-CPU 50a is controlled to the normal state, the sub-CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 to execute an effect game corresponding to the first special game. On the other hand, when the sub-CPU 50a is controlled to the normal state, the sub-CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 not to execute an effect game corresponding to the second special game. When the sub-CPU 50a is controlled to any of the first to fourth time-saving states, the sub-CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 to execute an effect game corresponding to the second special game. On the other hand, when the sub-CPU 50a is controlled to any of the first to fourth time-saving states, the sub-CPU 50a controls the effect display device 12 not to execute an effect game corresponding to the first special game.

When the sub-CPU 50a inputs a variation start command, it selects a presentation pattern (presentation content) for the presentation game based on a variation pattern that can be determined from the control command. The sub-CPU 50a also determines a pattern combination to be derived in the presentation game based on a special pattern that can be determined from the input special pattern command. If a small win pattern can be determined from the special pattern command, the sub-CPU 50a determines a small win pattern combination. If a losing pattern can be determined from the special pattern command, the sub-CPU 50a determines a losing pattern combination. If a losing variation pattern associated with the execution of either a normal reach presentation or a super reach presentation is determined, the sub-CPU 50a may determine a losing pattern combination including a reach.

In the performance game process, the sub-CPU 50a controls the performance display device 12 to start displaying the performance symbols of each symbol row in response to the input of the change start command. In other words, the sub-CPU 50a starts the performance game. The sub-CPU 50a controls the performance display device 12 so that the performance game is played based on the determined performance pattern during the change time set for the change pattern. When a predetermined timing arrives after starting the performance game, the sub-CPU 50a causes the symbol combination to be temporarily stopped and displayed, and when a change end command is input, causes the symbol combination to be displayed as a fixed stop. As an example, when the sub-CPU 50a inputs a change start command for a miss change pattern associated with the execution of a super reach performance, the sub-CPU 50a starts the performance game, then executes the super reach performance, and when a predetermined timing arrives, causes the symbol combination to be temporarily stopped and displayed, and when a change end command is input, causes the symbol combination to be displayed as a fixed stop.

Next, the presentation mode will be described.
The gaming machine 10 is configured to be able to set a presentation mode. In the gaming machine 10, presentations are executed according to the presentation mode that has been set. There are a plurality of presentation modes that the gaming machine 10 can set. In the gaming machine 10, when neither a small win game nor a big win game is being played, one of the plurality of presentation modes is set. The presentation mode is also called a presentation state.

As shown in FIG. 6, the presentation modes that can be set by the gaming machine 10 include a normal presentation mode, a first chance presentation mode, a second chance presentation mode, a third chance presentation mode, a fourth chance presentation mode, and a fifth chance presentation mode. The second chance presentation mode is an example of a first special presentation mode. The third chance presentation mode is an example of a second special presentation mode. The fourth chance presentation mode is an example of a first specific presentation mode. The fifth chance presentation mode is an example of a second specific presentation mode.

The following describes the processing related to the presentation mode performed by the secondary CPU 50a. The secondary CPU 50a, which performs processing related to the presentation mode, is an example of a mode control means capable of controlling the setting of the presentation mode.

The secondary CPU 50a is configured to be able to set the presentation mode by updating the mode information stored in the secondary RAM 50c. When the secondary CPU 50a is controlled to the normal state, it sets the normal presentation mode. As an example, when the secondary CPU 50a is controlled to the normal state, if the secondary CPU 50a is controlled to the first time-saving state via small win game and big win game after the small win pattern ZA is derived, the secondary CPU 50a sets the first chance presentation mode. As an example, when the secondary CPU 50a is controlled to the normal state, if the secondary CPU 50a is controlled to the second time-saving state via small win game and big win game after the small win pattern ZB is derived, the secondary CPU 50a sets the second chance presentation mode. As an example, when the secondary CPU 50a is controlled to the normal state, if the secondary CPU 50a is controlled to the normal state via small win game and big win game after the small win pattern ZC is derived, the secondary CPU 50a sets the normal presentation mode.

As an example, if either the small win pattern Za or the small win pattern Zb is derived when controlled to the first time-saving state, and then the system is controlled to the fourth time-saving state via small win play and big win play, the sub-CPU 50a sets the third chance presentation mode. As an example, if either the small win pattern Zc is derived when controlled to the first time-saving state, and then the system is controlled to the normal state via small win play and big win play, the sub-CPU 50a sets the normal presentation mode.

As an example, if either the small win pattern Za or the small win pattern Zb is derived while controlled to the second time-saving state, and then the game is controlled to the fourth time-saving state via a small win game and a big win game, the sub-CPU 50a sets the third chance presentation mode. As an example, if the small win pattern Zc is derived while controlled to the second time-saving state, and then the game is controlled to the normal state via a small win game and a big win game, the sub-CPU 50a sets the normal presentation mode. As an example, if the number of times the second special game has been executed since being controlled to the second time-saving state reaches the fifth upper limit number of times (for example, 50 times) and the game is controlled to the normal state, the sub-CPU 50a sets the normal presentation mode.

As an example, if one of the small win patterns Za to Zc is derived while the game is controlled to the fourth time-saving state, and then the game is controlled to the third time-saving state via a small win game and a big win game, the secondary CPU 50a will set the game to the fourth chance presentation mode.

As an example, if the small win pattern Za is derived when the game is controlled to the third time-saving state, and then the game is controlled to the fourth time-saving state via small win play and big win play, the sub-CPU 50a sets the fifth chance presentation mode. As an example, if the small win pattern Zb or small win pattern Zc is derived when the game is controlled to the third time-saving state, and then the game is controlled to the third time-saving state via small win play and big win play, the sub-CPU 50a sets the fourth chance presentation mode. As an example, if the number of times the second special game has been executed since the game was controlled to the third time-saving state reaches the sixth upper limit number of times (70 times as an example) and the game is controlled to the normal state, the sub-CPU 50a sets the normal presentation mode.

In addition, if the normal state is controlled by a trigger other than the above, the sub-CPU 50a sets the normal presentation mode. Also, if the first time-saving state is controlled by a trigger other than the above, the sub-CPU 50a sets the first chance presentation mode.

As described above, the sub-CPU 50a can control the setting of the normal presentation mode when controlled to the normal state. The sub-CPU 50a can control the setting of the first chance presentation mode when controlled to the first time-saving state. The sub-CPU 50a can control the setting of the second chance presentation mode when controlled to the second time-saving state. The sub-CPU 50a can control the setting of the fourth chance presentation mode when controlled to the third time-saving state. The sub-CPU 50a can control the setting of the third chance presentation mode when controlled to the fourth time-saving state. The sub-CPU 50a can control the setting of the fifth chance presentation mode when controlled to the fourth time-saving state.

The secondary CPU 50a controls the performance display device 12 to display an image corresponding to the set performance mode. Without being limited to this, the secondary CPU 50a may control the decorative lamp LA to emit light in a light emission pattern corresponding to the set performance mode. The secondary CPU 50a may control the speaker SP to output sound corresponding to the set performance mode.

The display modes of the performance display device 12 corresponding to each performance mode will be described.
As shown in Fig. 7(a) to Fig. 7(f), in each presentation mode, mode identification information capable of identifying the currently-held presentation mode (the set presentation mode) is suggested or notified. In the presentation display device 12, a background image MH that differs for each type of presentation mode is displayed as the mode identification information. In addition, in the presentation display device 12, a mode name image EM indicating the name of the set presentation mode is displayed as the mode identification information. Not limited to this, in the gaming machine 10, the mode identification information may be suggested or notified by illuminating the decorative lamp LA in a different light emitting manner for each type of presentation mode. In the gaming machine 10, the mode identification information may be suggested or notified by outputting background music (so-called BGM) that differs for each type of presentation mode from the speaker SP.

Figure 7 (a) is a diagram showing an example of the display content of the performance display device 12 when the normal performance mode is set. When the normal performance mode is set, the performance display device 12 displays a background image MH that resembles a "seascape." Also, when the normal performance mode is set, the performance display device 12 displays a mode name image EM that reads "normal performance mode."

Figure 7 (b) is a diagram showing an example of the display content of the effect display device 12 when the first chance effect mode is set. When the first chance effect mode is set, the effect display device 12 displays a background image MH that resembles a "night sky." Also, when the first chance effect mode is set, the effect display device 12 displays a mode name image EM that reads "First chance effect mode."

Figure 7 (c) is a diagram showing an example of the display contents of the effect display device 12 when the second chance effect mode is set. When the second chance effect mode is set, the effect display device 12 displays a background image MH that imitates a "riverside landscape". When the second chance effect mode is set, the effect display device 12 displays a mode name image EM that reads "second chance effect mode". When the second chance effect mode is set, the effect display device 12 displays a remaining number image NK that can identify the remaining number of times the second special game can be played in the second time-saving state. Note that the remaining number image NK is not displayed on the effect display device 12 when the first chance effect mode is set.

