JP2024104257A - Gaming Machines - Google Patents

Abstract

[Problem] To provide a gaming machine capable of executing effects that further heighten interest in gaming. [Solution] The gaming machine of the present invention is capable of executing a "search effect in which the displayed search range is changed in order to discover an object." A character can be selected from among a plurality of characters, and this search effect is executed in a manner corresponding to the selected character. This allows a novel gaming experience to be realized in which a player who is paying attention to the manner in which the search effect is executed is directed to the selected character, thereby making it possible to heighten interest in gaming. [Selected Figure] Fig. 25

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine that uses gaming media such as gaming balls and gaming medals.

Known gaming machines include pachinko machines, in which players play by shooting game balls into a play area formed on a game board, and slot machines, in which players play by rotating a reel with multiple types of designs painted on its outer periphery and stopping the reel.

In such gaming machines, it is common for various effects to be used. For example, in gaming machines that perform the above-mentioned winning game, an effect is performed in which a character is displayed while the identifying symbol is being displayed in a varying manner, to suggest the possibility that the identifying symbol will stop and be displayed as a winning symbol (Patent Document 1).

JP 2008-178756 A

However, the conventional technology described above is well known to the average player, and there is a problem in that it does not sufficiently increase interest in the game.

The present invention was made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and aims to provide a gaming machine that can create effects that further increase the interest in gaming.

In order to solve at least a part of the above-mentioned problems, the gaming machine of the present invention adopts the following configuration.
A gaming machine for playing games using gaming media,
A selection means for selecting a part of characters from among a plurality of characters is provided;
It is possible to execute a visual field change performance that changes the visual field being displayed,
The execution mode of the view change performance corresponds to the character selected by the selection means.

In addition, the gaming machine of the present invention is
The size of the field of view displayed at one time in the field of view change presentation may correspond to the character selected by the selection means.

In addition, the gaming machine of the present invention is
The brightness of the field of view displayed in the field of view change presentation may correspond to the character selected by the selection means.

In addition, the gaming machine of the present invention is
The speed at which the field of view displayed in the field of view change presentation is changed may correspond to the character selected by the selection means.

In addition, the gaming machine of the present invention is
In the field of view change presentation, the field of view being displayed may be changed based on a change operation by the player.

In addition, the gaming machine of the present invention is
The manner of the change operation may correspond to the character selected by the selection means.

In addition, the gaming machine of the present invention is
When an object is found in the field of view change performance, a specific performance can be executed;
The execution mode of the specific performance may correspond to the character selected by the selection means.

In addition, the gaming machine of the present invention is
When a prescribed number of objects are found in the field of view change performance, a specific performance can be executed;
The specified number may correspond to the character selected by the selection means.

The present invention provides a gaming machine that can implement effects that further increase gaming interest.

FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko machine 1 according to the present embodiment. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing the surface configuration of the game board 20 of this embodiment. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a control circuit in the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of a segment display unit 50 according to the present embodiment. FIG. FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing the types per type 1 and types per type 2 of this embodiment. An explanatory diagram illustrating the display contents of the performance display device 41 of this embodiment. An explanatory diagram showing the progress of the game when the first special chart is displayed in a variable manner in the non-electric support state of this embodiment. An explanatory diagram showing the progression mode when the second special chart is displayed in a variable manner in the electric support state of this embodiment. 4 is a flowchart showing a game control process executed by a CPU 201 of a main control board 200 in this embodiment. An explanatory diagram conceptually showing the variation pattern selection table of this embodiment. An explanatory diagram showing the types of variation pattern selection tables in this embodiment. 13 is a flowchart showing the performance control processing executed by the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 in this embodiment. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing processing corresponding to a received command by a CPU 221 of a sub-control board 220 in this embodiment. FIG. An explanatory diagram showing an overview of the "SP reach performance" in this embodiment. An explanatory diagram showing an overview of the audio output of the "prompt performance A," "result performance," and "result music" in this embodiment. An explanatory diagram showing an overview of the "timing suggestion effect" of this embodiment. An explanatory diagram illustrating how the "timing suggestion effect" of this embodiment is performed. 13 is a flowchart showing a "hidden button presentation process" executed by a CPU 221 of a sub-control board 220 in this embodiment. An explanatory diagram showing an overview of the audio output of the "prompt performance C," "result performance," and "result lines" in this embodiment. 13 is a flowchart showing a "prompt performance process" executed by a CPU 221 of a sub-control board 220 in this embodiment. 13 is a flowchart showing a "result presentation process" executed by a CPU 221 of a sub-control board 220 in this embodiment. An explanatory diagram showing an overview of the modified "timing suggestion effect". FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing how a "hidden button effect" is performed in response to the selection of a character in a modified example. An explanatory diagram showing the types of "SP reach effects" of pachinko machine 1A. An explanatory diagram showing how the "character selection effect" and "search effect" are performed on pachinko machine 1A. An explanatory diagram showing the "size (width) of the search range," "brightness of the search range," and "speed of change of the search range" in the "search performance" of pachinko machine 1A. An explanatory diagram showing the types of "search effects" of pachinko machine 1A. An explanatory diagram showing the "SP reach effect" corresponding to the "search effect" of pachinko machine 1A. An explanatory diagram showing variant example 1 of pachinko machine 1A. An explanatory diagram showing variant example 2 of pachinko machine 1A. An explanatory diagram showing variant example 3 of pachinko machine 1A.

In order to clarify the above-mentioned contents of the present invention, an embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the embodiment, unless otherwise specified, the right side when facing the front of the pachinko machine will be referred to as "right" and the left side will be referred to as "left."

The following examples will be described in the following order.
A. Pachinko machine configuration:
A-1. Configuration of the front side of the device:
A-2. Game board configuration:
A-3. Control circuit configuration:
B. Game Contents:
C. Game Control Processing:
D. Production Control Processing:
E. SP Reach Production:
F. Hidden button effects:
F-1. Execution mode of hidden button effect:
F-2. Hidden button effect processing:
G. Audio output of result dialogue:
H. Variations:
I. Pachinko Machine 1A:
I-1. SP Reach Performance:
I-2. Character selection:
I-3. Exploration:
I-4. Development of SP reach performance:
I-5. Variation 1 of the pachinko machine 1A:
I-6. Modification 2 of the pachinko machine 1A:
I-7. Modification 3 of the pachinko machine 1A:

A. Pachinko machine configuration:
A-1. Configuration of the front side of the device:
FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, a front frame 4 is provided on the front part of the pachinko machine 1. A window 4a is formed in the approximate center of the front frame 4, and a transparent plate 4b made of synthetic resin is fitted into this window 4a. A player can view the game area of a game board 20 (see FIG. 2) arranged at the back side through the window 4a (transparent plate 4b). In addition, a small window 4c is formed at the lower right of the window 4a in the front frame 4, and a transparent plate 4d such as a synthetic resin plate is fitted into this small window 4c. A player can view a segment display section 50 (see FIG. 2) of the game board 20 arranged at the back side through the small window 4c (transparent plate 4d). As will be described in detail later, the segment display section 50 is a display section that displays information related to a game by a combination of multiple LEDs.

An upper lamp 5a is provided above the window 4a in the front frame 4, a right side lamp 5b is provided on the right side of the periphery of the window 4a, and a left side lamp 5c is provided on the left side of the periphery of the window 4a. Upper speakers 6a are provided on the left and right upper sides of the window 4a, and a lower speaker 6b is provided below the front frame 4 (the front panel of the main frame, described below). The upper lamp 5a, right side lamp 5b, left side lamp 5c, upper speaker 6a, and lower speaker 6b are driven to enhance the presentation effects of the game.

An upper tray section 7 is provided below the window section 4a in the front frame 4. The upper tray section 7 stores game balls that are loaned out via a card unit 60 provided in correspondence with the pachinko machine 1, and game balls that are paid out from the pachinko machine 1. In addition, a lower tray section 8 is provided below the upper tray section 7, and stores game balls that are loaned out in excess of the capacity of the upper tray section 7, and game balls that are paid out in excess of the capacity of the upper tray section 7.

A launch handle 9 is provided to the right of the lower tray 8 on the front frame 4. The rotation axis of the launch handle 9 is connected to a launch unit mounted on the rear side of the launch handle 9, and game balls stored in the upper tray 7 are supplied to this launch unit. When the player rotates the launch handle 9, the rotation is transmitted to the launch unit, which rotates the launch motor built into the launch unit, and the game balls are launched with a strength that corresponds to the angle of rotation.

Additionally, a performance button 10a that can be pressed by the player is provided on the edge of the upper tray 7, and a jog shuttle 10b that can be pushed or rotated by the player is provided to the left of the lower tray 8. Although not shown in the figure, a directional button 10c is provided on the edge of the upper tray 7 to the left of the performance button 10a. The directional button 10c is made up of four buttons (up button, down button, left button, right button) that correspond to the up, down, left and right directions. These performance button 10a, jog shuttle 10b, and directional button 10c are all performance operation units that are operated by the player, and when operated by the player when a specified condition is met, a specified game performance is performed.

Although not shown, a middle frame and a main frame are provided on the rear side of the front frame 4, and one end (the left side in FIG. 1) of the front frame 4 is rotatably supported relative to the middle frame, and one end (the left side in FIG. 1) of the middle frame is rotatably supported relative to the main frame. The main frame is a roughly rectangular frame assembled from wooden plate-like members, and the pachinko machine 1 is installed in the game hall by attaching this main frame to the island equipment. A game board 20 is detachably attached to the front side of the middle frame, and when the front frame 4 is rotated (opened) toward the front of the pachinko machine 1 relative to the middle frame, the game board 20 is exposed.

A-2. Game board configuration:
FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing the surface configuration of the game board 20. As described above, the game board 20 is detachably attached to the front side of the middle frame. As shown in FIG. 2, a substantially circular game area 21 is formed in the center of the game board 20. The game balls launched from the launcher unit 261 (see FIG. 3) are released into the game area 21 through the gap between the outer rail 22 and the inner rail 23, and flow down from the top to the bottom of the game area 21. The game area 21 is visible to the player through the window portion 4a of the front frame 4, so naturally, the game balls flowing down the game area 21 are also visible to the player through the window portion 4a.

A central device 40 is provided in approximately the center of the play area 21, and a performance display device 41 is provided approximately in the center of the central device 40. The performance display device 41 is composed of a liquid crystal display, and various images for performances can be displayed on its display screen. The detailed display contents of the performance display device 41 will be described later.

Below the central device 40 (performance display device 41) in the game area 21, there is a first starting hole 24, which is a starting hole whose opening size does not change (is constant) and through which game balls can always enter. Game balls that enter the first starting hole 24 are guided to the back side of the game board 20 through a passage provided inside. A first starting hole sensor 24s (see Figure 3) is provided in the internal passage of the first starting hole 24, and is capable of detecting game balls that enter the first starting hole 24.

In addition, a left normal symbol activation gate 71 through which the game ball can pass is provided at the lower left of the central device 40 (performance display device 41) in the game area 21, and a left gate sensor 71s (see FIG. 3) that detects the passage of the game ball is provided inside the left normal symbol activation gate 71. In addition, a right normal symbol activation gate 72 through which the game ball can pass is provided at the lower right of the central device 40 (performance display device 41) in the game area 21, and a right gate sensor 72s (see FIG. 3) that detects the passage of the game ball is provided inside the right normal symbol activation gate 72. Since the left normal symbol activation gate 71 and the right normal symbol activation gate 72 have the same functions, in this specification, when there is no particular distinction between them, they are collectively referred to as "normal symbol activation gates 71, 72". In addition, because the left gate sensor 71s and the right gate sensor 72s share the same functions, in this specification they are collectively referred to as "gate sensors 71s, 72s" unless otherwise distinguished.

In addition, below the right normal pattern activation gate 72, a second start port 25 is provided, which is an entry port (start port) where the possibility of game balls entering the port changes. That is, the second start port 25 has an opening and closing door 26 (hatched part in the figure) that can rotate in the front and rear directions of the pachinko machine 1, and can be changed between a closed state (ball entry disabled state) in which the opening and closing door 26 is approximately upright and game balls cannot enter the port, and an open state (ball entry enabled state) in which the opening and closing door 26 rotates to the front side of the pachinko machine 1 and game balls can enter the port. In FIG. 2, the second start port 25 is shown in an open state. The game ball that enters the second start port 25 is guided to the back side of the game board 20 through a passage provided inside. A second start port sensor 25s (see FIG. 3) is provided in the internal passage of the second start port 25, and can detect the game ball that enters the second start port 25.

In addition, below the first starting hole 24 in the game area 21, a large, approximately rectangular opening is provided as a large opening for a large prize winning hole 28 (variable ball entry hole). The large prize winning hole 28 has an opening door 29 (hatched portion in the figure) that can be rotated in the front-rear direction of the pachinko machine 1, and can be changed between a closed state (ball entry not possible state) in which the opening door 29 is approximately upright and game balls cannot enter, and an open state (ball entry possible state) in which the opening door 29 is rotated to the front side of the pachinko machine 1 and game balls can enter. In FIG. 2, the large prize winning hole 28 is shown in an open state. Game balls that enter the large prize winning hole 28 are guided to the back side of the game board 20 through a passage provided inside. A large prize winning hole sensor 28s (see FIG. 3) is provided in the passage inside the large prize winning hole 28, and game balls that enter the large prize winning hole 28 can be detected.

In addition, below the second starting hole 25 in the game area 21 (the lower right corner of the game area 21), a protrusion 33 is provided that protrudes forward (toward the player) from the game board 20 surface. The upper surface of the protrusion 33 is inclined downward from the right side to the left side, forming a rolling surface 34 on which the game ball can roll from the right side to the left side (toward the center of the pachinko machine 1). A small winning hole 35 (variable ball entry hole) is provided in the middle of this rolling surface 34 (the middle part of the rolling direction of the game ball). This small winning hole 35 has an opening and closing door 36 (hatched part in the figure) that can slide (move) in the front and rear directions of the pachinko machine 1, and can be changed between a closed state in which the opening and closing door 36 slides (moves) forward to prevent the game ball from entering, and an open state in which the opening and closing door 36 slides (moves) backward to allow the game ball to enter. Naturally, the game ball rolling on the rolling surface 34 will enter the small prize opening 35 when the small prize opening 35 is open, and will pass above the small prize opening 35 (opening and closing door 36) without entering the small prize opening 35 when the small prize opening 35 is closed.

The game ball that enters the small winning opening 35 is guided to the specific opening 38 (so-called "V", the dashed line part in the figure) through a passage 37 (dashed line part in the figure) provided inside the protruding body 33. At least a part of the front wall of the protruding body 33 is formed from a transparent plate (has light transmission), and the player can see through the front wall of the protruding body 33 how the game ball that entered the small winning opening 35 is guided to the specific opening 38. A small winning opening sensor 35s (see Figure 3) is provided inside the small winning opening 35, and can detect the game ball that entered the small winning opening 35. In addition, a specific opening sensor 38s (see Figure 3) is provided inside the specific opening 38, and can detect the game ball that entered the specific opening 38.

In addition, around each of the above-mentioned gaming devices, there are provided other ball entry ports 30 through which the gaming balls can enter, as well as a windmill-shaped wheel 31 and numerous obstacle nails (not shown) that affect the flow path of the gaming balls. In addition, an outlet 32 is provided at the bottom of the gaming area 21, and gaming balls that do not enter any of the above-mentioned first start port 24, second start port 25, big prize port 28, small prize port 35, or other ball entry ports 30 are discharged from the outlet 32 to the back side of the gaming board 20.

