JP2024077391A - Gaming Machines - Google Patents

Abstract

[Problem] To provide a gaming machine that can increase interest in gaming through its presentation.
[Solution] The pachinko game machine PY1 can execute an icon change effect and a chance character effect. The icon change effect includes a diamond pattern and a star pattern that has a higher expectation of a jackpot game state than the diamond pattern. The chance character effect includes a black character pattern and a white character pattern that has a higher expectation of a jackpot game state than the black character pattern. The effect control microcomputer 121 can also execute a pre-zone effect and a continuous zone effect. The continuous zone effect is a zone effect executed within a period during which a specific pattern is changing. The pre-zone effect is a zone effect executed within a period spanning multiple pattern changes.
[Selection] Figure 30

Description

The present invention relates to gaming machines such as pachinko machines.

Conventionally, gaming machines have been configured to be able to execute multiple preview effects that can take different forms depending on the likelihood of an advantageous state. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses that the reserved icon displayed in the reserved effect can take different forms depending on the likelihood of an advantageous state, and that a predetermined reach effect can be performed in different forms depending on the likelihood of an advantageous state.

JP 2020-081695 A

However, as mentioned above, in gaming machines that can execute multiple preview effects that can take multiple different forms with a high expectation of achieving an advantageous state, there is room for improvement to make the game more entertaining.

The present invention was made in consideration of the above circumstances. In other words, the objective of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can increase the interest of players through its presentation.

The gaming machine according to the present invention comprises:
As a preview performance that can take a plurality of forms with different expected degrees of advantageous state, a plurality of types of preview performance including a first preview performance and a second preview performance can be executed;
The first preview performance and the second preview performance are characterized in that there are a first case where they are performed during a first period and a second case where they are performed over a second period longer than the first period.

The present invention provides a gaming machine that can increase the interest of players through its presentation.

FIG. FIG. A front view showing the second large prize device and other details. FIG. (A) is a front view of the performance unit when the above-board movable device and the below-board movable device are in standby state, and (B) is a front view of the performance unit when the above-board movable device and the below-board movable device are in operation. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the main control board. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the sub-control board. (A) is a table showing random numbers related to the general map, and (B) is a table showing random numbers related to the special map. (A) is an example of a hit determination table, (B) is an example of a normal game fluctuation pattern determination table, and (C) is an example of an auxiliary game control table. (A) is an example of a jackpot determination table, (B) is an example of a jackpot pattern type determination table, and (C) is an example of a reach determination table. This is an example of a special chart 1 fluctuation pattern determination table. This is an example of a special chart 2 fluctuation pattern determination table. 13 is an example of a look-ahead determination table. 13 is an example of a jackpot game control table. FIG. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing specific examples of presentation modes. An explanatory diagram showing a specific example of normal fluctuations in the special chart fluctuation performance. This is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of N reach in the special chart change performance. This is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of an SP reach in a special chart change performance. An explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a hold effect. An explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a movable object performance. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of an operation presentation. 13 is a flowchart of a main control process. 13 is a flowchart of a main-side timer interrupt process. 13 is a flowchart of a sub-control main process. 13 is a flowchart of a 1 ms timer interrupt process. 13 is a flowchart of a 10 ms timer interrupt process. This is a special chart 1 variation pattern X judgment table related to the first embodiment. 1 is a read-ahead X determination table according to the first embodiment. This is a pre-reading performance execution selection table according to the first embodiment. This is a pre-zone performance selection table. This is a continuous zone performance selection table. 13 is a time chart showing examples of pre-zone effects and consecutive zone effects. 13 is a diagram illustrating specific aspects of the icon change effect and chance character effect. FIG. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing how a pre-zone performance is carried out. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing how a pre-zone performance is carried out. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing how a continuous zone effect is performed. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing how a continuous zone effect is performed.

Below, an embodiment of the gaming machine of the present invention will be specifically described with reference to the drawings. In each of the drawings referred to, the same parts are given the same reference numerals, and duplicated explanations of the same parts will be omitted as a general rule. In this specification, for the sake of simplicity, a symbol or code referring to information, signal, physical quantity, member, etc. may be written, and the name of the information, signal, physical quantity, member, etc. corresponding to the symbol or code may be omitted or abbreviated. In addition, in any of the flowcharts described below, the execution order of multiple processes in any of the steps can be arbitrarily changed or executed in parallel, as long as no inconsistency occurs in the process content.

<Basic embodiment>
The gaming machine of the present invention will be described in the first embodiment and thereafter, but first, a basic embodiment that is the basis for the first embodiment and thereafter will be described. In the basic embodiment, a pachinko gaming machine PY1 will be specifically described.

1. Structure of the gaming machine The pachinko gaming machine PY1 of this embodiment will be described. First, the structure of the pachinko gaming machine PY1 will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 5. In the following description, the left, right, up and down directions of each part of the pachinko gaming machine PY1 refer to the left, right, up and down directions (as viewed from the front) of a player facing the pachinko gaming machine PY1. In addition, "forward" refers to the direction approaching the player facing the pachinko gaming machine PY1 from the pachinko gaming machine PY1, and "rearward" refers to the direction approaching the pachinko gaming machine PY1 from the player facing the pachinko gaming machine PY1.

As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko game machine PY1 has a game machine frame 2. The game machine frame 2 has a game board mounting frame 2A to which a game board unit YU (described later) is attached, and a front frame 23m that is rotatably supported on the game board mounting frame 2A via a hinge 2B. The front frame 23m can be opened and closed relative to the game board mounting frame 2A. A transparent plate 23t is attached to the front frame 23m. When the front frame 23m is closed, the game board 1 attached to the game board mounting frame 2A and the transparent plate 23t face each other. Therefore, when the pachinko game machine PY1 is installed in a game arcade, a player in front of the pachinko game machine PY1 can see the game area 6 formed on the game board 1 through the transparent plate 23t. The transparent plate 23t can be a transparent glass plate, a transparent synthetic resin plate, or the like. The transparent plate 23t needs only to allow the game area 6 to be visible from the front of the pachinko game machine PY1.

At the lower right of the front of the front frame 23m, a handle 72k is provided that can be rotated to launch the game balls. The amount by which the handle 72k is operated (rotation angle) corresponds to the magnitude (launch strength) of the force (the amount by which the launching device 72 described below drives the launch solenoid) applied to the game balls to launch them. Thus, the game balls are launched with a launch strength that corresponds to the rotation of the handle 72k. At the lower center of the front of the front frame 23m, a lower decorative body 36 that protrudes significantly forward is provided. An upper tray 34 is formed on the top surface of the lower decorative body 36 for storing the game balls supplied to the handle 72k. At the lower center of the front of the lower decorative body 36, a lower tray 35 is provided for storing surplus game balls that cannot be accommodated in the upper tray 34.

A first input device (hereinafter "normal button") 40 that can be pressed downward is provided forward of the upper plate 34 on the top surface of the lower decorative body 36. In addition, a second input device (hereinafter "special button") 41 that can be pressed downward is provided on the right decorative body 32 that is formed to protrude forward from the right edge of the surface of the front frame 23m.

A speaker 52 capable of outputting sound is provided on the bottom surface of the upper decorative body 31, which is formed by protruding forward from the top of the surface of the front frame 23m. The speaker 52 consists of a left speaker 52L located on the left side and a right speaker 52R located on the right side. Furthermore, frame lamps 53 capable of emitting light are provided on the right edge of the front frame 23m and on the left and right sides of the lower plate 35 on the front of the lower decorative body 36. Furthermore, a movable frame movable device 58 is attached to the upper side of the left and right edges of the front frame 23m as a performance device aimed at increasing interest in the game. The frame movable device 58 consists of a left frame movable device 58L located on the left side and a right frame movable device 58R located on the right side.

The positions and number of components and devices installed in the gaming machine frame 2 can be changed as appropriate as long as it does not interfere with gameplay.

Next, the game board unit YU will be described mainly with reference to Figures 2 to 5. The game board unit YU has a game board 1 and a presentation unit 1U attached to the back side of the game board 1. First, the game board 1 will be described. The game board 1 is made of a transparent synthetic resin plate. An opening 1A that is roughly circular when viewed from the front is formed in roughly the center of the game board 1. A roughly ring-shaped inner wall portion 1B is formed to protrude forward along the opening 1A for partitioning a game area 6 into which game balls can flow. In addition, a roughly ring-shaped outer wall portion 1C is formed to protrude forward on the outside of the inner wall portion 1B for partitioning the game area 6.

A play area 6 surrounded by an inner wall portion 1B, an outer wall portion 1C, etc. is formed on the front side of the play board 1. In other words, the front side of the play board 1 is divided by the inner wall portion 1B and the outer wall portion 1C into the play area 6 and the rest of the area.

The play area 6 is an area where game balls released by operating the handle 72k can flow down, and is provided for playing on the pachinko game machine PY1. Note that a large number of game nails (not shown) are protruding from the play area 6. The game nails form a path that appropriately guides game balls that enter the play area 6 and flow down the play area 6 to the first start opening 11, the second start opening 12, the general winning opening 10, the gate 13, the first large winning opening 14, and the second large winning opening 15, which will be described later. Note that the start openings such as the first start opening 11 and the second start opening 12 are referred to as ball entry openings, the large winning openings such as the first large winning opening 14 and the second large winning opening 15 are referred to as special winning openings or specific winning openings, and the gate 13 can be referred to as a passing opening or a passing area.

A center frame (center ornament) 61 that decorates the periphery of the opening 1A is provided near the center of the game area 6. The center frame 61 is provided with a stage that can guide the game ball to the first starting hole 11 (described below), and a warp that can guide the game ball to the stage.

In addition, the game area 6 is provided with a first start winning device 11D having a first start hole 11 through which the game ball can enter, and a second start winning device (a so-called "electric chute") 12D that allows or prevents the ball from entering the second start hole 12.

The first start winning device 11D is stationary. Therefore, the ease with which the game ball can enter the first start hole 11 remains constant (unchanging). The entry of a game ball into the first start hole 11 triggers the drawing of a lottery for a first special symbol (hereinafter referred to as "Special Symbol 1") (obtaining and determining a random number related to Special Symbol 1, described below; hereinafter also referred to as "Special Symbol 1 drawing") and the variable display of Special Symbol 1. In addition, when a game ball enters the first start hole 11, a predetermined number of game balls (four in this embodiment) are paid out as prize balls.

The electric chute 12D is equipped with an operable electric chute opening/closing member 12k. The electric chute opening/closing member 12k is usually (in a normal state) in a closed position that prevents the game ball from entering the second starting hole 12. Then, when a special state is entered, it moves to an open position that allows the game ball to enter the second starting hole 12. In this way, the movement of the electric chute opening/closing member 12k to the open position is also called the "open state" of the second starting hole 12 or the electric chute 12D, and the game ball can enter the second starting hole 12 only when it is in the open state. On the other hand, the electric chute opening/closing member 12k in the closed position is also called the "closed state" of the second starting hole 12 or the electric chute 12D. In addition, the second starting hole 12 or the electric chute 12D being in the "open state" is also called "the electric chute 12D is open," and the electric chute 12D being in the "closed state" is also called "the electric chute 12D is closed."

The entry of a game ball into the second starting hole 12 triggers the drawing of a lottery for a second special symbol (hereinafter referred to as "Special Symbol 2") (obtaining and determining a Special Symbol 2 related random number described below: hereinafter also referred to as "Special Symbol 2 drawing") and the variable display of Special Symbol 2. In addition, when a game ball enters the second starting hole 12, a predetermined number of game balls (four in this embodiment) are paid out as prize balls. In addition, a guide stage 12g that guides the game ball to the second starting hole 12 is provided in the game area 6.

The game area 6 is also provided with a general winning opening (normal winning opening) 10 through which game balls can enter. When a game ball enters the general winning opening 10, a predetermined number of game balls (three in this embodiment) are paid out as prize balls.

The game area 6 is also provided with a gate 13 through which the game ball can pass. The passage of the game ball through the gate 13 triggers the drawing of a regular symbol (hereinafter referred to as a "regular symbol") (i.e., obtaining and determining a regular symbol random number: hereinafter referred to as a "regular symbol drawing") and the variable display of the regular symbol. The electric chute 12D is opened by the execution of the auxiliary game. In other words, the auxiliary game is a game that involves the opening of the electric chute 12D.

In addition, the game area 6 is provided with a first large prize winning device 14D (hereinafter also referred to as "normal AT 14D") in which a first large prize winning opening 14 through which a game ball can enter is formed. The first large prize winning device 14D is equipped with a normal AT opening and closing member 14k that can be operated in an open state and a closed state. The first large prize winning opening 14 is opened and closed by the operation of the normal AT opening and closing member 14k. The normal AT opening and closing member 14k is normally in a closed state that blocks the first large prize winning opening 14, and it is impossible for a game ball to enter the first large prize winning opening 14. When the normal AT opening and closing member 14k operates in an open state, it becomes possible for a game ball to enter the first large prize winning opening 14. In this way, the game ball can enter the first large prize winning opening 14 only when the normal AT opening and closing member 14k is in an open state. When a game ball enters the first large prize winning opening 14, a predetermined number of game balls (15 in this embodiment) are paid out as prize balls.

The game area 6 is also provided with a second large prize winning device 15D (hereinafter also referred to as "VAT 15D") in which a second large prize winning opening 15 through which a game ball can enter is formed. The second large prize winning device 15D is provided with an operable VAT opening/closing member 15k. The VAT opening/closing member 15k normally blocks the second large prize winning opening 15. The VAT opening/closing member 15k can be in an open state. A game ball can enter the second large prize winning opening 15 only when the VAT opening/closing member 15k is in an open state. On the other hand, the state in which the VAT opening/closing member 15k blocks the second large prize winning opening 15 is also referred to as a "closed state." In this way, the second large prize winning opening 15 is opened and closed by the operation of the VAT opening/closing member 15k. When a game ball enters the second large prize winning opening 15, a predetermined number of game balls (15 in this embodiment) are paid out as prize balls.

The second large prize winning device 15D will now be described in detail with reference to Figure 3. Inside the second large prize winning device 15D, a gate-shaped second large prize winning port sensor 15a is provided that can detect a game ball that has entered the second large prize winning port 15 and allow the game ball to pass downward.

In the downstream area of the second large prize opening sensor 15a, there are a specific area 16 and a non-specific area 17 through which game balls can pass (enter). Game balls that pass through the second large prize opening sensor 15a are sorted by a sorting device 16D into the specific area 16 or the non-specific area 17. The sorting device 16D is equipped with a sorting member 16k made of a substantially rectangular flat plate, and a sorting solenoid 16s that drives the sorting member 16k. The sorting member 16k is configured to be slidable left and right by the drive of the sorting solenoid 16s.

When the distribution solenoid 16s is not energized, the distribution member 16k is in a first state (passage prevention state: in a front view of FIG. 3(A), the left end of the distribution member 16k is located slightly to the right of the left end of the specific area 16, and the distribution member 16k covers the specific area 16 directly above) that prevents the game ball from passing through to the specific area 16. When the distribution member 16k is in the first state, after a game ball enters the second large prize opening 15 passes through the second large prize opening sensor 15a, it cannot pass through the specific area 16, and passes through the non-specific area 17. The route of the game ball flowing down from the second large prize opening 15 to the non-specific area 17 is called the first route.

On the other hand, when the distribution solenoid 16s is energized, the distribution member 16k is in a second state that allows the game ball to pass (enter) the specific area 16 (passage-allowing state: when viewed from the front in FIG. 3(B), the left end of the distribution member 16k is located slightly to the left of the right end of the specific area 16, the distribution member 16k does not cover the specific area 16 directly above, and the area directly above the specific area 16 is open). When the distribution member 16k is in the second state, a game ball that has entered the second large prize opening 15 can easily pass through the specific area 16 after passing through the second large prize opening sensor 15a. The route of the game ball that flows down from the second large prize opening 15 to the specific area 16 is called the second route.

In principle, the distribution member 16k is held in the first state. In other words, the first state can be said to be the normal state of the distribution member 16k. Then, only during a specified round of play (e.g., 16R), the distribution solenoid 16s is energized and the state can change to the second state. The operating mode of the distribution member 16k can be changed as appropriate.

Specific area 16 and non-specific area 17 are provided with specific area sensors 16a and non-specific area sensors 17a that detect game balls that pass through (enter) each area 16, 17 and allow the game balls to pass downward.

It is possible to provide only one of the first large prize device 14D and the second large prize device 15D, as long as it does not interfere with the game. Also, depending on the gameplay, it is possible to provide two large prize devices, such as the first large prize device 14D, that do not have a specific area or allocation device.

As shown in FIG. 2, two outlets 19 are provided at the bottom of the game area 6 to discharge game balls that have been shot into the game area 6 but have not won in any of the winning holes to the outside of the game area 6. The game board 1 is also provided with an illuminating board lamp 54.

The game area 6 through which the game balls can flow can be divided into a left game area 6A (first game area) on the left side of the center in the left-right direction, and a right game area 6B (second game area) on the right side. The operation mode of the handle 72k that launches the game ball so that it flows down the left game area 6A is called "left hit". On the other hand, the operation mode of the handle 72k that launches the game ball so that it flows down the right game area 6B is called "right hit". In the pachinko game machine PY1, the flow path through which the game ball can flow when launched by left hit is called the first flow path R1, and the flow path through which the game ball can flow when launched by right hit is called the second flow path R2. The first flow path R1 and the second flow path R2 are also composed of a large number of game nails, etc.

On the first flow path R1, there is a first start port 11 and two general winning ports 10. Therefore, a player can aim to win at the first start port 11 or the general winning port 10 by hitting the game ball from the left so that it flows down the first flow path R1. On the other hand, on the second flow path R2, there are a second start port 12, a general winning port 10, a gate 13, a first large winning port 14, and a second large winning port 15. Therefore, a player can aim to pass through the gate 13 or win at the second start port 12, the general winning port 10, the first large winning port 14, or the second large winning port 15 by hitting the game ball from the right so that it flows down the second flow path R2.

In addition, game balls that do not enter any of the winning holes (first starting hole 11, second starting hole 12, general winning hole 10, first large winning hole 14, and second large winning hole 15) are guided to the outlet hole 19 and discharged. In addition, the number of winning balls that enter each winning hole can be set appropriately.

In addition, the display devices 8 are arranged on the lower left side of the play area 6 formed on the front of the game board 1 (part other than the play area 6). As shown in FIG. 4, the display devices 8 include a special chart 1 display 81a that variably displays special chart 1, a special chart 2 display 81b that variably displays special chart 2, and a general chart display 82 that variably displays general chart. In addition, the display devices 8 include a special chart 1 reserved display 83a that displays the special chart 1 reserved number (U1: the number of reserved variable displays of special chart 1 by the special chart 1 display 81a) described later, and a special chart 2 reserved display 83b that displays the special chart 2 reserved number (U2: the number of reserved variable displays of special chart 2 by the special chart 2 display 81b) described later.

The variable display of special chart 1 is executed when a special chart 1 lottery is held in response to a game ball entering the first starting hole 11. The variable display of special chart 2 is executed when a special chart 2 lottery is held in response to a game ball entering the second starting hole 12. In the following explanation, special chart 1 and special chart 2 are collectively referred to as special charts or special patterns, and special chart 1 lottery and special chart 2 lottery are collectively referred to as special chart lottery. Furthermore, special chart 1 display 81a and special chart 2 display 81b are collectively referred to as special chart display 81. Furthermore, special chart 1 reserve display 83a and special chart 2 reserve display 83b are collectively referred to as special chart reserve display 83.

The variable display of the special chart notifies the result of the special chart lottery. In the variable display of the special chart, the special chart is displayed variably and then stopped. The stopped special chart (stopped special chart, special pattern derived and displayed as a display result of the variable display) is one special chart selected from multiple types of special charts by the special chart lottery. If the stopped special chart is a specific special chart (a special chart with a specific stopping mode, i.e., a jackpot pattern), a jackpot game (an example of a special game) is played in which the jackpot openings (first jackpot opening 14 and second jackpot opening 15) are opened. The game state in which the jackpot game is being played is called a jackpot game state. The jackpot game state is an example of an advantageous state that is advantageous to the player.

The special chart display 81 is composed of, for example, eight LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) arranged side by side, and displays a special chart according to the result of the special chart lottery according to the lighting state of the LEDs. For example, if the result of the special chart lottery is a jackpot (one of the multiple types of jackpots described below), the special chart display 81 displays a jackpot pattern consisting of the lighting of the first, second, fifth, and sixth LEDs from the left, such as "□□■■□□■■" (□: lit, ■: unlit). Also, if the result of the special chart lottery is a loss, the special chart display 81 displays a loss pattern consisting of only the lighting of the rightmost LED, such as "■■■■■■■□". Note that the lighting state of the LEDs corresponding to the result of the special chart lottery is not limited and can be set appropriately. Therefore, for example, all LEDs may be turned off to represent a loss pattern.

In addition, in the variable display of the special chart, the special chart is displayed for a predetermined variable time before the special chart is displayed in a stopped state. The mode of variable display of the special chart is, for example, a mode in which each LED lights up so that light flows repeatedly from left to right. Note that the mode of variable display of the special chart is not particularly limited, and if each LED is not displayed in a stopped state (illuminated display in a specific mode), it may be set appropriately, such as all LEDs flashing at once.