Figure 7 (d) is a diagram showing an example of the display content of the performance display device 12 when the third chance performance mode is set. When the third chance performance mode is set, the performance display device 12 displays a background image MH that resembles "space." Also, when the third chance performance mode is set, the performance display device 12 displays a mode name image EM that reads "Third chance performance mode." Note that when the third chance performance mode is set, the performance display device 12 does not display the remaining number of times image NK.

Figure 7 (e) is a diagram showing an example of the display contents of the effect display device 12 when the fourth chance effect mode is set. When the fourth chance effect mode is set, the effect display device 12 displays a background image MH that imitates a "riverside scenery". The background image MH displayed when the fourth chance effect mode is set is an image that imitates a "riverside scenery" like the background image MH displayed when the second chance effect mode is set, but these two background images MH are different background images MH. When the second chance effect mode is set, the effect display device 12 displays a mode name image EM that is "fourth chance effect mode". Furthermore, when the fourth chance effect mode is set, the effect display device 12 displays a remaining number image NK that can specify the remaining number of times of the second special game that can be executed in the third time-saving state.

Figure 7 (f) is a diagram showing an example of the display content of the effect display device 12 when the fifth chance effect mode is set. When the fifth chance effect mode is set, the effect display device 12 displays a background image MH that resembles "Saturn." Also, when the fifth chance effect mode is set, the effect display device 12 displays a mode name image EM that reads "Fifth chance effect mode." Note that when the fifth chance effect mode is set, the effect display device 12 does not display the remaining number image NK.

As shown in Figures 7(a) to 7(f), the effect display device 12 displays a background image MH and a mode name image EM corresponding to the set effect mode. Here, the effect display device 12 displays a remaining number image NK in the second chance effect mode and the fourth chance effect mode. On the other hand, the effect display device 12 does not display a remaining number image NK in the first chance effect mode, the third chance effect mode, and the fifth chance effect mode. In this way, in the gaming machine 10, the type of background image MH, the type of mode name image EM, and whether or not the remaining number image NK is displayed vary depending on the set effect mode. In other words, in the gaming machine 10, the effect mode of the effect display device 12 varies depending on the set effect mode.

Here, the game state controlled when the second chance presentation mode is set is the second time-saving state. As shown in FIG. 4, the upper limit number of times that the second special game can be executed in the second time-saving state is 50 times. The probability of winning a small jackpot in the second small jackpot lottery is about 1/50 regardless of the game state. Therefore, the probability of winning a small jackpot in the second small jackpot lottery before the number of times that the second special game is executed after being controlled to the second time-saving state reaches the upper limit number of times (50 times) is about 64%. In other words, the probability of not winning a small jackpot in the second small jackpot lottery before the number of times that the second special game is executed after being controlled to the second time-saving state reaches the upper limit number of times is about 36%. Therefore, in the gaming machine 10, it can be said that the game machine 10 may be controlled to the normal state based on the number of times that the second special game is executed after being controlled to the second time-saving state reaching the upper limit number of times.

The game state controlled when the fourth chance presentation mode is set is the third time-saving state. As shown in FIG. 4, the upper limit number of times that the second special game can be executed in the third time-saving state is 70 times. Therefore, the probability of winning a small jackpot in the second small jackpot lottery before the number of times that the second special game is executed after being controlled to the third time-saving state reaches the upper limit number of times (70 times) is about 76%. In other words, the probability of not winning a small jackpot in the second small jackpot lottery before the number of times that the second special game is executed after being controlled to the third time-saving state reaches the upper limit number of times is about 24%. Therefore, in the gaming machine 10, it can be said that there are cases where the game machine 10 is substantially controlled to the normal state based on the number of times that the second special game is executed after being controlled to the third time-saving state reaching the upper limit number of times.

The game state controlled when the first chance presentation mode is set is the first time-saving state. As shown in FIG. 4, the upper limit of the number of times the second special game can be executed in the first time-saving state is 10,000 times. Therefore, the probability of winning a small jackpot in the second small jackpot lottery before the number of times the second special game has been executed since being controlled to the first time-saving state reaches the upper limit of the number of times (10,000 times) is approximately 100% (99.99...%). Therefore, it can be said that in the gaming machine 10, there are essentially no cases in which the game state is controlled to the normal state based on the number of times the second special game has been executed since being controlled to the first time-saving state reaching the upper limit of the number of times.

The game state controlled when the third chance presentation mode or the fifth chance presentation mode is set is the fourth time-saving state. As shown in FIG. 4, the upper limit of the number of times the second special game can be executed in the fourth time-saving state is 10,000 times. Therefore, the probability of winning a small jackpot in the second small jackpot lottery before the number of times the second special game has been executed since being controlled to the fourth time-saving state reaches the upper limit of the number of times (10,000 times) is approximately 100% (99.99...%). Therefore, it can be said that in the gaming machine 10, there are essentially no cases in which the game state is controlled to the normal state based on the number of times the second special game has been executed since being controlled to the fourth time-saving state reaching the upper limit of the number of times.

In this way, in the gaming machine 10, if a small win is not awarded before the number of times the second special game is executed reaches the upper limit, the background image MH and the mode name image EM are displayed together with the remaining number of times image NK. On the other hand, in the gaming machine 10, if a small win is awarded before the number of times the second special game is executed reaches the upper limit, the background image MH and the mode name image EM are displayed, but the remaining number of times image NK is not displayed. In the gaming machine 10, the presentation mode of the presentation display device 12 in which the background image MH and the mode name image EM are displayed and the remaining number of times image NK is not displayed suggests or notifies that a small win will be awarded before the number of times the second special game is executed reaches the upper limit. In the gaming machine 10, the presentation mode of the presentation display device 12 in which the background image MH and the mode name image EM are displayed and the remaining number of times image NK is displayed does not suggest or notify that a small win will be awarded before the number of times the second special game is executed reaches the upper limit.

In other words, when the first chance presentation mode is set, the presentation mode of the presentation display device 12 suggests or notifies that a small win will be awarded before the number of times the second special game has been executed since being controlled to the first time-saving state reaches the second upper limit. When the third chance presentation mode is set, the presentation mode of the presentation display device 12 suggests or notifies that a small win will be awarded before the number of times the second special game has been executed since being controlled to the fourth time-saving state reaches the second upper limit. When the fifth chance presentation mode is set, the presentation mode of the presentation display device 12 suggests or notifies that a small win will be awarded before the number of times the second special game has been executed since being controlled to the fourth time-saving state reaches the second upper limit.

On the other hand, when the second chance presentation mode is set, the presentation mode of the presentation display device 12 does not suggest or notify that a small win will be awarded before the number of times the second special game has been executed since control to the second time-saving state reaches the fifth upper limit. When the fourth chance presentation mode is set, the presentation mode of the presentation display device 12 does not suggest or notify that a small win will be awarded before the number of times the second special game has been executed since control to the third time-saving state reaches the sixth upper limit.

In the first chance presentation mode, the third chance presentation mode, and the fifth chance presentation mode, the presentation display device 12 may display an image (hereinafter, referred to as a specific image) that can identify that a small win will be awarded before the number of times the second special game is executed reaches the upper limit number of times. In other words, in the gaming machine 10, the presentation mode of the presentation display device 12 in which the background image MH and the mode name image EM are displayed and the specific image is displayed may suggest or notify that a small win will be awarded before the number of times the second special game is executed reaches the upper limit number of times. As an example, the specific image may be the character string "infinite" displayed in the image display area of the image display unit GH in which the remaining number of times image NK is displayed. Note that "infinite" may be "∞", which is a symbol indicating infinity. As an example, the specific image may be the character string "continue until the next win". As an example, the specific image may be the character string "confirmed consecutive wins". As an example, the specific image may be an image displayed in colors that imitate a rainbow (so-called rainbow). In other words, the specific image may be an image that allows recognition that in a controlled gaming state, a small win will be awarded before the number of times the second special game is executed since being controlled to the gaming state reaches the upper limit. In the gaming machine 10, the presentation mode of the decorative lamp LA may suggest or notify that a small win will be awarded before the number of times the second special game is executed reaches the upper limit. As an example, the presentation mode of the decorative lamp LA that suggests or notifies that a small win will be awarded before the number of times the second special game is executed reaches the upper limit is a light emission pattern that appears to emit light in colors that imitate a rainbow. In the gaming machine 10, the presentation mode of the speaker SP may suggest or notify that a small win will be awarded before the number of times the second special game is executed reaches the upper limit. As an example, the presentation mode of the speaker SP that suggests or notifies that a small win will be awarded before the number of times the second special game is executed reaches the upper limit is a sound such as "Continue until the next win" or "Confirmed consecutive wins."