The above-mentioned left normal symbol activation gate 71 and first start port 24 can be entered by game balls flowing down the area to the left of the central device 40 (performance display device 41). In contrast, the right normal symbol activation gate 72, second start port 25, large prize entry port 28, and small prize entry port 35 can be entered by (or passed through by) game balls flowing down the area to the right of the central device 40 (performance display device 41). In the following, firing a game ball so that it flows down the area to the left of the central device 40 (performance display device 41) is also referred to as "left hit," and firing a game ball so that it flows down the area to the right of the central device 40 (performance display device 41) is also referred to as "right hit." In the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, when a game ball enters the first start hole 24, three game balls are paid out to the player, when a game ball enters the second start hole 25, four game balls are paid out to the player, and when a game ball enters the other ball entry hole 30, five game balls are paid out to the player. Also, when a game ball enters the big prize hole 28, ten game balls are paid out to the player, and when a game ball enters the small prize hole 35, three game balls are paid out.

A segment display unit 50 is provided at the lower right of the play area 21 on the game board 20, which displays information related to the game using a combination of LEDs. The segment display unit 50 is visible to the player through a small window 4c (see Figure 1) provided in the front frame 4. The display content of the segment display unit 50 will be described in detail later.

A-3. Control circuit configuration:
Next, the configuration of the control circuit in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment will be described. Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the control circuit in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment. As shown in the figure, the control circuit of the pachinko machine 1 is composed of many control boards, various boards, relay terminal boards, etc. In detail, it is composed of a main control board 200 that controls the basic progress of the game, a sub-control board 220 that controls the performance of the game, an image and sound control board 230 that controls the display of images and the output of sounds under the control of the sub-control board 220, a lamp control board 226 that controls the light emission of lamps under the control of the sub-control board 220, a payout control board 240 that controls the lending and payout of game balls, and a launch control board 260 that controls the launch of game balls. These control boards are configured by connecting various peripheral LSIs together via a bus, such as a CPU (CPUs 201, 221, 231, etc. in FIG. 3) that performs various logical operations and calculation operations, a ROM (ROMs 202, 222, 232, etc. in FIG. 3) that stores various programs and data to be executed by the CPU, a RAM (203, 223, 233, etc. in FIG. 3) in which the CPU stores temporary data when executing a program, and input/output circuits.

The main control board 200 is connected to a first start port sensor 24s that detects game balls that have entered the first start port 24, a second start port sensor 25s that detects game balls that have entered the second start port 25, a large prize port sensor 28s that detects game balls that have entered the large prize port 28, a left gate sensor 71s that detects game balls that have passed through the left normal pattern activation gate 71, a right gate sensor 72s that detects game balls that have passed through the right normal pattern activation gate 72, a small prize port sensor 35s that detects game balls that have entered the small prize port 35, and a specific port sensor 38s that detects game balls that have entered the specific port 38. When the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 receives a game ball detection signal from one of these sensors, it transmits a command corresponding to the sensor that received the detection signal to the sub-control board 220, payout control board 240, launch control board 260, etc.

The main control board 200 is also connected to a second start port solenoid 26m for opening and closing the opening door 26 provided in the second start port 25 (to open and close the second start port 25), a large prize port solenoid 29m for opening and closing the opening door 29 provided in the large prize port 28 (to open and close the large prize port 28), a small prize port solenoid 35m for opening and closing the opening door 36 provided in the small prize port 35 (to open and close the small prize port 35), a segment display unit 50, and the like. The CPU 201 of the main control board 200 controls these operations by transmitting drive signals to the second start port solenoid 26m, the large prize port solenoid 29m, the small prize port solenoid 35m, and the segment display unit 50.

The sub-control board 220 is connected to the image/sound control board 230, the lamp control board 226, and the performance operation board 228. When the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 receives various commands from the main control board 200, it analyzes the contents of the commands and performs a performance according to the contents. That is, it performs a performance by sending commands specifying the output image and output sound to the image/sound control board 230, and sending commands specifying the light emission patterns of the upper lamp 5a, the right side lamp 5b, and the left side lamp 5c (hereinafter also referred to as "various lamps 5a to 5c") to the lamp control board 226. In addition, when the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 detects the player's operation of the performance button 10a, the jog shuttle 10b, or the direction button 10c via the performance operation board 228, it performs a performance corresponding to the operation.

The image and sound control board 230 includes a VDP 234, an image ROM 235, and an audio ROM 236 in addition to a CPU 231, a ROM 232, and a RAM 233. When the CPU 231 of the image and sound control board 230 receives a command from the sub-control board 220, it instructs the VDP 234 to display an image corresponding to the command. The VDP 234 reads image data (e.g., sprite data or video data) used to display the instructed image from the image ROM 235, generates an image, and outputs it to the display screen of the performance display device 41. When the CPU 231 of the image and sound control board 230 receives a command from the sub-control board 220, it reads audio data corresponding to the command from the audio ROM 236. Then, audio based on the audio data is output from the upper speaker 6a and the lower speaker 6b (hereinafter also referred to as "various speakers 6a, 6b") via the amplifier board 224.

The payout control board 240 is connected to a ball lending button 241 (not shown in FIG. 1) provided on the upper tray 7, a card unit 242 arranged in parallel with the pachinko machine 1, a payout motor 243, and the like. When the ball lending button 241 is operated, this signal is transmitted to the card unit 242 via the payout control board 240. The card unit 242 drives the payout motor 243 to lend game balls while communicating data with the payout control board 240. Also, when a payout command instructing the payout of game balls is received from the main control board 200, it drives the payout motor 243 to pay out game balls.

The payout control board 240 is also connected to a launch control board 260, which is connected to a launch device unit 261 having a launch motor 262 for launching game balls and a touch switch 263 for detecting that the player is touching the launch handle 9. When the launch control board 260 detects via the touch switch 263 that the player is touching the launch handle 9, it drives the launch motor 262 to launch game balls with a strength that corresponds to the rotation angle of the launch handle 9.

B. Game Contents:
In the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, the game proceeds as follows. When the launch handle 9 is rotated with game balls stored in the upper tray 7, the stored game balls are supplied one by one to the launch unit 261 and launched into the game area 21 described above with reference to FIG. 2. The strength with which the game balls are launched corresponds to the rotation angle of the launch handle 9, so the player can make the game balls flow down to the desired area by changing the rotation angle of the launch handle 9. For example, the game balls can be launched so that they flow down the area to the left of the central device 40 (performance display device 41) (left shot), or the game balls can be launched so that they flow down the area to the right of the central device 40 (performance display device 41) (right shot).

In the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, the game state related to the frequency of game balls entering the second starting hole 25 is appropriately set. In detail, the game state related to the frequency of game balls entering the second starting hole 25 is set to a "non-electric support state in which the frequency of game balls entering the second starting hole 25 is low (the frequency of the second starting hole 25 being in an open state is low)" or an "electric support state in which the frequency of game balls entering the second starting hole 25 is high (the frequency of the second starting hole 25 being in an open state is high)". In the non-electric support state, game balls are more likely to enter the first starting hole 24 than the second starting hole 25, and in the electric support state, game balls are more likely to enter the second starting hole 25 than the first starting hole 24. Therefore, in the non-electric support state, the player can hit the ball to the left (aiming to land the ball in the first starting hole 24), and in the electric support state, the player can hit the ball to the right (aiming to land the ball in the second starting hole 25).

The segment display unit 50 is provided with an electric support display unit 58 that indicates that the above-mentioned electric support state is in progress. That is, as shown in FIG. 4, the electric support display unit 58 has three LEDs arranged therein, and during the electric support state, the three LEDs are lit to indicate that the electric support state is in progress. Also, as shown in FIG. 4, the segment display unit 50 is provided with a right-hit display unit 59 that indicates that a right hit is to be performed. During the electric support state, the frequency with which game balls enter the second starting hole 25 is high, and the second starting hole 25 can receive game balls hit from the right, so that it is beneficial for the player to perform a right hit during the electric support state. Therefore, during the electric support state, the two LEDs arranged in the right hit display unit 59 are lit to encourage the player to perform a right hit.

<Special pattern change display>
As described above with reference to FIG. 2, a game ball hit from the left (mainly during a non-electric support state) can enter the first start hole 24. When a game ball hit from the left enters the first start hole 24 and is detected by the first start hole sensor 24s, a predetermined judgment random number (such as a jackpot judgment random number described later) is obtained, and a jackpot judgment is made based on the judgment random number to determine whether the jackpot is a "jackpot" or a "miss". After making such a jackpot judgment, the first special symbol is displayed in a variable manner and then stopped based on the result of the jackpot judgment.

As described above with reference to FIG. 2, a game ball hit from the right can enter the second starting hole 25. When a game ball hit from the right enters the second starting hole 25 and the entering game ball is detected by the second starting hole sensor 25s, a predetermined judgment random number (such as a jackpot judgment random number described later) is obtained, and a jackpot judgment is made based on the judgment random number to determine whether it is a "jackpot," a "small jackpot," or a "miss." After making such a jackpot judgment, the second special pattern is displayed in a variable manner and then stopped based on the result of the jackpot judgment. In other words, the jackpot judgment based on the game ball entering the second starting hole 25 also determines whether it is a "small jackpot."

In this specification, the "first special design" is also referred to as the "first special design" and the "second special design" is also referred to as the "second special design." In addition, when there is no particular distinction between the "first special design" and the "second special design," they are collectively referred to as the "special design."

Here, the first special chart and the second special chart will be explained. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an enlarged view of the segment display section 50. As described above, the segment display section 50 is provided at the lower right of the play area 21 on the play board 20 (see FIG. 2), and the player can see the segment display section 50 through the small window section 4c of the front frame 4 (see FIG. 1). As shown in FIG. 4, the segment display section 50 is provided with a first special chart display section 51 that displays the first special chart and a second special chart display section 52 that displays the second special chart, and nine LEDs are arranged in each of these display sections. The first special chart and the second special chart are displayed in a variable manner by switching which of the nine LEDs is lit in each display section, and are displayed stationary by turning on a specific LED among the nine LEDs.

In the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, 200 types of "jackpot symbols (jackpot symbols 101-300)" and one type of "miss symbol (miss symbol 401)" can be stopped and displayed as the first special symbols. In addition, 200 types of "jackpot symbols (jackpot symbols 501-700)," 100 types of "minor hit symbols (minor hit symbols 701-800)," and one type of "miss symbol (miss symbol 801)" can be stopped and displayed as the second special symbols. These types of symbols can be identified by the different combinations of lit LEDs.

If the result of the jackpot determination based on the game ball entering the first starting hole 24 (also referred to as the "jackpot determination for the first special chart" in this specification) is a "jackpot," the first special chart will be displayed as one of the "jackpot patterns 101-300," and if it is a "miss," the first special chart will be displayed as the "miss pattern 401." Note that in the "jackpot determination for the first special chart," a "jackpot" is determined with a probability of approximately 1 in 300.

In addition, if the result of the jackpot determination based on the game ball entering the second starting hole 25 (also referred to as the "jackpot determination for the second special chart" in this specification) is a "jackpot", the second special chart will be displayed as one of the "jackpot patterns 501-700", if it is a "small jackpot", the second special chart will be displayed as one of the "small jackpot patterns 701-800", and if it is a "miss", the second special chart will be displayed as the "miss pattern 801". Note that even with the "jackpot determination for the second special chart", there is a 1 in 300 chance of a "jackpot" being determined, and a 1 in 60 chance of a "small jackpot" being determined.

When the special pattern (first or second special pattern) is displayed as either a big win pattern, a small win pattern, or a miss pattern, the pattern is displayed in a static state until a predetermined time has elapsed in order to finalize the pattern (hereinafter also referred to as "confirmed display"). In the following, the game from when the special pattern starts to change and is displayed as a fixed pattern, that is, the game until the result of one changing display is obtained, is also referred to as "pattern changing game".

＜Jackpot Game＞
In the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, a jackpot game can be executed in which the jackpot opening 28 is opened and multiple rounds of play are played. When a game ball enters the jackpot opening 28, many game balls are paid out (10 game balls are paid out each time one game ball enters), so the jackpot game is advantageous to the player. As described above with reference to FIG. 2, the jackpot opening 28 can be entered by a game ball hit from the right, so naturally, it is beneficial for the player to hit from the right during the jackpot game. Therefore, during the jackpot game, the player is encouraged to hit from the right by turning on two LEDs arranged in the right hit display unit 59 of the segment display unit 50, as in the electric support state. In this embodiment, as such a jackpot game, a "one-type hit" and a "two-type hit" can be executed, which have different start triggers.

<Per type>
A type 1 win is started when the first or second special symbol is stopped and displayed with any of the jackpot symbols (when the result of the jackpot judgment for the first or second special symbol is "jackpot"). As for this type 1 win, multiple types with different "number of rounds" and "game state after jackpot play" can be executed according to the "type of jackpot symbol stopped and displayed".

That is, as shown in FIG. 5(a), when the first special chart is stopped and displayed with "jackpot pattern 101-200" (50% probability when the first special chart is stopped and displayed with the jackpot pattern), "six rounds of play are played, and the game state after the jackpot game ends is in the electric support state (also referred to as "6R electric support type per" in this specification)" is played. Also, when the first special chart is stopped and displayed with "jackpot pattern 201-300" (50% probability when the first special chart is stopped and displayed with the jackpot pattern), "six rounds of play are played, and the game state after the jackpot game ends is in the non-electric support state (also referred to as "6R non-electric support type per" in this specification)" is played.

Also, as shown in FIG. 5(b), if the second special chart is stopped and displayed with "jackpot pattern 501-660" (80% probability when the second special chart is stopped and displayed with a jackpot pattern), "10 rounds of play are played, and the game state after the jackpot game ends is in the electric support state (also referred to as "10R electric support type per" in this specification)" is performed. Also, if the second special chart is stopped and displayed with "jackpot pattern 661-700" (20% probability when the second special chart is stopped and displayed with a jackpot pattern), "10 rounds of play are played, and the game state after the jackpot game ends is in the non-electric support state (also referred to as "10R non-electric support type per" in this specification)" is performed.

As described above, in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, a type 1 hit with a greater number of rounds of play is performed when the second special chart is stopped and displayed as a jackpot pattern than when the first special chart is stopped and displayed as a jackpot pattern. Also, the electric support state is set with a higher probability after a type 1 hit is completed when the second special chart is stopped and displayed as a jackpot pattern than when the first special chart is stopped and displayed as a jackpot pattern. From this, it can be said that it is more advantageous for the player to perform a variable display of the second special chart (a jackpot judgment for the second special chart) than when a variable display of the first special chart (a jackpot judgment for the first special chart) is performed.

<2 types per item>
The above has been described regarding the one-type win. In contrast, the two-type win is started when the game ball enters the specific hole 38 (see FIG. 2). In detail, in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, when the second special symbol is stopped and displayed with any small win symbol (when the result of the big win judgment for the second special symbol is "small win"), a small win game is played in which the small winning hole 35 (see FIG. 2) is opened. Then, when the game ball enters the small winning hole 35 during this small win game and enters the specific hole 38, the two-type win is started. In the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, when the small win game is played, if the right hit is performed, the game ball enters the small winning hole 35 with almost 100% probability. Therefore, when the small win game is played, the two-type win is played with almost 100% probability.