In the pachinko game machine PY1, when a game ball enters the first start hole 11 or the second start hole 12, various random numbers (one example of judgment information) for performing a special drawing lottery, etc., may be obtained. These various random numbers are temporarily stored as special drawing reservations in the special drawing reservation memory unit 105 described below. In the following, the various random numbers obtained by the game ball entering the first start hole 11 are referred to as "special drawing 1 related random numbers," and the various random numbers obtained by the game ball entering the second start hole 12 are referred to as "special drawing 2 related random numbers." Here, the special drawing 1 related random numbers are stored as special drawing 1 reservations in the special drawing 1 reservation memory unit 105a in the special drawing reservation memory unit 105. On the other hand, the special drawing 2 related random numbers are stored as special drawing 2 reservations in the special drawing 2 reservation memory unit 105b in the special drawing reservation memory unit 105. An upper limit (four in this embodiment) is set for the number of reserved special drawings 1 (reserved special drawing number) that can be stored in the reserved special drawing 1 storage unit 105a and the number of reserved special drawings 2 (reserved special drawing number) that can be stored in the reserved special drawing 2 storage unit 105b. The upper limit for the reserved special drawing number and the reserved special drawing number can be changed as appropriate, and the upper limit may be "none." In the following, reserved special drawings 1 and reserved special drawings 2 are collectively referred to as "reserved special drawings," and the reserved special drawing number and reserved special drawing number are collectively referred to as "reserved special drawing number." In addition, the random numbers related to the random drawing 1 and the random numbers related to the random drawing 2 are collectively referred to as "random numbers related to the random drawing."

In the pachinko game machine PY1, if the variable display of the special chart is not performed immediately after the game ball enters the first start port 11 or the second start port 12, specifically, if a prize is won while the variable display of the special chart is being performed or while a jackpot game is being played, the variable display of the special chart for that prize (or the right to draw a special chart) can be reserved. The reserved special chart stored in the reserved special chart memory unit 105 is consumed when the variable display of the special chart based on that reserved special chart becomes possible. In other words, consuming the reserved special chart means determining the special chart-related random number, etc., that corresponds to that reserved special chart, and executing the variable display of the special chart to show the result of that determination.

The number of reserved special drawings is then displayed on the reserved special drawing display 83. Each of the reserved special drawing 1 display 83a and the reserved special drawing 2 display 83b is composed of, for example, four LEDs, and the number of reserved special drawings can be displayed by lighting up the LEDs in accordance with the number of reserved special drawings.

The variable display of the regular map also notifies the result of the regular map lottery. In the variable display of the regular map, the regular map is displayed variably and then stopped. The regular map that is stopped (stop regular map, regular map derived and displayed as a display result of the variable display) is one regular map selected from multiple types of regular maps by the regular map lottery. If the regular map that is stopped is a specific regular map that has been determined in advance (a regular map with a predetermined stopping pattern, i.e. a winning pattern), an auxiliary game is played in which the second starting hole 12 (electric chute 12D) is opened.

The regular map display 82 is composed of, for example, two LEDs, and displays a regular map according to the result of the regular map lottery depending on the lighting state of the LEDs. If the result of the regular map lottery is a win, the regular map display 82 displays a winning pattern consisting of both LEDs lit, such as "□□" (□: lit, ■: off). If the result of the regular map lottery is a loss, a losing pattern consisting of only the right LED lit, such as "■□". A mode in which all LEDs are off may also be adopted to represent a losing pattern. Note that the lighting state of the LEDs corresponding to the result of the regular map lottery is not limited and can be set as appropriate.

In addition, before the normal map is displayed as stopped, the normal map is displayed as a variable display for a predetermined variable time. The variable display mode of the normal map is, for example, a mode in which both LEDs are alternately lit. Note that the variable display mode of the normal map is not particularly limited, and if the LEDs are not displayed as stopped (lit in a specific mode), it may be set appropriately, such as all LEDs flashing at the same time.

In the pachinko game machine PY1, when the game ball passes through the gate 13, a normal pattern random number (an example of judgment information) for performing a normal pattern lottery may be obtained. This random number is stored in the normal pattern reserve memory unit 106 described below, provided that the variable display of the normal pattern or the auxiliary game is not being executed. The number of normal patterns reserved (normal pattern reserve number) that can be stored in the normal pattern reserve memory unit 106 is set to an upper limit (four in this embodiment). The upper limit of the number of normal patterns reserved can be changed as appropriate, and the upper limit may be set to "none". In the following, the normal pattern random number obtained by the game ball passing through the gate 13 is also referred to as a "normal pattern related random number". In addition, in this embodiment, a normal pattern reserve display that displays the normal pattern reserve number is not provided, but a normal pattern reserve display may be added to the display unit 8. As the normal pattern reserve display, for example, one with a configuration similar to that of the special pattern reserve display 83 can be adopted.

Next, using Figure 5, we will explain the presentation unit 1U attached to the back of the game board 1. The presentation unit 1U is a unit made up of multiple devices that mainly perform presentations. The presentation unit 1U is equipped with an image display device 50, a first board movable device (hereinafter "above-board movable device") 55, and a second board movable device (hereinafter "below-board movable device") 56.

The image display device 50 is, for example, configured with a 20-inch 3D liquid crystal display, and is equipped with a display unit 50a capable of displaying 3D images. Note that the image display device 50 may be another display device, such as one configured with multiple liquid crystal displays or one configured with an EL (Electro Luminescence) display, as long as it is capable of displaying images.

The above-board movable device 55 is configured to be movable along the display unit 50a and includes a decorated above-board movable body 55k. The below-board movable device 56 is configured to be movable along the display unit 50a and includes a decorated below-board movable body 56k.

Figure 5 (A) shows a schematic diagram of the above-board movable body 55k and the below-board movable body 56k being held in a normal standby state (initial position) when not in operation. When the drive source of the above-board movable device 55 is driven, the above-board movable body 55k moves downward (descends), and when the drive source of the below-board movable device 56 is driven, the below-board movable body 56k moves upward (rises). At this time, the image display device 50 is covered by the lowered above-board movable body 55k or the raised below-board movable body 56k, making the image display device 50 difficult to see.

The positions and number of components and devices installed on the game board unit YU can be changed as appropriate as long as it does not interfere with gameplay.

2. Electrical configuration of the gaming machine Next, the electrical configuration of the pachinko gaming machine PY1 will be described based on Figures 6 to 7. As shown in Figures 6 to 7, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 is equipped with a game control board (hereinafter referred to as the "main control board") 100 that controls game profits such as special drawing, variable display of special drawing, big win game, setting of game state to be described later, regular drawing, variable display of regular drawing, and auxiliary game (progress of game), a performance control board (hereinafter referred to as the "sub control board") 120 that controls game performances (special drawing variable performances, reserved performances, operation performances, big win game performances, etc.) according to the progress of the game by the main control board 100 and performances such as customer waiting performances, and a payout control board 170 that controls the payout of game balls, etc., on the rear side further than the image display device 50 of the game board 1. The main control board 100 can be positioned as a game control unit (main control unit) that controls the game. The sub-control board 120 can be positioned as a performance control unit (sub-control unit) that controls the performance together with the image control board 140, the lamp control circuit 151, and the sound control circuit 161 described later. The performance control unit only needs to have at least the sub-control board 120 and be capable of controlling various performances using the performance means (the image display device 50, the speaker 52, the frame lamp 53, the board lamp 54, and the movable devices 55, 56, 58, etc.).

The pachinko game machine PY1 also includes a power supply board 190. The power supply board 190 supplies power to the main control board 100, the sub-control board 120, and the payout control board 170, and also supplies the necessary power to other devices via these boards. The power supply board 190 is provided with a backup power circuit 192. When power is not being supplied to the pachinko game machine PY1, the backup power circuit 192 supplies power to the game RAM 104 of the main control board 100 and the performance RAM 124 of the sub-control board 120, which will be described later. Therefore, the information stored in the game RAM 104 of the main control board 100 and the performance RAM 124 of the sub-control board 120 is retained even when the power to the pachinko game machine PY1 is cut off. In addition, a power switch 191 is connected to the power supply board 190. The power supply is turned on and off by turning the power switch 191 on and off. In addition, a backup power circuit for the game RAM 104 of the main control board 100 may be provided on the main control board 100, and a backup power circuit for the performance RAM 124 of the sub-control board 120 may be provided on the sub-control board 120.

As shown in FIG. 6, the main control board 100 is equipped with a one-chip microcomputer for game control (hereinafter referred to as the "microcomputer for game control") 101 that controls the progress of the game on the pachinko game machine PY1 according to a program. The microcomputer for game control 101 includes a game ROM (Read Only Memory) 103 that stores programs and tables for controlling the progress of the game, a game RAM (Random Access Memory) 104 used as a work memory, and a game CPU (Central Processing Unit) 102 that executes the programs stored in the game ROM 103.

The gaming ROM 103 stores programs for performing the main control main processing and main timer interrupt processing, which will be described later. The gaming ROM 103 also stores a jackpot determination table, a jackpot symbol type determination table, a reach determination table, a special symbol variation pattern determination table, a look-ahead determination table, a jackpot game control table, a win determination table, a regular symbol variation pattern determination table, and an auxiliary game control table, which will be described later. The gaming ROM 103 may be external. The gaming RAM 104 also includes the special symbol reservation memory unit 105 and the regular symbol reservation memory unit 106, which have been described above.

The main control board 100 also includes a gaming I/O (Input/Output) port section 118 for inputting and outputting data and signals, and a RAM clear switch 119 for causing the gaming CPU 102 to clear information stored in the gaming RAM 104.

In addition, various sensors and actuators are connected to the main control board 100 via a predetermined relay board (not shown). Therefore, signals output by the various sensors are input to the main control board 100. In addition, the main control board 100 outputs signals to the various actuators.

The various sensors connected to the main control board 100 include a first start port sensor 11a, a second start port sensor 12a, a general prize port sensor 10a, a gate sensor 13a, a first large prize port sensor 14a, a second large prize port sensor 15a, a specific area sensor 16a, and a non-specific area sensor 17a.

The first start opening sensor 11a detects a game ball that has entered the first start opening 11. The second start opening sensor 12a detects a game ball that has entered the second start opening 12. The general winning opening sensor 10a detects a game ball that has entered the general winning opening 10. The general winning opening sensor 10a is provided for each general winning opening 10. The gate sensor 13a is provided at the gate 13 and detects a game ball that has passed through the gate 13. The first large winning opening sensor 14a detects a game ball that has entered the first large winning opening 14. The second large winning opening sensor 15a detects a game ball that has entered the second large winning opening 15. The specific area sensor 16a detects a game ball that has passed through the specific area 16 (entered the specific area 16). The non-specific area sensor 17a detects a game ball that has passed through the non-specific area 17 (entered the non-specific area 17). When each sensor detects a game ball, it outputs a signal according to the detection result to the main control board 100.

The type and number of sensors connected to the main control board 100 can be changed as appropriate as long as it does not interfere with gameplay.

The various actuators connected to the main control board 100 include an electric chute solenoid 12s, a first large prize opening solenoid 14s, a second large prize opening solenoid 15s, and a distribution solenoid 16s. The electric chute solenoid 12s drives the electric chute opening and closing member 12k of the electric chute 12D. The first large prize opening solenoid 14s drives the normal AT opening and closing member 14k of the first large prize device 14D. The second large prize opening solenoid 15s drives the VAT opening and closing member 15k of the second large prize device 15D. The distribution solenoid 16s drives the distribution member 16k of the distribution device 16D.

The type and number of actuators connected to the main control board 100 can be changed as appropriate as long as it does not interfere with gameplay.

Furthermore, displays 8 (special chart display 81, regular chart display 82, and special chart reserved display 83) are connected to the main control board 100. The display control of these displays 8 is performed by the game control microcomputer 101.

The main control board 100 also transmits various commands to the payout control board 170, and receives signals from the payout control board 170 to monitor payouts. The payout control board 170 is connected to a card unit CU (installed adjacent to the pachinko game machine PY1, which enables ball lending based on information such as an inserted prepaid card) and a prize ball payout device 73, as well as to a launching device 72 via a launch control circuit 175. The launching device 72 includes a handle 72k (see Figure 1).

Based on signals from the game control microcomputer 101 and signals from the connected card unit CU, the payout control board 170 drives the prize ball motor 73m of the prize ball payout device 73 to pay out prize balls or pay out loan balls. The paid-out game balls are detected by a prize ball sensor 73a for counting, and a detection signal from the prize ball sensor 73a is output to the payout control board 170.

The launching device 72 is also provided with a touch switch 72a capable of detecting contact with the handle 72k (see FIG. 1) by a person such as a player. When the player operates the handle 72k, the touch switch 72a detects the player's contact with the handle 72k and outputs a detection signal to the payout control board 170. A launch volume knob 72b capable of detecting the rotation angle (operation amount) of the handle 72k is also connected to the launching device 72. The launching device 72 drives the launch solenoid 72s so that the game ball is launched with a strength corresponding to the rotation angle of the handle 72k detected by the launch volume knob 72b. In the pachinko game machine PY1, when the rotation operation of the handle 72k is maintained, one game ball is launched approximately every 0.6 seconds.

The main control board 100 also transmits various commands containing information related to the game to the sub-control board 120 as the game progresses. The sub-control board 120 can grasp the progress of the game (control contents of the game) by the main control board 100 based on the various commands sent from the main control board 100. The connection between the main control board 100 and the sub-control board 120 is a one-way communication connection that only allows signals to be sent from the main control board 100 to the sub-control board 120. In other words, a unidirectional circuit (not shown, for example a circuit using a diode) is interposed between the main control board 100 and the sub-control board 120 as a means for restricting the direction of communication.

As shown in FIG. 7, the sub-control board 120 is equipped with a one-chip microcomputer for controlling presentations (hereinafter referred to as the "microcomputer for controlling presentations") 121, which controls the presentations of the pachinko game machine PY1 according to a program. The microcomputer for controlling presentations 121 includes a ROM for presentations 123 that stores programs for controlling presentations as the game progresses using the main control board 100, a RAM for presentations 124 used as a work memory, and a CPU for presentations 122 that executes the programs stored in the ROM for presentations 123.

The performance ROM 123 also stores programs for performing sub-control main processing, reception interrupt processing, 1 ms timer interrupt processing, and 10 ms timer interrupt processing, which will be described later. Note that the performance ROM 123 may be external.

The sub-control board 120 also includes an I/O port 138 for inputting and outputting data and signals, and an RTC (Real Time Clock) 139. The RTC 139 measures the current date and time. The RTC 139 operates on power when the pachinko game machine PY1 is supplied with power from a specified island power supply device (not shown), and operates on power supplied from a backup power circuit 192 provided in the power supply board 190 when power is not supplied from the island power supply device. Therefore, the RTC 139 can measure the current date and time even when the power of the pachinko game machine PY1 is not turned on. A backup power circuit for the RTC 139 may be provided in the sub-control board 120. The backup power circuit may include a circuit including a capacitor and an internal battery (such as a button battery).

The image control board 140 is connected to the sub-control board 120. The performance control microcomputer 121 of the sub-control board 120 causes the image CPU 141 of the image control board 140 to control the display of the image display device 50 based on commands received from the main control board 100, i.e., according to the progress of the game by the main control board 100. The connection between the sub-control board 120 and the image control board 140 is a two-way communication connection that allows both the transmission of signals from the sub-control board 120 to the image control board 140 and the transmission of signals from the image control board 140 to the sub-control board 120.

The image control board 140 includes an image ROM 142 that stores programs for image control, an image RAM 143 that is used as a work memory, and an image CPU 141 that executes the programs stored in the image ROM 142. The image control board 140 also includes a CGROM 145 that stores image data to be displayed on the image display device 50, a VRAM 146 that is used to expand the image data stored in the CGROM 145, and a VDP (Video Display Processor) 144. Of course, all or part of these electronic components may be configured on a single chip. The CGROM 145 stores, for example, image data (still image data and video data, specifically image data of characters, items, figures, letters, numbers, symbols, etc. (including performance patterns) and background images) for displaying images to be displayed on the image display device 50.

The VDP 144 reads image data from the CGROM 145 and displays it in the display area in the VRAM 146 according to a display list created by the image CPU 141 based on instructions from the performance control microcomputer 121. The VDP 144 then appropriately synthesizes the displayed image data to draw an image in the frame buffer in the VRAM 146. The image drawn in the frame buffer is then output to the image display device 50 as an RGB signal. As a result, various performance images are displayed on the display unit 50a.

The display list is made up of a set of commands that instruct the execution of drawing on a frame-by-frame basis. The display list contains various parameter information such as the type of image to be drawn, the position at which the image is to be drawn, the display priority, the display magnification, and the transparency of the image.

The performance control microcomputer 121 outputs voice, music, sound effects, etc. from the speaker 52 via the sound control circuit 161 based on commands received from the main control board 100, i.e., according to the progress of the game by the main control board 100.

Audio data such as the sound output from the speaker 52 is stored in the performance ROM 123 of the sub-control board 120. The audio control circuit 161 may be a board with a CPU mounted on it. In this case, the CPU may be made to execute the audio control. In this case, a ROM may be mounted on the board and audio data may be stored in the ROM. The speaker 52 may also be connected to the image control board 140 and the image CPU 141 of the image control board 140 may be made to execute the audio control. In this case, the audio data may also be stored in the image ROM 142 of the image control board 140.

The sub-control board 120 is also connected to various switches that serve as input units, various actuators that serve as drive sources, and various lamps via a specified relay board (not shown). Signals output by the various switches are input to the sub-control board 120. The sub-control board 120 also outputs signals to the various actuators. The sub-control board 120 also controls the lighting of various lamps via a lamp control circuit 151 based on commands received from the main control board 100.

The various switches connected to the sub-control board 120 include a normal button detection switch 40a and a special button detection switch 41a. The normal button detection switch 40a detects when the normal button 40 is pressed. The special button detection switch 41a detects when the special button 41 is pressed. Each detection switch 40a, 41a outputs a signal to the sub-control board 120 according to the detection content. The type and number of switches connected to the sub-control board 120 can be changed as appropriate as long as it does not interfere with gameplay.

The various actuators connected to the sub-control board 120 include an above-board drive motor 55m that drives the above-board movable device 55, an below-board drive motor 56m that drives the below-board movable device 56, and a frame drive motor 58m that drives the frame movable device 58. The performance control microcomputer 121 can drive these motors to cause each movable device to perform a specified operation. In detail, the performance control microcomputer 121 creates operation pattern data that determines the operating mode of each movable device, and controls the operation of each movable device via the lamp control circuit 151. The type and number of actuators connected to the sub-control board 120 can be changed as appropriate as long as it does not interfere with gameplay.

The various lamps connected to the sub-control board 120 include a frame lamp 53, a board lamp 54, etc. The performance control microcomputer 121 is capable of lighting each lamp. In detail, the performance control microcomputer 121 creates light pattern data (data that determines the on/off state, light color, etc., also called lamp data) that determines the light emission mode of each lamp, and controls the light emission of each lamp according to the light pattern data. Note that data stored in the performance ROM 123 of the sub-control board 120 is used to create the light pattern data.

A CPU may be mounted on the lamp control circuit 151 as a circuit board. In this case, the CPU may be made to control the lighting of each lamp and the operation of each movable device. Furthermore, in this case, a ROM may be mounted on the circuit board and data relating to the light emission patterns and operation patterns may be stored in the ROM. The type and number of lamps connected to the sub-control board 120 may be changed as appropriate as long as it does not interfere with gameplay.

3. Main Games Played by the Gaming Machine Next, the main games played by the pachinko gaming machine PY1 will be described with reference to Figures 8 to 15. The tables shown in Figures 8 to 15 are general ones for the purpose of the description of this section, and if a different table is shown in the description of "Characteristics of the Pachinko Gaming Machine PY1" described later, it is assumed that the table is used in the pachinko gaming machine PY1. However, for configurations that do not show a different table in the description of "Characteristics of the Pachinko Gaming Machine PY1" described later, it is assumed that the table shown in this section is used, and also for configurations that show a different table in the description of "Characteristics of the Pachinko Gaming Machine PY1" described later, it is assumed that the table shown in this section can be changed to the table shown in this section.

3-1. Games related to normal figures First, a game related to normal figures will be explained. When the launched game ball passes through the gate 13, the pachinko game machine PY1 performs a normal figure lottery. When the normal figure lottery is performed, the normal figure display 82 performs a variable display of the normal figure (a static display after a variable display). Here, the statically displayed normal figures include winning figures and losing figures. The losing figures of the normal figures are also called "losing normal figures" to distinguish them from the losing figures of the special figures described later. When a winning figure is statically displayed, an auxiliary game is executed, and the game related to the passage of the gate 13 is ended. On the other hand, when a losing normal figure is statically displayed, the auxiliary game is not executed, and the game related to the passage of the gate 13 is ended. In addition, hereinafter, the passing of the game ball through the gate 13 is referred to as "establishment of the normal figure start condition."

When the pachinko game machine PY1 performs this series of games (regular game lottery, variable display of regular games, auxiliary games), it acquires regular game-related random numbers when the regular game start conditions are met. The acquired regular game-related random numbers include regular game pattern random numbers, as shown in FIG. 8 (A). Regular game pattern random numbers are random numbers used to determine whether a win has occurred. The random numbers are also called determination information. Appropriate ranges are set for the random numbers.