Next, the transition of game states and presentation modes will be described.
FIG. 8 is a timing chart showing an example of a case where a small win pattern ZA is derived when controlled in the normal state, and then a small win pattern Za is derived when controlled in the first time-saving state.

At time t10, the gaming machine 10 is in a normal gaming state, and the normal presentation mode is set as the presentation mode. At time t11, the small win symbol ZA is derived in the first special game in the gaming machine 10. As a result, the first small win game is started in the gaming machine 10. At time t12, the specific passing sensor SE5 in the gaming machine 10 detects a game ball. At time t13, the first small win game is ended in the gaming machine 10. When the first small win game is ended in the gaming machine 10, the specific passing sensor SE5 detects a game ball at time t12, and the first big win game is started. Thereafter, at time t14, the first big win game is ended in the gaming machine 10.

At time t14, the gaming machine 10 is controlled to the first time-saving state because the ball entry state during the first small win game was a non-ball entry rate improvement state, and the first chance presentation mode is set as the presentation mode. In addition, in the case where the specific passage sensor SE5 does not detect a game ball during the first small win game, the gaming machine 10 is controlled to the normal state without awarding a big win game at time t13, and the normal presentation mode is set as the presentation mode. In this way, if the first small win game is awarded while controlled to the normal state, it can be controlled to the first time-saving state.

At time t15, it is assumed that the small win pattern Za is derived in the second special game in the gaming machine 10. As a result, the fourth small win game is started in the gaming machine 10. At time t16, it is assumed that the specific passing sensor SE5 in the gaming machine 10 detects a game ball. At time t17, it is assumed that the fourth small win game is ended in the gaming machine 10. When the fourth small win game is ended in the gaming machine 10, the fourth big win game is started as the specific passing sensor SE5 detects a game ball at time t16. Thereafter, at time t18, it is assumed that the fourth big win game is ended in the gaming machine 10.

At time t18, since the ball entry state during the fourth small win game was a ball entry rate improvement state, the gaming machine 10 is controlled to the fourth time-saving state, and the third chance presentation mode is set as the presentation mode. If the specific passage sensor SE5 does not detect a game ball during the fourth small win game, the gaming machine 10 is controlled to the normal state without awarding a big win game at time t17, and the normal presentation mode is set as the presentation mode. In this way, if the fourth small win game is awarded while controlled to the first time-saving state, the gaming machine can be controlled to the fourth time-saving state.

When a small win symbol Za is derived in a special game executed while controlled in the first time-saving state, and the game ball passes through the specific area 29 during the fourth small win game that is awarded after the small win symbol Za is derived, the game is controlled to the fourth time-saving state. Also, when a small win symbol Zb is derived in a special game executed while controlled in the first time-saving state, and the game ball passes through the specific area 29 during the fifth small win game that is awarded after the small win symbol Zb is derived, the game is controlled to the fourth time-saving state. Also, when a small win symbol Zc is derived in a special game executed while controlled in the first time-saving state, and the game ball passes through the specific area 29 during the sixth small win game that is awarded after the small win symbol Zc is derived, the game is controlled to the normal state. In this way, if any of the small win symbols Za to Zc is derived in a special game that is executed while controlled to the first time-saving state, and the game ball passes through the specific area 29 during the small win game that is awarded after the small win symbol is derived, the game is controlled to a game state different from the first time-saving state.

Figure 9 is a timing chart showing an example of a case where a small win symbol ZB is derived when controlled in the normal state, and then a small win symbol Zb is derived when controlled in the second time-saving state.

At time t20, the gaming machine 10 is in a normal gaming state, and the normal presentation mode is set as the presentation mode. At time t21, the gaming machine 10 produces a small win symbol ZB in the first special game. As a result, the second small win game starts in the gaming machine 10. At time t22, the specific passing sensor SE5 in the gaming machine 10 detects a game ball. At time t23, the second small win game ends in the gaming machine 10. When the second small win game ends in the gaming machine 10, the specific passing sensor SE5 detects a game ball at time t22, and the second big win game starts. Thereafter, at time t24, the gaming machine 10 ends the second big win game.

At time t24, since the ball entry state during the second small win game was a non-ball entry rate improvement state, the gaming machine 10 is controlled to the second time-saving state and the second chance presentation mode is set as the presentation mode. If the specific passage sensor SE5 does not detect a game ball during the second small win game, the gaming machine 10 is controlled to the normal state without awarding a big win game at time t23 and the normal presentation mode is set as the presentation mode. In this way, if the second small win game is awarded while controlled to the normal state, the gaming machine can be controlled to the second time-saving state.

At time t25, it is assumed that the small win symbol Zb is derived in the second special game in the gaming machine 10. As a result, the fifth small win game is started in the gaming machine 10. At time t26, it is assumed that the specific passing sensor SE5 in the gaming machine 10 detects a game ball. At time t27, it is assumed that the fifth small win game is over in the gaming machine 10. When the fifth small win game is over in the gaming machine 10, the fifth big win game is started as the specific passing sensor SE5 detects a game ball at time t26. Thereafter, at time t28, it is assumed that the fifth big win game is over in the gaming machine 10.

At time t28, the gaming machine 10 is controlled to the fourth time-saving state because the ball entry state during the fifth small win game was a ball entry rate improvement state, and the third chance presentation mode is set as the presentation mode. In addition, in the case where the specific passage sensor SE5 does not detect a game ball during the fifth small win game, the gaming machine 10 is controlled to the normal state without awarding a big win game at time t27, and the normal presentation mode is set as the presentation mode. In this way, if the fifth small win game is awarded when controlled to the second time-saving state, the gaming machine 10 can be controlled to the fourth time-saving state. Similarly, if the fourth small win game is awarded when controlled to the second time-saving state, the gaming machine 10 can be controlled to the fourth time-saving state.

Figure 10 is a timing chart showing an example of a case where a small win symbol ZB is derived when controlled in the normal state, and then a small win symbol Zc is derived when controlled in the second time-saving state.

At time t30, the gaming machine 10 is in a normal gaming state, and the normal presentation mode is set as the presentation mode. At time t31, the gaming machine 10 produces a small win pattern ZB in the first special game. As a result, the second small win game is started in the gaming machine 10. At time t32, the specific passing sensor SE5 in the gaming machine 10 detects a game ball. At time t33, the second small win game is ended in the gaming machine 10. When the second small win game is ended in the gaming machine 10, the specific passing sensor SE5 detects a game ball at time t32, and the second big win game is started. Thereafter, at time t34, the second big win game is ended in the gaming machine 10. At time t34, the game machine 10 is controlled to the second time-saving state because the winning state during the second small win game was a non-winning rate improvement state, and the second chance presentation mode is set as the presentation mode.

At time t35, it is assumed that the small win symbol Zc is derived in the second special game in the gaming machine 10. As a result, the sixth small win game is started in the gaming machine 10. At time t36, it is assumed that the specific passing sensor SE5 in the gaming machine 10 detects a game ball. At time t37, it is assumed that the sixth small win game is over in the gaming machine 10. When the sixth small win game is over in the gaming machine 10, the sixth big win game is started as the specific passing sensor SE5 detects a game ball at time t36. Thereafter, at time t38, it is assumed that the sixth big win game is over in the gaming machine 10.

At time t38, the gaming machine 10 is controlled to the normal state because the ball entry state during the sixth small win game was a ball entry rate improvement state, and the normal presentation mode is set as the presentation mode. In addition, in the case where the specific passage sensor SE5 does not detect a game ball during the sixth small win game, the gaming machine 10 is controlled to the normal state without awarding a big win game at time t37, and the normal presentation mode is set as the presentation mode. In this way, if the sixth small win game is awarded while controlled to the second time-saving state, it is not controlled to the fourth time-saving state.

Incidentally, in the second time-saving state from time t34 to time t37, the second special reserved number may increase. Therefore, at time t38, the second special game may be executed. The second special game has a higher probability of deriving a small winning symbol than the first special game. Therefore, if a state in which the second special reserved number is 1 or more after the end of any of the first to fourth time-saving states is defined as a specific state, and a state in which the second special reserved number is 0 is defined as a normal state, the specific state can be said to be a state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal state. In other words, after the end of any of the first to fourth time-saving states, the state becomes more advantageous to the player than the normal state.