As for the two-kind win, multiple types can be executed with different "number of rounds" and "game state after the big win game ends" depending on the "type of small win pattern stopped and displayed." That is, as shown in FIG. 5(c), when the second special pattern is stopped and displayed with "small win pattern 701-780" (when the second special pattern is stopped and displayed with a small win pattern and a two-kind win is started, there is an 80% probability), "10 rounds are played and a two-kind win in which the game state after the big win game ends is an electric support state (also referred to as "10R electric support two-kind win" in this specification)" is executed. In addition, if the second special chart stops and displays the "small win pattern 781-800" (if the second special chart stops and displays the small win pattern and a two-type win is initiated, there is a 20% chance), "10 rounds of play will be played, and after the big win game ends, a two-type win will occur in which the game state is in a non-electric support state (also referred to in this specification as a "10R non-electric support two-type win").

As described above, in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, when the variable display of the second special symbol is performed, a double win may occur. From this, it can be said that it is more advantageous for the player to have the variable display of the second special symbol (jackpot determination for the second special symbol) performed than to have the variable display of the first special symbol (jackpot determination for the first special symbol).

In the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, when a jackpot game of "6R electric support per type", "10R electric support per type", or "10R electric support per type" is played, the electric support state is set after the jackpot game ends, and this electric support state is set continuously until 100 pattern change games (display of the first special chart and the second special chart change) are played unless a new jackpot game is played. Then, when the 100 pattern change games are played, a non-electric support state is set in place of the electric support state. In other words, when the electric support state is set with the end of the jackpot game, the remaining number of pattern change games that can be played in the electric support state (also referred to as the "electric support number of times" in this specification) is set to 100 times (an electric support state with 100 electric support times is set). For the player, the electric support state is more advantageous than the non-electric support state, so in the electric support state, the player can expect the jackpot game to start before the non-electric support state is set (before the electric support state ends).

In addition, in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, one round of play ends when 10 game balls enter the machine (10 counts) or 30 seconds have passed, so in most cases 100 game balls (10 counts x 10 payouts) are paid out in one round of play. Naturally, therefore, more game balls will be paid out to the player in a jackpot game with a greater number of rounds than in a jackpot game with a smaller number of rounds. This allows the player to look forward to a jackpot game with a greater number of rounds.

In addition, while the jackpot game described above is being played, the number of rounds of the jackpot game being played is displayed on the round display section 55 of the segment display section 50. That is, as shown in FIG. 4, three LEDs are arranged on the round display section 55, and of the three LEDs, the left and center LEDs are lit to indicate that a jackpot game with six rounds is being played, and the right and center LEDs are lit to indicate that a jackpot game with ten rounds is being played.

<Special design reserved>
When the game ball enters the first starting hole 24, as described above, the "jackpot determination for the first special chart" and the change display of the first special chart are performed, but these jackpot determinations and change displays are not performed immediately after the game ball enters the first starting hole 24, but rather the acquired judgment random number is temporarily stored as the first special chart reservation. Then, when a predetermined condition is met, the jackpot determination and the change display of the first special chart are performed based on the stored first special chart reservation. Such first special chart reservations are stored with an upper limit of four. The number of first special chart reservations stored (number of first special chart reservations) is displayed on the first special chart reservation display section 53 of the segment display section 50. That is, as shown in FIG. 4, two LEDs are arranged in the first special chart reserved display unit 53, and in this first special chart reserved display unit 53, turning off both of the two LEDs indicates that the number of first special charts reserved is 0, turning on one LED indicates that the number of first special charts reserved is 1, turning on two LEDs indicates that the number of first special charts reserved is 2, flashing one LED indicates that the number of first special charts reserved is 3, and flashing two LEDs indicates that the number of first special charts reserved is 4.

Furthermore, when the game ball enters the second starting hole 25, as described above, a "jackpot determination for the second special chart" and a change in the second special chart are made, but these jackpot determinations and change displays are not made immediately after the game ball enters the second starting hole 25; instead, the acquired judgment random number is temporarily stored as a second special chart reserve. Then, when a predetermined condition is met, a jackpot determination and a change in the second special chart are made based on the stored second special chart reserve. Such second special chart reserves are also stored up to an upper limit of four. The number of stored second special chart reserves (number of second special chart reserves) is displayed in the second special chart reserve display section 54 of the segment display section 50. That is, as shown in FIG. 4, two LEDs are arranged in the second special chart reserved display section 54, and in this second special chart reserved display section 54, turning off both of the two LEDs indicates that the number of second special charts reserved is 0, turning on one LED indicates that the number of second special charts reserved is 1, turning on two LEDs indicates that the number of second special charts reserved is 2, blinking one LED indicates that the number of second special charts reserved is 3, and blinking two LEDs indicates that the number of second special charts reserved is 4.

In the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, even if the first special symbol reserve or the second special symbol reserve is stored, the big win judgment and the change display for these reserves are not performed during the change display of any special symbol, during the confirmation display of any special symbol, during the big win game, or during the small win game. Also, if only the first special symbol reserve is stored among the first special symbol reserve and the second special symbol reserve, the big win judgment and the change display for the first special symbol are performed for the first special symbol reserve that was stored first, but if the second special symbol reserve is stored, the big win judgment and the change display for the second special symbol reserve are performed regardless of whether the first special symbol reserve is stored or not. In other words, the second special symbol is displayed in priority to the first special symbol (has a so-called second special symbol priority change function).

<Normal symbol variation display, normal symbol winning play>
As described above with reference to FIG. 2, a game ball hit from the left can pass through the left normal symbol operation gate 71, and a game ball hit from the right can pass through the right normal symbol operation gate 72. When a game ball passes through either the left normal symbol operation gate 71 or the right normal symbol operation gate 72 (normal symbol operation gates 71, 72) and is detected by either the left gate sensor 71s or the right gate sensor 72s (gate sensors 71s, 72s), a predetermined judgment random number (a normal symbol hit judgment random number described later) is obtained, and a normal symbol hit judgment is made to determine whether the game ball is a "normal symbol hit" or a "miss" based on the judgment random number. In other words, a normal symbol hit judgment may be made whether the game ball is hit from the left or the right.

Then, based on the result of this normal winning judgment, the normal pattern is displayed in a variable manner and then stopped. As shown in FIG. 4, the segment display unit 50 is provided with a normal pattern display unit 56 that displays normal patterns, and two LEDs are arranged in the normal pattern display unit 56. The normal pattern is displayed in a variable manner by switching which of the two LEDs is turned on in the normal pattern display unit 56, and is stopped by turning on a predetermined LED of the two LEDs. In the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, three types of patterns can be displayed as normal patterns: a normal winning pattern 1100 in which the left LED of the two LEDs is turned on, a normal winning pattern 1101 in which the right LED is turned on, and a normal losing pattern 1102 in which the left and right (two) LEDs are turned on. If the result of the normal winning judgment is a normal winning, the normal symbol is displayed as either the normal winning symbol 1100 or 1101, and if the result of the normal winning judgment is a normal missing, the normal symbol is displayed as the normal missing symbol 1102. When the normal symbol is displayed as a normal winning symbol or a normal missing symbol in this way, a display (confirmation display) is performed that maintains the state in which the symbol is displayed as stopped until a predetermined time has elapsed in order to confirm the displayed symbol. Then, if the normal symbol is displayed as a normal winning symbol, a normal winning game is performed in which the second starting hole 25 is opened and then closed.

The above-mentioned non-electric support state and electric support state are set by varying the probability of being judged as a "normal hit" in the normal hit judgment (also referred to as the "normal hit probability" in this specification), the mode of the normal symbol variable display, and the mode of normal hit play. In other words, in the non-electric support state, the normal hit probability is about 1 in 100, a long time is likely to be selected as the normal symbol variable time (either 1000 ms, 2000 ms, or 3000 ms is selected evenly), and during normal hit play, the second start hole 25 is only open for a short time (16 ms x 1 time).

In contrast, in the electric support state, the probability of hitting a normal symbol is approximately 99/100, and a short time is likely to be selected as the normal symbol fluctuation time (either 1000 ms, 1252 ms, or 1500 ms is selected evenly), and the second starting hole 25 is open for a long time (840 ms x 2 times) during a normal symbol hit. As a result, during the non-electric support state, the frequency (proportion) of the second starting hole 25 being open is low, and the frequency of game balls entering the second starting hole 25 is also low. In contrast, during the electric support state, the frequency (proportion) of the second starting hole 25 being open is high, and the frequency of game balls entering the second starting hole 25 is also high.

<Display contents of the performance display device 41>
The processing for performing the above-mentioned game is mainly performed by the CPU 201 of the main control board 200. In the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, in accordance with the above-mentioned game, a performance is performed in which various images are displayed on the performance display device 41. The processing for performing such a performance is mainly performed by the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220.

For example, the performance display device 41 performs a performance (hereinafter also referred to as "pattern change performance") in accordance with the variable display (pattern change game) of the first or second special symbol. That is, in synchronization with the start timing of the variable display (pattern change game) of the special symbol (first or second special symbol), the performance display device 41 simultaneously starts the variable display of the three decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c. After that, the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c are displayed in various modes until the variable time of the special symbols has elapsed. Then, in synchronization with the end timing of the variable display of the special symbols (stop display of the special symbols), the variable display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c ends. In the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, it is possible to display (designed) symbols showing the nine numbers from "1" to "9" as decorative symbols.

Figure 6(a) conceptually shows three decorative patterns 41a, 41b, 41c changing and displaying at the same time. After the changing display starts and a predetermined time has elapsed, normally the left decorative pattern 41a is first displayed as a pattern showing any one of the numbers "1" to "9", then the right decorative pattern 41c is displayed as a stopped pattern, and finally the center decorative pattern 41b is displayed as a stopped pattern. The combination of the three decorative patterns 41a, 41b, 41c displayed as a stopped pattern on the performance display device 41 is configured to correspond to the special pattern (first special pattern or second special pattern) displayed as a stopped pattern on the first special pattern display unit 51 or the second special pattern display unit 52 described above.

In detail, when the first or second special chart is stopped and displayed as a big win pattern, the three decorative patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c of the performance display device 41 are stopped and displayed as the same pattern combination (also referred to as "double numbers" in this specification). Also, when the second special chart is stopped and displayed as a small win pattern, the three decorative patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c are stopped and displayed as "double numbers". In other words, in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, when the first or second special chart is stopped and displayed as a big win pattern, a one-type win is performed, but when the second special chart is stopped and displayed as a small win pattern, a two-type win is performed (through a small win game) with a probability of approximately 100%. And since these are the same from the viewpoint of playing a jackpot game, even if the first or second special chart is stopped and displayed as a jackpot pattern, and even if the second special chart is stopped and displayed as a small jackpot pattern, the three decorative patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c are stopped and displayed as "double numbers."

In contrast, when the first or second special symbol is displayed as a miss pattern, the three decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c are displayed as a combination of symbols that are not the same (also referred to as "varied patterns" in this specification). The decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c that are displayed as a stop are displayed in a stopped state (confirmed display) until the fixed display time for the special symbol has elapsed.

In this way, the special pattern displayed on the first special pattern display unit 51 or the second special pattern display unit 52 and the three decorative patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c displayed on the performance display unit 41 correspond to each other in terms of display content, and when the special pattern being displayed in a variable manner is displayed as stopped, the three decorative patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c are also displayed as stopped. Moreover, as shown in FIG. 2, the performance display unit 41 is located in a more conspicuous position than the first special pattern display unit 51 or the second special pattern display unit 52 (segment display unit 50), has a large display screen, and the display content is easy to understand, so that players usually play while viewing the screen of the performance display unit 41.

Therefore, for example, as shown in FIG. 6(b), if the left decorative pattern 41a, which is displayed first on the display screen of the effect display device 41, and the right decorative pattern 41c, which is displayed next, are displayed in a manner that could result in a "doublet," the player will be watching the decorative pattern change display (pattern change effect) with the expectation that the middle decorative pattern 41b, which is displayed last, will be displayed as a "doublet."

In this way, the effect in which two decorative symbols (all but one of multiple decorative symbols) are displayed in a stopped state in a manner that could result in a "double number" and the final decorative symbol is displayed in a variable manner is called a "reach effect", and generating this reach effect can increase interest in the game. The variable display of decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c can also be considered as "decorative symbol variation", and the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 that executes the reach effect can also be considered as a "reach effect execution means".

Also, as shown in FIG. 6, a "reserved image (e.g., a circular image showing a ball)" is displayed to indicate that a reserved special pattern is stored (the start of the variable display of the special pattern is reserved). In more detail, if in a non-electric support state, the same number of "reserved images" as the number of reserved first special patterns (the number of variable displays of the first special pattern whose start is reserved) are displayed, and if in an electric support state, the same number of "reserved images" as the number of reserved second special patterns (the number of variable displays of the first special pattern whose start is reserved) are displayed.

<Main game progression>
In the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, the game progresses mainly in the following manner. Figures 7 and 8 are explanatory diagrams showing the progress of the main game in this embodiment. In particular, Figure 7 shows the progress of the main game in the non-electric support state, and Figure 8 shows the progress of the main game in the electric support state.

During the non-electric support state, the second starting hole 25 is rarely open. Therefore, even if a "right hit" is performed, the game ball rarely enters the second starting hole 25. Therefore, during the non-electric support state, as shown in FIG. 7, a game aiming for the ball to enter the first starting hole 24 is performed by "left hit" (a game in which the variable display of the first special chart is performed exclusively, also referred to as "game mainly based on the first special chart" in this specification). When the game ball enters the first starting hole 24 by left hit (ev.1), a "jackpot determination for the first special chart" is performed and the variable display of the first special chart is performed (ev.2). In the "jackpot determination for the first special chart", a "jackpot" is determined with a probability of about 1 in 300, so in most cases, the first special chart is stopped and displayed as a missing pattern. While the first special chart continues to change in this way, if the "jackpot determination for the first special chart" determines that a jackpot has occurred, the first special chart will stop and display the jackpot pattern (ev. 3), and a 1-type win will be performed (ev. 4).

Then, when this single type is over, as described above with reference to FIG. 5(a), there is a probability of about 50% that a non-electric support state is set (ev.5), and there is a probability of about 50% that a 100-cycle electric support state is set (ev.6). Of these, when a non-electric support state is set (ev.5), the frequency with which the second starting hole 25 is open remains low, so the above-mentioned game involving left-handed hitting (game mainly based on the first special chart shown in FIG. 7) is repeated.

In contrast, when the electric support state is set (ev.6), the game proceeds as follows. That is, during the electric support state, the second starting hole 25 is frequently open, and it is easy to get the game ball to enter the second starting hole 25. Therefore, during the electric support state, as shown in FIG. 8, a game is played in which the ball is aimed at entering the second starting hole 25 by "hitting to the right" (a game in which the variable display of the second special chart is exclusively performed, also referred to as "a game mainly based on the second special chart" in this specification). Then, when the game ball enters the second starting hole 25 (ev.11), a "jackpot determination for the second special chart" is performed and the variable display of the second special chart is performed (ev.12).

In the "jackpot judgment for the second special chart", as in the "jackpot judgment for the first special chart", a "jackpot" is judged with a probability of about 1 in 300. If a "jackpot" is judged, the second special chart is displayed with a jackpot pattern (ev. 13), and a type 1 win is performed (ev. 14).

When this single type ends, as described above with reference to FIG. 5(b), there is a probability of about 20% when a non-electric support state is set (ev. 15), and there is a probability of about 80% when an electric support state with 100 electric support cycles is set (ev. 16).