3-1-1. Hit Judgment Hit judgment is a judgment for determining whether or not a win has occurred (whether or not to execute an auxiliary game) according to a hit judgment table as shown in FIG. 9(A). The hit judgment table is associated with the game state described later. That is, the hit judgment table includes a hit judgment table used in a non-time-saving state (a hit judgment table for non-time-saving) and a hit judgment table used in a time-saving state (a hit judgment table for time-saving). In each hit judgment table, the judgment value of the normal pattern random number (normal pattern random number value) is allocated to a hit or a miss, which is the result of the hit judgment. Therefore, the pachinko game machine PY1 judges the acquired normal pattern random number according to the hit judgment table, thereby judging whether it is a hit or a miss. Then, based on the result of the hit judgment, a normal pattern variation pattern judgment is performed for performing a variable display of the normal pattern. If the result of the hit judgment is a hit, a winning pattern is basically displayed in a variable display of the normal pattern. On the other hand, if the result of the hit judgment is a miss, a miss normal pattern is basically displayed in a variable display of the normal pattern. The probability of winning may be changed as appropriate. Also, the win determination table does not need to be divided for each game state.

3-1-2. Map fluctuation The map fluctuation pattern judgment is a judgment for determining the map fluctuation pattern according to the map fluctuation pattern judgment table as shown in Fig. 9 (B). The map fluctuation pattern is identification information regarding predetermined items related to the variable display of the map, such as the map fluctuation time.

The normal map fluctuation pattern determination table is associated with the game state (non-time-saving state/time-saving state). In other words, the normal map fluctuation pattern determination table includes a normal map fluctuation pattern determination table (non-time-saving normal map fluctuation pattern determination table) used in the non-time-saving state and a normal map fluctuation pattern determination table (time-saving normal map fluctuation pattern determination table) used in the time-saving state. Note that the normal map fluctuation pattern determination table does not have to be divided for each game state.

In each normal map fluctuation pattern determination table, a normal map fluctuation pattern, which is the result of the normal map fluctuation pattern determination, is stored for each normal map that is stopped. That is, the pachinko game machine PY1 can make the normal map fluctuation time different in the non-time-saving state and the time-saving state. For example, in the non-time-saving state, for the variable display of the normal map when a losing normal map (losing normal map) is stopped and displayed, a normal map fluctuation pattern in which the normal map fluctuation time is, for example, 30 seconds is determined, and for the variable display of the normal map when a winning pattern is stopped and displayed, a normal map fluctuation pattern in which the normal map fluctuation time is, for example, 30 seconds is determined. Also, in the time-saving state, for the variable display of the normal map when a losing normal map is stopped and displayed, a normal map fluctuation pattern in which the normal map fluctuation time is, for example, 5 seconds is determined, and for the variable display of the normal map when a winning pattern is stopped and displayed, a normal map fluctuation pattern in which the normal map fluctuation time is, for example, 5 seconds is determined. The variable display of the normal map corresponding to the normal map fluctuation pattern determined by this determination is performed by the normal map display device 82. In addition, the time for these map fluctuations can be changed as appropriate. In this way, hit determination and map fluctuation pattern determination are performed, and the map is displayed variably on the map display 82.

Auxiliary games are played when a winning symbol is displayed (derived) as a display result (a result of a lottery for a regular symbol) in the variable display of the regular symbol.

The elements that make up the auxiliary game (auxiliary game components) include various elements such as the number of times the electric chute 12D opens and the opening time for each opening. Each of these elements is associated with a game state (non-time-saving state/time-saving state). The pachinko game machine PY1 controls the auxiliary game according to an auxiliary game control table such as that shown in FIG. 9 (C) based on the game state (non-time-saving state/time-saving state). The auxiliary game control table is associated with the game state (non-time-saving state/time-saving state). Auxiliary game components are stored in each auxiliary game control table. The number of times the electric chute 12D opens and the opening time for each opening can be changed as appropriate.

In the pachinko game machine PY1, the opening time of the electric chute 12D is different between the auxiliary game in the non-time-saving state and the auxiliary game in the time-saving state. For example, in the auxiliary game in the non-time-saving state, the electric chute 12D is opened for a first opening time (a time during which it is difficult to get the game ball to enter the electric chute 12D (e.g., 0.08 seconds)). In the following, the auxiliary game in the non-time-saving state is also referred to as a "short opening auxiliary game". In addition, in the auxiliary game in the time-saving state, the electric chute 12D is opened for a second opening time longer than the first opening time (a time during which it is easy to get the game ball to enter the electric chute 12D (e.g., 3.0 seconds)). In the following, the auxiliary game in the time-saving state is also referred to as a "long opening auxiliary game". Note that the opening time of the electric chute 12D may be the same between the auxiliary game in the non-time-saving state and the auxiliary game in the time-saving state.

3-2. Games related to special figures Next, games related to special figures will be explained. When the launched game ball enters the first starting hole 11, the pachinko game machine PY1 performs a special figure 1 lottery. When the special figure 1 lottery is performed, the special figure 1 display 81a performs a variable display of the special figure 1 (a stop display after performing a variable display) to notify the result of the special figure 1 lottery. Here, the special figure 1 that is stopped and displayed has a jackpot pattern and a loss pattern. In other words, the results of the special figure 1 lottery include a jackpot and a loss. When the jackpot pattern is stopped and displayed, a jackpot game is executed, a new game state is set, and the game based on the winning is ended. On the other hand, when a loss pattern is stopped and displayed, the jackpot game is not performed, and the game based on the winning is ended.

Similarly, the pachinko game machine PY1 performs a special drawing for the 2nd drawing when the released game ball enters the second starting hole 12. When the special drawing for the 2nd drawing is performed, the special drawing for the 2nd drawing is variably displayed (variably displayed and then stopped) on the special drawing for the 2nd drawing device 81b to notify the result of the special drawing for the 2nd drawing. Here, the special drawing for the 2nd drawing that is stopped includes a jackpot pattern and a losing pattern. In other words, the results of the special drawing for the 2nd drawing include a jackpot pattern and a losing pattern. When a jackpot pattern is stopped, a jackpot game is executed, a new game state is set, and the game based on the winning is terminated. On the other hand, when a losing pattern is stopped, a jackpot game is not performed and the game based on the winning is terminated.

In the following, the entry of a game ball into the first start hole 11 is referred to as the "fulfillment of the first start condition," and the entry of a game ball into the second start hole 12 is referred to as the "fulfillment of the second start condition." Furthermore, the "fulfillment of the first start condition" and the "fulfillment of the second start condition" are collectively referred to as the "fulfillment of the start condition." Furthermore, the losing special symbol is also referred to as the "losing special symbol" to distinguish it from the losing normal symbols described above.

When the pachinko game machine PY1 performs this series of games (special symbol lottery, variable display of special symbols, jackpot game, and game state setting), it acquires special symbol-related random numbers when the start conditions are met, and performs various judgments on the random numbers. The acquired special symbol-related random numbers include special symbol random numbers (jackpot random numbers), jackpot symbol type random numbers, reach random numbers, and special symbol change pattern random numbers, as shown in FIG. 8 (B). The special symbol random numbers are random numbers used to make jackpot judgments. The jackpot symbol type random numbers are random numbers used to make jackpot symbol type judgments. Reach random numbers are random numbers used to make reach judgments. The special symbol change pattern random numbers are random numbers used to make special symbol change pattern judgments. The random numbers are also called judgment information. An appropriate range is set for each random number.

3-2-1. Jackpot Determination Jackpot determination is a determination for determining whether or not a jackpot has occurred (whether or not a jackpot game is executed) according to a jackpot determination table as shown in FIG. 10(A). The jackpot determination table is associated with the game state, specifically, whether it is a normal probability state or a high probability state. That is, the jackpot determination table includes a jackpot determination table used in the normal probability state (normal probability jackpot determination table) and a jackpot determination table used in the high probability state (high probability jackpot determination table).

In each jackpot determination table, a special symbol random number determination value (special symbol random number value) is assigned to the jackpot and miss results of the jackpot determination. The pachinko game machine PY1 determines whether the acquired special symbol random number is a jackpot or a miss by judging it according to the jackpot determination table. As shown in FIG. 10(A), the high probability jackpot determination table has more special symbol random number determination values that are determined to be a jackpot than the normal probability jackpot determination table. In addition, the probability of winning a jackpot can be changed as appropriate.

3-2-2. Jackpot symbol type determination The jackpot symbol type determination is a determination for determining the type of jackpot symbol (jackpot symbol type) according to a jackpot symbol type determination table as shown in Fig. 10(B) when the result of the jackpot determination is a jackpot. Each type of jackpot symbol is associated with the content of the jackpot, in other words, the components of the jackpot that are composed of the game benefits given to the player.

The jackpot symbol type determination table is associated with the type of special symbol (special symbol 1/special symbol 2) that is variably displayed; in other words, the type of start port (first start port 11/second start port 12) where the winning that caused the jackpot symbol type determination (the winning that caused the jackpot symbol type determination) occurred. That is, the jackpot symbol type determination table includes a jackpot symbol type determination table (first jackpot symbol type determination table) used when performing the variable display of special symbol 1, and a jackpot symbol type determination table (second jackpot symbol type determination table) used when performing the variable display of special symbol 2.

There are multiple types of jackpot symbols, and in each jackpot symbol type determination table, the determination value of the jackpot symbol type random number (jackpot symbol type random number value) is assigned to the jackpot symbol type, which is the result of the jackpot symbol type determination. Therefore, the pachinko game machine PY1 determines the type of jackpot symbol by determining the acquired jackpot symbol type random number according to the jackpot symbol type determination table. Then, in the first jackpot symbol type determination table and the second jackpot symbol type determination table, the jackpot symbol type random number value is appropriately assigned to various jackpot symbols. The allocation rate of the jackpot symbol type can be changed as appropriate. Also, the types of jackpot symbols can be increased or decreased as appropriate.

For example, as shown in FIG. 10(B), the distribution rate of the jackpot pattern type determined by the jackpot pattern type for special chart 1 is 10% for jackpot pattern A, 40% for jackpot pattern B, and 50% for jackpot pattern C. The distribution rate of the jackpot pattern type determined by the jackpot pattern type for special chart 2 is 100% for jackpot pattern X. In this way, it is possible to make the distribution rate of the jackpot pattern type different between the special chart 1 lottery, which is held when the game ball enters the first starting hole 11, and the special chart 2 lottery, which is held when the game ball enters the second starting hole 12.

Reach judgment is a judgment for determining whether or not to generate a reach in the special chart variation performance described later according to a reach judgment table as shown in FIG. 10 (C) when the result of the jackpot judgment is a miss.

The reach determination table is associated with the game state (non-time-saving state/time-saving state). That is, there are reach determination tables, one for use in the non-time-saving state (non-time-saving reach determination table) and one for use in the time-saving state (time-saving reach determination table). Note that it is not necessary to separate the reach determination tables for each game state.

In each reach judgment table, the reach random number judgment value (reach random number value) is assigned to the reach judgment result of "reach (reach occurs)" and "no reach (reach does not occur)". Therefore, the pachinko game machine PY1 judges the acquired reach random number according to the reach judgment table to judge whether it is reach or not (whether or not to generate a reach). As shown in FIG. 10 (C), the number of reach random number values judged as "reach (reach occurs)" is different between the non-time-saving reach judgment table and the time-saving reach judgment table. Note that the probability of judging that it is reach can be changed appropriately. In the following, "reach (reach occurs)" performed on the premise that the result of the jackpot judgment is "miss" is referred to as "reach with miss" and "no reach (reach does not occur)" is also referred to as "no reach miss".

3-2-4. Special pattern change pattern determination The special pattern change pattern determination is a determination for determining the change pattern (special pattern change pattern) of the variable display of the special pattern using a change pattern determination table (special pattern change pattern determination table) of the special pattern as shown in FIG. 11 to FIG. 12, and is performed in both cases where the result of the jackpot determination is a jackpot or a miss. The special pattern change pattern is identification information for identifying predetermined items related to the special pattern change time and the performance flow (performance content) of the special pattern change performance described later. In addition, the special pattern change pattern includes identification information related to the result of the jackpot determination and the result of the reach determination, in addition to the special pattern change time and the performance flow (performance content) of the special pattern change performance. The identification information included in the special pattern change pattern can be changed as appropriate. In addition, it is possible to use multiple types of special pattern change patterns with different identification information as the special pattern change pattern, and the number of them can be changed as appropriate.

The special pattern variation pattern judgment table is associated with the type of special pattern (special pattern 1/special pattern 2) that performs the variable display to be judged, in other words, the type of start port (first start port 11/second start port 12) where the winning that caused the special pattern variation pattern judgment was made. That is, the special pattern variation pattern judgment table includes a special pattern variation pattern judgment table (special pattern 1 variation pattern judgment table: Figure 11) used when performing the variable display of special pattern 1, and a special pattern variation pattern judgment table (special pattern 2 variation pattern judgment table: Figure 12) used when performing the variable display of special pattern 2. Note that the special pattern variation pattern judgment table does not have to be divided according to the type of special pattern (special pattern 1/special pattern 2).

And each special chart fluctuation pattern judgment table is also associated with the game state (non-time-saving state/time-saving state). That is, the special chart 1 fluctuation pattern judgment table includes a special chart 1 fluctuation pattern judgment table used in the non-time-saving state (special chart 1 fluctuation pattern judgment table for non-time-saving) and a special chart 1 fluctuation pattern judgment table used in the time-saving state (special chart 1 fluctuation pattern judgment table for time-saving). On the other hand, the special chart 2 fluctuation pattern judgment table also includes a special chart 2 fluctuation pattern judgment table used in the non-time-saving state (special chart 2 fluctuation pattern judgment table for non-time-saving) and a special chart 2 fluctuation pattern judgment table used in the time-saving state (special chart 2 fluctuation pattern judgment table for time-saving). It is not necessary to separate the special chart fluctuation pattern judgment tables for each game state.

In addition, each special chart fluctuation pattern determination table associated with a game state (non-time-saving state/time-saving state) is further associated with a jackpot determination result and a reach determination result. That is, the non-time-saving special chart 1 fluctuation pattern determination table and the non-time-saving special chart 2 fluctuation pattern determination table each have a jackpot, a reach and miss, and a no-reach miss. Similarly, the time-saving special chart 1 fluctuation pattern determination table and the time-saving special chart 2 fluctuation pattern determination table each have a jackpot, a reach and miss, and a no-reach miss. Note that the special chart fluctuation pattern determination tables do not have to be divided according to the jackpot determination result and the reach determination result.

Furthermore, each special chart 1 variation pattern judgment table for a miss without a reach is also associated with the reserved number of special charts. For example, there is a special chart 1 variation pattern judgment table for a miss without a reach that is used when the reserved number of special charts 1 (U1) is 0 to 2, and a special chart 1 variation pattern judgment table for a miss without a reach that is used when the reserved number of special charts 1 (U1) is 3 to 4. Furthermore, each special chart 2 variation pattern judgment table for a miss without a reach is also associated with the reserved number of special charts. Specifically, there is a special chart 2 variation pattern judgment table for a miss without a reach that is used when the reserved number of special charts 2 (U2) is 0 to 2, and a special chart 2 variation pattern judgment table for a miss without a reach that is used when the reserved number of special charts 2 (U2) is 3 to 4. Note that the special chart variation pattern judgment table does not have to be divided according to the reserved number of special charts.

Then, the special chart display 81 performs a variable display of the special chart for the special chart variation time according to the special chart variation pattern determined by each special chart variation pattern judgment. Then, when the jackpot pattern is displayed as a static display result (the result of the special chart lottery) in the variable display of the special chart, the next variable display of the special chart is not performed immediately, and the jackpot game is executed next.

In addition, each special chart change pattern is associated with a special chart change presentation flow as shown in the second column from the right in the table of Figures 11 and 12. Note that it is not necessary to associate a special chart change pattern with a special chart change presentation flow.

Also, as shown in the rightmost column of the tables in Figures 11 and 12, the special chart variation patterns are sometimes referred to by names that relate to the special chart (jackpot determination result) and the content of the special chart variation presentation. For example, a special chart variation pattern related to a jackpot is called a "jackpot variation." Among the jackpot variations, a special chart variation pattern in which an SP reach, which is a type of reach, is performed is called an "SP jackpot variation," a special chart variation pattern in which an L reach is performed is called an "L jackpot variation," and a special chart variation pattern in which the special chart variation presentation ends with an N reach is called an "N jackpot variation." On the other hand, among the reach and misses, the special chart change pattern in which an SP reach, which is a type of reach, is performed is called "SP miss change", among the reach and misses, the special chart change pattern in which an L reach, which is a type of reach, is performed is called "L miss change", among the reach and misses, the special chart change pattern in which the special chart change performance ends with an N reach, which is a type of reach, is called "N miss change", and the special chart change pattern related to a miss without a reach is called "normal miss change". There are three types of normal miss changes with different change times (normal A miss change, normal B miss change, normal C miss change). Also, when the SP jackpot and SP miss change are collectively referred to as SP change or SP reach change.

3-2-5. Pre-reading judgment The pachinko game machine PY1 performs a pre-reading judgment according to a pre-reading judgment table as shown in FIG. 13 based on the acquired special symbol related random number. The pre-reading judgment is performed before the jackpot judgment (specifically, for example, at the time of winning in the start hole). The pre-reading judgment includes, for example, a judgment of whether or not the special symbol random number is judged as a jackpot in the jackpot judgment, a judgment of which jackpot symbol type random number is determined to be a jackpot pattern type in the jackpot symbol type judgment, and a judgment of which special symbol variation pattern random number is determined to be a special symbol variation pattern in the special symbol variation pattern judgment. The pre-reading judgment table is associated with the type of start hole (first start hole 11/second start hole 12) related to the start winning. That is, the pre-reading judgment table includes a pre-reading judgment table (first pre-reading judgment table) when the first start hole 11 is won, and a pre-reading judgment table (second pre-reading judgment table) when the second start hole 12 is won. Since the first starting hole 11 is the starting hole that triggers the drawing of the special drawing 1, the first look-ahead judgment table can also be called the special drawing 1 look-ahead judgment table. Also, since the second starting hole 12 is the starting hole that triggers the drawing of the special drawing 2, the second look-ahead judgment table can also be called the special drawing 2 look-ahead judgment table. Note that the look-ahead judgment table does not have to be divided according to the type of starting hole (first starting hole 11/second starting hole 12).

The look-ahead judgment table is also associated with the game state (non-time-saving state/time-saving state). That is, there are look-ahead judgment tables used in the non-time-saving state (non-time-saving look-ahead judgment table) and look-ahead judgment tables used in the time-saving state (time-saving look-ahead judgment table).

In other words, the look-ahead judgment tables include a first look-ahead judgment table used when the time is not reduced, a second look-ahead judgment table used when the time is reduced, a second look-ahead judgment table used when the time is not reduced, and a third look-ahead judgment table used when the time is reduced. Note that the look-ahead judgment tables do not need to be separated for each game state. Also, the types of judgments to be included in the look-ahead judgment can be changed as appropriate.

3-3. Jackpot Game Next, the jackpot game will be described. The jackpot game includes multiple round games involving the opening and closing of the jackpot winning hole (first jackpot winning hole 14 or second jackpot winning hole 15), an opening (also written as OP) from the start of the jackpot game to the start of the first round game, and an ending (also written as ED) from the end of the final round game to the end of the jackpot game. Each round game starts with the end of the opening or the end of the previous round game, and ends with the start of the next round game or the start of the ending. It is also possible not to provide an OP or an ED. In the following, a predetermined number of round games (predetermined order) is simply called a "round". For example, the first (first) round game is called "1st round (1R)" and the tenth round game is called "10th round (10R)".

The elements that make up such a jackpot game (jackpot game components) include the number of rounds of play, the number of times the jackpot openings (first jackpot opening 14, second jackpot opening 15) are opened in each round of play, the type of jackpot opening and the opening time for each opening, the time it is closed until the next opening (closing time or interval time), the opening time (opening time), and the ending time (ending time). After the special chart is stopped and displayed, the pachinko game machine PY1 controls the jackpot game in accordance with a jackpot game control table such as that shown in FIG. 14.

As shown in FIG. 14, the jackpot game control table stores jackpot game components for each jackpot game (e.g., for each jackpot game A to C, X). In each jackpot game, from 1R to 15R, a round game in which the first large prize opening 14 is open for a maximum of 29.5 seconds or a round game in which the first large prize opening 14 is open for a maximum of 0.1 seconds is played. Then, in 16R (the final round), a round game in which the second large prize opening 15 is open for a maximum of 29.5 seconds or a round game in which the second large prize opening 15 is open for a maximum of 0.1 seconds is played. In each round game, when a predetermined number of game balls (e.g., 10 balls) are detected by the large prize opening sensors 14a and 15a, the round game is ended even before the maximum opening time of the large prize openings 14 and 15 has elapsed.

It is possible to configure the jackpot game A shown in FIG. 14 to be executed when the type of the winning jackpot pattern is jackpot pattern A, the jackpot game B to be executed when the type of the winning jackpot pattern is jackpot pattern B, the jackpot game C to be executed when the type of the winning jackpot pattern is jackpot pattern C, and the jackpot game X to be executed when the type of the winning jackpot pattern is jackpot pattern X (see FIG. 10(B)).

The number of times and the time for each jackpot game component can be changed as appropriate. The jackpot game can be played using both the first jackpot opening 14 and the second jackpot opening 15, or only one of them. In a configuration in which only the first jackpot opening 14 is used for jackpot games, or in which only the second jackpot opening 15 is used for jackpot games, the unused jackpot opening may not be provided. The number of types of jackpot games that can be played may be multiple or only one.