9 and 10, when a small win symbol Zb is derived in a special game executed when controlled in the second time-saving state, and the game ball passes through the specific area 29 during the fifth small win game that is awarded after the small win symbol Zb is derived, the game is controlled to the fourth time-saving state. Also, when a small win symbol Zc is derived in a special game executed when controlled in the second time-saving state, and the game ball passes through the specific area 29 during the sixth small win game that is awarded after the small win symbol Zc is derived, the game is controlled to the normal state. Also, when a small win symbol Za is derived in a special game executed when controlled in the second time-saving state, and the game ball passes through the specific area 29 during the fourth small win game that is awarded after the small win symbol Za is derived, the game is controlled to the fourth time-saving state. In this way, if any of the small win symbols Za to Zc is derived in a special game that is executed while controlled to the second time-saving state, and the game ball passes through the specific area 29 during the small win game that is awarded after the small win symbol is derived, the game state is controlled to a different state from the second time-saving state.

Figure 11 is a timing chart showing an example of a case where a small win symbol Za is derived when controlled to the fourth time-saving state, and then a small win symbol Za is derived when controlled to the third time-saving state.

At time t40, the gaming machine 10 is in the fourth time-saving state, and the third chance presentation mode is set as the presentation mode. At time t41, the gaming machine 10 produces a small win pattern Za in the second special game. As a result, the fourth small win game starts in the gaming machine 10. At time t42, the specific passing sensor SE5 in the gaming machine 10 detects a game ball. At time t43, the fourth small win game ends in the gaming machine 10. When the fourth small win game ends in the gaming machine 10, the specific passing sensor SE5 detects a game ball at time t42, and the fourth big win game starts. Thereafter, at time t44, the fourth big win game ends in the gaming machine 10.

At time t44, since the ball entry state during the fourth small win game was a non-ball entry rate improvement state, the gaming machine 10 is controlled to the third time-saving state, and the fourth chance presentation mode is set as the presentation mode. If the specific passage sensor SE5 does not detect a game ball during the fourth small win game, the gaming machine 10 is controlled to the normal state without awarding a big win game at time t43, and the normal presentation mode is set as the presentation mode. In this way, if the fourth small win game is awarded while controlled to the fourth time-saving state, the gaming machine can be controlled to the third time-saving state.

At time t45, it is assumed that the small win pattern Za is derived in the second special game in the gaming machine 10. As a result, the fourth small win game is started in the gaming machine 10. At time t46, it is assumed that the specific passing sensor SE5 in the gaming machine 10 detects a game ball. At time t47, it is assumed that the fourth small win game is over in the gaming machine 10. When the fourth small win game is over in the gaming machine 10, the fourth big win game is started as the specific passing sensor SE5 detects a game ball at time t46. Thereafter, at time t48, it is assumed that the fourth big win game is over in the gaming machine 10.

At time t48, since the ball entry state during the fourth small win game was a ball entry rate improvement state, the gaming machine 10 is controlled to the fourth time-saving state, and the fifth chance presentation mode is set as the presentation mode. If the specific passage sensor SE5 does not detect a game ball during the fourth small win game, the gaming machine 10 is controlled to the normal state without awarding a big win game at time t47, and the normal presentation mode is set as the presentation mode. In this way, if the fourth small win game is awarded while controlled to the third time-saving state, the gaming machine can be controlled to the fourth time-saving state.

Figure 12 is a timing chart showing an example of a case where a small win symbol Zb is derived when controlled to the fourth time-saving state, and then a small win symbol Zb is derived when controlled to the third time-saving state.

At time t50, the gaming machine 10 is in the fourth time-saving state, and the third chance presentation mode is set as the presentation mode. At time t51, the gaming machine 10 produces a small win pattern Zb in the second special game. As a result, the fifth small win game starts in the gaming machine 10. At time t52, the specific passing sensor SE5 detects a game ball in the gaming machine 10. At time t53, the fifth small win game ends in the gaming machine 10. When the fifth small win game ends in the gaming machine 10, the specific passing sensor SE5 detects a game ball at time t52, and the fifth big win game starts. Thereafter, at time t54, the fifth big win game ends in the gaming machine 10.

At time t54, since the ball entry state during the fifth small win game was a non-ball entry rate improvement state, the gaming machine 10 is controlled to the third time-saving state, and the fourth chance presentation mode is set as the presentation mode. If the specific passage sensor SE5 does not detect a game ball during the fifth small win game, the gaming machine 10 is controlled to the normal state without awarding a big win game at time t53, and the normal presentation mode is set as the presentation mode. In this way, if the fifth small win game is awarded while controlled to the fourth time-saving state, the gaming machine can be controlled to the third time-saving state.

At time t55, it is assumed that the small win symbol Zb is derived in the second special game in the gaming machine 10. As a result, the fifth small win game is started in the gaming machine 10. At time t56, it is assumed that the specific passing sensor SE5 in the gaming machine 10 detects a game ball. At time t57, it is assumed that the fifth small win game is over in the gaming machine 10. When the fifth small win game is over in the gaming machine 10, the fifth big win game is started as the specific passing sensor SE5 detects a game ball at time t56. Thereafter, at time t58, it is assumed that the fifth big win game is over in the gaming machine 10.

At time t58, the gaming machine 10 is controlled to the third time-saving state because the ball entry state during the fifth small win game was a non-ball entry rate improvement state, and the fourth chance presentation mode is set as the presentation mode. In addition, in the case where the specific passage sensor SE5 does not detect a game ball during the fifth small win game, the gaming machine 10 is controlled to the normal state without awarding a big win game at time t57, and the normal presentation mode is set as the presentation mode. In this way, if the fifth small win game is awarded when controlled to the third time-saving state, the gaming machine 10 can be controlled to the third time-saving state. Similarly, if the sixth small win game is awarded when controlled to the third time-saving state, the gaming machine 10 can be controlled to the third time-saving state.

FIG. 13 is a timing chart showing an example of a case where the small winning pattern Zc is derived when controlled in the second time-saving state.
At time t60, the gaming machine 10 is in the second time-saving state. At this time, the fourth derivation number, which is information that can specify the remaining number of small win symbols Za that can be derived in the second time-saving state, is 10 times. The fifth derivation number, which is information that can specify the remaining number of small win symbols Zb that can be derived in the second time-saving state, is 10 times. The sixth derivation number, which is information that can specify the remaining number of small win symbols Zc that can be derived in the second time-saving state, is 10 times. At time t61, the small win symbol Zc is derived in the second special game in the gaming machine 10. As a result, the sixth small win game is started in the gaming machine 10. At this time, the sixth derivation number is subtracted by 1 and becomes 9 times. The updated sixth derivation number is not 0. Therefore, the second time-saving state does not end.

At time t62, the sixth small win game is considered to have ended in the gaming machine 10. In the gaming machine 10, the specific passing sensor SE5 is considered to have not detected a game ball during the sixth small win game from time t61 to time t62. Therefore, at time t62, the sixth big win game is not started in the gaming machine 10. At time t62, the gaming machine 10 is controlled to the normal state due to the end of the sixth small win game. Incidentally, if the specific passing sensor SE5 detects a game ball during the sixth small win game from time t61 to time t62, the sixth big win game starts at time t62. After that, the gaming machine 10 is controlled to the normal state when the sixth big win game ends.

Thus, at time t61, the number of times that the small win symbol Za was derived in the special game executed when controlled to the second time-saving state is not the first number, and the specified condition is not met. Also, at time t61, the number of times that the small win symbol Zb was derived in the special game executed when controlled to the second time-saving state is not the first number, and the specified condition is not met. Also, at time t61, the number of times that the small win symbol Zc was derived in the special game executed when controlled to the second time-saving state is not the second number, and the specified condition is not met. Therefore, at time t61, the game machine 10 is not controlled to the normal state. However, in the gaming machine 10, since the game ball did not pass through the specific area 29 during the small win game, the big win game is not awarded at time t62, and the game machine 10 is controlled to the normal state. In other words, even if the number of times that the small win symbols Za to Zc are derived in a special game executed when controlled to the second time-saving state is 1 and the specified condition is not met, if the game ball does not pass through the specific area 29 during the small win game awarded after the small win symbols Za to Zc are derived, the game is controlled to the normal state. Similarly, even if the number of times that the small win symbols Za to Zc are derived in a special game executed when controlled to the first time-saving state is 1 and the specified condition is not met, if the game ball does not pass through the specific area 29 during the small win game awarded after the small win symbols Za to Zc are derived, the game is controlled to the normal state.

FIG. 14 is a timing chart showing an example of a case where the small winning pattern Zc is derived when controlled in the fourth time-saving state.
At time t70, the gaming machine 10 is in the fourth time-shortened state. At this time, the fourth number of lead-outs, the fifth number of lead-outs, and the sixth number of lead-outs are each 1. At time t71, the small win symbol Zc is led-out in the second special game in the gaming machine 10. As a result, the sixth small win game is started in the gaming machine 10. At this time, the sixth number of lead-outs is decremented by 1 to 0. As a result, the fourth time-shortened state ends. Then, the gaming machine 10 is controlled to the normal state.