In addition, in the "Big Win Judgment for the Second Special Chart", a "Small Win" is judged with a probability of about 1 in 60. If a "Small Win" is judged, the second special chart is stopped and displayed with a small win pattern (ev. 17), and a small win game is played (ev. 18). If a game ball enters the small winning hole 35 during a small win game and the game ball enters the specific hole 38 (ev. 19), a double win is played (ev. 20). In contrast, if a game ball does not enter the specific hole 38 even when a small win game is played (ev. 23), a double win is not played. However, in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, when a small win game is played, if a right hit is performed, the game ball enters the small winning hole 35 with a probability of almost 100%. Therefore, when a small win is played, there is a nearly 100% chance that a two-type win will occur, and when the second special chart is displayed, there is a roughly 1 in 60 chance that a two-type win will occur (through a small win).

When the two-type hit is over (ev.20), as described above with reference to FIG. 5(c), a non-electric support state is set with a probability of about 20% (ev.21), and an electric support state with 100 electric support times is set with a probability of about 80% (ev.22). Of these, when an electric support state with 100 electric support times is set (ev.22), the frequency with which the second starting hole 25 is in an open state remains high, so the above-mentioned right-hitting game (game mainly featuring the second special symbol shown in FIG. 8) will be repeated. In contrast, when a non-electric support state is set (ev.21), a left-hitting game (game mainly featuring the first special symbol) as described above with reference to FIG. 7 will be played.

When the electric support state is set, if the pattern change play is performed the number of times (100 times) for which electric support has been performed without a jackpot play being performed after that (when the number of times for electric support becomes 0), the non-electric support state will be set instead of the electric support state. In this case, the game of hitting the left hand as described above (the game mainly based on the first special symbol shown in Figure 7) will be performed.

As described above, in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, when a "jackpot determination for the second special chart (variable display of the second special chart)" is performed during the electric support state, the player can be made to feel as if a jackpot game is being played not only when the second special chart is stopped and displayed as a jackpot pattern, but also when the second special chart is stopped and displayed as a small jackpot pattern. In other words, in the electric support state, the player can be made to feel as if a jackpot game is being played with a probability of about 1 in 50, which is the sum of the probability of a jackpot pattern being stopped and displayed in the variable display of the second special chart, which is about 1 in 300, and the probability of a small jackpot pattern being stopped and displayed, which is about 1 in 60.

C. Game control processing:
9 is a flow chart showing a game control process for controlling the progress of a game. The game control process is performed by the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 at a predetermined cycle (for example, based on a timer interrupt that occurs every 4 msec). The game control process performed by the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 will be described below according to the flow chart. In the following description, well-known processes such as the initialization process of the CPU 201, the interrupt prohibition process, and the interrupt permission process will be omitted.

<Output processing>
As shown in Fig. 9, when the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 starts the game control process, it first performs the output process (S100). In the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, in various processes described later, various commands to be sent to various control boards including the sub-control board 220 are stored in an output buffer secured in the RAM 203. In the output process (S100), the various commands stored in the output buffer in this way are sent to the various control boards. By doing so, for example, the sub-control board 220 controls the presentation in accordance with the progress of the game, and the payout control board 240 controls the drive of the payout motor 243 (payout of game balls).

<Input processing>
The CPU 201 of the main control board 200 then performs input processing (S200). As described above, in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, when a game ball enters any of the first start hole 24, the second start hole 25, the other ball entry hole 30, the large prize entry hole 28, and the small prize entry hole 35, the game ball is paid out. Therefore, in the input processing (S200), it is determined whether or not a game ball is detected by the sensors (the first start hole sensor 24s, the second start hole sensor 25s, the large prize entry hole sensor 28s, the small prize entry hole sensor 35s, etc.) that detect these ball entries. As a result, if a game ball is detected, a payout command indicating the number of game balls to be paid out is stored in the output buffer described above. The payout command stored in the output buffer in this way is transmitted to the payout control board 240 in the next output processing (S100).

<Random number update process>
The CPU 201 of the main control board 200 then performs a random number update process (S300). As described above, in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, a jackpot determination and a normal hit determination are made based on a predetermined determination random number. In more detail, a jackpot determination is made based on a "jackpot determination random number", and a normal hit determination is made based on a "normal hit determination random number". In addition, the variable display of the special symbol in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment is made based on a variable pattern described later, and this variable pattern is selected based on a "variation pattern selection random number".

In addition, in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, if the jackpot determination result is "jackpot", one of the multiple types of jackpot patterns is displayed as a stopped pattern, and if the jackpot determination result is "small jackpot", one of the multiple types of small jackpot patterns is displayed as a stopped pattern, and the type of pattern is selected based on the "pattern selection random number". In the random number update process (S300), these random numbers are updated. Note that these random numbers may be updated not only in the random number update process (S300), but also in the period from the end of the game control process to the start of the next game control process (next timer interrupt). Also, a dedicated circuit for random number update may be provided, and the random numbers may be updated by this dedicated circuit.

<Start port and other sensor detection processing>
The CPU 201 of the main control board 200 then performs a start hole etc. sensor detection process (S400). In this start hole etc. sensor detection process (S400), first, based on the detection result of the gate sensors 71s, 72s, it is determined whether the game ball has passed through the normal symbol operation gates 71, 72. As a result, if the game ball has passed through the normal symbol operation gates 71, 72, it is determined whether the game is during a normal symbol win game, during a normal symbol variable display, or during a normal symbol fixed display. As a result, if the game is not during a normal symbol win game, during a normal symbol variable display, or during a normal symbol fixed display, a normal symbol win determination random number is obtained and the normal symbol win determination random number is stored.

After processing the gate sensors 71s and 72s in this manner, it is then determined whether or not the gaming ball has entered the first starting hole 24 based on the detection result of the first starting hole sensor 24s. If the result is that the gaming ball has entered the first starting hole 24, it is determined whether or not the number of first special symbols reserved has reached the upper limit of four. If the number of first special symbols reserved has not reached four, a jackpot determination random number, a variation pattern selection random number, and a design selection random number are obtained, and these random numbers are stored as first special symbols reserved. The first special symbols reserved (acquired information) are stored in a first special symbols reserved memory area (acquired information storage means) secured in RAM 203 so that the order of storage can be identified.

Here, the first special chart variable display (pattern variable game) is performed based on the jackpot determination random number, variable pattern selection random number, and pattern selection random number acquired as the first special chart reserved. In addition, the performance (pattern variable performance) performed in accordance with the first special chart variable display is also performed based on the jackpot determination random number, variable pattern selection random number, and pattern selection random number acquired as the first special chart reserved. Therefore, when the first special chart reserved is stored, even if the variable display based on the first special chart reserved has not yet started (even if the variable start condition has not been established), it is possible to determine the mode of the variable display and performance (pattern variable game and pattern variable performance based on the first special chart reserved) based on the first special chart reserved. For example, even before the variable display based on the first special chart reserved is performed, it is possible to determine the result of the jackpot determination for the first special chart reserved (jackpot, miss), the type of jackpot game to be started if the result of the jackpot determination is "jackpot", whether or not a reach performance will be performed (whether or not the acquired information is predetermined information), etc. This type of determination is called a pre-determination, and in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, when the first special chart reservation is stored, a pre-determination is made for the first special chart reservation, and the result of the pre-determination is stored in association with the first special chart reservation.

In this way, once the first special chart reservation is stored and the preliminary judgment result for the first special chart reservation is stored, a preliminary judgment result command indicating this preliminary judgment result is stored in the output buffer of RAM 203. The preliminary judgment result command stored in the output buffer in this way is sent to the sub-control board 220 in the next output process (S100). In this way, the sub-control board 220 is able to execute various effects based on the preliminary judgment result of the first special chart reservation. Note that if the game ball has not entered the first starting hole 24 or if the number of first special chart reservations has already reached four, no new first special chart reservations are stored and no preliminary judgment is made.

After the process for storing the first special symbol reservation is performed in this manner, it is next judged whether or not the game ball has entered the second start hole 25 based on the detection result of the second start hole sensor 25s. As a result, if the game ball has entered the second start hole 25, it is judged whether or not the number of second special symbols reserved has reached the upper limit of four. Then, if the number of second special symbols reserved has not reached four, a jackpot determination random number, a variable pattern selection random number, and a design selection random number are obtained, and these random numbers are stored as the second special symbol reservation. The second special symbol reservation is stored in a second special symbol reservation storage area secured in the RAM 203 so that the order of storage can be identified. Once the second special symbol reservation is stored in this manner, a pre-determination similar to that described above is performed on the second special symbol reservation. However, in the pre-determination on the second special symbol reservation, it is also judged whether or not the result of the jackpot determination is a small jackpot.

In this way, once the second special chart reservation is stored and the pre-determination result for the second special chart reservation is stored, a pre-determination result command indicating this pre-determination result is stored in the output buffer of RAM 203. The pre-determination result command stored in the output buffer in this way is also sent to the sub-control board 220 in the next output process (S100). This makes it possible for the sub-control board 220 to execute various effects based on the pre-determination result for the second special chart reservation. Note that if the game ball has not entered the second starting hole 25 or if the number of second special chart reservations has already reached four, no new second special chart reservations are stored and no pre-determination is performed.

<Normal operation process>
The CPU 201 of the main control board 200 then performs a normal operation process (S500). In this normal operation process (S500), the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 performs processes such as displaying the normal symbols in a variable manner and executing a normal winning game. That is, the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 first determines whether or not a normal winning judgment random number has been stored in the above-mentioned start port sensor detection process (S400). As a result, if a normal winning judgment random number has been stored, the stored normal winning judgment random number is read out and a normal winning judgment is performed based on the normal winning judgment random number.

After the normal winning judgment is performed, it is judged whether the result of the normal winning judgment is a normal winning. If the result of the normal winning judgment is a normal winning, the normal winning pattern (stop pattern) to be displayed in the normal pattern change display is determined, and the determined normal winning pattern is stored. In other words, if the normal winning pattern 1100 is determined as the stop pattern, the LED to the left of the normal pattern display unit 56 (see FIG. 4) is stored as the result of the normal pattern change display. On the other hand, if the normal winning pattern 1101 is determined as the stop pattern, the LED to the right of the normal pattern display unit 56 (see FIG. 4) is stored as the result of the normal pattern change display. On the other hand, if the result of the normal winning judgment is a normal missing, the normal missing pattern 1102 is stored as the pattern (stop pattern) to be displayed in the normal pattern change display. In other words, it is memorized that the two LEDs on the left and right of the normal pattern display section 56 (see Figure 4) will be lit as a result of the current normal pattern change display.

Once the pattern (stop pattern) to be displayed in the normal pattern change display this time is stored, the normal pattern change time is set. In more detail, if in a non-electric support state, set it to 1000 ms, 2000 ms, or 3000 ms, and if in an electric support state, set it to 1000 ms, 1252 ms, or 1500 ms. Once the normal pattern change time is set, the normal pattern change display begins. Then, the normal pattern hit judgment random number that was the subject of this normal pattern hit judgment is erased from the memory area.

The above describes the processing when the normal pattern is not being played, the normal pattern is not being changed, or the normal pattern is not being confirmed. On the other hand, when the normal pattern is being changed, it is determined whether the change time of the normal pattern has elapsed. As a result, when it is determined that the change time has elapsed, the normal pattern being changed is displayed in a pre-stored manner. That is, when the result of the normal pattern hit judgment is a normal pattern hit and the normal pattern hit 1100 is to be displayed, the left LED of the normal pattern display unit 56 is turned on (the normal pattern hit 1100 is displayed), and when the normal pattern hit 1101 is to be displayed, the right LED of the normal pattern display unit 56 is turned on (the normal pattern hit 1101 is displayed). On the other hand, when the result of the normal pattern hit judgment is a miss, the left and right (two) LEDs of the normal pattern display unit 56 are turned on (the normal pattern miss 1102 is displayed). Once the normal symbol is displayed in this way, the fixed display of the normal symbol will begin, so set the fixed display time for the normal symbol.

In contrast, if a normal symbol is being displayed as confirmed, it is determined whether the confirmation display time has elapsed. If the confirmation display time has elapsed, it is determined whether the normal symbol that has been stopped (confirmed) this time is a normal winning symbol (the LED to the left of the normal symbol display unit 56 is lit). If the normal symbol that has been stopped is a normal winning symbol, the opening pattern (number of times it is opened, opening time, closing time, etc.) of the second start hole 25 for normal winning play is set.

In more detail, if the machine is in a non-electric support state, the opening pattern is set so that the second starting hole 25 is open only once for 16 ms. On the other hand, if the machine is in an electric support state, the opening pattern is set so that the second starting hole 25 is open only twice for 840 ms. Once the opening pattern is set in this way, the normal winning game will start.

When normal winning game is being played, the second starting port solenoid 26m is controlled to operate the opening and closing door 26 so that the second starting port 25 is in the open/closed state according to the above-mentioned opening pattern. Then, when the control according to this opening pattern is completed, the normal winning game ends. When the normal winning game ends, a normal winning game end command indicating the end of the normal winning game is stored in the output buffer of the RAM 203. The normal winning game end command stored in the output buffer in this way is also sent to the sub-control board 220 in the next output process (S100).

<Special Action Processing>
The CPU 201 of the main control board 200 then performs a special operation process (S600). In this special operation process (S600), the CPU 201 performs processes such as displaying the special symbol (first special symbol or second special symbol) in a variable manner, executing a big win game, and executing a small win game. That is, the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 first determines whether the game is a big win game, a small win game, a variable display of the special symbol (first special symbol or second special symbol), or a fixed display of the special symbol (first special symbol or second special symbol).

If the result is not any of these, it is determined whether or not a second special chart reservation is stored in the second special chart reservation memory area. If the result is that a second special chart reservation is stored in the second special chart reservation memory area, the second special chart reservation (jackpot determination random number, variable pattern selection random number, pattern selection random number) that was stored first among the stored second special chart reservations is read out. Then, a jackpot determination (jackpot determination for the second special chart) is made based on the jackpot determination random number contained in the read second special chart reservation. In the "jackpot determination for the second special chart", it is determined whether it is a "jackpot", "small hit", or "miss".

On the other hand, if the second special chart reservation is not stored, then it is determined whether or not the first special chart reservation is stored in the first special chart reservation memory area. If the result is that the first special chart reservation is stored in the first special chart reservation memory area, the first special chart reservation (jackpot determination random number, design selection random number, variation pattern selection random number) that was stored first among the stored first special chart reservations is read out. Then, a jackpot determination (jackpot determination for the first special chart) is made based on the jackpot determination random number contained in the read first special chart reservation. In the "jackpot determination for the first special chart", it is determined whether it is a "jackpot" or a "miss".

In the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, the jackpot determination random number is a random number that is updated in the range of 0 to 65535 (a random number that can take 65536 values), and if the jackpot determination random number obtained as the first special chart reservation or the second special chart reservation is any of the values corresponding to a "jackpot", it is determined to be a "jackpot". By appropriately setting such a value corresponding to a "jackpot", the probability of a "jackpot" being determined in both the "jackpot determination for the first special chart" and the "jackpot determination for the second special chart" is set to approximately 1 in 300.

In addition, if the jackpot determination random number obtained as the second special chart reserve is one of the values corresponding to a "small hit", it is determined to be a "small hit". By appropriately setting the value corresponding to such a "small hit", the probability of a "small hit" being determined in the "jackpot determination for the second special chart" is set to approximately 1 in 60.