Now, the specific area 16 will be described in detail. The specific area 16 can be in a closed state, in which no prizes can be won, and an open state, in which prizes can be won, by the distribution member 16k, so the operating mode of the distribution member 16k can be said to be the opening and closing mode of the specific area 16. Hereinafter, the operating mode of the distribution member 16k will also be referred to as the "opening and closing mode of the specific area 16". In addition, the open state of the specific area 16 will also be referred to as "V-open", and the closed state of the specific area 16 will also be referred to as "V-closed".

The distribution member 16k is controlled in a certain operating mode (i.e., the specific area 16 is controlled in a certain opening/closing mode). For example, for 15 seconds after the second large prize opening 15 starts to open, the distribution solenoid 16s is energized and the distribution member 16k is controlled in the second state (FIG. 3(B)). Therefore, in a round game in which the second large prize opening 15 is open for a maximum of 29.5 seconds, the relationship between the opening time and timing of the second large prize opening 15 and the time and timing at which the distribution member 16k is controlled to the second state makes it easy for the game ball to pass through the specific area 16 (to enter the specific area 16). On the other hand, in a round game in which the second large prize opening 15 is open for a maximum of 0.1 seconds, due to the relationship between the opening time and timing of the second large prize opening 15 and the time and timing during which the distribution member 16k is controlled to the second state, it is almost impossible (difficult) for the game ball to pass through the specific area 16 (to make the game ball enter the specific area 16). In this way, by combining a certain operating mode of the distribution member 16k (a certain opening and closing mode of the specific area 16) with the opening and closing mode of the second large prize opening 15 in a jackpot game, it is possible to set the difficulty (ease) of making the game ball enter the specific area 16 in a jackpot game. The operating mode of the distribution member 16k can be changed as appropriate. If another operating mode is shown in the description of "Characteristic parts of the pachinko game machine PY1" described later, it is assumed that the pachinko game machine PY1 adopts that operating mode.

Note that during a jackpot game, a jackpot in which the VAT opening/closing member 15k and the distribution member 16k operate in the first opening pattern (V-long opening pattern) in which it is easy for the game ball to pass through the specific area 16 (hereinafter also referred to as "V passing") is called a "V-long jackpot", and a jackpot in which the VAT opening/closing member 15k and the distribution member 16k operate in the second opening pattern (V-short opening pattern) in which it is impossible or difficult for the game ball to pass through the specific area 16 is called a "V-short jackpot".

3-4. Game state Next, the game state will be described. As shown in FIG. 15, the pachinko game machine PY1 can be set to any one of the game states of "low probability low base game state", "low probability high base game state", "high probability low base game state", "high probability high base game state" and "jackpot game state". The "low probability low base game state" may be abbreviated to "low probability low base state", the "low probability high base game state" to "low probability high base state", the "high probability low base game state" to "high probability low base state", and the "high probability high base game state" to "high probability high base state". The game state includes a state related to the probability of being determined as a "jackpot" in the jackpot determination and a state related to the ease of opening the electric chute 12D. The former includes a normal probability state and a high probability state. On the other hand, the latter includes a non-time-saving state and a time-saving state.

The normal probability state is set in a "low probability low base game state" or a "low probability high base game state", and the probability of being judged as a jackpot in the jackpot judgment is normal. The high probability state is set in a "high probability low base game state" or a "high probability high base game state", and the probability of being judged as a jackpot in the jackpot judgment is higher than the normal probability. Therefore, it can be said that the high probability state is a game state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal probability state. When the power is turned on for the first time in the pachinko game machine PY1, the normal probability state is set. Then, it is possible to switch from the normal probability state to the high probability state by winning a jackpot. For example, it is possible to switch to the high probability state by the game ball passing through the specific area 16 in a jackpot game. It is also possible to switch to the high probability state depending on the type of jackpot pattern. Whether the trigger for switching to the high probability state is the passing of a V or the type of jackpot pattern can be determined appropriately according to the gameplay to be realized. In the high probability state, a certain number of jackpot determinations can be made without winning the jackpot, or it is possible to switch from the high probability state to the normal probability state by winning the next jackpot.

The non-time-saving state is set in the "low probability low base game state", "high probability low base game state" or "jackpot game state". The time-saving state is set in the "low probability high base game state" or "high probability high base game state", and is a game state in which the opening time of the electric chute 12D in one auxiliary game is likely to be longer than in the non-time-saving state. For example, in the time-saving state, the opening time of the electric chute 12D is longer (e.g., 3.0 seconds) than in the non-time-saving state (e.g., 0.08 seconds). In addition, in the time-saving state, the special chart change pattern is determined according to a special chart change pattern determination table that is determined so that a special chart change pattern with a short special chart change time is selected more often than in the non-time-saving state (see Figures 11 to 12). As a result, in the time-saving state, the pace of consumption of the special chart reservation is faster, and effective winning at the starting port (winning that can be stored as a special chart reservation) is more likely to occur. Therefore, it is possible to aim for a jackpot under smooth game progress.

In addition, in the time-saving state, the normal map change time is more likely to be shorter than in the non-time-saving state. For example, in the time-saving state, a normal map change time (5 seconds) is determined that is shorter than the normal map change time (30 seconds) determined in the non-time-saving state (Figure 9 (B)). Therefore, in the time-saving state, the number of times the normal map lottery is executed per unit time is greater.

In addition, the time-saving state is more likely to be judged as a hit in the hit judgment than the non-time-saving state. For example, in the time-saving state, a hit is judged with a higher probability (e.g., 59936/65536) than the probability of a hit being judged as a hit in the non-time-saving state (e.g., 6600/65536) (Figure 9 (A)). Therefore, the time-saving state is judged as a hit more often per unit time.

In this way, in the time-saving state, the electric chute 12D is open for a longer period of time per unit time compared to the non-time-saving state, making it easier for game balls to enter the second starting hole 12 more frequently. As a result, the base, which is the ratio of the number of winning balls to the number of balls fired, becomes higher. Therefore, in the time-saving state, where the base is high, it is possible to aim for a jackpot without significantly reducing the number of game balls in the player's possession. Therefore, it can be said that the time-saving state is a game state that is more advantageous to the player than the non-time-saving state.

When the pachinko game machine PY1 is first powered on, the non-time-saving state is set. Then, for example, the time-saving state can be set by winning a jackpot. In the time-saving state, a predetermined number of jackpot determinations can be made without winning a jackpot, or the time-saving state can be changed to the non-time-saving state by winning the next jackpot.

In addition, in the time-saving state, compared to the non-time-saving state, it is easier to win a prize, the normal chart change time is more likely to be shorter, and the opening time of the electric chute 12D during one auxiliary play is more likely to be longer. In other words, three points about the game related to the normal chart are set to the player's advantage. However, the points set to the player's advantage may only be part of these. Also, the special chart change pattern determination table in the time-saving state does not have to be one in which a special chart change pattern with a shorter special chart change time is more likely to be selected than in the non-time-saving state.

The game state after the power is turned on for the first time in the pachinko game machine PY1 is a "low probability low base game state" in which the normal probability state and the non-time-saving state are set. This game state is also called the "normal game state." In the "jackpot game state," a normal drawing (a hit determination for a normal drawing) is performed but a special drawing (a jackpot determination) is not performed, so the non-time-saving state is set with the start of the jackpot game. In addition, it is possible to use all or some of the game states described above for the game state. In addition, the various game states described in this specification can be arbitrarily expressed in the form of an "nth game state" (n is an integer equal to or greater than 1).

4. Main Effects of the Gaming Machine Next, the main effects of the pachinko gaming machine PY1 will be described with reference to FIGS.

4-1. Presentation mode First, the presentation mode will be described. Presentation mode is a category of presentation (or a higher conceptual attribute). The pachinko game machine PY1 can set the following presentation modes: a customer waiting presentation mode, a normal presentation mode, a probability variation presentation mode, a time-saving presentation mode, and a big win presentation mode.

The customer waiting performance mode can be set when the special chart change performance is not being performed in the "low probability low base game state", "low probability high base game state", "high probability low base game state" and "high probability high base game state", and is a performance mode that indicates a standby state in which the special chart change performance is not being performed. When the customer waiting performance mode is set, the customer waiting performance is performed. In the customer waiting performance, for example, as shown in FIG. 16 (A-1), a customer waiting demo video G100 introducing the pachinko game machine PY1 is displayed on the display unit 50a. In addition, when the normal button 40 is operated while the customer waiting demo video G100 is displayed, a setting screen G101 for setting the performance of the pachinko game machine PY1 is displayed as shown in FIG. 16 (A-2). The performance settings include the volume setting of the sound output from the speaker 52, the brightness setting of the display unit 50a, and the frequency setting of the performance to be executed.

The normal presentation mode can be set when the special chart variation presentation is being performed in the "low probability low base game state" or the "high probability low base game state", and is a presentation mode that indicates a non-time-saving state. The normal presentation modes include, for example, a first normal presentation mode in which a background image (daytime normal background image G102) showing a daytime mountain scene is displayed on the display unit 50a as shown in FIG. 16 (B-1), a second normal presentation mode in which a background image (evening normal background image G103) showing an evening mountain scene is displayed on the display unit 50a as shown in FIG. 16 (B-2), and a third normal presentation mode in which a background image (nighttime normal background image G104) showing a nighttime mountain scene is displayed on the display unit 50a as shown in FIG. 16 (B-3), and can be switched under the condition that the special chart variation presentation is performed once or multiple times without winning a jackpot. Furthermore, each of the first to third normal presentation modes has a normal early presentation mode before the reach is established in the special chart variation presentation, and a normal late presentation mode after the reach is established. In the normal early presentation mode, one of the daytime normal background image G102, the evening normal background image G103, and the nighttime normal background image G104 is displayed on the display unit 50a, while in the normal late presentation mode, a dedicated background image according to the type of reach is displayed. In addition, a special presentation mode that is set only in the "high probability low base game state" may be provided.

The special probability mode is a presentation mode that can be set when the special chart change presentation is being performed in a "high probability high base game state", and is a presentation mode that indicates a high probability state and a time-saving state. In the special probability mode, for example, as shown in FIG. 16 (B-4), a background image representing space (special probability background image G105) is displayed on the display unit 50a. Furthermore, the special probability mode includes a special probability pre-stage presentation mode before a reach is achieved in the special chart change presentation, and a special probability post-stage presentation mode after a reach is achieved. In the special probability pre-stage presentation mode, the special probability background image G105 is displayed on the display unit 50a, while in the special probability post-stage presentation mode, a dedicated background image according to the type of reach is displayed.

The time-saving presentation mode is a presentation mode that can be set when the special chart change presentation is being performed in the "low probability high base game state", and is a presentation mode that indicates that the state is in the normal probability state and the time-saving state. In the time-saving presentation mode, for example, as shown in FIG. 16 (B-5), a background image representing the sky (time-saving background image G106) is displayed on the display unit 50a. Furthermore, the time-saving presentation mode includes a first stage of time-saving presentation mode before a reach is established in the special chart change presentation, and a second stage of time-saving presentation mode after a reach is established. In the first stage of time-saving presentation mode, the time-saving background image G106 is displayed on the display unit 50a, while in the second stage of time-saving presentation mode, a dedicated background image according to the type of reach is displayed.

The jackpot presentation mode is a presentation mode that can be set when a jackpot game is being played in the "jackpot game state", and is a presentation mode that indicates that a jackpot game is being played. In the jackpot presentation mode, for example, during the opening of the jackpot game, as shown in FIG. 16 (C-1), a jackpot opening presentation is performed in which an opening image G107 suggesting the start of the jackpot game and a right-hit image G108 encouraging "right hit" are displayed on the display unit 50a. During the round of the jackpot game, as shown in FIG. 16 (C-2), a round presentation is performed in which a round image G109 indicating the number of rounds and a prize ball number image G110 suggesting the number of prize balls paid out are displayed on the display unit 50a. During the ending of the jackpot game, as shown in FIG. 16 (C-3), a jackpot ending presentation is performed in which an ending image G111 suggesting the presentation mode to be set after the jackpot game and a total prize ball number image G112 suggesting the total prize ball number paid out are displayed on the display unit 50a.

The types of presentation modes can be changed or added as appropriate.

4-2. Special chart change performance Next, the special chart change performance (also simply called "change performance") will be explained. When the pachinko game machine PY1 starts the variable display of the special chart, it executes the special chart change performance based on the special chart change pattern related to the variable display of the special chart and the special chart lottery result (the jackpot determination result, the jackpot pattern type determination result, the reach determination result, and the special chart change pattern determination result). In the special chart change performance, the display unit 50a displays the change of the performance pattern superimposed on a predetermined background image. In the change display of the performance pattern, the performance pattern stops after changing. That is, after the special chart change time and the change display of the performance pattern are performed, the change stops and the stop display of the performance pattern is performed. Then, the result of the special chart lottery is announced by the stop display of the performance pattern.

In addition, in the special chart change performance, in addition to the changing display of the performance pattern, it is possible to perform other performances using various performance devices such as the image display device 50, speaker 52, frame lamp 53, board lamp 54, movable devices 55, 56, 58, normal button 40, and special button 41. In this case, it is possible to continue other performances even after the display of the performance pattern has stopped.

4-2-1. Performance pattern display area As shown in FIG. 17(A), the display unit 50a of the image display device 50 can be provided with a left performance pattern area 50b1, a middle performance pattern area 50b2, and a right performance pattern area 50b3 on the left, center, and right sides of the display unit 50a, which are divided horizontally into three approximately equal parts. The left performance pattern area 50b1 is an area that displays the left performance pattern EZ1 when the performance pattern is stopped in the special pattern change performance. Similarly, the middle performance pattern area 50b2 and the right performance pattern area 50b3 are areas that display the middle performance pattern EZ2 and the right performance pattern EZ3.

As shown in FIG. 17(A), a small pattern area 50c can be provided in one section at the left end (upper left corner) of the upper end of the display unit 50a. The small pattern area 50c is an area that variably displays the small patterns KZ1, KZ2, and KZ3 when the special pattern is being variably displayed.

In FIG. 17(A), the left performance pattern area 50b1, the middle performance pattern area 50b2, the right performance pattern area 50b3, and the small pattern area 50c are clearly indicated by dashed two-dot lines, but this is written to indicate the range of the left performance pattern area 50b1, the middle performance pattern area 50b2, the right performance pattern area 50b3, and the small pattern area 50c, and is not actually displayed. Also, the range of each area can be changed as appropriate.

4-2-2. Normal Variation In the special chart variation presentation, the pachinko game machine PY1 can first perform normal variation. The normal variation functions as a presentation that suggests that the variable display of the special chart has started.

When the variable display of the special chart is started, for example, as shown in Figure 17 (A), on the display unit 50a, the left performance pattern EZ1, the middle performance pattern EZ2 and the right performance pattern EZ3 are displayed frozen, while the left small pattern KZ1, the middle small pattern KZ2 and the right small pattern KZ3 are displayed frozen, and the variable display of the special chart is not being performed and the state is waiting for the variable display of the special chart.As shown in Figure 17 (B), with the start of the variable display of the special chart, the variable display of the performance patterns EZ1, EZ2 and EZ3 is started, and the variable display of the small patterns KZ1, KZ2 and KZ3 is started. Then, when the special pattern change pattern of the variable display of the special pattern is, for example, "normal miss change", as shown in FIG. 17 (C-1), the left performance pattern EZ1 and the right performance pattern EZ3 are temporarily stopped in different stop modes, and then, as shown in FIG. 17 (D), the performance patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are stopped and displayed in a stop mode (so-called barrage) that suggests a miss. At this time, the small patterns KZ1, KZ2, and KZ3 are also stopped and displayed all at once in a stop mode that suggests a miss. On the other hand, when the special pattern change pattern of the variable display of the special pattern is, for example, a special pattern change pattern with a reach such as "N miss change", as shown in FIG. 17 (C-2), the left performance pattern EZ1 and the right performance pattern EZ3 are temporarily stopped in the same stop mode, and a reach is established. At this time, the small patterns KZ1, KZ2, and KZ3 are continuously displayed, and a reach performance according to the special pattern change pattern is performed. The stopping order and stopping patterns of the EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 symbols can be changed as appropriate.

4-2-3. N Reach The pachinko game machine PY1 can perform N Reach when a reach is achieved in normal variation. N Reach is a presentation that suggests that the result of the jackpot determination may be a "jackpot" and functions as a presentation to make the player expect a jackpot.

In the N reach, as shown in FIG. 18(A), the state in which the reach is established is maintained for a predetermined time (for example, 10 seconds), and as shown in FIG. 18(B), the speed of change of the middle performance pattern EZ2 gradually slows down. Then, when the special pattern change pattern of the variable display of the special pattern is, for example, "N miss change", as shown in FIG. 18(C-1), the performance patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are displayed stopped in a stop mode suggesting a miss (so-called barrages). At this time, the small patterns KZ1, KZ2, and KZ3 are also displayed stopped all at once in a stop mode suggesting a miss. On the other hand, when the special pattern change pattern of the variable display of the special pattern is, for example, "N jackpot change", as shown in FIG. 18(C-2), the small patterns KZ1, KZ2, and KZ3 are also displayed stopped in a stop mode suggesting a jackpot (so-called double numbers). At this time, the small patterns KZ1, KZ2, and KZ3 are also displayed stopped all at once in a stop mode suggesting a jackpot. In addition, the content of the N Reach effect is not limited to the middle effect pattern EZ2 gradually slowing down, and can be changed or added as appropriate.

In addition, with regard to the stopping patterns of the performance symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 that indicate a miss, the spread when the reach is not established is called a "non-reach spread" or a "non-reach miss" and the spread when the reach is established is called a "reach spread" or a "reach miss". The combination of each of the performance symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 that make up the non-reach spread (for example, "2, 3, 1" or "5, 8, 6") and the combination of each of the performance symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 that make up the reach spread (for example, "2, 1, 2" or "5, 4, 5") are selected by the performance control microcomputer 121. In addition, the combination of the effect symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 that make up the stopping pattern (double number) that indicates a jackpot (for example, "2-2-2" or "7-7-7") is selected by the effect control microcomputer 121 based on the type of jackpot symbol that has been selected.

The pachinko game machine PY1 can perform an SP reach after an N reach. The SP reach is a presentation that suggests that the result of the jackpot determination is more likely to be a "jackpot" than the N reach, and functions as a presentation to make the player expect a jackpot.

In the SP reach, after the N reach, for example, as shown in FIG. 19(A), a background image dedicated to the SP reach (background image for the SP reach G113) is displayed on the display unit 50a, and an image indicating that the SP reach has started (title image for the start of the SP reach) G1 is displayed in the center of the display unit 50a. After that, as shown in FIG. 19(B), a performance dedicated to the SP reach (for example, a battle performance) is performed. Then, when the special chart change pattern of the variable display of the special chart is, for example, "SP jackpot change", a performance suggesting a jackpot (for example, a display in which the main character (ally character) has won the battle and is standing with his/her arms crossed) is performed on the display unit 50a, as shown in FIG. 19(C-1), and the performance patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are displayed in a stopping state (so-called double numbers) suggesting a jackpot. At this time, the small symbols KZ1, KZ2, and KZ3 are also displayed stopped all at once in a manner that suggests a big win. On the other hand, if the special symbol variation pattern of the variable display of the special symbol is, for example, "SP miss variation," then as shown in FIG. 19 (C-2), an effect that suggests a miss (for example, an effect in which an enemy character stands with its arms crossed after winning a battle) is performed, and the effect symbols EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are displayed stopped in a manner that suggests a miss (so-called barake eyes). At this time, the small symbols KZ1, KZ2, and KZ3 are also displayed stopped all at once in a manner that suggests a miss. Note that the effect content of the SP reach can be changed or added as appropriate.

Here, we will explain in detail the possibility (jackpot expectation) that the performance patterns EZ1, EZ2, EZ3 for each reach will stop in a manner indicating a jackpot. The jackpot expectation for each reach is determined by the execution probability based on the result of the jackpot determination. For example, if the execution probability of an N reach is set to 10% when the result of the jackpot determination is a "miss" and 100% when the result of the jackpot determination is a "jackpot," and the execution probability of an SP reach is set to 4% when the result of the jackpot determination is a "miss" and 100% when the result of the jackpot determination is a "jackpot," it is possible to set the jackpot expectation for an SP reach higher than the jackpot expectation for an N reach. Furthermore, by making SP reach A and SP reach B executable as SP reaches, and setting the execution probability of SP reach A to 2% when the result of the jackpot determination is a "miss" and 30% when the result of the jackpot determination is a "jackpot", and setting the execution probability of SP reach B to 2% when the result of the jackpot determination is a "miss" and 20% when the result of the jackpot determination is a "jackpot", it is possible to set the jackpot expectation of SP reach A higher than the jackpot expectation of SP reach B. In this way, it is possible to set the jackpot expectation by appropriately setting the execution probability according to the result of the jackpot determination.

4-2-5. L Reach The pachinko game machine PY1 can perform an L reach after an N reach. The L reach is a performance that suggests that the possibility that the result of the special chart lottery was a "jackpot" is lower than that of the SP reach but higher than that of the N reach, and functions as a performance that makes the player expect a jackpot. The execution time of the reach performance of the L reach is shorter than that of the reach performance of the SP reach (FIGS. 11 and 12). Therefore, in the reach performance of the L reach, for example, a video shorter than that of the reach performance of the SP reach is displayed on the display unit 50a. The content of the reach performance of the L reach can be changed as appropriate. In addition, a special chart variation pattern in which the reach performance of the SP reach is executed in a developed manner after the reach performance of the L reach may be provided.