At time t72, the sixth small win game ends in the gaming machine 10. In the gaming machine 10, the specific passing sensor SE5 does not detect a game ball during the sixth small win game from time t71 to time t72. Therefore, at time t72, the sixth big win game does not start in the gaming machine 10. At time t72, the gaming machine 10 is controlled to the normal state. Incidentally, if the specific passing sensor SE5 detects a game ball during the sixth small win game from time t71 to time t72, the sixth big win game starts at time t72. After that, when the sixth big win game ends in the gaming machine 10, it is controlled to the third time-saving state.

Thus, at time t71, the number of times that the small win symbol Za was derived in the special game executed when controlled to the fourth time-saving state is not 1. Also, at time t71, the number of times that the small win symbol Zb was derived in the special game executed when controlled to the fourth time-saving state is not 1. On the other hand, at time t71, the number of times that the small win symbol Zc was derived in the special game executed when controlled to the fourth time-saving state is 1, and the special condition is established. Therefore, at time t71, the game machine 10 is controlled to the normal state. And, in the gaming machine 10, since the gaming ball did not pass through the specific area 29 during the small win game, the big win game is not awarded at time t72, and the game machine 10 is not controlled to the third time-saving state, but is controlled to the normal state. In other words, even if the number of times that the small win symbols Za to Zc are derived in a special game executed while controlled to the fourth time-saving state is 1 and the special condition is established, if the game ball passes through the specific area 29 during the small win game awarded after the small win symbols Za to Zc are derived, the game will be controlled to the third time-saving state. On the other hand, if the number of times that the small win symbols Za to Zc are derived in a special game executed while controlled to the fourth time-saving state is 1 and the special condition is established, and the game ball does not pass through the specific area 29 during the small win game awarded after the small win symbols Za to Zc are derived, the game will be controlled to the normal state.

FIG. 15 is a timing chart showing an example of a case where a small winning pattern Za is derived when controlled in the third time-saving state.
At time t80, the gaming machine 10 is in the third time-shortened state. At this time, the fourth number of derivings is 10. The fifth number of derivings and the sixth number of derivings are each 1. At time t81, the small win pattern Za is derived in the second special game in the gaming machine 10. As a result, the fourth small win game is started in the gaming machine 10. At this time, the fourth number of derivings is decremented by 1 to become 9. The updated fourth number of derivings is not 0. Therefore, the third time-shortened state does not end.

At time t82, the fourth small win game is considered to have ended in the gaming machine 10. In the gaming machine 10, the specific passing sensor SE5 is considered to have not detected a game ball during the fourth small win game from time t81 to time t82. Therefore, at time t82, the fourth big win game is not started in the gaming machine 10. At time t82, the gaming machine 10 is controlled to the normal state due to the end of the fourth small win game. Incidentally, if the specific passing sensor SE5 detects a game ball during the fourth small win game from time t81 to time t82, the fourth big win game starts at time t82. After that, the gaming machine 10 is controlled to the fourth time-saving state when the fourth big win game ends.

The effects of the embodiment will be described.
(1) The gaming machine 10 is configured so that when the gaming ball passes through the specific area 29 during a small win game, it is more advantageous for the player than when the gaming ball does not pass through the specific area 29 during a small win game. In the gaming machine 10 configured in this way, when the fifth small win game or the sixth small win game is awarded while being controlled to the third time-shortening state, it can be controlled to the same gaming state as when the fifth small win game or the sixth small win game is awarded. On the other hand, when the fourth small win game is awarded while being controlled to the third time-shortening state, it can be controlled to a gaming state more advantageous for the player than when the fourth small win game is awarded. In this way, when being controlled to the third time-shortening state, when the fifth small win game or the sixth small win game is awarded, it is controlled to the third time-shortening state again, and for example, when the fourth small win game is awarded while being repeatedly controlled to the third time-shortening state, it is controlled to the fourth time-shortening state. As a result, according to this embodiment, when the fourth small win game is awarded while the game is controlled to the third time-saving state, the player can understand that the game is controlled to the fourth time-saving state. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the player can enjoy the game in the third time-saving state for a long time, and can have expectations about the type of small win game awarded in the third time-saving state, thereby improving the interest.

(2) In the third time-saving state and the fourth time-saving state, the game ball is more likely to enter the second starting hole 15 than in the normal state, so the small win lottery is more likely to be executed, and it can be said to be an advantageous state for the player. In the normal state, the third time-saving state, and the fourth time-saving state, the probability that the result of the small win lottery and the small win pattern lottery will be the small win pattern Za to Zc is the same. Here, the third time-saving state and the fourth time-saving state each have a set upper limit number of executions of the second special game that can be executed. When controlled to the third time-saving state, if the fifth small win game or the sixth small win game is awarded, the third time-saving state is controlled again, so the upper limit number of executions of the second special game is reset, and the player can enjoy the game in the third time-saving state with a renewed feeling. Since the upper limit number of executions of the second special game in the fourth time-saving state is greater than the upper limit number of executions of the second special game in the third time-saving state, the probability of winning the small win pattern Za to Zc in the fourth time-saving state is higher. Therefore, according to this embodiment, when the game is controlled to the third time-saving state, the player's anticipation can be increased for the fourth small win game being awarded and the game being controlled to the fourth time-saving state. In this way, according to this embodiment, while the probability of winning the small win pattern Za to Zc as a result of the small win lottery and the small win pattern lottery is the same, the upper limit number of times the second special game can be executed, which can be controlled according to the game state, is varied, thereby changing the player's anticipation. And, by creating anticipation for the award of the small win game and the change in the game state due to the award of the small win game, it is possible to increase the interest.

(3) When controlled to the fourth time-saving state, the presentation mode of the presentation display device 12 suggests or notifies that a small win will be awarded before the fourth time-saving state ends. On the other hand, when controlled to the third time-saving state, the presentation mode of the presentation display device 12 does not suggest or notify that a small win will be awarded before the third time-saving state ends. Therefore, according to this embodiment, it is possible to make the player understand that the fourth time-saving state is a more advantageous state for the player than the third time-saving state. And, in particular, when controlled to the fourth time-saving state, it is possible to give the player a sense of security that a small win will be awarded before the fourth time-saving state ends, and to create a sense of expectation about the type of small win that will be awarded, thereby improving interest.

(4) The gaming machine 10 is configured so that when the gaming ball passes through the specific area 29 during a small win game, it is more advantageous for the player than when the gaming ball does not pass through the specific area 29 during a small win game. In the gaming machine 10 configured in this manner, when the fourth small win game or the fifth small win game is awarded when controlled to the second time-saving state, it can be controlled to the fourth time-saving state, which is more advantageous for the player than when the fourth small win game or the fifth small win game is awarded. On the other hand, when the sixth small win game is awarded when controlled to the second time-saving state, it is not controlled to the fourth time-saving state. As a result, according to this embodiment, when controlled to the second time-saving state, it is possible to understand that it is necessary to award the fourth small win game or the fifth small win game in order to control to the fourth time-saving state. The fourth time-saving state is more advantageous to the player than the second time-saving state, so when the game is controlled to the second time-saving state, the player can have a sense of anticipation about receiving the fourth or fifth small win. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the player can have an expectation about the type of small win that will be received in the second time-saving state, which can increase the player's interest.

(5) In the second time-saving state and the fourth time-saving state, the game ball is more likely to enter the second starting hole 15 than in the normal state, so the small win lottery is more likely to be executed, and it can be said to be an advantageous state for the player. In the normal state, the second time-saving state, and the fourth time-saving state, the probability that the result of the small win lottery and the small win pattern lottery will be the small win pattern Za to Zc is the same. Here, the second time-saving state and the fourth time-saving state each have a set upper limit number of times that the second special game can be executed. Since the upper limit number of times that the second special game can be executed in the fourth time-saving state is greater than the upper limit number of times that the second special game can be executed in the second time-saving state, the probability of winning the small win pattern Za to Zc in the fourth time-saving state is higher. Therefore, according to this embodiment, when controlled to the second time-saving state, the fourth small win game or the fifth small win game is awarded, and the player's expectation can be increased for being controlled to the fourth time-saving state. In this way, according to this embodiment, while the probability of winning the small win patterns Za to Zc as a result of the small win lottery and the small win pattern lottery is the same, the upper limit of the number of times the second special game can be played, which can be controlled according to the game state, is varied, thereby changing the player's sense of expectation. In addition, it is possible to increase interest by creating a sense of expectation about the award of a small win game and the change in the game state due to the award of a small win game.