If the result of the jackpot determination is "jackpot," the type of jackpot pattern to be displayed in the variable display of the current special pattern (variable pattern game) is selected based on the pattern selection random number included in the currently read first special pattern reservation or second special pattern reservation. That is, as described above with reference to FIG. 5, in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, jackpot patterns 101 to 300 can be displayed as the first special pattern, and jackpot patterns 501 to 700 can be displayed as the second special pattern. Therefore, when the first special pattern reservation is read, the jackpot pattern corresponding to the pattern selection random number read as the first special pattern reservation is selected as the pattern to be displayed in the variable display. In addition, when the second special reserved symbol is read, the jackpot symbol selection table in which symbol selection random numbers are assigned to the jackpot symbols 501 to 700 is referenced, and the jackpot symbol corresponding to the symbol selection random number read as the second special reserved symbol is selected as the symbol to be stopped and displayed. The jackpot symbol selection table is pre-stored in the ROM 202 of the main control board 200.

In addition, if the result of the big win judgment for the second special symbol is "small win," the type of small win symbol to be displayed in the variable display of the current special symbol (variable symbol game) is selected based on the symbol selection random number included in the second special symbol reservation read out this time. That is, as described above with reference to FIG. 5, in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, small win symbols 701-800 can be displayed as the second special symbol. Therefore, by referring to the small win symbol selection table in which symbol selection random numbers are assigned to the small win symbols 701-800, the small win symbol corresponding to the symbol selection random number read out as the second special symbol reservation is selected as the symbol to be displayed in the variable display. The small win symbol selection table is stored in advance in the ROM 202 of the main control board 200.

On the other hand, if the result of the jackpot determination is "miss," and the currently read special reserved symbol is the first special reserved symbol, then the miss symbol 401 is selected as the symbol to be displayed as a stopped symbol, and if the currently read special reserved symbol is the second special reserved symbol, then the miss symbol 801 is selected as the symbol to be displayed as a stopped symbol. The jackpot symbol, small win symbol, and miss symbol selected as the symbol to be displayed as a stopped symbol are stored in the stop symbol memory area secured in RAM 203.

After selecting the symbol to be displayed in this way, the variation pattern of the special symbol variation display (symbol variation game) is selected. The variation pattern is the time (variation time) from when the special symbol (first special symbol or second special symbol) starts to vary to when it is displayed in a stopped state, and each variation pattern is assigned information (variation pattern ID) to distinguish it from other variation patterns. The variation pattern selection table is referenced in the process of selecting the variation pattern. The variation pattern selection table is a table in which variation pattern selection random numbers are assigned to multiple variation patterns (variation pattern ID, variation time) as shown in FIG. 10. In the process of selecting the variation pattern, such a variation pattern selection table is referenced and the variation pattern corresponding to the variation pattern selection random number read out this time as the first special symbol reserved or the second special symbol reserved is determined as the current variation pattern. Therefore, the probability that each variation pattern is selected is determined by the proportion of random numbers assigned to each variation pattern among the obtainable variation pattern selection random numbers.

The variation pattern selected in this manner is sent to the sub-control board 220 as a variation pattern designation command, which will be described later. When the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 receives the variation pattern designation command, it recognizes the variation pattern of the current symbol variation game based on the variation pattern designation command, and executes a symbol variation presentation with a presentation pattern based on (corresponding to) the recognized variation pattern.

In the process of selecting the above-mentioned variation pattern, the same variation pattern selection table is not always referenced, but a variation pattern selection table corresponding to various game progress situations is referenced. In detail, as shown in FIG. 11, a variation pattern selection table corresponding to the type of special symbol (first special symbol or second special symbol), the currently set game state, the result of the jackpot determination, the number of stored first special symbol reserves and second special symbol reserves, etc. is referenced. In addition, although not shown, a variation pattern selection table corresponding to the type of 1 type or 2 types (the type of 1 type or 2 types described above with reference to FIG. 5) that is started this time is also referenced. In this way, it becomes possible to select a variation pattern corresponding to various game progress situations, and ultimately the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 can execute a pattern variation presentation with a presentation pattern corresponding to various game progress situations.

For example, if the result of the "jackpot determination for the first special chart" or the "jackpot determination for the second special chart" is "jackpot," the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 executes a pattern change effect in which the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c are displayed as "double numbers" after the reach effect. Also, if the result of the "jackpot determination for the second special chart" is "small hit," the CPU 221 executes a pattern change effect in which the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c are displayed as "double numbers" after the reach effect.

In addition, if the result of the "jackpot judgment for the first special chart" or the "jackpot judgment for the second special chart" is "miss," a symbol variation performance is executed in which the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c are displayed in a stopped state with "variable patterns" without performing a reach performance, or after the reach performance. Each variation pattern selection table is pre-stored in the ROM 202 of the main control board 200.

In this way, the symbol to be displayed in a stopped state in the current special symbol variable display is selected, and the variable pattern of the current special symbol variable display is selected, and then the special symbol variable display is started. Then, a variable pattern designation command indicating the currently selected variable pattern is stored in the output buffer of RAM 203. The variable pattern designation command stored in the output buffer in this way is transmitted to the sub-control board 220 in the next output process (S100). In addition, the first special symbol reserve or second special symbol reserve that was the subject of the current jackpot determination is erased from the first special symbol reserve memory area or second special symbol reserve memory area.

The above describes the processing when the game is not during a big win game, a small win game, when the special symbol (first or second special symbol) is being displayed in a variable manner, or when the special symbol is being displayed in a fixed manner. In contrast, when the special symbol is being displayed in a variable manner, it is determined whether the variable time of the special symbol being displayed in a variable manner has elapsed. As a result, if it is determined that the variable time has elapsed, the special symbol being displayed in a variable manner is displayed as a fixed symbol stored in the fixed symbol storage area (fixed display is started). When the special symbol is displayed in a fixed manner, the fixed display of the special symbol is started, so the fixed display time of the special symbol is set. Then, a variable stop command indicating that the special symbol has been displayed in a fixed manner is stored in the output buffer of the RAM 203. The variable stop command stored in the output buffer in this manner is sent to the sub-control board 220 in the next output process (S100).

If the special symbol is currently being displayed, it is determined whether the display time has elapsed. If the display time has elapsed, it is determined whether the special symbol that has been stopped (displayed) this time is a big win symbol, a small win symbol, or a miss symbol.

As a result, if the special symbol displayed as a stop symbol is a miss symbol, it is also determined whether or not the electric support state is set. Then, if the special symbol is displayed as a miss symbol during the electric support state, the number of electric support times is subtracted by one. As a result, if the number of electric support times becomes 0, the electric support state is replaced by a non-electric support state. When a new non-electric support state is set in this way, a game state designation command indicating the newly set game state (here, the non-electric support state) is stored in the output buffer of RAM 203. Then, the game state designation command stored in the output buffer in this way is sent to the sub-control board 220 in the next output process (S100).

On the other hand, even if the special symbol displayed in a stopped state is a small win symbol, first it is determined whether or not the electric support state is set, and if the electric support state is set, the number of electric support times is decremented by one. If the number of electric support times becomes 0 as a result, a non-electric support state is set instead of the electric support state. When a new non-electric support state is set in this way, a game state designation command indicating the newly set game state (here, the non-electric support state) is stored in the output buffer of RAM 203. Then, the game state designation command stored in the output buffer in this way is transmitted to the sub-control board 220 in the next output process (S100).

In addition, in response to the small win symbol being stopped and displayed, the opening pattern (number of times it is opened, the opening time, the closing time, etc.) of the small win opening 35 during the small win game is set. In the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, the small win opening 35 is open for 1.6 seconds during the small win game, so such an opening pattern of the small win opening 35 is set. Once the opening pattern of the small win opening 35 is set in this way, the small win game is started. Then, a small win game start command indicating the start of the small win game is stored in the output buffer of the RAM 203. The small win game start command stored in the output buffer is sent to the sub-control board 220 in the next output process (S100).

In addition, if the special symbol that is stopped is a jackpot symbol, the opening pattern (number of times to open, opening time, closing time, etc.) of the large prize opening 28 in one type is set. As described above with reference to FIG. 5, in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, the number of rounds during one type varies depending on the type of jackpot symbol that is stopped. Therefore, the opening pattern of the large prize opening 28 is set in accordance with the type of jackpot symbol that is stopped. After the opening pattern of the large prize opening 28 is set in this way, the one type is started. Then, a jackpot game start command indicating the start of the one type is stored in the output buffer of the RAM 203. This jackpot game start command also includes information indicating the type of one type that is started this time (see FIG. 5). The jackpot game start command stored in the output buffer is sent to the sub-control board 220 in the next output process (S100).

The above describes the processing when the special pattern is being confirmed and displayed. In contrast, when a small win is being played, the small win port solenoid 35m is controlled to operate the opening/closing door 36 so that the small win port 35 is opened/closed in the above-mentioned opening pattern (opening pattern that keeps the port open for 1.6 seconds). Then, when the control of the small win port solenoid 35m (operation of the opening/closing door 36) according to the above-mentioned opening pattern is completed, a small win game end command indicating the end of the small win game is stored in the output buffer of the RAM 203. The small win game end command stored in the output buffer in this way is sent to the sub-control board 220 in the next output process (S100).

Then, it is determined whether or not a game ball has entered the small winning port 35 during the current small winning game. As a result, if a game ball has entered the small winning port 35 during the current small winning game, it is determined whether or not the game ball has entered the specific port 38. As a result, if the game ball has entered the specific port 38, the opening pattern (number of openings, opening time, closing time, etc.) of the large winning port 28 in the two-type win is set to start the two-type win. After the opening pattern of the large winning port 28 is set in this way, the two-type win is started. Then, a big win game start command indicating the start of the two-type win is stored in the output buffer of the RAM 203. This big win game start command also includes information indicating the type of two-type win to be started this time (see FIG. 5). The big win game start command stored in the output buffer is sent to the sub-control board 220 in the next output process (S100).

The above describes the processing when a small win is being played. In contrast, when a big win is being played (when a single type win or a double type win is being played), the large win opening solenoid 29m is controlled to operate the opening/closing door 29 so that the large win opening 28 is opened or closed in the opening pattern described above. Then, when a round play starts, a round play start command indicating the start of the round play is stored in the output buffer of the RAM 203, and when the round play ends, a round play end command indicating the end of the round play is stored in the output buffer of the RAM 203. The round play start command and round play end command stored in the output buffer in this way are sent to the sub-control board 220 in the next output process (S100).

When the control of the big prize opening solenoid 29m (operation of the opening/closing door 29) according to the above-mentioned opening pattern is completed, the big prize game ends. Then, a big prize game end command indicating the end of the big prize game is stored in the output buffer of the RAM 203. The big prize game end command stored in the output buffer in this way is sent to the sub-control board 220 in the next output process (S100). When the big prize game ends, the game state is set to a non-electric support state or an electric support state (electric support state with 100 electric support times) depending on the type of the big prize game (see FIG. 5). Even when the game state is set in this way, a game state designation command indicating the set game state is stored in the output buffer of the RAM 203. The game state designation command stored in the output buffer in this way is sent to the sub-control board 220 in the next output process (S100).

<Pending number processing>
The CPU 201 of the main control board 200 then performs reserved number processing (S700). In this reserved number processing (S700), the number of reserved first special charts stored in the first special chart reserved memory area and the number of reserved second special charts stored in the second special chart reserved memory area are read out, and a reserved number transmission command indicating these numbers is stored in the output buffer of the RAM 203. The reserved number transmission command thus stored in the output buffer is also transmitted to the sub-control board 220 in the next output processing (S100). In this way, the sub-control board 220 can execute various performances based on these numbers, such as displaying reserved images corresponding to the number of reserved first special charts and the number of reserved second special charts on the performance display device 41.

The special symbol can be regarded as "identification information", the display of the special symbol can be regarded as "identification information change", and the "CPU 201 of the main control board 200" that executes the "identification information change" can be regarded as "identification information change means". The big win symbol and the small win symbol can be regarded as "specific modes", the big win game can be regarded as "specific game", and the "CPU 201 of the main control board 200" that executes the big win game (specific game) when the special symbol (identification information) is stopped and displayed as a big win symbol or a small win symbol (specific mode) in the display of the special symbol (identification information change) can be regarded as "specific game execution means". The "CPU 201 of the main control board 200" that can set the non-electric support state and the electric support state can be regarded as "game state setting means".

D. Performance control processing:
12 is a flowchart showing the performance control process for controlling the performance. The performance control process is performed by the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 at a predetermined cycle (for example, based on a timer interrupt that occurs every 10 msec). The performance control process performed by the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 will be described below according to the flowchart. Note that in the following description, well-known processes such as the initialization process of the CPU 221, the interrupt prohibition process, and the interrupt permission process will not be described.

When the performance control process starts, the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 first performs a command analysis process (S800). Here, every time the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 receives a command from the main control board 200, it stores the received command in a received command storage area of the RAM 223 as an external interrupt process. In the command analysis process (S800), it determines the performance that corresponds to the command stored in this received command storage area, i.e., the command received from the main control board 200, and stores the command to be sent to the image/audio control board 230, lamp control board 226, etc. to perform this performance in an output buffer secured in the RAM 223.

The CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 then performs output processing (S900). In this processing, the command stored in the output buffer of the RAM 223 is sent to the image/audio control board 230, the lamp control board 226, etc. When a command is received from the sub-control board 220, the image/audio control board 230 displays an image corresponding to the received command on the performance display device 41, and outputs sound corresponding to the received command from the various speakers 6a, 6b, etc. In addition, the lamp control board 226 causes the various lamps 5a to 5c, etc. to emit light in a light emission pattern corresponding to the received command.

As described above, the sub-control board 220 cooperates with the image/sound control board 230, the lamp control board 226, etc. to execute various effects, but for ease of explanation in this specification, the execution of such various effects will also be expressed simply as "the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 executing various effects."

Figure 13 shows the processing (various effects, etc.) performed by the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 in response to commands received from the main control board 200. As shown in Figure 13, when the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 receives a pre-determination result command, it detects that a new special chart has been stored (displays a reserved image indicating that a special chart has been stored) and performs a pre-determination, which is a performance based on the pre-determination result. For example, it causes the performance display device 41 to display an image of a character or the like corresponding to the pre-determination result. Note that the pre-determination performance does not need to be performed all the time when a pre-determination result command is received, and may be performed when a predetermined condition is met (for example, when a predetermined execution lottery is won).

When the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 receives the reserved number transmission command, it displays the same number of reserved images as the first special chart reserved number and the second special chart reserved number indicated by this command in the first reserved display area 41d and the second reserved display area 41e of the performance display device 41. It is not necessary to display both the first special chart reserved number and the second special chart reserved number at all times. For example, in a non-electric support state where left-handed play is performed, i.e., a state where a game is mainly played with the first special chart, the first special chart reserved number may be displayed, and in a non-electric support state where right-handed play is performed, i.e., a state where a game is mainly played with the second special chart, the second special chart reserved number may be displayed.

The CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220, which displays the "reserved image", can also be considered as the "reserved image display means".

In addition, when the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 receives a variation pattern designation command, it starts a pattern variation presentation (including the variation display of decorative patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c) corresponding to the variation pattern indicated by the variation pattern designation command in accordance with the variation display of the special pattern (first special pattern or second special pattern).