4-3. Hold icon display area The display unit 50a of the image display device 50 can be provided with a hold icon display area 50d consisting of four display areas, as shown in FIG. 20 (A). The hold icon display area 50d is composed of a first display area 50d1, a second display area 50d2, a third display area 50d3, and a fourth display area 50d4, and the hold icon HA can be displayed in each display area 50d1, 50d2, 50d3, and 50d4 according to the number of reserved special figures 1 or the number of reserved special figures 2. For example, when the number of reserved special figures 1 is "1", the hold icon HA is displayed in the first display area 50d1, and when the number of reserved special figures 1 is "2", the hold icon HA is displayed in the first display area 50d1 and the second display area 50d2.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 20(A), it is possible to provide an icon display area 50e consisting of a single display area near the reserved icon display area 50d. The icon display area 50e is capable of displaying the icon TA (also called the reserved icon TA) that is the same as the reserved icon HA in response to the start of the special chart change performance. Note that an icon different from the reserved icon HA may be displayed as the icon TA.

The number of display areas constituting the reserved icon display area 50d can be changed as appropriate. The reserved icon display area 50d can be a display area that displays both the reserved number of special chart 1 and the reserved number of special chart 2, or a display area that displays only one of them. It is also possible to provide the reserved icon display area 50d but not the icon display area 50e, or to provide neither.

4-3-1. Hold performance The pachinko game machine PY1 can perform a hold performance in response to the game ball entering the first start hole 11 or the second start hole 12. The hold performance can notify the player of the number of special chart 1 holds or special chart 2 holds.

In the reserved performance, when the number of reserved special chart 1 is "0" and a game ball enters the first starting hole 11, the special chart change performance starts, and the icon TA is displayed in the icon display area 50e, for example, as shown in Fig. 20 (B). Then, when two more game balls enter the first starting hole 11 during the special chart change performance, the reserved icon HA is displayed in the first display area 50d1 and the second display area 50d2 of the reserved icon display area 50d, as shown in Fig. 20 (C), and the player is notified that the number of reserved special chart 1 is "2". After that, when the special chart change performance ends and a new special chart change performance starts, as shown in FIG. 20(D), the reserved icon HA displayed in the first display area 50d1 of the reserved icon display area 50d moves to the icon display area 50e and is displayed as the reserved icon TA, and the reserved icon HA displayed in the second display area 50d2 of the reserved icon display area 50d moves to the first display area 50d1 and is displayed, and the player is notified that the reserved number of special chart 1 is "1". Both the icon TA and the reserved icon HA are indications indicating that there is a right to a jackpot judgment that has arisen in response to the entry of the game ball into the first starting hole 11 or the second starting hole 12. The icon TA is appropriately hidden (erased) in response to the jackpot judgment being performed and the result being notified. In addition, the icon TA and the reserved icon HA do not necessarily have to be displayed all the time. For example, the icon TA and the reserved icon HA may both be displayed at the start of the special chart change performance (when the performance pattern starts to change) and at the end of the special chart change performance (when the changed performance pattern is stopped and displayed), and both may be hidden during the SP reach. Also, for example, the icon TA may be displayed during the SP reach, and the reserved icon HA may be hidden.

The pachinko game machine PY1 can perform a notice performance at any timing during the special chart change performance. The notice performance is a performance using the image display device 50, the speaker 52, the frame lamp 53, the board lamp 54, the movable devices 55, 56, 58, the input device (the normal button 40, the special button 41), etc., and can suggest the result of the jackpot determination or the result of the special chart change pattern determination.

The pachinko game machine PY1 can perform a movable body effect as a preview effect using the movable devices 55, 56, and 58. The movable body effect is an effect in which the movable devices 55, 56, and 58 are operated, and functions as an effect that makes the player expect a big win.

In the movable body performance, for example, when the N reach develops into the SP reach, as shown in FIG. 21(A), the movable device on the board 55 and the movable device below the board 56 are operated, and the movable body on the board 55k and the movable body below the board 56k move so as to overlap on the display unit 50a, suggesting the development into the SP reach. At this time, an effect image is displayed in the space on the display unit 50a that does not overlap with the movable body on the board 55k and the movable body below the board 56k. After that, as shown in FIG. 21(B), the movable body on the board 55k and the movable body below the board 56k return to the normal standby state (initial position) and develop into the SP reach. This movable body performance is an example of a development performance. Note that the movable body performance is not limited to the suggestion of development into the SP reach, and can be changed or added as appropriate. In addition, the operation contents of the movable device in the movable body performance can be changed or added as appropriate. Also, if the performance does not progress (for example, if the N misses), it is possible to perform a moving object performance as a so-called false performance.

The pachinko game machine PY1 can perform an operation performance as a preview performance using the normal button 40 or the special button 41. The operation performance is a performance that makes the player operate the normal button 40 or the special button 41, and functions as a performance that makes the player expect a big win.

In the operation presentation, for example, in the SP reach, a period (operation valid period) occurs during which the pressing operation of the input device (special button 41) is valid, and with the occurrence of this operation valid period, as shown in FIG. 22 (A), a presentation (operation promotion presentation) is performed to encourage the operation of the special button 41. In the operation promotion presentation, an operation promotion image G3 is displayed on the display unit 50a. The operation promotion image G3 includes an image (special button image G31) that imitates the special button 41, an image (press operation image G32) that shows the operation mode of the special button 41 (i.e., the pressing operation), and an image (operation valid period remaining time image G33) that shows the remaining time of the operation valid period. The operation valid period remaining time image G33 is composed of a roughly curved progress bar, and changes over time so that the player can easily understand the remaining time of the operation valid period. Thereafter, in response to the special button 41 being pressed during the valid operation period, or after the valid operation period has elapsed without the special button 41 being operated during the valid operation period, the on-board movable device 55 is activated as shown in FIG. 22(B), and the on-board movable body 55k moves to overlap the display unit 50a, indicating the likelihood of a big win. Note that the operation presentation is not limited to the operation of the on-board movable device 55, and can be changed or added as appropriate. Also, the operation promotion presentation that encourages the operation of the operation means (operation unit) such as the special button 41 or the normal button 40 is sometimes referred to as an operation instruction presentation.

4-4-3. Pre-reading performance The pachinko game machine PY1 can perform a pre-reading performance for the special chart 1 reserve or the special chart 2 reserve for which the special chart lottery has not been performed as a notice performance. The pre-reading performance functions as a performance to suggest in advance the lottery result of the special chart lottery for the special chart 1 reserve or the special chart 2 reserve.

In the pre-reading performance, for example, if the result of the pre-reading judgment for the special chart 1 reservation is a "jackpot", the reservation icon HA, which is usually displayed as a "circle" in the reservation icon display area 50d, may be displayed as a "☆" as shown in FIG. 20 (C). Also, if the result of the pre-reading judgment is a "miss", the reservation icon HA may be displayed as a "☆" as a so-called false performance. In this way, the pre-reading performance in which the reservation icon HA or the icon TA is displayed in a special mode (in this embodiment, "☆") rather than in the normal mode (in this embodiment, "circle") is called a reservation change performance. Also, the reservation icon HA and the icon TA are collectively called a reservation display. In this embodiment, the reservation icon HA and the icon TA are displayed as a reservation display, but it is also possible to configure it so that only the reservation icon HA is displayed and the icon TA is not displayed. In addition, the timing for the special mode of the hold display in the hold change performance may be when the start winning occurs, which is the trigger for the hold display, or when the hold display shifts (when the display area of the hold icon HA is changed), or when the special chart change corresponding to the hold display is in progress (when it is displayed as the icon TA). Also, there may be multiple types of special modes of the hold display.

The look-ahead effect can be applied to both or either of the special chart 1 reserve and the special chart 2 reserve. The look-ahead effect is not limited to a change in the display mode of the reserve icon HA, but can be changed or added as appropriate. Examples of look-ahead effects other than the reserve change effect include so-called continuous previews.

5. Game control by the game control microcomputer 101 Next, the game control by the game control microcomputer 101 will be described with reference to Figures 23 to 24. Note that counters, timers, buffers, etc. that appear in the game control by the game control microcomputer 101 described below are provided in the game RAM 104.

[1. Main control main processing]
When the pachinko game machine PY1 is powered on, the game control microcomputer 101 provided on the main control board 100 reads out the main control main processing program shown in Fig. 23 from the game ROM 103 and executes it. As shown in the figure, the main control main processing first performs power-on processing (S001). In the power-on processing, settings for permission to access the game RAM 104, settings for the game CPU 102, settings for the SIO, PIO, and CTC (circuit for managing interrupt time), etc. are performed.

Following the power-on process, interrupts are prohibited (S002), and the normal and special symbol main random number update process (S003) is executed. In this normal and special symbol main random number update process (S003), the counter values of the various random numbers shown in Figures 8 (A) and 8 (B) are updated by incrementing them by 1. When the counter value of each random number reaches its upper limit, it returns to "0" and is incremented again. Note that the initial value of each random number counter may be a value other than "0", and may be changed randomly. Also, at least a portion of each random number may be so-called hardware random numbers generated using a known random number generation circuit consisting of a counter IC or the like.

When the normal and special symbols main random number update process (S003) is completed, an interrupt is permitted (S004). While the interrupt is permitted, the main timer interrupt process (S005) can be executed. The main timer interrupt process (S005) is executed based on an interrupt pulse repeatedly input to the gaming CPU 102, for example, at a 4 msec cycle. That is, the main timer interrupt process (S005) is executed at a 4 msec cycle. Then, from the end of the main timer interrupt process (S005) to the start of the next main timer interrupt process (S005), the update process of the counter values of various random numbers by the normal and special symbols main random number update process (S003) is repeatedly executed. Note that, if an interrupt pulse is input to the gaming CPU 102 when the interrupt is prohibited, the main timer interrupt process (S005) is not started immediately, but is started after the interrupt is permitted (S004).

[2. Main side timer interrupt processing]
Next, the main timer interrupt process (S005) will be described. As shown in FIG. 24, in the main timer interrupt process (S005), first, the output process (S101) is executed. In the output process (S101), commands and the like set in the output buffer provided in the gaming RAM 104 of the main control board 100 in each process described below are output to the sub-control board 120, the payout control board 170, and the like.

In the input process (S102) that follows the output process (S101), the game control microcomputer 101, for example, takes in a detection signal from a lower tray full switch that detects whether the lower tray 35 is full, and stores this in the output buffer of the game RAM 104 as lower tray full data.

The normal and special symbol main random number update process (S103) that is performed next is the same as the normal and special symbol main random number update process (S003) that is performed in the main control main process of FIG. 23. That is, the update process of the counter values of the various random numbers shown in FIG. 8 (A) and FIG. 8 (B) is performed both during the execution period of the main side timer interrupt process (S005) and during other periods (the period from the end of the main side timer interrupt process (S005) until the start of the next main side timer interrupt process (S005)).

Following the normal and special symbol main random number update process (S103), the game control microcomputer 101 performs a sensor detection process (S104), then a normal action process (S105), and then a special action process (S106). The sensor detection process, normal action process, and special action process will be described later.

Following the special operation process (S106), a sorting device control process is performed to control the sorting device 16D (S107). The sorting device 16D is operated when a special game using the second big prize device 15D is played. However, the sorting device 16D may be operated in a constant manner from the time the power is turned on.

Next, the game control microcomputer 101 executes other processing (S108) and ends the main timer interrupt processing (S005). Other processing (S108) includes power off monitoring processing when the power is turned off, and updating of the timer provided in the game RAM 104. Another other processing (S108) is a payout control processing for paying out prize balls to the player. In the payout control processing, a prize ball request signal is sent to the payout control board 170 in response to the entry of game balls into each winning slot. In other words, the payout control board 170 pays out prize balls based on the prize ball request signal.

The gaming control microcomputer 101 then repeatedly executes steps S002 to S004 of the main control main process (see FIG. 23) until the next interrupt pulse is input to the gaming CPU 102, and when the interrupt pulse is input (approximately 4 msec later), it again executes the main timer interrupt process (S005). In the output process (S101) of the main timer interrupt process (S005) that has been executed again, the gaming control microcomputer 101 outputs the commands, etc. that were set in the output buffer of the gaming RAM 104 in the previous main timer interrupt process (S005).

[2-1. Sensor detection process]
In the sensor detection process (S104), the general winning hole sensor process, the gate sensor process, the second starting hole sensor process, the first starting hole sensor process, the first large winning hole sensor process, the second large winning hole sensor process, and the specific area sensor process are sequentially performed. Then, the commands generated in each process are set in the output buffer of the game RAM 104.

The general prize opening sensor process determines whether or not a game ball has been detected by the general prize opening sensor 10a. In addition, a command for the general prize opening sensor is generated depending on the results of this process.

In the gate sensor process, it is determined whether or not a gaming ball has been detected by the gate sensor 13a. If it is determined that a gaming ball has been detected, the normal pattern random number indicated by the counter value of the normal pattern random number counter is obtained, and the obtained normal pattern random number is stored in the normal pattern reserve memory unit 106 provided in the gaming RAM 104. Note that if a predetermined number of normal pattern random numbers (e.g., four) are stored in the normal pattern reserve memory unit 106, the newly obtained normal pattern random number is not stored. In addition, a command for the gate sensor is generated depending on the result of this process.

In the second start hole sensor process, it is determined whether or not a game ball has been detected by the second start hole sensor 12a. When it is determined that a game ball has been detected, a special pattern 2 related random number consisting of a special pattern random number counter, a jackpot pattern type random number counter, a reach random number counter, and a special pattern change pattern random number counter is acquired, and the acquired special pattern 2 related random number is stored in the special pattern 2 reserved memory unit 105b provided in the gaming RAM 104. The special pattern 2 reserved memory unit 105b has multiple storage areas from the first area to the nth area (n is an integer equal to or greater than 2, for example, "4"), and the acquired special pattern 2 related random numbers are stored in order from the first area. Note that if special pattern 2 related random numbers are stored up to the nth area, the newly acquired special pattern 2 related random number is not stored. In addition, a second look-ahead judgment is performed using the acquired special pattern 2 related random number and the second look-ahead judgment table. In addition, depending on the result of the processing, a command for the second start port sensor is generated, which includes a special chart 2 reserved number command representing the number of special chart 2 related random numbers (special chart 2 reserved number) stored in the special chart 2 reserved memory unit 105b and a second start winning command representing the result of the second look-ahead judgment.

In the first start hole sensor process, it is determined whether or not a game ball has been detected by the first start hole sensor 11a. When it is determined that a game ball has been detected, a special pattern 1 related random number consisting of a special pattern random number counter, a jackpot pattern type random number counter, a reach random number counter, and a special pattern variation pattern random number counter is acquired, and the acquired special pattern 1 related random number is stored in the special pattern 1 reserved memory unit 105a provided in the gaming RAM 104. The special pattern 1 reserved memory unit 105a has multiple storage areas from the first area to the nth area (n is an integer equal to or greater than 2, for example, "4"), and the acquired special pattern 1 related random numbers are stored in order from the first area. Note that if special pattern 1 related random numbers are stored up to the nth area, the newly acquired special pattern 1 related random number is not stored. In addition, a first look-ahead judgment is performed using the acquired special pattern 1 related random number and the first look-ahead judgment table. In addition, depending on the result of the processing, a command for the first start port sensor is generated, which includes a special chart 1 reserved number command representing the number of special chart 1 related random numbers (special chart 1 reserved number) stored in the special chart 1 reserved memory unit 105a and a first start winning command representing the result of the first pre-reading judgment.

In the first large prize opening sensor process, it is determined whether or not a game ball has been detected by the first large prize opening sensor 14a. In addition, a command for the first large prize opening sensor is generated according to the results of this process.

The second large prize opening sensor process determines whether or not a game ball has been detected by the second large prize opening sensor 15a. In addition, a command for the second large prize opening sensor is generated according to the results of this process.

In the specific area sensor process, it is determined whether or not a gaming ball has been detected by the specific area sensor 16a. In addition, a command for the specific area sensor is generated depending on the result of this process.

[2-2. Normal operation processing]
In the normal operation process (S105), a normal symbol waiting process, a normal symbol variation process, a normal symbol determination process, and an auxiliary game control process are sequentially performed. Then, the commands generated in each process are set in the output buffer of the gaming RAM 104.

The normal pattern standby process is a process that is performed during standby when no variable display of the normal pattern or auxiliary play is being performed. In the normal pattern standby process, a win determination is made based on the normal pattern random number stored in the normal pattern reserve memory unit 106. In addition, a normal pattern change pattern is determined by making a normal pattern change pattern determination based on the current game state. Then, a normal pattern change start command is generated that includes information regarding the results of the win determination and the normal pattern change pattern. Then, the normal pattern display unit 82 is caused to start variable display of the normal pattern based on the normal pattern change time associated with the determined normal pattern change pattern.

The normal pattern change process is a process that is performed during the variable display of the normal map. In the normal pattern change process, the normal map is stopped based on the result of the hit determination as the normal map change time elapses from the start of the variable display of the normal map being executed. Then, a normal map change stop command is generated, which indicates the end of the variable display of the normal map.

The normal symbol determination process is a process that is performed when a normal symbol is displayed stationary. In the normal symbol determination process, whether or not the normal symbol displayed stationary is a winning symbol is determined depending on the lapse of a predetermined stop time (e.g., 0.8 seconds) from the start of the stationary display of the ongoing normal symbol. If a winning symbol is displayed stationary, an auxiliary game is started based on the current game state and the auxiliary game control table, and an auxiliary game start command indicating the start of the auxiliary game is generated.

The auxiliary game control process is a process that is performed when an auxiliary game is being played. In the auxiliary game control process, the auxiliary game is controlled based on the current game state and the auxiliary game control table. In addition, a command for controlling the auxiliary game is generated according to the result of the process.

[2-3. Special Action Processing]
In the special operation process (S106), a special symbol waiting process, a special symbol variation process, a special symbol determination process, a big win game control process, and a game state setting process are sequentially performed. Then, the commands generated in each process are set in the output buffer of the gaming RAM 104.

[2-3-1. Special symbol waiting process]
The special symbol standby process is a process that is performed during standby when the special symbol is not being displayed variably, not in a jackpot game state. In the special symbol standby process, a special symbol 2 determination process and a special symbol 2 change pattern determination process are performed based on the special symbol 2 related random number stored in the special symbol 2 reserved memory unit 105b, and a special symbol 2 reserved memory unit shift process is performed. In addition, a special symbol 1 determination process and a special symbol 1 change pattern determination process are performed based on the special symbol 1 related random number stored in the special symbol 1 reserved memory unit 105a, and a special symbol 1 reserved memory unit shift process is performed.

In the special chart 2 determination process, a jackpot determination is performed to determine whether the result is a jackpot or a miss, using the special pattern random number among the special chart 2 related random numbers stored in the first area of the special chart 2 reserved memory unit 105b and a jackpot determination table according to the current game state. If the result of the jackpot determination is a jackpot, a jackpot pattern type determination is performed to determine the type of the jackpot pattern, using the jackpot pattern type random number among the special chart 2 related random numbers and the special chart 2 jackpot pattern type determination table. Then, a pattern designation command is generated that indicates the determined jackpot pattern type. Also, if the result of the jackpot determination is a miss, a pattern designation command that indicates a miss is generated. Note that multiple types of misses may be provided, and if the result of the jackpot determination is a miss, the type of the miss pattern may be determined. In this case, the pattern designation command may include information indicating the type of the miss pattern.

The special chart 2 variation pattern determination process is a process performed after the special chart 2 determination process. In the special chart 2 variation pattern determination process, the special chart 2 variation pattern is determined using the special chart variation pattern random number among the special chart 2 related random numbers stored in the first area of the special chart 2 reservation storage unit 105b and the special chart 2 variation pattern determination table according to the current game state. In the special chart 2 variation pattern determination process when the result of the jackpot determination is a miss, a reach determination is made, and the special chart 2 variation pattern is determined according to the result of the reach determination. In addition, the determination of the special chart 2 variation pattern is also associated with the number of special chart 2 related random numbers (special chart 2 reservation number) stored in the special chart 2 reservation storage unit 105b. Then, a special chart 2 variation start command representing the determined special chart 2 variation pattern is generated. The special chart 2 variation start command includes information that it is a special chart 2, information about the result of the jackpot determination, information about the result of the jackpot pattern type determination, information about the result of the reach determination, information about the special chart variation time associated with the special chart 2 variation pattern, and the like. Then, the special chart 2 display 81b starts to display the special chart 2 in a variable manner based on the special chart change time associated with the determined special chart 2 change pattern.

The special chart 2 reserved memory unit shift process is a process that is performed when the special chart 2 determination process and the special chart 2 variation pattern determination process are performed. In the special chart 2 reserved memory unit shift process, the special chart 2 related random numbers stored in the special chart 2 reserved memory unit 105b are shifted by one to the first area side, and the special chart 2 related random numbers in the first area are cleared from the special chart 2 reserved memory unit 105b. In this way, the special chart 2 related random numbers are consumed in the order in which they were obtained. Then, a special chart 2 reserved number command is generated that represents the special chart 2 reserved number after the process.

In the special chart 1 determination process, a jackpot determination is performed to determine whether the jackpot is a jackpot or a miss, using the special pattern random number among the special chart 1 related random numbers stored in the first area of the special chart 1 reserved memory unit 105a and a jackpot determination table according to the current game state. If the result of the jackpot determination is a jackpot, a jackpot pattern type determination is performed to determine the type of the jackpot pattern, using the jackpot pattern type random number among the special chart 1 related random numbers and the special chart 1 jackpot pattern type determination table. Then, a pattern designation command is generated that indicates the determined jackpot pattern type. Also, if the result of the jackpot determination is a miss, a pattern designation command that indicates a miss is generated. Note that multiple types of misses may be provided, and if the result of the jackpot determination is a miss, the type of the miss pattern may be determined. In this case, the pattern designation command may include information indicating the type of the miss pattern.