(6) When controlled to the fourth time-saving state, the presentation mode of the presentation display device 12 suggests or notifies that a small win will be awarded before the end of the fourth time-saving state. On the other hand, when controlled to the second time-saving state, the presentation mode of the presentation display device 12 does not suggest or notify that a small win will be awarded before the end of the second time-saving state. Therefore, according to this embodiment, it is possible to make the player understand that the fourth time-saving state is a more advantageous state for the player than the second time-saving state. And, in particular, when controlled to the fourth time-saving state, it is possible to give the player a sense of security that a small win will be awarded before the end of the fourth time-saving state, and to create a sense of expectation about the type of small win that will be awarded, thereby improving interest.

(7) According to this embodiment, as a condition for controlling the first or second time-saving state to the normal state, there is a predetermined condition that can be established when the number of times that the small winning symbols Za to Zc are derived in the special game executed in the controlled game state becomes multiple times. If the specific area 29 is passed during any of the fourth to sixth small winning games that are awarded when the game is controlled to the first or second time-saving state, the game state is controlled to a different game state from the controlled game state. In the gaming machine 10 having such a configuration, for example, when any of the fourth to sixth small winning games are awarded when the game is controlled to the first or second time-saving state, it is possible to prevent the game ball from entering the first large winning hole 18, thereby preventing the game state from being controlled to a different game state from the controlled game state. If such an action is taken, the original playability of the gaming machine will be impaired. Meanwhile, in the gaming machine 10, if the gaming ball does not pass through the specific area 29 during any of the fourth to sixth small win games, the gaming machine 10 is controlled to the normal state. This makes it possible to prevent actions that prevent the gaming ball from entering the first large prize opening 18 from being performed when any of the fourth to sixth small win games is awarded while the gaming machine is controlled to the first or second time-saving state. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the gaming machine can be enjoyed without compromising its inherent playability, and interest can be increased.

(8) According to this embodiment, as a condition for controlling the fourth time-saving state to the normal state, there is a special condition that is established when the number of times that the small winning symbols Za to Zc are drawn in the special game executed when controlled to the fourth time-saving state becomes 1. In other words, in the fourth time-saving state, the game ends when the small winning symbols Za to Zc are drawn once, so it is easy to imagine that it would be disadvantageous for the player if an action was taken to prevent the game ball from entering the first large winning hole 18 in the fourth small winning game to the sixth small winning game that were awarded when controlled to the fourth time-saving state. As a result, according to this embodiment, it is possible to suppress the action of preventing the game ball from entering the first large winning hole 18 in the fourth small winning game to the sixth small winning game. Therefore, according to this embodiment, it is possible to enjoy the game without compromising the original playability of the game machine, and to improve the interest.

(9) According to this embodiment, during the sixth small win game that is awarded after the small win pattern Zc is derived, the game ball is prevented from entering the first large winning hole 18, while during the fourth small win game or the fifth small win game that is awarded after the small win pattern Za or the small win pattern Zb is derived, the game ball is allowed to enter the first large winning hole 18. In other words, in the gaming machine 10, an action is considered to be performed to control the gaming machine to the fourth time-saving state that is more advantageous than the normal state while preventing the gaming machine 10 from being controlled to the disadvantageous normal state. If such an action is performed, the original playability of the gaming machine will be impaired. Meanwhile, in the gaming machine 10, if the gaming ball does not pass through the specific area 29 during the fourth small win game to the sixth small win game, the gaming machine 10 is controlled to the normal state. As a result, when the fourth to sixth small win games are awarded while the machine is controlled to the first or second time-saving state, it is possible to prevent actions from being taken to prevent the game ball from entering the first large winning hole 18. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the machine can be enjoyed without compromising its original playability, and interest can be increased.

The above embodiment can be modified as follows: The above embodiment and the following modifications can be combined with each other to the extent that no technical contradiction occurs.
If the game ball does not pass through the specific area 29 during the small win game, the game state may be controlled to the state before the small win game is awarded after the small win game ends. In other words, if the game ball does not pass through the specific area 29 during the small win game, the game state may be controlled not to change from the state during the small win game after the small win game ends.

- If the ball entry state during the fourth small win game is a ball entry rate improvement state, the main CPU 41a may control the state to the third time-saving state when the fourth big win game ends. If the ball entry state during the fourth small win game is a ball entry rate improvement state, the main CPU 41a may control the state to the normal state when the fourth big win game ends.

- If the ball entry state during the fifth small win game is a ball entry rate improvement state, the main CPU 41a may control the state to the third time-saving state when the fifth big win game ends. If the ball entry state during the fifth small win game is a ball entry rate improvement state, the main CPU 41a may control the state to the normal state when the fifth big win game ends.

- If the ball entry state during the sixth small win game is a ball entry rate improvement state, the main CPU 41a may control the game to the third time-saving state when the sixth big win game is ended. If the ball entry state during the sixth small win game is a ball entry rate improvement state, the main CPU 41a may control the game to the fourth time-saving state when the sixth big win game is ended.

- If the ball-entering state during the sixth small hit game is the ball-entering rate improvement state, the main CPU 41a may control the sixth big hit game to the first time-saving state when the sixth big hit game is ended. If the ball-entering state during the sixth small hit game is the ball-entering rate improvement state, the main CPU 41a may control the sixth big hit game to the second time-saving state when the sixth big hit game is ended. If the ball-entering state during the sixth small hit game is the ball-entering rate improvement state, the main CPU 41a may control the sixth big hit game to the third time-saving state when the sixth big hit game is ended. If the ball-entering state during the sixth small hit game is the ball-entering rate improvement state, the main CPU 41a may not control the sixth big hit game to the fourth time-saving state when the sixth big hit game is ended. If the sixth small hit game is awarded when controlled to the first time-saving state, it is preferable not to control to the fourth time-saving state. If the sixth small win is awarded while the machine is in the second time-saving state, the machine should not be controlled to the fourth time-saving state.

- Instead of the small win lottery and the small win pattern lottery, a special pattern lottery may be held. In the special pattern lottery, the special pattern to be derived in the special game may be determined by lottery. As an example, in the special pattern lottery that determines the first special pattern to be derived in the first special game, any of the small win patterns ZA to ZC and the losing pattern may be determined by lottery. As an example, in the special pattern lottery that determines the second special pattern to be derived in the second special game, any of the small win patterns Za to Zc and the losing pattern may be determined by lottery. In this case, the special pattern lottery is an example of a predetermined lottery.

- When the first time-saving count after update becomes 0 and a losing symbol is derived, the main CPU 41a may control to the non-winning rate improved state. When the first time-saving count after update becomes 0 and a small winning symbol is derived, the main CPU 41a may control to the winning rate improved state until the small winning game ends. In this case, the main CPU 41a may control to the non-winning rate improved state when the small winning game ends.

- When the second time-saving count after update becomes 0 and a losing symbol is derived, the main CPU 41a may control to the non-winning rate improved state. When the second time-saving count after update becomes 0 and a small winning symbol is derived, the main CPU 41a may control to the winning rate improved state until the small winning game ends. In this case, the main CPU 41a may control to the non-winning rate improved state when the small winning game ends.

・The first upper limit number is not limited to 10 times. The first upper limit number may be 11 times or more, and may be 9 times or less. It is preferable that the first upper limit number is a number greater than the upper limit number of the first special reserved number. The second upper limit number is not limited to 10,000 times. The second upper limit number may be 9,999 times or less, and may be 10,001 times or more. The second upper limit number is preferably a number such that, when controlled to the first time-saving state and the fourth time-saving state, there is no case where the player is controlled to the normal state without winning a small win in the second small win lottery. The third upper limit number is not limited to 10 times. The third upper limit number may be 9 times or less, or 11 times or more, as long as it is 2 times or more. The fourth upper limit number is not limited to 10 times. The fourth upper limit number may be 9 times or less, or 11 times or more, as long as it is 2 times or more. The fifth upper limit number is not limited to 50 times. The fifth upper limit number may be 49 times or less. The fifth upper limit number may be 51 times or more, as long as it is less than the second upper limit number. The fifth upper limit number may be more than the sixth upper limit number. The fifth upper limit number may be a number of times that may cause the device to be controlled to the normal state without winning a small win in the second small win lottery when controlled to the second time-saving state. The sixth upper limit number is not limited to 70 times. The sixth upper limit number may be 69 times or less. The sixth upper limit number may be 71 times or more, as long as it is less than the second upper limit number. The sixth upper limit number may be less than the fifth upper limit number. The sixth upper limit number may be a number of times that may cause the device to be controlled to the normal state without winning a small win in the second small win lottery when controlled to the third time-saving state. The seventh upper limit number may be 1 time, regardless of the first upper limit number to the sixth upper limit number.