In other words, when a variation pattern (variation pattern designation command) is received that is selected when the result of the "jackpot judgment for the first special chart" or the "jackpot judgment for the second special chart" is "jackpot" (when the first special chart or the second special chart is stopped and displayed as a jackpot pattern), a pattern variation effect is started in which the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c are stopped and displayed as "double numbers" after the reach performance. Also, when a variation pattern (variation pattern designation command) is received that is selected when the result of the "jackpot judgment for the second special chart" is "small hit" (even when the second special chart is stopped and displayed as a small hit pattern), a pattern variation effect is started in which the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c are stopped and displayed as "double numbers" after the reach performance.

In addition, when a variation pattern (variation pattern designation command) is received that is selected when the result of the "jackpot judgment for the first special chart" or the "jackpot judgment for the second special chart" is "miss" (when the first special chart or the second special chart is stopped and displayed as a miss pattern), a pattern variation performance is started in which the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c are stopped and displayed as "barakeme" without performing a reach performance, or after the reach performance. Then, when a variation stop command is received while the pattern variation performance is being performed, the pattern variation performance is ended.

Also, as shown in FIG. 13, when the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 receives a small win game start command, it starts a small win game presentation indicating that a small win game is in progress. Then, when the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 receives a small win game end command, it ends the small win game presentation. Also, when a specific ball entry command is received during a small win game, a specific ball entry presentation indicating that the game ball has entered the specific ball entry 38 (indicating that a two-type win has been confirmed to start) is executed. The specific ball entry command is a command transmitted from the main control board 200 when a small win game (a small win game based on the second special chart) is started by the second special chart being stopped and displayed with a small win pattern, and when a game ball that entered during the small win game enters the specific ball entry 38, in other words, when a two-type win is performed. As a specific ball entry presentation, for example, a presentation displaying a letter image of "V" is executed.

When the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 receives a jackpot play start command, it starts a jackpot play presentation indicating that a jackpot play is in progress. For example, when a jackpot play starts, it executes a fanfare presentation indicating the start of the jackpot play and starts displaying a video (a so-called movie) indicating that a jackpot play is in progress. It also executes a presentation indicating the number of rounds of the started jackpot play and a presentation indicating the game state (non-electric support state or electric support state) that will be set after the started jackpot play ends. In the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, as such a jackpot play presentation, multiple jackpot play presentations with different aspects (for example, videos to be displayed, etc.) can be executed, and which jackpot play presentation is executed is determined according to a predetermined lottery result and the type of jackpot play.

When a round play start command is received during a jackpot game, the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 starts a round play presentation (e.g., superimposed on the jackpot game presentation) to indicate that a round play is in progress. For example, a presentation showing the number of round plays in the jackpot game being played (e.g., a presentation showing 1R, 2R, 3R, etc.) is started. Then, when a round play end command is received, the round play presentation ends, and when a jackpot game end command is received, the jackpot game presentation ends.

When the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 receives a game state designation command, it starts a presentation that corresponds to the set game state. For example, it executes a presentation in which the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, 41c and their background images are changed to a form (such as color or shape) that corresponds to the game state, or, if an electric support state is set, starts a presentation that displays the remaining number of electric support times.

E. SP Reach Production:
Here, in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, it is possible to execute a presentation that suggests the "expectation of a jackpot," which is the "probability that a jackpot pattern or a small jackpot pattern will be displayed in a stopped state in the changing display of special patterns (the possibility that a jackpot game will be played as a result of the changing display of special patterns)," and as such a presentation, it is possible to execute an "SP reach presentation."

This "SP Reach Performance" is a performance in which a video showing a character fighting an enemy is displayed (played) on the display screen of the performance display device 41 while the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c (special patterns) are changing (and thus the Reach performance) is being performed. This "SP Reach Performance" uses the content of the video displayed (played) (the type of character fighting the enemy) to suggest the "probability of a big win."

In more detail, the "SP Reach Performance" starts a predetermined time (e.g., 10 seconds) after the start of the Reach Performance described above with reference to FIG. 6(b). In the "SP Reach Performance", as shown in FIG. 14(a), the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c are reduced and displayed in the upper right corner of the display screen of the performance display device 41. Then, in the center of the display screen of the performance display device 41, a video showing a character fighting an enemy is displayed (played). If the "SP Reach Performance" is performed while the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c (special symbols) are being displayed in a variable manner, the "expected probability of a big win" in the variable display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c (special symbols) is suggested using the content of the video displayed (played) in the "SP Reach Performance" (the type of character fighting the enemy).

As shown in FIG. 14(b), such "SP reach performance" can be "SP reach performance A", "SP reach performance B", "SP reach performance C", or "SP reach performance D". Of these, "SP reach performance A" is a performance in which a video showing character A fighting an enemy is displayed (played back), and the "expected probability of a jackpot" when "SP reach performance A" is performed is "10%".

In addition, "SP reach performance B" is a performance in which a video showing character B fighting an enemy is displayed (played), and the "expected chance of a jackpot" when "SP reach performance B" is performed is "20%". In addition, "SP reach performance C" is a performance in which a video showing character C fighting an enemy is displayed (played), and the "expected chance of a jackpot" when "SP reach performance C" is performed is "30%". In addition, "SP reach performance D" is a performance in which a video showing character D fighting an enemy is displayed (played), and the "expected chance of a jackpot" when "SP reach performance D" is performed is "70%".

In other words, if "SP Reach Performance A" is performed while the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c (special patterns) are being displayed, the "SP Reach Performance A" suggests that the "expected jackpot rate" in the display of the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c (special patterns) is 10%. Also, if "SP Reach Performance B" is performed while the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c (special patterns) are being displayed, the "SP Reach Performance B" suggests that the "expected jackpot rate" in the display of the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c (special patterns) is 20%. In addition, if an "SP reach performance C" is performed while the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c (special patterns) are being displayed, the "SP reach performance C" suggests that the "expected jackpot rate" in the display of the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c (special patterns) is "30%". In addition, if an "SP reach performance D" is performed while the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c (special patterns) are being displayed, the "SP reach performance D" suggests that the "expected jackpot rate" in the display of the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c (special patterns) is "70%".

When an "SP reach performance" as described above is performed, when the "SP reach performance" ends (as the SP reach performance ends), the "operation valid period A" begins and a "prompt performance A" is executed. Of these, the "operation valid period A" is the period during which "operation of the performance button 10a for executing the "result performance" and outputting the audio of the "result music" is valid." In other words, when the performance button 10a is operated (pressed) during the "operation valid period A," the "result performance" is executed and the audio of the "result music" is output. The "result performance" and "result music" will be described later.

The "prompt effect A" is an effect that prompts the player to operate the effect button 10a during such an "effective operation period A." As an example of the "prompt effect A," as shown in FIG. 15(a), an effect is executed in which an image showing the effect button 10a and an image showing the text "Press!" are displayed on the display screen of the effect display device 41.

In response to such a "prompt performance A", when the performance button 10a is operated during the "operation valid period A", a "result performance" is executed, suggesting the outcome of the battle between the character and the enemy in the "SP reach performance", as shown in FIG. 15(b). In more detail, when the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c are stopped and displayed as "barakeme" (when the special symbol is stopped and displayed as a miss symbol), a "defeat performance" is executed as this "result performance", showing the character displayed in the "SP reach performance" being defeated by the enemy. In contrast, when the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c are stopped and displayed as "double numbers" (when the special symbol is stopped and displayed as a big win symbol or a small win symbol), a "victory performance" is executed as this "result performance", showing the character displayed in the "SP reach performance" triumphing over the enemy.

Furthermore, when such a "result performance" is performed, a piece of music suggesting the outcome of the battle between the character and the enemy in the "SP reach performance" (also referred to as the "result music" in this specification) is output as audio (output from the various speakers 6a, 6b). For example, when a "defeat performance" is performed, a "defeat music" with a dark melody is output as this "result music", and when a "victory performance" is performed, a "victory music" with a bright melody is output as this "result music".

The above-mentioned "SP reach performance" is executed when the "variation pattern associated with the SP reach performance" is selected as the variation pattern of the special symbol. In other words, the SP reach performance is executed while the "variation display of the special symbol based on the 'variation pattern associated with the SP reach performance'" is being executed. In this specification, this "variation display of the special symbol based on the 'variation pattern associated with the SP reach performance'", in other words, the "variation display of the special symbol in which the 'SP reach performance' is performed", is also referred to as "SP reach variation".

F. Hidden button effects:
Here, in the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, a "hidden button effect" may be executed during the execution of the above-mentioned "SP reach effect" (during the execution of the SP reach variation). This "hidden button effect" will be described below.

F-1. Execution mode of hidden button performance:
In the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, during the period from the start to the end of the "SP reach performance", intermittent periods (segmented periods) are set as "effective operation periods B" (multiple effective operation periods B are set). In other words, during the execution of the "SP reach performance" (in the process of the progress of the SP reach performance), multiple "effective operation periods B" arrive.

These multiple "operation effective periods B" are periods during which operation of the jog shuttle 10b to execute the audio output of the "lines" described below is effective. In other words, when the jog shuttle 10b is operated (pushed in) during the "operation effective period B," the "lines" corresponding to that "operation effective period B" are output as audio (output from the various speakers 6a, 6b).

In this embodiment of the pachinko machine 1, when a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the "SP reach performance" (while the SP reach performance is being executed), a "timing suggestion performance" is executed. This "timing suggestion performance" is a performance that suggests to the player the timing when "operation valid period B" will arrive (the timing to operate the jog shuttle 10b).

In this "timing suggestion effect", as shown in FIG. 16, a rectangular "scale image" extending in the left-right direction, a "moving image" that moves from left to right along the "scale image", and an "operation position image" that indicates the position at which jog shuttle 10b should be operated (the display position of the scale image) are displayed. When the "timing suggestion effect" starts, the "moving image" moves to the right as time passes. At this time, the "moving image" is displayed above the "operation position image" at the timing when "valid operation period B" arrives. In other words, in the "timing suggestion effect", the "moving image" is displayed above the "operation position image" in the process of moving the "moving image" to the right, suggesting that "valid operation period B" has arrived.

In the example shown in FIG. 16, four "operation position images" are displayed, suggesting that four "operation valid periods B" have been set (four operation valid periods B will occur). Then, when the jog shuttle 10b is operated at the timing when the "moving image" moves above each of these four "operation position images", the jog shuttle 10b will have been operated during the "operation valid periods B" corresponding to each of the four "operation position images", and the "lines" corresponding to that "operation valid periods B" will be output as voice.

Figure 17 shows an example of how the "timing suggestion effect" is performed. When the "timing suggestion effect" starts, the "moving image" is displayed above the left edge of the "scale image", as shown in Figure 17 (a). After that (as time passes), the "moving image" moves to the right above the "scale image".

As shown in FIG. 17(b), when the "scale image" moves (is displayed) from the left to above the first "operation position image," it is indicated that the first "valid operation period B" has arrived since the "timing suggestion performance" began. When the jog shuttle 10b is operated during this first "valid operation period B," "line 1" corresponding to that first "valid operation period B" is output as voice.

Also, as shown in FIG. 17(c), when the "scale image" moves (is displayed) above the second "operation position image" from the left, it indicates that the second "valid operation period B" has arrived since the start of the "timing suggestion performance." Then, when the jog shuttle 10b is operated during this second "valid operation period B," "line 2" corresponding to the second "valid operation period B" is output as voice.

Also, as shown in FIG. 17(d), when the "scale image" moves (is displayed) above the third "operation position image" from the left, it indicates that the third "valid operation period B" has arrived since the start of the "timing suggestion performance." Then, when the jog shuttle 10b is operated during this third "valid operation period B," "line 3" corresponding to the third "valid operation period B" is output as voice.

As shown in FIG. 17(e), when the "scale image" moves (is displayed) above the fourth "operation position image" from the left, it indicates that the fourth "valid operation period B" has arrived since the start of the "timing suggestion performance." Then, when the jog shuttle 10b is operated during this fourth "valid operation period B," "line 4" corresponding to the fourth "valid operation period B" is output as voice.

In addition, in the "timing suggestion effect", the display mode of the "scale image" changes as the "moving image" moves. For example, as shown in FIG. 17, in the "timing suggestion effect", the color of the "scale image" changes from the left edge to the display position of the "moving image" (for example, from blue to red), and the area of the part that has changed in this way naturally increases (extends to the right) as the "moving image" moves.

In addition, in the "timing suggestion effect," the display mode of the "operation position image" changes when the "operation valid period B" corresponding to the player arrives. For example, as shown in FIG. 17, in the "timing suggestion effect," the display mode of the "operation position image" changes color (for example, from blue to red) when the "operation valid period B" corresponding to the player arrives (when the moving image moves above the player).

As "Line 1" to "Line 4," audio is output that is a series of lines divided into parts. For example, the line "Unless we defeat the enemy, peace cannot be restored. This is the final blow. What will be the outcome?" is divided into "Line 1" to "Line 4." That is, as "Line 1," the line "Unless we defeat the enemy," is output as "Line 2," the line "Peace cannot be restored," is output as "Line 3," the line "This is the final blow," and as "Line 4," the line "What will be the outcome?" is output as "Line 4."

As described above, in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, multiple "operation effective periods B" are set during the execution of the "SP reach effect". Then, when the jog shuttle 10b is operated during the "operation effective period B", an effect is performed in which the "lines (lines 1 to 4)" corresponding to the "operation effective period B" are audibly output. However, when such an effect (an effect in which lines 1 to 4 are audibly output) is performed, although the "timing suggestion effect" is performed, the player is not prompted (indicated) to operate the jog shuttle 10b (it is hidden from the player). For this reason, unless the player is aware in advance that the "lines (lines 1 to 4)" are audibly output by operating the jog shuttle 10b, or unless the player operates the jog shuttle 10b by guesswork (by feeling around), the effect of audibly outputting the "lines (lines 1 to 4)" is not performed. In other words, the jog shuttle 10b in this case is a so-called "hidden button". For this reason, in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, the effect of "operating the jog shuttle 10b during the 'operation valid period B' to output the audio of 'lines (lines 1 to 4)'" is also referred to as the "hidden button effect."

F-2. Hidden button effect processing:
18 shows a flowchart of the "hidden button effect process." This process is for executing the above-mentioned "hidden button effect," and is executed by the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 as a timer interrupt process (e.g., every 10 ms).

When the "hidden button effect process" starts, the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 first judges whether it is time to start the "timing suggestion effect" (S1000). In other words, since the start timing of the "timing suggestion effect" is set to a predetermined time after the start of the "SP reach effect", it judges whether this timing has arrived. As a result, if it is time to start the "timing suggestion effect" (S1000: yes), the "timing suggestion effect" starts (S1002).

On the other hand, if the "timing suggestion effect" is being executed (S1004: yes), it is determined whether it is the end timing of the "valid operation period B" (S1006). As a result, if it is the end timing of the "valid operation period B" (S1006: yes), it is determined whether the jog shuttle 10b was operated during the "valid operation period B" (during the currently ended valid operation period B) (S1008). As a result, if the jog shuttle 10b was operated during the currently ended "valid operation period B" (S1008: yes), the "lines" corresponding to the currently ended "valid operation period B" are output as voice (S1010).

That is, as described above with reference to FIG. 17, if jog shuttle 10b is operated during the first "valid operation period B" after the start of the "timing suggestion effect", "line 1" is output as audio, if jog shuttle 10b is operated during the second "valid operation period B", "line 2" is output as audio, if jog shuttle 10b is operated during the third "valid operation period B", "line 3" is output as audio, and if jog shuttle 10b is operated during the fourth "valid operation period B", "line 4" is output as audio.