The special chart 1 variation pattern determination process is a process performed after the special chart 1 determination process. In the special chart 1 variation pattern determination process, the special chart 1 variation pattern is determined using the special chart variation pattern random number among the special chart 1 related random numbers stored in the first area of the special chart 1 reservation storage unit 105a and the special chart 1 variation pattern determination table according to the current game state. In the special chart 1 variation pattern determination process when the result of the jackpot determination is a miss, a reach determination is made, and the special chart 1 variation pattern is determined according to the result of the reach determination. In addition, the determination of the special chart 1 variation pattern is also associated with the number of special chart 1 related random numbers (special chart 1 reservation number) stored in the special chart 1 reservation storage unit 105a. Then, a special chart 1 variation start command representing the determined special chart 1 variation pattern is generated. The special chart 1 variation start command includes information regarding the special chart 1, information regarding the result of the jackpot determination, information regarding the result of the jackpot pattern type determination, information regarding the result of the reach determination, information regarding the special chart variation time associated with the special chart 1 variation pattern, and the like. Then, the special chart 1 display 81a starts to display the special chart 1 in a variable manner based on the special chart change time associated with the determined special chart 1 change pattern.

The special chart 1 reserved memory unit shift process is a process that is performed when the special chart 1 determination process and the special chart 1 variation pattern determination process are performed. In the special chart 1 reserved memory unit shift process, the special chart 1 related random numbers stored in the special chart 1 reserved memory unit 105a are shifted by one to the first area side, and the special chart 1 related random numbers in the first area are cleared from the special chart 1 reserved memory unit 105a. In this way, the special chart 1 related random numbers are consumed in the order in which they were obtained. Then, a special chart 1 reserved number command is generated that represents the special chart 1 reserved number after the process.

When both the number of reserved special charts 2 and the number of reserved special charts 1 are present, the special chart 2 determination process is performed with priority, and the variable display of special chart 2 and the variable display of special chart 1 are not performed in parallel. In other words, when there is a reserved special chart 2, the game control microcomputer 101 will not perform the special chart 1 determination process even if there is a reserved special chart 1. The variable display of special chart 2 and the variable display of special chart 1 may be configured to be performed in the order of winning, or to be performed simultaneously.

[2-3-2. Special symbol variation processing]
The special symbol variation process is a process performed during the variable display of the special symbol. In the special symbol variation process, as the special symbol variation time elapses, the special symbol display device 81 ends the variable display of the special symbol and stops displaying the special symbol according to the result of the jackpot determination. If the result of the jackpot determination is a jackpot, the jackpot symbol indicating the jackpot is stopped and displayed, and if the result of the jackpot determination is a miss, the miss symbol indicating a miss is stopped and displayed. Then, a special symbol variation stop command indicating the end of the variable display of the special symbol is generated.

[2-3-3. Special symbol determination process]
The special pattern determination process is a process performed when the special pattern is stopped. In the special pattern determination process, if the currently stopped special pattern is a jackpot pattern, the game is transitioned to a jackpot game state. Then, an opening command indicating the start of a jackpot game is generated. The opening command includes information regarding the result of the jackpot pattern type determination. If the currently stopped special pattern is a losing pattern and the high probability state is to be terminated, a normal probability state is set. Then, a high probability end command indicating a transition to a normal probability state is generated. If the currently stopped special pattern is a losing pattern and the time-saving state is to be terminated, a non-time-saving state is set. Then, a time-saving end command indicating a transition to a non-time-saving state is generated. Note that if the currently stopped special pattern is a losing pattern and the number of reserved special patterns 2 and the number of reserved special patterns 1 are "0", a customer waiting command indicating that the pachinko game machine PY1 is in a standby state is generated.

[2-3-4. Jackpot game control process]
The jackpot game control process is a process carried out in the jackpot game state. In the jackpot game control process, a jackpot game is played according to a jackpot game control table. After transition to the jackpot game state, each round of play is started according to the passage of the opening time or closing time. Then, a round game command indicating the start of the round game is generated. Also, an ending is started according to the end of the final round game. Then, an ending command indicating the end of the jackpot game is generated. The ending command includes information regarding the result of the jackpot symbol type determination.

[2-3-5. Game status setting process]
The game state setting process is a process performed when the jackpot game state ends. In the game state setting process, when changing from a normal probability state to a high probability state, the high probability state is set when the jackpot game state ends. When limiting the duration of the high probability state, the duration of the high probability state (for example, the number of times the special chart can be displayed in a variable manner in which the high probability state can continue without winning a jackpot) is also set. Then, a high probability setting command is generated that indicates the setting of the high probability state. Also, when changing from a non-time-saving state to a time-saving state, the time-saving state is set when the jackpot game state ends. When limiting the duration of the time-saving state, the duration of the time-saving state (for example, the number of times the special chart can be displayed in a variable manner in which the time-saving state can continue without winning a jackpot) is also set. Then, a time-saving setting command is generated that indicates the setting of the time-saving state.

The commands generated by the game control microcomputer 101 in each process can be added or modified as appropriate.

6. Control of performance by the performance control microcomputer 121 Next, the control of performance by the performance control microcomputer 121 will be described with reference to Figures 25 to 27. Note that counters, timers, flags, buffers, etc. that appear in the following description of the control of performance by the performance control microcomputer 121 are provided in the performance RAM 124.

[1. Sub-control main processing]
When the power of the pachinko game machine PY1 is turned on, the performance control microcomputer 121 provided on the sub-control board 120 reads out the program of the sub-control main process shown in Fig. 25 from the performance ROM 123 and executes it. As shown in the figure, the sub-control main process first performs power-on processing in response to power-on (S4001). In the power-on processing, for example, the settings of the performance CPU 122, the SIO, PIO, CTC (circuit for managing interrupt time), etc. are performed.

Next, interrupts are prohibited (S4002), and a random number update process is executed (S4003). In the random number update process (S4003), the values of various random number counters for determining various effects are updated to make decisions regarding various effects. As an example, the method of updating the random number counters for determining various effects can be the same as the random number update process performed by the main control board 100 described above. When updating, the random number values may be added by 2 instead of by 1. This is also the same as in the random number update process performed by the main control board 100 described above.

When the random number update process is completed, a command transmission process is executed (S4004). In the command transmission process, various commands stored in the output buffer in the performance RAM 124 of the sub-control board 120 are transmitted to the image control board 140. The image control board 140 that receives the command displays an image on the display unit 50a according to the received command (executes various performances using images). In addition to the various performances performed by the image control board 140, the sub-control board 120 outputs sound from the speaker 52 via the sound control circuit 161 (executes various sound performances using sound), causes the frame lamp 53 and the board lamp 54 to emit light via the lamp control circuit 151 (executes various light-emitting performances using light), and operates the movable devices 55, 56, and 58 (executes various movable body performances using operations). In this way, various performances (special chart change performances, reserved performances, operation performances, pre-reading performances, other advance notice performances, big win game performances, customer waiting performances, control of performance modes, etc.) are realized.

The performance control microcomputer 121 then permits interrupts (S4005). Thereafter, steps S4002 to S4005 are looped. While interrupts are permitted, it becomes possible to execute reception interrupt processing (S4010), 1 ms timer interrupt processing (S4011), and 10 ms timer interrupt processing (S4012).

The reception interrupt process (S4010) is executed each time various commands sent from the main control board 100 are input to the performance control microcomputer 121. In the reception interrupt process (S4010), the performance control microcomputer 121 stores the various commands sent and received by the output process (S101) of the main control board 100 in the reception buffer of the performance RAM 124. This reception interrupt process is executed with priority over other interrupt processes (S4011, S4012).

[2.1 ms timer interrupt processing]
The 1 ms timer interrupt process (S4011) is executed every time an interrupt pulse with a 1 msec period is input to the sub-control board 120. In the 1 ms timer interrupt process (S4011), as shown in Fig. 26, an input process (S4101), a light emission data output process (S4102), a movable device control process (S4103), and a watchdog timer process (S4104) are sequentially performed.

In the input process, the operation of the normal button detection switch 40a, the special button detection switch 41a, and other operation parts that can be operated by the player are detected, and commands are set and performance data is created according to the detection results. In the light emission data output process, light emission data is output to the lamp control circuit 151 to make lamps such as the frame lamp 53 and the board lamp 54 light up at a timing that matches the image performance, etc., based on the performance data created in the input process or the performance data creation process described later. In other words, the performance control microcomputer 121 makes the frame lamp 53, the board lamp 54, and other lamps light up in a predetermined light emission mode according to the light emission data. In the movable device control process, drive data is output to perform a movable body performance that operates movable devices such as the movable devices 55, 56, and 58 at a predetermined timing based on the performance data created in the input process or the performance data creation process described later. In other words, the performance control microcomputer 121 performs a movable body performance that operates the movable devices 55, 56, and 58 in a predetermined operating mode according to the drive data. In the watchdog timer process, the watchdog timer is reset.

[3. 10 ms timer interrupt processing]
The 10 ms timer interrupt process (S4012) is executed each time an interrupt pulse with a 10 msec period is input to the sub-control board 120. In the 10 ms timer interrupt process (S4012), as shown in Fig. 27, a received command analysis process (S4201), a performance timer update process (S4202), a sound control process (S4203), and a performance data creation process (S4204) are sequentially performed.

In the received command analysis process, the command stored in the receive buffer of the performance RAM 124 by the receive interrupt process (S4010) is analyzed, and processing according to the command (for example, selecting a performance, setting a performance mode, setting a command, etc.) is performed. In the performance timer update process, a timer for measuring the time related to each performance is updated. For example, in the performance timer update process, the start timing and end timing of the effective operation period of the operation parts such as the normal button 40 and the special button 41 are measured. In the audio control process, audio data (data that controls the audio output from the speaker 52) is created and output to the audio control circuit 161 based on the processing results of the input process and the received command analysis process. In the performance data creation process, performance data is created based on the processing results of the received command analysis process.

Here, an example of processing when the performance control microcomputer 121 receives a command from the game control microcomputer 101 will be described. The command received by the performance control microcomputer 121 is a special chart fluctuation start command (special chart 1 fluctuation start command or special chart 2 fluctuation start command). When the performance control microcomputer 121 determines in the received command analysis process (S4201) that it has received a special chart fluctuation start command, it selects a special chart fluctuation performance performance pattern (sub-fluctuation pattern) based on the special chart fluctuation pattern indicated by the command as a processing at the time of receiving the fluctuation start command, sets information on the sub-fluctuation pattern, and sets a fluctuation performance start command including information on the sub-fluctuation pattern in the output buffer. For example, if the special chart fluctuation pattern indicated by the special chart fluctuation start command is SP fluctuation (SP big win fluctuation or SP miss fluctuation), it selects a sub-fluctuation pattern that performs SP reach, and sets a fluctuation performance start command corresponding to the sub-fluctuation pattern in the output buffer. After that, each process (such as command transmission process (S4004), light emission data output process (S4102), movable device control process (S4103), and audio control process (S4203)) is executed to realize a special chart change effect corresponding to the selected sub-change pattern. The process flow for realizing such effects is basically the same for other effects such as big win game effects, customer waiting effects, pre-reading effects, and so-called advance notice effects associated with the change.

7. First embodiment Next, a first embodiment of the pachinko gaming machine PY1 will be described. Unless otherwise stated, the pachinko gaming machine PY1 of the basic embodiment described above is also applied to the first embodiment.

First, the special chart variation patterns that can be selected by the game control microcomputer 101 in this embodiment will be described. The game ROM 103 of the game control microcomputer 101 stores the special chart 1 variation pattern X determination table shown in FIG. 28. The game control microcomputer 101 can select the special chart variation pattern using the special chart 1 variation pattern X determination table. In this embodiment, the special chart 1 variation pattern X determination table shown in FIG. 28 is used, but it is also possible to use it in conjunction with the special chart 1 variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 11.

In the special chart 1 variation pattern determination process in the non-time-saving state, the game control microcomputer 101 determines the special chart 1 variation pattern based on the result of the jackpot determination, the result of the jackpot symbol type determination, the result of the reach determination, and the special chart variation pattern random number. As shown in FIG. 28, the game control microcomputer 101 can determine seven types of special chart 1 variation patterns, "PX01", "PX02", and "PX11" to "PX15", as the special chart 1 variation pattern. Which special chart 1 variation pattern is determined depends on the special chart variation pattern random number.

Specifically, if the result of the jackpot determination is a "jackpot," one can choose from two types of special chart 1 variation patterns: "PX01" and "PX02." "PX01" is called "SP jackpot variation X," and "PX02" is called "L jackpot variation X."

In addition, if the result of the jackpot judgment is "miss" and the result of the reach judgment is "reach", one of the three types of special chart 1 variation patterns "PX11" to "PX13" can be selected. "PX11" is called "SP miss variation X", "PX12" is called "L miss variation X", and "PX13" is called "N miss variation X". Of the three types of special chart 1 variation patterns "PX11" to "PX13", "PX13" is easier to determine than the other special chart 1 variation patterns.

In addition, if the result of the jackpot judgment is "miss" and the result of the reach judgment is "no reach", it is possible to select one of two types of special chart 1 variation patterns, "PX14" or "PX15". Which of the two types of special chart 1 variation patterns is selected is allocated differently depending on the number of reserved special charts 1. When the number of reserved special charts 1 is 0 to 2, "PX14: normal miss variation X", which has a relatively long special chart variation time, is likely to be determined, and when the number of reserved special charts 1 is 3 to 4, "PX15: normal miss variation X", which has a relatively short special chart variation time, is likely to be determined.

Next, we will explain the special chart change presentation that the presentation control microcomputer 121 can execute according to the special chart 1 change pattern selected by the game control microcomputer 101. As shown in FIG. 28, the presentation control microcomputer 121 can execute the following as special chart change presentations.

A. Normal change "Normal change" is a performance that may be performed in response to the start of the variable display (pattern change) of the special chart, and is a performance in which the performance patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are displayed variably. Since "normal change" is performed first in the special chart change performance, it functions as a performance that suggests that the special chart change performance has started.

B. N Reach X
"N Reach X" is an effect that may be performed after a reach is achieved in "normal variation", and is an effect in which the left effect pattern EZ1 and the right effect pattern EZ3 are displayed as stopped effect patterns of the same type, and the center effect pattern EZ2 is displayed in a variable manner. "N Reach X" may be performed when the result of the jackpot determination is "jackpot", so it functions as an effect that suggests that a jackpot game may be played. In addition, after "N Reach X", reach effects such as "L Reach X" and "SP Reach X" may be performed, so "N Reach X" functions as an effect that suggests that "L Reach X" and "SP Reach X" may be performed.

C.L Reach X
"L reach X" is an effect that may be performed after "N reach X" through "development effect". Since "L reach X" may be performed when the result of the jackpot determination is "jackpot", it functions as an effect suggesting the possibility of a jackpot game being played. Also, since the possibility of a "miss" is lower when "L reach X" is performed after "N reach X" than when neither "L reach X" nor "SP reach X" is performed after "N reach X", "L reach X" functions as an effect indicating a higher possibility of a jackpot game state than "N reach X".

D. SP Reach X
"SP reach X" is an effect that may be performed after "N reach X" and then "development effect". Since "SP reach X" may be performed when the result of the jackpot determination is "jackpot", it functions as an effect suggesting that a jackpot game may be played. Also, since the possibility of a "miss" is lower when "SP reach X" is performed after "N reach X" than when "L reach X" is performed after "N reach X", "SP reach X" functions as an effect indicating that the possibility of a jackpot game state is higher than "L reach X".

Next, we will explain the presentation flow of the main special chart change presentation that is executed in the non-time-saving state. The presentation control microcomputer 121 displays a presentation image on the display unit 50a for each presentation that constitutes the presentation flow. In addition, depending on the presentation image displayed on the display unit 50a, it is possible to execute a light-emitting presentation using the frame lamp 53 or the board lamp 54, a sound presentation using the speaker 52, etc.

As shown in FIG. 28, in the case where the special chart 1 variation pattern is "SP jackpot variation X" or "SP miss variation X", the special chart variation performance executes a performance flow consisting of normal variation → reach → N reach → development performance → SP reach X. In the case where the special chart 1 variation pattern is "L jackpot variation X" or "L miss variation X", the special chart variation performance executes a performance flow consisting of normal variation → reach → N reach → development performance → L reach X. In addition, "SP jackpot variation X" and "SP miss variation X" are collectively referred to as "SP reach variation X", and "L jackpot variation X" and "L miss variation X" are collectively referred to as "L reach variation X".

When the special chart 1 variation pattern is "N miss variation X", a presentation flow consisting of normal variation → reach → N reach is executed in the special chart variation presentation. Also, "N miss variation X" is sometimes called "N reach variation X". When the special chart 1 variation pattern is "normal miss variation X", a presentation flow consisting of only "normal variation" is executed in the special chart variation presentation. The time for normal variation in "SP reach variation X", "L reach variation X", and "N reach variation X" can be, for example, 4000 ms.

The game control microcomputer 101's game ROM 103 stores a look-ahead X determination table shown in FIG. 29. The game control microcomputer 101 can select a look-ahead pattern using the look-ahead X determination table.

The gaming control microcomputer 101 selects the type of look-ahead pattern based on the result of a look-ahead judgment made in response to winning at the first starting hole 11 in a non-time-saving state. In this embodiment, a pre-determination of the fluctuation pattern is made in the look-ahead judgment. The pre-determination of the fluctuation pattern is a determination in advance of the fluctuation pattern to be determined in the look-ahead judgment. In this embodiment, there are five types of look-ahead patterns: "SPX01", "SPX02", and "SPX11" to "SPX03". In this embodiment, the look-ahead X judgment table shown in FIG. 29 is used, but it is also possible to use it in conjunction with the look-ahead judgment table shown in FIG. 13.

Specifically, if the result of the fluctuation pattern pre-determination related to the look-ahead determination is "PX01", the look-ahead pattern "SPX01" can be selected, and if it is "PX02", the look-ahead pattern "SPX02" can be selected. Note that "SPX01" is called "SP jackpot look-ahead pattern X" and "SPX02" is called "L jackpot look-ahead pattern X".

In addition, if the result of the fluctuation pattern pre-determination related to the look-ahead determination is "PX11", then the look-ahead pattern "SPX11" can be selected, if it is "PX12", then the look-ahead pattern "SPX12" can be selected, and if it is "PX13", then the look-ahead pattern "SPX13" can be selected. Note that "SPX11" is called "SP miss look-ahead pattern X", "SPX12" is called "L miss look-ahead pattern X", and "SPX13" is called "N miss look-ahead pattern X".

Next, we will explain the look-ahead performances that the performance control microcomputer 121 can execute according to the look-ahead pattern selected by the game control microcomputer 101. Depending on the look-ahead pattern, the performance control microcomputer 121 refers to the look-ahead performance execution selection table shown in FIG. 30 to select whether or not to execute a look-ahead performance, and if a look-ahead performance is executed, selects the type of look-ahead performance to execute. In this embodiment, the look-ahead X determination table shown in FIG. 29 is used when the number of reserved special charts 1 is "1" or more. The performance control microcomputer 121 can execute the following as look-ahead performances.

E. Pre-zone performance The "pre-zone performance" may start in response to the game ball entering the first starting hole 11, and is a zone performance that continues for a predetermined period after the start. The "pre-zone performance" of this form starts in response to the right to judge a jackpot being generated based on the ball entering the first starting hole 11, and after the start, continues until a predetermined timing during the special chart change for the right to judge a jackpot (i.e., the right to judge a jackpot that is the pre-reading target). The "pre-zone performance" is executed in the case of "SP jackpot pre-reading pattern X" or "L jackpot pre-reading pattern X" related to a jackpot, and therefore functions as a performance that suggests that a jackpot game is likely to be played.

When the performance control microcomputer 121 executes a "pre-zone performance", it selects the content of the "pre-zone performance" to be executed by referring to the pre-zone performance selection table shown in FIG. 31. The performances that the performance control microcomputer 121 can execute during a "pre-zone performance" include an "icon change performance" and a "chance character performance". For this reason, the "pre-zone performance" functions as a performance that suggests that there is a possibility that an "icon change performance" or a "chance character performance" will be performed.

F. Continuous Zone Presentation The "continuous zone presentation" may be started in response to the ball entering the first starting hole 11, and is a zone presentation that continues for a predetermined period after the start. The "continuous zone presentation" of this form is started in response to the start of the special chart change for the right to judge a jackpot (i.e., the right to judge a jackpot that is the pre-reading target) that arises based on the ball entering the first starting hole 11, and continues until a predetermined timing during the special chart change after the start. The "continuous zone presentation" is executed in the case of "SP jackpot pre-reading pattern X" and "L jackpot pre-reading pattern X" related to a jackpot, and therefore functions as a presentation that suggests that a jackpot game is likely to be played.

When executing a "continuous zone effect", the effect control microcomputer 121 selects the content of the "continuous zone effect" to be executed by referring to the continuous zone effect selection table shown in FIG. 32. Effects that the effect control microcomputer 121 can execute during a "continuous zone effect" include an "icon change effect" and a "chance character effect". For this reason, the "continuous zone effect" functions as an effect that suggests that there is a possibility that an "icon change effect" or a "chance character effect" will be performed.