The probability of winning a small win in the first small win lottery is not limited to 1/319. The probability of winning a small win in the second small win lottery may be less than 1/319 or may be higher than 1/319. The probability of winning a small win in the first small win lottery may be lower than the probability of winning a small win in the second small win lottery. The probability of winning a small win in the second small win lottery is not limited to 1/50. The probability of winning a small win in the second small win lottery may be less than 1/50 or may be higher than 1/50. The probability of winning a small win in the second small win lottery may be higher than the probability of winning a small win in the first small win lottery.

- The eighth condition of the first time-saving state may be established when the number of times the small winning pattern Zc is derived in the second special game after being controlled to the first time-saving state reaches a number different from the fourth upper limit number. The number different from the fourth upper limit number may be two or more. The eighth condition of the second time-saving state may be established when the number of times the small winning pattern Zc is derived in the second special game after being controlled to the second time-saving state reaches a number different from the fourth upper limit number. The number different from the fourth upper limit number may be two or more. In this case, the fourth upper limit number is an example of the first number of times. The number different from the fourth upper limit number is an example of the second number of times. The first number of times and the second number of times are different numbers.

- The sub-CPU 50a may be configured to execute a preview effect in relation to the performance game. When the sub-CPU 50a is configured to execute a preview effect, it controls the effect display device 12 to execute the preview effect. The preview effect is an effect that suggests or notifies the player of the likelihood that the special game being executed will result in a small win (small win expectation likelihood). The sub-CPU 50a may control the preview effect to be executed in the normal performance mode, the second chance performance mode, and the fourth chance performance mode. On the other hand, the sub-CPU 50a may control the preview effect not to be executed in the first chance performance mode, the third chance performance mode, and the fifth chance performance mode.

- The gaming machine 10 may have different rules for presentation (hereinafter referred to as presentation rules) depending on the presentation mode set. The presentation rules can also be said to be rules for presentation. Each presentation mode may have its own presentation rules set in advance. As an example, the presentation rules may include rules regarding the color of the image displayed in various presentations. For example, in the normal presentation mode, the second chance presentation mode, and the fourth chance presentation mode, when a presentation using a predetermined color (for example, red) is executed, it is determined that a super reach presentation is executed, but it may be determined that a small win game is awarded and that a small win game is not awarded. For example, in the first chance presentation mode, the third chance presentation mode, and the fifth chance presentation mode, it may be determined that a small win game is awarded when a presentation using the predetermined color is executed. For example, in the first chance presentation mode, the third chance presentation mode, and the fifth chance presentation mode, a presentation using the predetermined color may not be executed. In other words, in the first chance presentation mode, the third chance presentation mode, and the fifth chance presentation mode, there may be no rules regarding the colors of the images displayed in the various presentations.

As an example, the presentation rule may include a rule regarding the type of symbol combination derived in the presentation game. For example, in the first chance presentation mode, the second chance presentation mode, and the fourth chance presentation mode, when a predetermined symbol combination (for example, "777") is derived, it may be determined that the fourth time-saving state is entered via a small win game and a big win game. In this case, in the third chance presentation mode and the fifth chance presentation mode, the fourth time-saving state is not entered via a small win game and a big win game, so the predetermined symbol combination may not be derived. In other words, a presentation rule may be predefined that a symbol combination different from the predetermined symbol combination is always derived in the third chance presentation mode and the fifth chance presentation mode. In this way, in the gaming machine 10, different presentation rules may be predefined for the second chance presentation mode and the fourth chance presentation mode and for the third chance presentation mode and the fifth chance presentation mode.

- When the small win round play starts, the distribution member 28 may operate in a first state in which it distributes the game ball that has entered the first large winning opening 18 to the first passage 26a, and then maintain the first state until the small win round play ends. The distribution member 28 may operate in a second state in which it distributes the game ball that has entered the first large winning opening 18 to the second passage 26b when the small win round play ends.

The gaming machine 10 may be configured to allow game balls to enter the first large prize opening 18 during a jackpot round. A single jackpot round may end when a predetermined upper limit number of game balls (10 balls, for example) enter the first large prize opening 18 or when a predetermined upper limit time (25 seconds, for example) has elapsed. In this case, the gaming machine 10 may not have the second large prize opening 20, the second special movable piece 21, and the second count sensor SE4. The distribution member 28 may operate to a second state in which the game balls that have entered the first large prize opening 18 are distributed to the second passage 26b during a jackpot round, and then maintain the second state until a small prize is awarded.

- When the main CPU 41a receives a detection signal from the specific passing sensor SE5 during the period from the end of the small win game until a predetermined time (10 ms, for example) has elapsed, the main CPU 41a may store the specific passing information in the main RAM 41c. Then, when the predetermined time has elapsed after the end of the small win game, the main CPU 41a may determine whether the specific passing information has been stored in the main RAM 41c, and award a big win game based on the determination.

The small win pattern determination value used in the small win pattern lottery may be made to differ depending on the game state.
The first special game and the second special game may be executed in the order in which they are reserved, or may be executed simultaneously in parallel.

- The pachinko gaming machine of the above embodiment may be applied to a pachinko gaming machine that has a jackpot lottery in addition to a small jackpot lottery. Generally, if a jackpot is won in the jackpot lottery, the jackpot game is awarded after the special game ends. Then, when the jackpot game ends, the game state is controlled to be different from the normal state. As an example, the game state different from the normal state is any one of the first time-saving state to the fourth time-saving state.

・As pachinko gaming machines that can be controlled to a high probability state (so-called probability fluctuating state), there are specifications that control the high probability state until the fall lottery is won (falling machine), and specifications that continue the high probability state until the next jackpot game is awarded. In addition, pachinko gaming machines that can be controlled to a high probability state include specifications that control the high probability state when the game ball passes through a specific area (V-type probability change machine). The pachinko gaming machine of the above embodiment may be embodied as a pachinko gaming machine of any of these specifications. The pachinko gaming machine may be a pachinko gaming machine of a specification that combines the above-mentioned falling machine and V-type probability change machine. In addition, the pachinko gaming machine of the above embodiment may be embodied as a gaming machine that awards a jackpot game based on winning a jackpot in a jackpot lottery and a jackpot game based on the game ball passing through a specific area (so-called type 1/type 2 mixed machine).

The above embodiment may be embodied in a pachinko gaming machine in which a virtual medium composed of electronic data is dispensed when gaming balls are dispensed. In other words, the above embodiment may be embodied in a pachinko gaming machine in which physical gaming media are not dispensed (a so-called managed gaming machine). Such a pachinko gaming machine is configured to convert gaming balls into launchable gaming balls by using the virtual medium, and to be able to launch the gaming balls.

- The functions of the main control board 40 may be realized by being divided among multiple boards. The main control board 40 may be composed of multiple CPUs mounted on a single board. The functions of the sub-control board 50 may be realized by being divided among multiple boards. For example, a pachinko gaming machine may be equipped with a display board that specializes in controlling the performance display device 12, a lamp board that specializes in controlling the decorative lamps LA, and an audio board that specializes in controlling the speaker SP, and may further be equipped with a master board that comprehensively controls these boards. The sub-CPU 50a may also be composed of multiple CPUs mounted on a single board.

The technical ideas that can be understood from each embodiment and modification will be described.
(Note 1) A gaming machine in which a special winning game is awarded when a specific result is obtained as a result of a predetermined lottery, the gaming machine is provided with a special winning port into which a gaming ball can enter when the special winning game is awarded, a special detection means capable of detecting that a gaming ball that has entered the special winning port has passed through a specific area, and a gaming state control means for controlling a gaming state, and when the gaming ball passes through the special area during the special winning game, it is more advantageous for the player than when the gaming ball does not pass through the special area during the special winning game, and the special results include a first special result and a second special result, and when the result of the predetermined lottery is obtained, the special winning game is awarded. A gaming machine comprising a first specific winning game which is awarded when the first specific result is achieved, and a second specific winning game which is awarded when the result of the predetermined lottery is the second specific result, the gaming states being a first specific state and a second specific state, the second specific state being a state which is more advantageous to the player than the first specific state, and the gaming machine being capable of being controlled to the second specific state when the first specific winning game is awarded while being controlled to the first specific state, and the gaming machine being capable of being controlled to the first specific state when the second specific winning game is awarded while being controlled to the first specific state.

(Appendix 2) A gaming machine described in (Appendix 1) that is provided with a specific start port into which a gaming ball can enter, and that the predetermined lottery and the variable game are executed based on the entry of a gaming ball into the specific start port, and that the first specific state and the second specific state are states in which a gaming ball is more likely to enter the specific start port than in a normal state, and that the normal state, the first specific state, and the second specific state have the same probability that the result of the predetermined lottery executed based on the entry of a gaming ball into the specific start port will be the specific result, and that the first specific state is controllable up to a first specific upper limit number of executions of the variable game after being controlled to the first specific state, and that the second specific state is controllable up to a second specific upper limit number of executions of the variable game after being controlled to the second specific state, and that the second specific upper limit number of executions is greater than the first specific upper limit number.