In this way, when a "line" is output audibly by operating the jog shuttle 10b during the "valid operation period B" (S1010), it is determined whether the "line" output audibly this time is "line 4" (S1012). In other words, it is determined whether the "line 4" was output audibly by operating the jog shuttle 10b during the fourth "valid operation period B". As a result, if the "line" output audibly this time is "line 4" (S1012: yes), the "completion flag" is set to ON (S1014). A storage area for this "completion flag" is provided in the RAM 223 of the sub-control board 220.

Here, we will explain the "Completion Flag." In the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, if the jog shuttle 10b is not operated during any of the "valid operation periods B" (S1008: no), not only is the "line" corresponding to that "valid operation period B" not output as voice, but the "valid operation period B" that is set thereafter is invalidated and the "timing suggestion presentation" is terminated.

For example, if the jog shuttle 10b is not operated during the first "valid operation period B" after the "timing suggestion effect" has started, not only will "Line 1" not be output as audible, but the second through fourth "valid operation periods B" will be invalidated and the "timing suggestion effect" will end. Therefore, in this case, even if the jog shuttle 10b is operated after that, the second through fourth "valid operation periods B" will be invalidated in the first place, and so "Line 2," "Line 3," and "Line 4" will not be output as audible.

Furthermore, if the jog shuttle 10b is not operated during the second "valid operation period B" after the "timing suggestion effect" has started, not only will "line 2" not be output as audio, but the third and fourth "valid operation period B" will be invalidated and the "timing suggestion effect" will end. Therefore, in this case, even if the jog shuttle 10b is operated after that, the third and fourth "valid operation period B" will be invalidated in the first place, so "line 3" and "line 4" will not be output as audio either.

Furthermore, if the jog shuttle 10b is not operated during the third "valid operation period B" after the "timing suggestion effect" has started, not only will "line 3" not be output as audible, but the fourth "valid operation period B" will be invalidated and the "timing suggestion effect" will end. Therefore, in this case, even if the jog shuttle 10b is operated after that, the fourth "valid operation period B" will be invalidated in the first place, so "line 4" will not be output as audible either.

In addition, if the jog shuttle 10b is not operated during the fourth "operation valid period B" after the "timing suggestion effect" has started, "line 4" will not be output as voice. However, in this case, since the "operation valid period B" is not set after that, the "timing suggestion effect" simply ends.

As described above, in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, if the jog shuttle 10b is not operated during any of the "operation valid periods B" (S1008: no), not only is the "line" corresponding to that "operation valid period B" not output as a voice, but the "operation valid period B" set thereafter is invalidated and the "timing suggestion effect" is terminated. Therefore, if "line 4" is output as a voice by operating the jog shuttle 10b during the fourth "operation valid period B" after the start of the "timing suggestion effect", this means that all of the voice outputs of "line 1" to "line 3" have already been performed by operating the jog shuttle 10b during all of the first to third "operation valid periods B" prior to that, and thus all of the voice outputs of "line 1" to "line 4" have been performed. The "completion flag" is a flag indicating that all of the voice outputs of "line 1" to "line 4" have been performed in this way.

When the "Completion Flag" is set to ON by outputting all of "Line 1" through "Line 4" (S1014), the "operation valid period B" is not set thereafter, so the "timing suggestion presentation" is terminated (S1016). The setting status of the "Completion Flag" is referenced in the "prompt presentation process" described below.

G. Audio output of result dialogue:
Here, in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, as described above with reference to Fig. 15, after the "SP reach effect" ends (while the SP reach fluctuation is being executed), the "operation effective period A" and the "prompt effect A" are started. Then, when the effect button 10a is operated during the "operation effective period A", the "result effect (victory effect, defeat effect)" is executed and the "result music (defeat effect, victory effect)" is output as sound.

However, in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, such "effective operation period A" and "prompt performance A" may not start even after the "SP reach performance" has ended (even while the SP reach fluctuation is being executed). In other words, in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, if all of the audio outputs of "Line 1" to "Line 4" have been performed while the "SP reach performance" is being executed, the "effective operation period A" and "prompt performance A" do not start after the "SP reach performance" has ended (while the SP reach fluctuation is being executed) (as a result), and instead, the "effective operation period C" and "prompt performance C" start.

Of these, "valid operation period C" is the period during which "operation of jog shuttle 10b to execute a "result performance" and output the "result lines" audibly" is valid. When jog shuttle 10b is operated (pushed in) during "valid operation period C", a "result performance" is executed and the "result lines" are output audibly. In other words, when jog shuttle 10c is operated during "valid operation period C", a "result performance" is executed in the same way as when the performance button 10a is operated during "valid operation period A", but in that case, the "result lines" are output audibly instead of the "result music". The "result lines" will be explained later.

The "prompt effect C" is an effect that prompts the player to operate the jog shuttle 10b during this "valid operation period C." As an example of the "prompt effect C," as shown in FIG. 19(a), an effect is executed in which an image showing the jog shuttle 10b and an image showing the words "Push!" are displayed on the display screen of the effect display device 41.

When the jog shuttle 10b is operated during the "operation valid period C" in response to such a "prompt performance C", a "result performance" suggesting the outcome of the battle between the character and the enemy in the "SP reach performance" is executed as shown in FIG. 19(b). This is the same as when the performance button 10a is operated during the "operation valid period A". However, when the jog shuttle 10b is operated during the "operation valid period C", when the "result performance" is performed, a "line suggesting the outcome of the battle between the character and the enemy in the "SP reach performance" (also referred to as a "result line" in this specification)" is output as voice (output from the various speakers 6a, 6b) instead of a "result music". For example, when a "defeat performance" is performed, a "defeat line" such as "I lost" is output as voice as this "result line", and when a "victory performance" is performed, a "victory line" such as "I won" is output as voice as this "result line".

As described above, when the "result line" is output by operating the jog shuttle 10b (when the operation valid period C is set), all of the "line 1" to "line 4" are output by voice during the execution of the previous "SP reach performance". Therefore, in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, lines related to "line 1" to "line 4" (and thus line 4) are used as the "result line". In other words, as the last line of "line 4" among "line 1" to "line 4", a line asking "What's the result?" is output by voice, and therefore as the "result line", a line such as "I lost (defeat line)" or "I won (victory line)" is output by voice in response to this question.

Figure 20 shows a flowchart of the "prompt performance process." This process is for starting the above-mentioned "prompt performance A" and "valid operation period A," or "prompt performance C" and "valid operation period C," and is executed by the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 as a timer interrupt process (e.g., every 10 ms).

When the "prompt performance process" starts, the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 first determines whether it is time to end the "SP reach performance" (S1100). If it is time to end the "SP reach performance" (S1100: yes), it determines whether the "completion flag" is set to ON, that is, whether all of the audio outputs of "Line 1" to "Line 4" were performed during the execution of the "SP reach performance" that has now ended (S1102).

As a result, if the completion flag is set to OFF, that is, if none of "Line 1" to "Line 4" were output as audio during the execution of the currently completed "SP Reach Performance", or if only part of "Line 1" to "Line 4" (for example, only "Line 1" to "Line 2") were output as audio (S1102: no), then an "operation valid period A" is started (S1104) during which "operation of the performance button 10a to execute the "result performance" and output the audio of the "result music" is valid." In addition, a "prompt performance A" is started (S1106) to prompt the player to operate the performance button 10a during the "operation valid period A".

On the other hand, if the completion flag is set to ON, i.e., if all of "Line 1" through "Line 4" have been output as audio during the execution of the currently completed "SP Reach Performance" (S1102: yes), then an "operation valid period C" is started (S1108) during which "operation of jog shuttle 10b to execute the "result performance" and output the "result lines" as audio is enabled." Also, a "prompt performance C" is started (S1110) to prompt the player to operate jog shuttle 10b during the "operation valid period C." Then, in this case, the completion flag is set from ON to OFF (S1112) in preparation for the execution of the "SP Reach Performance" (and thus the hidden button performance) from the next time onwards.

Figure 21 shows a flowchart of the "Result Presentation Process." This process is for outputting the "Result Music" or "Result Lines" in conjunction with the "Result Presentation" described above, and is executed by the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 as a timer interrupt process (e.g., every 10 ms).

When the "result performance process" begins, the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 first determines whether or not it is during the "valid operation period A" (S1200). As a result, if it is during the "valid operation period A" (S1200: yes), it determines whether or not the performance button 10a has been operated (S1202). Then, if the performance button 10a has been operated during the "valid operation period A" (S1202: yes), the "result performance" is executed (S1204) and the "result music (defeat music, victory music)" is audibly output (S1206).

On the other hand, if it is not during "valid operation period A" (S1200: no), it is determined whether it is during "valid operation period C" (S1208). As a result, if it is during "valid operation period C" (S1208: yes), it is determined whether jog shuttle 10b has been operated (S1210). Then, if jog shuttle 10b has been operated during "valid operation period C" (S1210: yes), a "result performance" is executed (S1212) and a "result music song (defeat line, victory line)" is audibly output (S1214).

As described above, in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, in response to multiple "operations of the jog shuttle 10b during the operation valid period B," an "effect of outputting the 'result dialogue' (or prompting effect C)" is performed. In a conventional pachinko machine 1, it is natural that one effect is performed in response to one operation. In this regard, in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, as described above, in response to multiple "operations of the jog shuttle 10b during the operation valid period B," an "effect of outputting the 'result dialogue' (or prompting effect C)" is performed, so that a novel gameplay can be realized in which a player who is expecting an "effect of outputting the 'result dialogue' (or prompting effect C)" is made to perform multiple "operations of the jog shuttle 10b during the operation valid period B" (multiple operations), thereby increasing the interest in the game.

In addition, in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, each time multiple "operations of the jog shuttle 10b in the operation valid period B" are performed, "Line 1" to "Line 4" are output by voice, and when all of the multiple "operations of the jog shuttle 10b in the operation valid period B" are performed, the "result line" related to that "line 1" to "line 4" (particularly line 4) is output by voice. This allows the player to perform multiple "operations of the jog shuttle 10b in the operation valid period B" rhythmically, and allows the player to feel that the "line 1" to "line 4" output by voice each time "operations of the jog shuttle 10b in the operation valid period B" are performed as one with the "result line", thereby increasing the player's interest in the game.

In addition, in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, when the "SP reach variation" is being executed, if the effect button 10a is operated during the "operation effective period A", the "effect of outputting a result song" is executed. However, even if such an "SP reach variation" is being executed, if multiple "operations of the jog shuttle 10b in the operation effective period B" are performed before the "operation effective period A" starts (before the SP reach effect ends), the "effect of outputting a result song" is not executed, but an "effect of outputting a result line (or prompt effect C)" is executed. In other words, while the "effect of outputting a result song" based on the operation of the effect button 10a is normally executed, for a player who has performed multiple "operations of the jog shuttle 10b in the operation effective period B", an "effect of outputting a result line (or prompt effect C)" is executed. Therefore, a player who has performed multiple "operations of the jog shuttle 10b in the operation effective period B" can be made to feel a sense of superiority, which makes it possible to increase interest in the game.

In addition, in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, if all of the multiple "operations of the jog shuttle 10b" are performed during the corresponding "operation effective period B", the "effect of audibly outputting a 'result line' (or prompting effect C)" is executed. In other words, if the multiple jog shuttle 10b operations are not performed at the right time, the "effect of audibly outputting a 'result line' (or prompting effect C)" will not be executed. This makes it possible to realize a novel gameplay that forces players who are expecting the "effect of audibly outputting a 'result line' (or prompting effect C)" to consider the timing of the multiple "operations of the jog shuttle 10b", thereby increasing the player's interest in the game.

In addition, in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, unless multiple "operations of the jog shuttle 10b" are performed at the right time, the "effect of audibly outputting a 'result line' (or prompting effect C)" will not be executed, but by executing a "timing suggestion effect", this timing (the timing when the operation valid period B arrives) can be suggested. Therefore, it is possible to realize a novel gameplay that draws the attention of a player who is expecting the "effect of audibly outputting a 'result line' (or prompting effect C)" to the "timing suggestion effect", thereby making it possible to increase interest in the game.

In addition, "effective operation period B" can be considered as the "effective unit operation period", "operation of jog shuttle 10b" can be considered as the "unit operation", and the "effect of outputting the 'result line' audibly (or prompt effect C)" can be considered as the "effect compatible with multiple operations". In addition, "SP reach fluctuation" can be considered as a "specific fluctuation", "effective operation period A" can be considered as the "effective period compatible with specific operations", "operation of effect button 10a" can be considered as a "specific operation", and "effect of outputting the result music audibly" can be considered as a "effect compatible with specific operations".

H. Variations:
In the above embodiment, it may be possible to allow the player to select one character from among a plurality of types of characters. For example, when the effect button 10a is operated when neither the special pattern is being displayed, nor a big win is being played, nor a small win is being played, the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 displays a character selection screen (a screen displaying a plurality of types of characters) on the display screen of the effect display device 41 to allow the player to select a character. When the direction button 10c is operated while this character selection screen is displayed, the character that is a selection candidate is changed. When the effect button 10a is operated while any character is a selection candidate, the character is stored in the RAM 223 as the character selected by the player. When a character is selected in this way, an image showing the character is displayed in various effects. Of course, even when such a character is not selected, it is possible to proceed with the game.

In this modified example, it is possible to allow the player to select a character, and the "timing suggestion effect" may be executed in a manner based on the character selection state.

For example, when a "timing suggestion effect" is performed when no character is selected, as described above with reference to FIG. 16, it is not suggested to "operate jog shuttle 10b (operate jog shuttle 10b during valid operation period B)". In contrast, when a "timing suggestion effect" is performed when a character is selected, it is suggested to "operate jog shuttle 10b (operate jog shuttle 10b during valid operation period B)". For example, as shown in FIG. 22, when a "timing suggestion effect" is performed, an image showing jog shuttle 10b and an image showing the word "press" may be displayed.

With this configuration, it is possible to execute an "effect of outputting a 'result line' by voice (or prompt effect C)" based on multiple "operations of the jog shuttle 10b during the effective operation period B", but some players may not know which operation unit they should operate during the "effective operation period B". In this regard, with the above-mentioned configuration, it is possible for the player to select one character from multiple types of characters, and if a character is not selected, the operation unit to be operated during the "effective operation period B" is not suggested. Therefore, it is possible for players who are expecting an "effect of outputting a 'result line' by voice (or prompt effect C)" to select a character, which can increase interest in the game.

In addition, when a character is selected, the content of the "lines (lines 1 to 4)" that are output as a voice by operating jog shuttle 10b during "valid operation period B" may correspond to the selected character. And the content of the "lines (result lines)" that are output as a voice by operating jog shuttle 10b during "valid operation period C" may also correspond to the selected character.

In addition, when a character is selected, the above-mentioned "valid operation period B" may be set to correspond to the type of character selected. For example, the "valid operation period B" may be set to a time corresponding to the type of character selected (the timing at which the valid operation period B arrives may be set to a time corresponding to the type of character selected), or a number of "valid operation periods B" may be set that corresponds to the type of character selected.

For example, as shown in FIG. 23(a), when character A is selected, four "valid operation periods B" are set, and each time jog shuttle 10b is operated during each of the four "valid operation periods B", "line A1" to "line A4" are output in voice in order. Then, when jog shuttle 10b is operated during the subsequent "valid operation period C", "line A5", which is related to "line A4", is output.