In addition, in this embodiment, when a "continuous zone performance" is performed, a "continuous zone suggestion performance" is performed, which suggests that a "continuous zone performance" will be performed. Specifically, in this embodiment, when a "continuous zone performance" is performed, the reserved icon HA related to the special chart change performance that is the target of the "continuous zone performance" (i.e., the special chart change of the right to determine the jackpot that is the target of the pre-reading) may be displayed in a continuous zone suggestion mode that suggests the execution of a "continuous zone performance". For this reason, the reserved icon HA in the continuous zone suggestion mode functions as a performance that suggests that a "continuous zone performance" will be performed in the special chart change performance that corresponds to the reserved icon HA.

G. Icon Change Presentation The "icon change presentation" is a presentation that changes the state of the icon (i.e., the reserved icon HA, the icon TA) that indicates that the right to judge a big win has been generated in response to the ball entering the first starting hole 11. The "icon change presentation" functions as a presentation that suggests that the "chance character presentation" will be performed, since the "chance character presentation" will be performed afterwards.

The "icon change performance" can be in the form of a diamond pattern or a star pattern. When a diamond pattern "icon change performance" is performed, the reserved icon HA (or the icon TA) changes to a diamond pattern. When a star pattern "icon change performance" is performed, the reserved icon HA (or the icon TA) changes to a star pattern. In other words, the "icon change performance" is a performance that can change the reserved icon HA (or the icon TA) to a diamond pattern or a star pattern. Note that in this embodiment, the pattern of the reserved icon HA (or the icon TA) before the "icon change performance" is performed is different from both the diamond pattern and the star pattern.

H. Chance Character Effect The "chance character effect" is an effect in which the word "chance" is displayed for a predetermined period of time. There are two types of "chance character effect": a black character pattern and a white character pattern. When a "chance character effect" with a black character pattern is performed, a character image of "chance" with a black character pattern is displayed. When a "chance character effect" with a white character pattern is performed, a character image of "chance" with a white character pattern is displayed. In other words, the "chance character effect" is an effect in which "chance" is displayed with a black character pattern or "chance" is displayed with a white character pattern.

Also, as shown in FIG. 30, when the look-ahead pattern is "SP jackpot look-ahead pattern X" or "L jackpot look-ahead pattern X", the effect control microcomputer 121 selects the execution of the "pre-zone effect" 25%, the execution of the "continuous zone effect" 35%, and the non-execution of the look-ahead effect (i.e., neither the "pre-zone effect" nor the "continuous zone effect") 40% of the time. When the look-ahead pattern is "SP miss look-ahead pattern X" or "L miss look-ahead pattern X", the execution of the "pre-zone effect" 25%, the execution of the "continuous zone effect" 25%, and the non-execution of the look-ahead effect 50% of the time. When the look-ahead pattern is "N miss look-ahead pattern X", the execution of the "pre-zone effect" 5%, the execution of the "continuous zone effect" 5%, and the non-execution of the look-ahead effect 90% of the time.

For this reason, the "pre-zone effect" functions as an effect that increases the likelihood of a jackpot being played compared to when neither the "pre-zone effect" nor the "continuous zone effect" is executed. In addition, the "continuous zone effect" functions as an effect that suggests that a jackpot being played is more likely than the "pre-zone effect."

Also, as shown in FIG. 31, in the "pre-zone performance" when the look-ahead pattern is "SP jackpot look-ahead pattern X" or "L jackpot look-ahead pattern X", the performance control microcomputer 121 selects the execution of the diamond pattern "icon change performance" 60% of the time and the execution of the star pattern "icon change performance" 40% of the time. In the "pre-zone performance" when the look-ahead pattern is "SP miss look-ahead pattern X" or "L miss look-ahead pattern X", the performance control microcomputer 121 selects the execution of the diamond pattern "icon change performance" 70% of the time and the execution of the star pattern "icon change performance" 30% of the time. In the "pre-zone performance" when the look-ahead pattern is "N miss look-ahead pattern X", the performance control microcomputer 121 selects the execution of the diamond pattern "icon change performance" 99% of the time and the execution of the star pattern "icon change performance" 1% of the time. In the "pre-zone performance" when the look-ahead pattern is "SP jackpot look-ahead pattern X" or "L jackpot look-ahead pattern X", the execution of the "chance character performance" of the black character pattern is selected at a rate of 30%, and the execution of the "chance character performance" of the white character pattern is selected at a rate of 70%. In the "pre-zone performance" when the look-ahead pattern is "SP miss look-ahead pattern X" or "L miss look-ahead pattern X", the execution of the "chance character performance" of the black character pattern is selected at a rate of 40%, and the execution of the "chance character performance" of the white character pattern is selected at a rate of 60%. In the "pre-zone performance" when the look-ahead pattern is "N miss look-ahead pattern X", the execution of the "chance character performance" of the black character pattern is selected at a rate of 99%, and the execution of the "chance character performance" of the white character pattern is selected at a rate of 1%.

Also, as shown in FIG. 32, in the "continuous zone performance" when the look-ahead pattern is "SP jackpot look-ahead pattern X" or "L jackpot look-ahead pattern X", the performance control microcomputer 121 selects the execution of the "icon change performance" of the diamond pattern 30% of the time and the execution of the "icon change performance" of the star pattern 70% of the time. In the "continuous zone performance" when the look-ahead pattern is "SP miss look-ahead pattern X" or "L miss look-ahead pattern X", the execution of the "icon change performance" of the diamond pattern 40% of the time and the execution of the "icon change performance" of the star pattern 60% of the time. In the "continuous zone performance" when the look-ahead pattern is "N miss look-ahead pattern X", the execution of the "icon change performance" of the diamond pattern 99% of the time and the execution of the "icon change performance" of the star pattern 1% of the time. In the "continuous zone performance" when the look-ahead pattern is "SP big win look-ahead pattern X" or "L big win look-ahead pattern X", the black character pattern "chance character performance" is selected 60% of the time, and the white character pattern "chance character performance" is selected 40% of the time. In the "continuous zone performance" when the look-ahead pattern is "SP miss look-ahead pattern X" or "L miss look-ahead pattern X", the black character pattern "chance character performance" is selected 70% of the time, and the white character pattern "chance character performance" is selected 30% of the time. In the "continuous zone performance" when the look-ahead pattern is "N miss look-ahead pattern X", the black character pattern "chance character performance" is selected 99% of the time, and the white character pattern "chance character performance" is selected 1% of the time.

For this reason, the star pattern "icon change effect" functions as an effect that suggests a higher possibility of a jackpot game being played than the diamond pattern "icon change effect." The diamond pattern "icon change effect" is a low-expectation "icon change effect" in which the expectation of a jackpot game state is lower than the star pattern "icon change effect." On the other hand, the star pattern "icon change effect" is a high-expectation "icon change effect" in which the expectation of a jackpot game state is higher than the diamond pattern "icon change effect."

Furthermore, the "chance character effect" of the white character pattern is less likely to be selected in the event of a miss than the "chance character effect" of the black character pattern, and therefore functions as an effect that suggests a high possibility of a jackpot game being played. The "chance character effect" of the black character pattern is a "chance character effect" of low expectation type, in which the expectation of a jackpot game state is lower than that of the "chance character effect" of the white character pattern. On the other hand, the "chance character effect" of the white character pattern is a "chance character effect" of high expectation type, in which the expectation of a jackpot game state is higher than that of the "chance character effect" of the black character pattern.

Furthermore, diamond pattern "icon change effects" are more likely to occur in "pre-zone effects" than in "continuous zone effects". Star pattern "icon change effects" are more likely to occur in "pre-zone effects" than in "pre-zone effects". In other words, "icon change effects" are more likely to occur in the star pattern, which is a high expectation mode, in "pre-zone effects" than in "pre-zone effects". In other words, "icon change effects" are less likely to occur in the star pattern, which is a high expectation mode, in "pre-zone effects" than in "pre-zone effects".

The "chance character effect" of the white character pattern is more likely to occur in the "pre-zone effect" than in the "continuous zone effect." The "chance character effect" of the black character pattern is more likely to occur in the "continuous zone effect" than in the "pre-zone effect." In other words, the "chance character effect" is more likely to occur in the white character pattern, which is a high expectation mode, in the "pre-zone effect" than in the "continuous zone effect." In other words, the "chance character effect" is less likely to occur in the white character pattern, which is a high expectation mode, in the "continuous zone effect" than in the "pre-zone effect."

Next, examples of the cases in which the "pre-zone effect" and the "continuous zone effect" are performed will be described with reference to the time chart in FIG. 33. The example in FIG. 33 is a case in which a ball enters the first starting hole 11 while the special symbol pattern change is being performed in a state in which the number of reserved special symbols 1 in the non-time-saving state is "1", and a reserved target for the "pre-zone effect" or the "continuous zone effect" is added with the right to determine a jackpot related to the ball entering as the target of the pre-reading effect. In other words, this is an example in which a ball enters the first starting hole 11 related to the specific pattern change in a state in which a pattern change corresponding to the ball entering the first starting hole 11 two holes before the ball entering the first starting hole 11 is being performed with respect to the ball entering the first starting hole 11 related to the pattern change that is the target of the pre-reading effect (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as the specific pattern change). Therefore, in this example, the "pre-zone effect" and the "continuous zone effect" are performed with the specific pattern change, which is the pattern change corresponding to the number of reserved special symbols 1 being "2", as the pre-reading target.

In this embodiment, the execution period of the "pre-zone performance" is a period spanning multiple pattern changes. The "pre-zone performance" is started in response to the occurrence of a ball entering related to a specific pattern change, as shown in FIG. 33. In the example of FIG. 33, the "pre-zone performance" is started at the timing when a ball entering related to a specific pattern change occurs. The "pre-zone performance" that has started is then continuously executed from the start of the specific pattern change until the end of the normal change in the specific pattern change. In other words, the "pre-zone performance" is continuously executed from the pattern change two patterns before the specific pattern change until the specific pattern change itself. As a result, the "pre-zone performance" is executed across multiple pattern changes.

In the "pre-zone performance", the "icon change performance" and "chance letter performance" are performed in this order. In the example of Figure 33, the "icon change performance" in the "pre-zone performance" is performed during the pattern change two patterns before the specific pattern change. The "chance letter performance" in the "pre-zone performance" is performed during the pattern change one pattern before the specific pattern change. In other words, the "icon change performance" and "chance letter performance" in the "pre-zone performance" are each performed during different pattern changes.

In this embodiment, the execution period of the "continuous zone effect" is the period within one pattern change. The "continuous zone effect" is started in response to the start of a specific pattern change, as shown in FIG. 33. In the example of FIG. 33, the "continuous zone effect" is started at the timing when the specific pattern change starts. The started "continuous zone effect" is then executed continuously until a timing before the end timing of the normal change in the specific pattern change. In other words, the "continuous zone effect" is executed within the period of one effect within the specific pattern change in which multiple preview effects are performed. Also, in this embodiment, the normal change, which is the execution period of the "continuous zone effect", is the effect that is executed first in the specific pattern change.

In the "continuous zone performance", just like the "pre-zone performance", the "icon change performance" and the "chance letter performance" are performed in that order. However, in the "continuous zone performance", the "icon change performance" and the "chance letter performance" are performed within a shorter period of time than in the "pre-zone performance". In the "continuous zone performance", the "icon change performance" and the "chance letter performance" are both performed within a specific pattern change. And, the period from the end of the "icon change performance" to the start of the "chance letter performance" is shorter in the "continuous zone performance" than in the "pre-zone performance". Therefore, in the "continuous zone performance", the "icon change performance" and the "chance letter performance" are performed intensively in a short period of time.

As described above, in this embodiment, when the "continuous zone effect" is performed, before the "continuous zone effect" is started, a "continuous zone suggestion icon effect" is performed in which the reserved icon HA corresponding to the specific pattern change is displayed in a continuous zone suggestion mode as a "continuous zone suggestion effect" that suggests that the "continuous zone effect" will be performed. The "continuous zone suggestion icon effect" is started in response to the occurrence of a ball entering the specific pattern change, as shown in FIG. 33. In the example of FIG. 33, the "continuous zone suggestion icon effect" is started at the timing when a ball entering the specific pattern change occurs. The started "continuous zone suggestion icon effect" is then continuously executed until the specific pattern change starts and the "continuous zone effect" is performed. In other words, the "continuous zone suggestion icon effect" is continuously executed from the pattern change two patterns before the specific pattern change to the specific pattern change. As a result, the "continuous zone suggestion icon effect" is executed over multiple pattern changes.

The "rapid fire zone suggestive icon performance" can be ended by the "icon change performance" of the "rapid fire zone performance". That is, after the "rapid fire zone suggestive icon performance" is started, the "icon change performance" of the "rapid fire zone performance" can be performed, thereby changing the icon TA corresponding to the specific pattern change from the rapid fire zone suggestive state to a diamond state or a star state. The "rapid fire zone suggestive icon performance" can also be ended by the start of the "rapid fire zone performance". That is, after the "rapid fire zone suggestive icon performance" is started, the icon TA corresponding to the specific pattern change can be changed from the rapid fire zone suggestive state to a different state in response to the start of the "rapid fire zone performance".

Figure 34 is a diagram explaining the specific aspects of the "icon change effect" and "chance character effect". Figures 34 (A) and (B) respectively show the reserved icon or the icon TA that has changed due to the "icon change effect". Figure 34 (A) shows a diamond icon AT1, which is the reserved icon HA (or the icon TA) in a diamond shape. That is, when the "icon change effect" of the diamond pattern is performed, the reserved icon HA (or the icon TA) changes to the diamond icon AT1. Figure 34 (B) shows a star icon AT2, which is the reserved icon HA (or the icon TA) in a star shape. That is, when the "icon change effect" of the star pattern is performed, the reserved icon HA (or the icon TA) changes to the star icon AT2.

Figures 34 (C) and (D) each show a chance character image GC displayed in a "chance character effect." Figure 34 (C) is a black chance character image GC1, which is a chance character image GC displayed in a "chance character effect" of a black character pattern. Figure 34 (D) is a white chance character image GC2, which is a chance character image GC displayed in a "chance character effect" of a white character pattern.

Next, the manner in which the "pre-zone performance" is performed will be explained with reference to Figures 35 and 36. Figure 35 (A) is a diagram showing a state in which a pattern change is being performed when the number of reserved special chart 1 is "1". In Figure 35 (A), a background image G102 corresponding to a "low probability low base game state" is displayed on the display unit 50a, and further, a changing display of the performance patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 is being performed. In addition, the icon TA is displayed in the icon display area 50e, and a reserved icon HA corresponding to the number of reserved special chart 1 being "1" is displayed in the first display area 50d1 of the reserved icon display area 50d.

35(A), when a ball enters the first starting hole 11 related to the specific pattern change that is the target of the "pre-zone performance", the "pre-zone performance" starts as shown in FIG. 35(B). That is, the number of reserved special patterns 1 becomes "2" in response to the ball entering the first starting hole 11, and the reserved icon HA corresponding to the number of reserved special patterns 1 "2" is displayed in the second display area 50d2. This reserved icon HA corresponding to the number of reserved special patterns 1 "2" is the reserved icon HA corresponding to the specific pattern change. Note that the reserved icon HA corresponding to the specific pattern change is in the state before the change at the start of the display. Specifically, at the start of the "pre-zone performance" in which the "icon change performance" of the diamond pattern is performed, a reserved icon HA in a state different from the diamond state is displayed as the reserved icon HA corresponding to the specific pattern change. Also, at the start of the "pre-zone performance" in which the "icon change performance" of the star pattern is performed, a reserved icon HA in a state different from the star state is displayed as the reserved icon HA corresponding to the specific pattern change.

In addition, in the "pre-zone performance", a background image G102 is displayed in a variable display area G50a, which is a portion of the display unit 50a, and the performance patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are displayed in a variable manner. In other words, during the execution period of the "pre-zone performance", the images that are displayed in the entire area of the display unit 50a during other periods are displayed in a reduced form within the variable display area G50a. Furthermore, in the "pre-zone performance", in addition to the variable display area G50a, a background image G200 for the pre-zone performance is displayed, and a pre-zone title image G201 is displayed. Both the background image G200 for the pre-zone performance and the pre-zone title image G201 are images that suggest that the "pre-zone performance" is being performed. This indicates that the "pre-zone performance" has started.

In the "pre-zone performance", an "icon change performance" is performed, as shown in FIG. 35(C). When the "icon change performance" is performed, the state of the reserved icon HA corresponding to the specific pattern change, i.e., the reserved icon HA corresponding to the number of reserved special pattern 1s of "2", changes. In the example of FIG. 35(C), a diamond pattern "icon change performance" is performed, and the reserved icon HA corresponding to the specific pattern change changes to a diamond state, becoming diamond icon AT1.

In the "pre-zone performance", after the "icon change performance", a "chance character performance" is performed as shown in FIG. 36 (A). In this example, after the "icon change performance" is performed, the pattern change two patterns before the specific pattern change ends, and the pattern change before the specific pattern change starts, and then the "chance character performance" is performed. For this reason, the reserved icon HA corresponding to the specific pattern change is moved to the first display area 50d1, which corresponds to the number of reserved special pattern 1 being "1".

In the "chance character effect" of the "pre-zone effect", the chance character image GC is displayed. In the "chance character effect" of the "pre-zone effect", the chance character image GC is displayed within the variable display area G50a. The chance character image GC is displayed for a predetermined period of time and then hidden. In the example of FIG. 36(A), a "chance character effect" of a black character pattern is performed, and a black chance character image GC1 is displayed.

The "pre-zone effect" continues even after the "chance character effect" has been performed and the specific pattern change has started, as shown in FIG. 36(B). In FIG. 36(B), in response to the start of the special pattern change effect related to the specific pattern change, a diamond-shaped icon AT1 is displayed in the icon display area 50e as the icon TA corresponding to the specific pattern change.

The "pre-zone performance" ends when the normal change in the special symbol change performance related to the specific symbol change ends. That is, the "pre-zone performance" ends when a reach is achieved in the normal change of the special symbol change performance related to the specific symbol change, as shown in FIG. 36 (C). When the "pre-zone performance" ends, the image that was displayed in a reduced state within the change display area G50a during the "pre-zone performance" is displayed in the entire area of the display unit 50a. That is, when the "pre-zone performance" ends, the image that was displayed in the change display area G50a during the "pre-zone performance" is displayed in an expanded state across the entire area of the display unit 50a, which is a larger area. This also causes the pre-zone performance background image G200 and the pre-zone title image G201 to be hidden.

Next, the manner in which the "continuous zone effect" is performed will be explained with reference to Figures 37 and 38. Figure 37 (A) is a diagram showing a state in which a pattern change is being performed when the number of reserved special chart 1 is "1". In Figure 37 (A), a background image G102 is displayed on the display unit 50a, and further, the changing display of the effect patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 is being performed. Also, the icon TA is displayed in the icon display area 50e, and a reserved icon HA corresponding to the number of reserved special chart 1 being "1" is displayed in the first display area 50d1 of the reserved icon display area 50d.

In the state of FIG. 37(A), when a ball lands in the first starting hole 11 related to the specific pattern change that is the target of the "continuous zone effect", the "continuous zone effect" starts as shown in FIG. 37(B). That is, the number of reserved special patterns 1 becomes "2" in response to the ball lands in the first starting hole 11, and the reserved icon HA corresponding to the number of reserved special patterns 1 of "2" is displayed in the second display area 50d2. In this embodiment, a "continuous zone suggestion icon effect" is performed in which the reserved icon HA corresponding to the specific pattern change is displayed in a continuous zone suggestion mode. Therefore, the reserved icon HA corresponding to the specific pattern change is displayed in a continuous zone suggestion mode from the start of its display. The reserved icon HA in the continuous zone suggestion mode is a mode different from both the reserved icon HA in the diamond mode and the reserved icon HA in the star mode.

Then, the pattern change two symbols before the specific pattern change and the pattern change before the specific pattern change finish in that order, and when the special pattern change performance related to the specific pattern change starts, the "continuous zone performance" starts, as shown in Figure 37 (C).

In the "continuous zone performance", the continuous zone performance background image G300 is displayed in the entire area of the display unit 50a, and the performance patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 are displayed in a variable manner. In other words, in the "continuous zone performance", the variable performance of the performance patterns EZ1, EZ2, and EZ3 is started in an area that occupies a larger area of the display unit 50a than in the "pre-zone performance". Also, the icon TA corresponding to the specific pattern change is displayed in the icon display area 50e. Furthermore, in the "continuous zone performance", the continuous zone title image G301 is displayed on the display unit 50a. Both the continuous zone performance background image G300 and the continuous zone title image G301 are images that suggest that the "continuous zone performance" is being performed. This indicates that the "continuous zone performance" has started.

In the "continuous fire zone effect", an "icon change effect" is performed, as shown in FIG. 38(A). When the "icon change effect" is performed, the state of the icon TA corresponding to the specific pattern change changes from the state suggesting the continuous fire zone. In the example of FIG. 38(A), a diamond pattern "icon change effect" is performed, and the icon TA corresponding to the specific pattern change changes to a diamond state, becoming diamond icon AT1.

In the "continuous fire zone effect", after the "icon change effect", a "chance character effect" is performed as shown in FIG. 38 (B). In the "chance character effect" of the "continuous fire zone effect", a chance character image GC is displayed on the display unit 50a. The chance character image GC is displayed for a predetermined period of time and then hidden. In the example of FIG. 38 (B), a "chance character effect" of a black character pattern is performed, and a black chance character image GC1 is displayed.