(Appendix 3) A gaming machine comprising a mode control means capable of controlling the setting of a presentation mode and a presentation control means for controlling a presentation execution means, the presentation modes being a first specific presentation mode and a second specific presentation mode, the mode control means being capable of controlling the setting of the first specific presentation mode when controlled to the first specific state, and being capable of controlling the setting of the second specific presentation mode when controlled to the second specific state, the presentation mode of the presentation execution means suggesting or informing the player that the specific winning game will be awarded before the number of times the variable game has been executed since being controlled to the second specific state reaches the second specific upper limit number when the second specific presentation mode is set, and the presentation mode of the presentation execution means not suggesting or informing the player that the specific winning game will be awarded before the number of times the variable game has been executed since being controlled to the first specific state reaches the first specific upper limit number when the first specific presentation mode is set (Appendix 2).

(Appendix 4) A gaming machine in which a special winning game is awarded when a predetermined lottery result is a special result, the gaming machine is provided with a specific winning port into which a gaming ball can enter when the special winning game is awarded, specific detection means capable of detecting that a gaming ball that has entered the specific winning port has passed through a specific area, and gaming state control means for controlling a gaming state, and when a gaming ball passes through the specific area during the special winning game, it is more advantageous for the player than when the gaming ball does not pass through the specific area during the special winning game, and the special results include a first special result and a second special result, and the special winning game includes a first special winning game that is awarded when the result of the predetermined lottery is the first special result. A gaming machine having a game and a second special winning game that is awarded when the result of the predetermined lottery is the second special result, the game state includes a normal state, a first special state, and a second special state, the first special state is a state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal state, the second special state is a state that is more advantageous to the player than the first special state, and when the first special winning game is awarded while controlled to the first special state, the machine can be controlled to the second special state, but when the second special winning game is awarded while controlled to the first special state, the machine is not controlled to the second special state.

(Appendix 5) A gaming machine described in (Appendix 4) that is provided with a specific start port into which a gaming ball can enter, and that the predetermined lottery and the variable game are executed based on the entry of a gaming ball into the specific start port, and that the first special state and the second special state are states in which a gaming ball is more likely to enter the specific start port than the normal state, and that the normal state, the first special state, and the second special state have the same probability of the result of the predetermined lottery executed based on the entry of a gaming ball into the specific start port being the special result, and that the first special state is controllable up to the number of times the variable game is executed after being controlled to the first special state until it reaches a first special upper limit number, and that the second special state is controllable up to the number of times the variable game is executed after being controlled to the second special state until it reaches a second special upper limit number, and that the second special upper limit number is greater than the first special upper limit number.

(Appendix 6) A gaming machine comprising a mode control means capable of controlling the setting of a presentation mode and a presentation control means for controlling a presentation execution means, the presentation modes being a first special presentation mode and a second special presentation mode, the mode control means being capable of controlling the setting of the first special presentation mode when controlled to the first special state, and being capable of controlling the setting of the second special presentation mode when controlled to the second special state, the presentation mode of the presentation execution means suggesting or informing the player that the special winning game will be awarded before the number of times the variable game has been executed since being controlled to the second special state reaches the second special upper limit number when the second special presentation mode is set, and the presentation mode of the presentation execution means not suggesting or informing the player that the special winning game will be awarded before the number of times the variable game has been executed since being controlled to the first special state reaches the first special upper limit number when the first special presentation mode is set (Appendix 5).

(Appendix 7) In a gaming machine capable of executing a variable game and in which a special winning game is awarded after a special winning result is derived in the variable game, the gaming machine is equipped with a specific winning port into which a gaming ball can enter when the special winning game is awarded, a specific detection means capable of detecting that a gaming ball that has entered the specific winning port has passed through a specific area, and a gaming state control means for controlling the gaming state, the gaming state includes a plurality of gaming states including a normal state and a predetermined state, the predetermined state being a state that is more advantageous to a player than the normal state, and the condition for controlling the predetermined state to the normal state includes the fact that the special winning result is derived in a variable game executed when controlled to the predetermined state. A gaming machine characterized in that there is a predetermined condition that can be established when the number of times the special hit is reached is multiple times, and if the special hit result is derived in a variable game executed while controlled to the predetermined state, and the gaming machine is controlled to a gaming state different from the predetermined state if the gaming ball passes through the specific area during the special hit game that is awarded after the special hit result is derived, and even if the number of times the special hit result is derived in a variable game executed while controlled to the predetermined state is 1 and the predetermined condition is not established, if the gaming ball does not pass through the specific area during the special hit game that is awarded after the special hit result is derived, the gaming machine is controlled to the normal state.

(Appendix 8) The gaming state includes a special state, which is a state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal state, and the condition for controlling the special state to the normal state includes a special condition that is established when the number of times the special winning result has been derived in a variable game executed while controlled to the special state becomes 1 (Appendix 7).

(Note 9) The special winning results include a first special winning result and a second special winning result, and the predetermined condition is met when the number of times the first special winning result is derived in the variable game executed when controlled to the predetermined state becomes a first number, which is a plurality of times, and is met when the number of times the second special winning result is derived in the variable game executed when controlled to the predetermined state becomes a second number, which is a plurality of times, and the game state includes a special state, which is a state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal state, and the predetermined condition ... A gaming machine described in (Appendix 7) or (Appendix 8) in which, when the first special winning result is derived in a variable game executed while being controlled to a fixed state, and the gaming ball passes through the specific area during the special winning game that is awarded after the first special winning result is derived, the gaming machine is controlled to the special state, and, when the second special winning result is derived in a variable game executed while being controlled to the specified state, and the gaming ball passes through the specific area during the special winning game that is awarded after the second special winning result is derived, the gaming machine is controlled to the normal state.

10... Game machine 12... Performance display device 13b... Second special symbol display section 15... Second start hole 16... Normal movable piece 18... First big prize hole 19... First special movable piece 29... Specific area 40... Main control board 41a... Main CPU 50... Sub control board 50a... Sub CPU GH... Image display section LA... Decorative lamp SE5... Specific passage sensor SP... Speaker

Claims (3)

In a gaming machine in which a special prize is awarded when a predetermined lottery result is a special result,
A specific winning hole into which a game ball can enter when the special winning game is awarded;
A specific detection means capable of detecting that a gaming ball that has entered the specific winning hole has passed through a specific area;
A game state control means for controlling a game state,
When the game ball passes through the specific area during the special winning game, it is more advantageous for the player than when the game ball does not pass through the specific area during the special winning game,
The special results include a first special result and a second special result,
The special winning game includes a first special winning game that is awarded when the result of the predetermined lottery is the first special result, and a second special winning game that is awarded when the result of the predetermined lottery is the second special result,
The game state includes a normal state, a first special state, and a second special state.
the first special state is a state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal state,
the second special state is a state that is more advantageous to the player than the first special state;
A gaming machine characterized in that, when controlled in the first special state, if the first special winning game is awarded, the gaming machine can be controlled to the second special state, while, when controlled in the first special state, if the second special winning game is awarded, the gaming machine is not controlled to the second special state. A specific starting hole into which a game ball can enter is provided,
Based on the fact that the game ball has entered the specific starting hole, the predetermined lottery and the variable game are executed,
The first special state and the second special state are states in which a game ball is more likely to enter the specific starting hole than in the normal state,
In the normal state, the first special state, and the second special state, the probability that the result of the predetermined lottery executed based on the entry of a gaming ball into the specific starting hole will be the special result is the same;
The first special state can be controlled so that the number of times the variable game is executed after being controlled to the first special state reaches a first special upper limit number of times,
The second special state can be controlled so that the number of times the variable game is executed after being controlled to the second special state reaches a second special upper limit number of times,
The gaming machine according to claim 1 , wherein the second special upper limit number is greater than the first special upper limit number. A mode control means capable of controlling to set a performance mode;
A performance control means for controlling the performance execution means,
The presentation modes include a first special presentation mode and a second special presentation mode,
The mode control means is capable of controlling to set the first special presentation mode when controlled to the first special state, and is capable of controlling to set the second special presentation mode when controlled to the second special state,
When the second special effect mode is set, the effect execution means suggests or notifies that the special winning game will be awarded before the number of times the variable game is executed after being controlled to the second special state reaches the second special upper limit number of times,
A gaming machine as described in claim 2, wherein, when the first special presentation mode is set, the presentation mode of the presentation execution means does not suggest or notify that the special winning game will be awarded before the number of times the variable game has been executed since being controlled to the first special state reaches the first special upper limit number of times.

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