The "continuous firing zone effect" of this form ends before the normal fluctuation in the special symbol fluctuation effect related to the specific symbol fluctuation ends. In other words, the "continuous firing zone effect" ends when a reach is achieved in the normal fluctuation of the special symbol fluctuation effect related to the specific symbol fluctuation, as shown in FIG. 38(C). Also, by ending the "continuous firing zone effect", the background image G300 for the continuous firing zone effect and the continuous firing zone title image G301 are hidden.

As described above in detail, the performance control microcomputer 121 of the pachinko game machine PY1 according to this embodiment can execute the "icon change performance" and the "chance character performance". The "icon change performance" includes a diamond pattern and a star pattern that has a higher expectation of a jackpot game state than the diamond pattern. The "chance character performance" includes a black character pattern and a white character pattern that has a higher expectation of a jackpot game state than the black character pattern. In other words, both the "icon change performance" and the "chance character performance" are advance notice performances that can take multiple forms with different expectation of a jackpot game state. In addition, the performance control microcomputer 121 can execute the "pre-zone performance" and the "continuous zone performance". The "continuous zone performance" is a zone performance that is executed during a period during which a specific pattern is changing. The "pre-zone performance" is a zone performance that is executed during a period from a pattern change before a specific pattern change to multiple pattern changes. For this reason, the execution period of the "pre-zone performance" is longer than the execution period of the "continuous zone performance". Furthermore, the expectation of hitting a jackpot game state differs when a "continuous zone effect" is executed and when a "pre-zone effect" is executed. In other words, it is possible to execute a "continuous zone effect" in which multiple advance notice effects are performed intensively in a short period of time, and a "pre-zone effect" in which multiple advance notice effects are performed over a longer period of time than the "continuous zone effect." In other words, there are cases in which multiple advance notice effects are performed intensively in a short period of time and cases in which they are performed over a long period of time, and by having different expectations in these cases, it is possible to prevent the game from becoming monotonous even if the combination of advance notice effects performed is the same. This makes it possible to increase interest in the game.

In addition, in the pachinko game machine PY1 according to this embodiment, the likelihood that at least one of the "icon change effect" and the "chance character effect" will be a high expectation mode with high expectations differs between the "continuous zone effect" and the "pre-zone effect." And because the likelihood that a high expectation mode pre-notification effect will be produced differs between when multiple pre-notification effects are performed intensively in a short period of time and when they are performed over a long period of time, it is possible to further prevent the game from becoming monotonous.

In addition, in the pachinko gaming machine PY1 according to this embodiment, the "icon change effect" is more likely to be performed in a high-expectation manner in the "continuous zone effect" than in the "pre-zone effect." As a result, in the "continuous zone effect," multiple advance notice effects, including the highly anticipated "icon change effect," are more likely to be performed intensively within a short period of time. This makes it possible to increase interest.

In addition, in the pachinko gaming machine PY1 according to this embodiment, the "chance character effect" is less likely to be performed in a high expectation mode in the "continuous zone effect" than in the "pre-zone effect." In the "continuous zone effect," multiple advance notice effects are performed intensively in a short period of time. For this reason, even if the "continuous zone effect" includes a "chance character effect" that is not a high expectation mode, it is possible to maintain high interest. Also, in the "pre-zone effect" that is performed over a long period of time, the inclusion of a "chance character effect" with a high expectation mode increases the player's sense of expectation, making it possible to maintain high interest.

The effect control microcomputer 121 of the pachinko gaming machine PY1 according to this embodiment performs both the "icon change effect" and the "chance character effect" in the entire area of the display unit 50a for the "continuous zone effect." On the other hand, in the "pre-zone effect," the "icon change effect" and the "chance character effect" are performed in a variable display area G50a that is smaller than the entire area of the display unit 50a. In other words, there are cases where multiple preview effects are performed in a wide display area and cases where they are performed in an even smaller display area, and because the degree of expectation differs in these cases, it is possible to prevent the game from becoming monotonous even if the combination of effects performed is the same. This makes it possible to increase interest in the game.

In addition, in the pachinko gaming machine PY1 according to this embodiment, the "icon change effect" is more likely to be performed in a high expectation mode in the "continuous zone effect" than in the "pre-zone effect." As a result, in the "continuous zone effect," multiple preview effects including the "icon change effect" with high expectation are more likely to be performed in a large display area. In other words, by making it easier to perform preview effects with high expectation modes in a large display area, it is possible to effectively liven up the game and create a sense of anticipation for a jackpot game state. This makes it possible to increase interest.

In addition, in the pachinko game machine PY1 according to this embodiment, the "chance character effect" is less likely to be performed in a high expectation manner in the "continuous zone effect" than in the "pre-zone effect." This creates a sense of exclusivity in the fact that multiple advance notice effects are performed in a small display area, making it possible to increase interest.

8. Modifications Next, common modifications of the pachinko game machine PY1 of the above embodiment will be described. In the description of the modifications, the same components as those of the above embodiment will be given the same reference numerals and will not be described. Of course, the components of the modifications may be appropriately combined. Furthermore, technical features in the above embodiment and the following modifications may be appropriately deleted unless they are described as essential in this specification.

For example, in the above embodiment, it has been described that when a "continuous zone effect" is performed, the hold icon HA (the icon TA) related to the specific pattern change is displayed in a continuous zone suggesting manner. However, for example, the hold icon HA may be displayed in a manner different from the continuous zone suggesting manner even when a "continuous zone effect" is performed. Also, for example, the hold icon HA may be displayed in a continuous zone suggesting manner even when a "continuous zone effect" is not performed. Note that it is preferable to configure the hold icon HA in a continuous zone suggesting manner to be displayed in a manner that makes it easier for the "continuous zone effect" to be performed than when a hold icon HA other than a continuous zone suggesting manner is displayed.

In the above embodiment, the "pre-zone effect" is described as being started in response to the occurrence of a ball that is related to a specific symbol change. However, for example, the "pre-zone effect" may be started in response to a specified condition (e.g., the passage of a predetermined period of time, the start of a symbol change after the occurrence of a ball that is related to a specific symbol change, etc.) after the occurrence of a ball that is related to a specific symbol change. The same applies to the "continuous zone suggestion effect" related to the "continuous zone effect".

In the above embodiment, the "pre-zone performance" is described as ending when the normal variation ends and a reach is achieved. However, for example, the "pre-zone performance" may end when a specific pattern variation starts. Also, for example, the "pre-zone performance" may end when a SP reach starts.

In the above embodiment, the "continuous zone performance" is described as a performance that is performed during normal fluctuations in the special pattern fluctuation performance related to the specific pattern fluctuation. However, the period of the "continuous zone performance" may be shorter than the "pre-zone performance" that is performed across multiple pattern fluctuations. In the above embodiment, the "continuous zone performance" is described as being performed across the entire area of the display unit 50a. However, for example, the "continuous zone performance" may be performed within a display area larger than the display area in which the "pre-zone performance" is performed, and does not necessarily have to be performed across the entire area of the display unit 50a.

In the above embodiment, the "pre-zone effect" that is performed over multiple symbol changes was described as an example of a case where the "icon change effect" and "chance character effect" are performed over a longer period than the "continuous zone effect". However, this is not limited to the "pre-zone effect", and it is sufficient if the "icon change effect" and "chance character effect" are performed over a longer period than the "continuous zone effect". Also, for example, when an "icon change effect" and "chance character effect" are performed, it does not necessarily have to be some kind of zone effect. However, by performing the "icon change effect" and "chance character effect" in the form of a zone effect such as the "pre-zone effect" and the "continuous zone effect", it is possible to properly allow the player to understand that it is a special period in which the "icon change effect" and "chance character effect" are executed.

In the above embodiment, the "icon change effect" and the "chance character effect" are each performed as two consecutive pattern changes in the "pre-zone effect". However, the "icon change effect" and the "chance character effect" in the "pre-zone effect" do not necessarily have to be performed as two consecutive pattern changes. Specifically, for example, in the "pre-zone effect", both the "icon change effect" and the "chance character effect" may be performed within the same pattern change.

In the above embodiment, the "continuous zone suggestion effect" is described as displaying the hold icon HA in a continuous zone suggesting manner. However, the "continuous zone suggestion effect" is not necessarily limited to an effect using the hold icon HA as long as it can suggest that the "continuous zone effect" is being performed. Specifically, for example, a "continuous zone suggestion effect" may be performed in which the words "continuous zone" are displayed on the display unit 50a at a predetermined timing before the "continuous zone effect" is started.

In the above embodiment, the "icon change effect" and the "chance character effect" are used as specific examples of the first and second preview effects performed in the "pre-zone effect" and the "continuous zone effect". However, both the "icon change effect" and the "chance character effect" are merely examples, and other effects can be used instead. In other words, both the first and second preview effects performed in the "pre-zone effect" and the "continuous zone effect" can be preview effects that can take multiple forms with different expectations of achieving an advantageous state such as a jackpot game state.

In the above embodiment, the "icon change effect" is more likely to be performed in a star pattern, which is a high expectation mode, in the "continuous zone effect" than in the "pre-zone effect", and the "chance character effect" is more likely to be performed in a white character pattern, which is a high expectation mode, in the "pre-zone effect" than in the "continuous zone effect". However, for example, the "icon change effect" may be more likely to be performed in a star pattern, which is a high expectation mode, in the "pre-zone effect", and the "chance character effect" may be more likely to be performed in a white character pattern, which is a high expectation mode, in the "continuous zone effect" than in the "pre-zone effect". However, the chance character image GC related to the "chance character effect" is an image larger than the reserved icon HA and the icon TA related to the "icon change effect". In other words, when comparing the "icon change effect" and the "chance character effect", the "chance character effect" occupies a larger area within the display area related to the zone effect (i.e., within the background image in which the "icon change effect" and the "chance character effect" are performed), and is more noticeable. In addition, in the "pre-zone performance" performed in a small display area, the fine details are less noticeable, and it is possible that the player may have difficulty noticing or understanding them. Therefore, if only one of the "icon change performance" and the "chance character performance" is configured to be easier to perform in a high expectation mode in the "pre-zone performance" than in the "continuous zone performance," it is advisable to configure the "chance character performance," which is more noticeable in the "pre-zone performance" performed in a small display area, to be easier to perform in a high expectation mode than in the "continuous zone performance."

For example, the "icon change effect" and "chance character effect" may be configured so that the "continuous zone effect" is more likely to be performed in a high-expectation manner than the "pre-zone effect." With such a configuration, multiple highly anticipated preview effects are more likely to be performed intensively within a short period of time, thereby rapidly increasing the player's sense of expectation. Furthermore, by performing multiple highly anticipated preview effects in a large display area, it is possible to more effectively liven up the game and create anticipation for a jackpot game state.

For example, the "icon change effect" and "chance character effect" may be configured so that the "pre-zone effect" is more likely to be performed in a high-expectation manner than the "continuous zone effect." This is because multiple highly anticipated preview effects are performed over a long period of time, which can sustain the player's sense of expectation for a long period of time. Furthermore, the fact that multiple highly anticipated preview effects are performed in a small display area can create a stronger sense of exclusivity, making it possible to increase interest.

In the above embodiment, the configuration has been described in which the "continuous zone effect" has a higher expectation of a jackpot game state than the "pre-zone effect". However, the "pre-zone effect" may have a higher expectation of a jackpot game state than the "continuous zone effect". For example, the "pre-zone effect" may be a normal "pre-zone effect" and a special "pre-zone effect". The normal "pre-zone effect" and the special "pre-zone effect" can be made understandable to the player by, for example, making the continuous zone title image G301 different. For example, the expectation of a jackpot game state may be higher in the order of normal "pre-zone effect" < "continuous zone effect" < special "pre-zone effect". This can further prevent the game from becoming monotonous.

In the above embodiment, the "pre-zone performance" and the "continuous zone performance" are both configured to have the "icon change performance" and the "chance character performance" performed in that order. However, for example, the "pre-zone performance" and the "continuous zone performance" may be performed in any case where the "icon change performance" and the "chance character performance" are performed, and the "icon change performance" and the "chance character performance" do not necessarily have to be performed in that order. Furthermore, the "pre-zone performance" and the "continuous zone performance" do not necessarily have to be configured to start one of the "icon change performance" and the "chance character performance" after the other has ended. Specifically, for example, in the "continuous zone performance", the "icon change performance" and the "chance character performance" may start simultaneously.

In the above embodiment, the "pre-zone performance" and "continuous zone performance" are described as having two preview performances, an "icon change performance" and a "chance character performance". However, the "pre-zone performance" and the "continuous zone performance" may be capable of executing three or more preview performances. Specifically, for example, in the "pre-zone performance", in addition to the "icon change performance" and the "chance character performance", a third preview performance may be more likely to be performed than in the "continuous zone performance". In this way, it is possible to maintain a high level of interest even in the "pre-zone performance" which is performed over a long period of time.

In the above embodiment, a specific example was described in which a ball enters the first starting hole 11 when the number of reserved special charts 1 in the non-time-saving state is "1", and a reserved ball is added that is subject to the "pre-zone effect" or "continuous zone effect" with the right to determine a jackpot related to that ball being the subject of a pre-reading effect. However, the same can be done in the case where a ball enters the first starting hole 11 when the number of reserved special charts 1 in the non-time-saving state is "2" or more, and a reserved ball is added that is subject to the "pre-zone effect" or "continuous zone effect" with the right to determine a jackpot related to that ball being the subject of a pre-reading effect.

In the basic embodiment, the small symbols KZ1, KZ2, and KZ3 are displayed in a variable manner in approximately synchronization with the variable display of the special symbols. However, instead of being composed of three symbols like the small symbols KZ1, KZ2, and KZ3, they may be composed of two symbols other than three. For example, two symbols may be provided, one for special symbol 1 and one for special symbol 2. Also, one symbol common to special symbol 1 and special symbol 2 may be provided. In these cases, the display may be displayed on the display unit 50a of the image display device 50, and the sub-control board 120 may control it. Also, an LED device that displays the symbols may be provided in an area other than the play area 6 of the game board 1. In this case, the LED device may be controlled by the main control board 100 or the sub-control board 120.

In addition, in the basic embodiment, the special chart 2 determination process is performed with priority, but it may be configured so that the special chart 1 determination process is performed with priority. Also, the special chart determination process may be performed for the special chart 1 related random numbers and the special chart 2 related random numbers in the order in which they are stored in the reserved memory unit. Also, the specific numerical values etc. shown in the above embodiment are merely specific examples, and can of course be changed as appropriate.

In addition, in the basic embodiment, the variable display of special chart 1 and the variable display of special chart 2 are not performed in parallel, but the variable display of special chart 1 and the variable display of special chart 2 may be configured to be performed in parallel.

In the basic embodiment, the main control board 100 performs basic control over the progress of the game, and the sub-control board 120 performs basic control over the progress of the presentation according to the progress of the game (game control), so that game control and presentation control are performed on different boards, but they may also be configured to be performed on a single board. In this case, the image control board 140 may be included in that single board, or may be provided separately from that single board.

In the above embodiment, the gaming machine is a pachinko gaming machine PY1, which is a so-called "first type" or "digital pachinko". However, the gaming machine may be a pachinko gaming machine, which is a so-called "third type" or "rights item", or a pachinko gaming machine, which is a so-called "one type two type mixed" that has both the characteristics of a "first type" pachinko gaming machine and the characteristics of a "second type" pachinko gaming machine. Also, the gaming machine may be a pachinko gaming machine, which is a so-called "ST machine", in which the probability of winning is controlled to a high probability state during the ST (special time) period.

9. Inventions shown in the above embodiments The above embodiments show the following invention A (A1 to A4) and invention B (B1 to B3). In the following description of the inventions, the corresponding component names and expressions in the above embodiments and the symbols used in the drawings are added in parentheses for reference. However, the components of each invention are not limited to these additions.

Invention A1 is
As a preview performance that can take a plurality of modes (low expectation mode, high expectation mode) with different expectancies for an advantageous state (jackpot game state), a plurality of types of preview performance including a first preview performance (icon change performance) and a second preview performance (chance character performance) can be executed;
The first preview performance and the second preview performance are performed in a first period (during normal fluctuation in specific pattern fluctuation) in a first case (when performed in a continuous zone performance), and in a second case (when performed in a pre-zone performance) over a second period (multiple pattern fluctuations) longer than the first period.
This gaming machine is characterized in that the expectation of achieving the advantageous state differs between the first case and the second case.

Conventionally, some gaming machines are configured to be able to execute multiple preview effects that can take multiple different forms depending on the expectation of an advantageous state. For example, JP2020-081695A discloses that the reserved icon displayed in the reserved effect is different depending on the expectation of an advantageous state, and that a predetermined reach effect is performed in different forms depending on the expectation of an advantageous state. However, as described above, in a gaming machine that can execute multiple preview effects that can take multiple different forms depending on the expectation of an advantageous state, there was room for improvement to further increase interest. And, the gaming machine of this configuration differs from the gaming machine described in JP2020-081695A in that "there are a first case in which the first preview effect and the second preview effect are performed during a first period, and a second case in which they are performed over a second period longer than the first period, and the expectation of an advantageous state is different between the first case and the second case." In other words, there are cases where multiple preview effects are performed intensively in a short period of time and cases where they are performed over a long period of time, and because the degree of expectation differs in these cases, it is possible to prevent the game from becoming monotonous even if the combination of preview effects performed is the same. Therefore, a gaming machine with this configuration can solve the problem (achieve the effect of) "being able to increase interest in the game through the effects."

Invention A2 is
The gaming machine according to the above-mentioned invention A1,
This gaming machine is characterized in that at least one of the first preview performance and the second preview performance has a different likelihood of producing the high expectation mode in the first case and the second case.

A gaming machine with this configuration can better prevent play from becoming monotonous.

Invention A3 is
The gaming machine according to the above-mentioned invention A2,
This is a gaming machine characterized in that at least one of the first preview performance and the second preview performance (icon change performance) is more likely to be performed in the high expectation mode in the first case than in the second case.

In a gaming machine with this configuration, in the first case, multiple preview effects, including highly anticipated preview effects, are likely to be performed intensively within a short period of time. This makes it possible to increase interest.

Invention A4 is
The gaming machine according to the above-mentioned invention A2,
This gaming machine is characterized in that at least one of the first advance notice performance and the second advance notice performance (chance character performance) is less likely to be performed in the high expectation mode in the first case than in the second case.

In the first case, multiple preview performances are performed intensively in a short period of time, so even if preview performances that are not of a high expectation type are included, it is possible to maintain a high level of interest. In the second case, which is performed over a long period of time, preview performances of a high expectation type are included, thereby increasing the player's expectations and making it possible to maintain a high level of interest.

Invention B1 is
As a preview performance that can take a plurality of modes (low expectation mode, high expectation mode) with different expectancies for an advantageous state (jackpot game state), a plurality of types of preview performance including a first preview performance (icon change performance) and a second preview performance (chance character performance) can be executed;
The first preview performance and the second preview performance are performed in a first display area (the entire area of the display unit 50a) in a first case (when performed in a continuous zone performance), and in a second display area (variable display area G50a) smaller than the first display area in a second case (when performed in a pre-zone performance).
This gaming machine is characterized in that at least one of the first preview performance and the second preview performance has a different likelihood of producing the high expectation mode in the first case and the second case.

Conventionally, some gaming machines are configured to be able to execute multiple preview effects that can take multiple different forms depending on the expectation of becoming an advantageous state. For example, JP2020-081695A discloses that the reserved icon displayed in the reserved effect is made different depending on the expectation of becoming an advantageous state, and that a predetermined reach effect is performed in different forms depending on the expectation of becoming an advantageous state. However, as described above, in a gaming machine that can execute multiple preview effects that can take multiple different forms depending on the expectation of becoming an advantageous state, there was room for improvement in order to further increase interest. And, the gaming machine of this configuration differs from the gaming machine described in JP2020-081695A in that "the first preview effect and the second preview effect are performed in a first case in which they are performed in a first display area, and in a second case in which they are performed in a second display area smaller than the first display area, and at least one of the first preview effect and the second preview effect has a different ease of performing a high expectation form between the first case and the second case." In other words, multiple preview effects may be performed in a large display area or in a smaller display area, and the different expectations in these cases can prevent the game from becoming monotonous even if the combination of effects performed is the same. Therefore, a gaming machine with this configuration can solve the problem (achieve the effect of) "being able to increase interest in the game through the effects."

Invention B2 is
The gaming machine according to the above-mentioned invention B1,
This is a gaming machine characterized in that at least one of the first preview performance and the second preview performance is more likely to be performed in the high expectation mode in the first case than in the second case.

In a gaming machine with this configuration, it is easy to display high-expectation preview effects in a large display area, which can effectively liven up the game and create anticipation for an advantageous state. This can increase the interest of the player.

Invention B3 is
The gaming machine according to the above-mentioned invention B1,
This is a gaming machine characterized in that at least one of the first preview performance and the second preview performance is less likely to be performed in the high expectation mode in the first case than in the second case.

In a gaming machine with this configuration, multiple preview performances can be performed in a small display area, creating a sense of exclusivity and increasing interest.

50a...display unit 101...game control microcomputer 121...performance control microcomputer PY1...pachinko game machine (game machine)
G50a... Variable display area AT1... Diamond icon AT2... Star icon GC1... Black chance character image GC2... White chance character image

Claims (1)

As a preview performance that can take a plurality of forms with different expected degrees of advantageous state, a plurality of types of preview performance including a first preview performance and a second preview performance can be executed;
The gaming machine is characterized in that the first preview performance and the second preview performance are performed in a first case during a first period and in a second case over a second period longer than the first period.

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