As shown in FIG. 23(b), when character B is selected, three "valid operation periods B" are set, and each time jog shuttle 10b is operated during each of the three "valid operation periods B", "lines B1" to "lines B3" are output in sequence. Then, when jog shuttle 10b is operated during the subsequent "valid operation period C", "lines B4" related to "lines B3" is output.

Also, as shown in FIG. 23(c), when character C is selected, two "valid operation periods B" are set, and each time jog shuttle 10b is operated during each of the two "valid operation periods B", "line C1" and "line C2" are output in voice in that order. Then, when jog shuttle 10b is operated during the subsequent "valid operation period C", "line C3" related to "line C2" is output in voice.

In this configuration, it is possible for the player to select one character from a number of different characters, and the "operation valid period B" is set in accordance with the character selected by the player. This allows for a novel gameplay experience in which the player, who is expecting the "effect of outputting the 'result line' by voice (or prompt effect C)" to ponder which character to select, thereby making it possible to increase the player's interest in the game.

In addition, when a character is selected, the execution mode of the above-mentioned "timing suggestion effect" may be a mode corresponding to the selected character. For example, in the "timing suggestion effect", a "character image" showing the selected character may be displayed as the "moving image".

For example, as shown in FIG. 23(a), when character A is selected, a "character A image" showing character A is displayed as the "moving image". Also, as shown in FIG. 23(b), when character B is selected, a "character B image" showing character B is displayed as the "moving image". Also, as shown in FIG. 23(c), when character C is selected, a "character C image" showing character C is displayed as the "moving image".

With this configuration, it is possible for the player to select one character from a number of different characters, and in the "timing suggestion effect", the display position of the "character image (character image showing the character selected by the player)" is moved to suggest the "timing when effective operation period B will arrive". In this way, the player can feel as if the character he or she selected is suggesting the "timing when effective operation period B will arrive", making it possible to increase interest in the game.

I. Pachinko Machine 1A:
Next, a pachinko machine 1A will be described. The pachinko machine 1A has a different configuration from the above-described pachinko machine 1. In the following description of the pachinko machine 1A, the description of the same configuration as the pachinko machine 1 will be omitted as appropriate.

I-1. SP Reach Production:
The pachinko machine 1A can also execute an "SP reach effect" as an effect suggesting the "expected probability of a big hit". This "SP reach effect", like the pachinko machine 1 described above, is an effect in which a video showing an ally character fighting an enemy character is displayed (played) on the display screen of the effect display device 41 during the variable display (and thus the reach effect) of the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c (special patterns). Also, like the pachinko machine 1 described above, this "SP reach effect" is an effect that suggests the "expected probability of a big hit" by using the content of the video to be displayed (played) (the type of ally character fighting the enemy character).

However, pachinko machine 1A can execute a different type of "SP reach performance" from pachinko machine 1. In detail, pachinko machine 1A can execute "SP reach performance A", "SP reach performance B", "SP reach performance C", "SP reach performance AB", "SP reach performance AC", "SP reach performance BC", and "SP reach performance ABC" as shown in FIG. 24.

Of these, "SP Reach Performance A" is a performance in which a video showing character A (ally character) fighting an enemy (enemy character) is displayed (played), and the "expected chance of a jackpot" when "SP Reach Performance A" is performed is "10%". "SP Reach Performance B" is a performance in which a video showing character B (ally character) fighting an enemy is displayed (played), and the "expected chance of a jackpot" when "SP Reach Performance B" is performed is "20%". "SP Reach Performance C" is a performance in which a video showing character C (ally character) fighting an enemy is displayed (played), and the "expected chance of a jackpot" when "SP Reach Performance C" is performed is "30%".

In addition, the "SP reach performance AB" is a performance in which a video showing Character A and Character B fighting an enemy is displayed (played), and the "expected chance of a jackpot" when the "SP reach performance AB" is performed is "40%". In addition, the "SP reach performance AC" is a performance in which a video showing Character A and Character C fighting an enemy is displayed (played), and the "expected chance of a jackpot" when the "SP reach performance AC" is performed is "50%". In addition, the "SP reach performance BC" is a performance in which a video showing Character B and Character C fighting an enemy is displayed (played), and the "expected chance of a jackpot" when the "SP reach performance BC" is performed is "60%".

In addition, the "SP Reach ABC" is a performance in which a video showing Character A, Character B, and Character C fighting an enemy is displayed (played back), and the "expected probability of a big hit" when the "SP Reach ABC" is performed is "80%."

When an "SP reach performance" as described above is performed, when the "SP reach performance" ends (as the SP reach performance ends), the "valid operation period" begins and a "prompt performance" is executed. The "valid operation period" is the period during which "operation of the performance button 10a for executing the "result performance" and outputting the audio of the "result music" is valid." In other words, when the performance button 10a is operated (pressed) during the "valid operation period," the "result performance" is executed and the audio of the "result music" is output.

The "prompt effect" is an effect that prompts the player to operate the effect button 10a during such an "effective operation period." As a "prompt effect," for example, an effect is executed in which an image showing the effect button 10a and an image showing the words "Press!" are displayed on the display screen of the effect display device 41.

In response to such a "prompt effect," when the effect button 10a is operated during the "effective operation period," a "result effect" is executed that suggests the outcome of the battle between the character and the enemy in the "SP reach effect." In more detail, when the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c are stopped and displayed as "barakeme" (when the special symbol is stopped and displayed as a miss symbol), a "defeat effect" is executed as this "result effect," which shows the character displayed in the "SP reach effect" being defeated by the enemy. In contrast, when the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c are stopped and displayed as "double numbers" (when the special symbol is stopped and displayed as a big win symbol or a small win symbol), a "victory effect" is executed as this "result effect," which shows the character displayed in the "SP reach effect" triumphing over the enemy.

Furthermore, when such a "result performance" is performed, a piece of music (result music) suggesting the outcome of the battle between the character and the enemy in the "SP reach performance" is output as audio (output from the various speakers 6a, 6b). For example, when a "defeat performance" is performed, a "defeat music" with a dark melody is output as this "result music", and when a "victory performance" is performed, a "victory music" with a bright melody is output as this "result music".

In pachinko machine 1A, it is possible to execute the above-mentioned "SP reach effects", and these "SP reach effects" are started based on the results of the "character selection effect" and the "search effect" (following the search effect). The "character selection effect" and the "search effect" are explained below.

I-2. Character selection:
The "character selection effect" is started (executed) during the variable display of decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c (special symbols) (for example, after a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the normal reach effect). The "character selection effect" is an effect for selecting some or all of the characters (ally characters) from among characters A to C. As shown in FIG. 25(a), when the "character selection effect" is started, first, decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c are reduced in size and displayed in the upper right corner of the display screen of effect display device 41. Then, a "character selection image" is displayed in the center of the display screen of effect display device 41. This "character selection image" is an image for selecting some or all of the characters from characters A to C.

When the "character selection image" is displayed, an effect is performed in which characters A through C are selected in sequence. In the example shown in FIG. 25(a), character A is selected. Then, when a predetermined time (e.g., 5 seconds) has elapsed since the "character selection image" was displayed (when the state in which characters A through C are selected in sequence has continued for a predetermined time), the state in which some or all of characters A through C have been selected is maintained for a predetermined time (e.g., 2 seconds). Then, an image is displayed that suggests that the character selected at this time has been finally selected. For example, a facial image of the character finally selected is displayed.

In this type of "character selection presentation," there are cases where one of characters A through C is ultimately selected, cases where two of characters A through C are ultimately selected, or cases where all three of characters A through C are ultimately selected.

I-3. Exploration:
When the above-mentioned "character selection effect" is performed, the "search effect" is performed subsequently. At this time, the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c are displayed in a reduced size in the upper right corner of the display screen of the effect display device 41.

A "search effect" is an effect in which the displayed search range is changed in order to discover enemy characters. As shown in FIG. 25(b), in a "search effect," a "scope image" is displayed in the center of the display screen of the effect display device 41. The "scope image" is an image that indicates the size (width) of the search range that can be displayed (searched) at one time, and for example, displays an image showing a telescope or scope from the eyepiece side. The larger the "scope image," the larger the search range that can be displayed (searched) at one time.

Then, in the area inside the "scope image" (or the area overlapping with the scope image), a "search range image" is displayed. This "search range image" is an image showing the search location itself, and is, for example, an image showing a place where an enemy character is likely to be present, such as a city, a mountain or a battlefield. In the "search performance", the "search range image" is changed (moved) to show the state of searching for an enemy character. Note that the "search range image" may also be changed (moved) in conjunction with moving the display position of the "scope image" to show the state of searching for an enemy character.

Such "search effects" can be implemented in multiple types, with different "search range size (width)," "search range brightness," and "search range change speed." Of these, the "search range size (width)" is the size (width) of the search range that can be displayed (searched) at one time, and is indicated by the size of the "scope image" or "search range image."

The "brightness of the search range" is the brightness of the search range, and is indicated by the brightness of the "search range image" (for example, whether the image shows day or night). The "speed of change of the search range" is the speed at which the search range is changed, and is indicated by the speed at which the "scope image" moves or the speed at which the "search range image" changes (moves).

In pachinko machine 1A, multiple types of "search effects" can be executed that differ in whether the "size (width) of the search range" is large or small, whether the "brightness" of the search range is high or low (bright or dark), and whether the "speed at which the search range is changed" is fast or slow (set as parameters).

By implementing this type of "search effect," the player can be made to feel that it is easier to find enemy characters with a larger "search range size (width)" than a smaller one, that it is easier to find enemy characters with a higher (brighter) "search range brightness" than a lower (dark) one, and that it is easier to find enemy characters with a faster (faster) "search range change speed" than a slower one.

In addition, in the "search presentation," it may be possible to actually make it easier to find enemy characters when the "size (width) of the search range" is large than when it is small, to make it easier to find enemy characters when the "brightness" of the search range is high than when it is low, and to make it easier to find enemy characters when the "speed at which the search range is changed" is fast than when it is slow.

In addition, in this specification, the aspects in which the "size (width) of the search range" is small, the "brightness of the search range" is low, and the "speed at which the search range changes" is slow are also referred to as "disadvantageous aspects of search," and the aspects in which the "size (width) of the search range" is large, the "brightness of the search range" is high, and the "speed at which the search range changes" is fast are also referred to as "favorable aspects of search."

In pachinko machine 1A, it is possible to execute, as a "search effect", an effect that corresponds to the type (or number) of characters (ally characters) selected in the above-mentioned "character selection effect". For example, when character A is selected in the "character selection effect", "search effect A" is executed. As shown in FIG. 26(a), as "search effect A", an effect is executed in which the "size (width) of the search range" is large (an aspect favorable for search), the "brightness of the search range" is low (an aspect unfavorable for search), and the "speed of change of the search range" is slow (an aspect unfavorable for search).

In FIG. 26, the display screen of the performance display device 41 is shown as a simple rectangle, and images other than the "scope image" and "search range image" are omitted from the illustration. Also, in FIG. 26, the size of the arrow indicates the "search range change speed" (the larger the arrow, the faster the change speed).

On the other hand, if character B is selected in the "character selection effect", then "search effect B" is executed. As shown in FIG. 26(b), "search effect B" is executed in a way that the "size (width) of the search range" is small (unfavorable for search), the "brightness of the search range" is high (favorable for search), and the "speed at which the search range changes" is slow (unfavorable for search). Also, if character C is selected in the "character selection effect", then "search effect C" is executed. As shown in FIG. 26(c), "search effect C" is executed in a way that the "size (width) of the search range" is small (unfavorable for search), the "brightness of the search range" is low (unfavorable for search), and the "speed at which the search range changes" is fast (favorable for search).

As described above, in pachinko machine 1A, when one character is selected in the "character selection performance", a "search performance" is executed in which one of the "size (width) of the search range", "brightness of the search range", and "speed of changing the search range" is an "advantageous mode for search" (two of the modes are unfavorable modes for search).

Figure 27 shows the "size (width) of the search range," "brightness of the search range," and "speed of changing the search range" for each type of "search effect." In Figure 27, "disadvantageous aspects of search" are shown with hatching. Note that Figure 27 also shows "search effect A," "search effect B," and "search effect C," but as these have been described above using Figure 26, their explanation will be omitted here.

When Character A and Character B are selected in the "Character Selection Presentation", "Search Presentation AB" is executed. As shown in FIG. 27, "Search Presentation AB" is executed with a large "size (width) of the search range" (an aspect favorable for search), a high "brightness of the search range" (an aspect favorable for search), and a slow "speed of change of the search range" (an aspect unfavorable for search).

In addition, when Character A and Character C are selected in the "Character Selection Effect," a "Search Effect AC" is executed. As shown in FIG. 27, the "Search Effect AC" is executed with a large "search range size (width)" (an aspect favorable for search), a low "search range brightness" (an aspect unfavorable for search), and a fast "search range change speed" (an aspect favorable for search).

In addition, if character B or character C is selected in the "character selection effect", a "search effect BC" is executed. As shown in FIG. 27, the "search effect BC" is an effect in which the "size (width) of the search range" is small (an aspect unfavorable to search), the "brightness of the search range" is high (an aspect favorable to search), and the "speed at which the search range is changed" is fast (an aspect favorable to search).

In this way, in pachinko machine 1A, when two characters are selected in the "character selection presentation," a "search presentation" is executed in which two of the "size (width) of the search range," "brightness of the search range," and "speed at which the search range is changed" are "favorable aspects for search" (one aspect is unfavorable for search).

In addition, if Character A, Character B, or Character C is selected in the "Character Selection Effect," then "Search Effect ABC" is executed. As shown in FIG. 27, the "Search Effect ABC" is an effect in which the "size (width) of the search range" is large (an aspect favorable for search), the "brightness of the search range" is high (an aspect favorable for search), and the "speed at which the search range is changed" is fast (an aspect favorable for search).

In this way, in pachinko machine 1A, when three characters are selected in the "character selection presentation," a "search presentation" is executed in which all (three) aspects of the "size (width) of the search range," "brightness of the search range," and "speed of changing the search range" are "favorable for search."

By implementing this type of "search effect," the player can be made to feel that it is easier to find enemy characters if there are more "search-favorable aspects" among the aspects of "size (width) of the search range," "brightness of the search range," and "speed of change of the search range."

In addition, in the "search performance," the more "search-favorable aspects" there are among the aspects of "search range size (width)," "search range brightness," and "search range change speed," the easier it may be to find enemy characters.

I-4. Development of SP reach performance:
In the above-mentioned "search performance", a time image (not shown) showing the time lapse since the start of the "search performance" is displayed. For example, a time image showing the time limit first and the countdown is displayed. Then, if an enemy character is not found until the time from the start of the "search performance" reaches a predetermined time (for example, until the time limit shown in the time image reaches 0), the "search performance" ends without starting the "SP reach performance". Then, the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c that have been displayed in a reduced size until then are displayed in normal size (in the center of the display screen of the performance display device 41). At this time (as the special pattern is stopped and displayed as a missing pattern), the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c may be displayed as "variable eyes".

In contrast, if an enemy character is discovered before a specified time has elapsed since the start of the "search effect" (for example, before the time limit shown in the time image reaches 0), the "search effect" ends and the "SP reach effect" begins.

In more detail, as shown in FIG. 28, if an enemy character is discovered in "search performance A", "SP reach performance A" is executed. Also, if an enemy character is discovered in "search performance B", "SP reach performance B" is executed. Also, if an enemy character is discovered in "search performance C", "SP reach performance C" is executed.

If an enemy character is discovered in "search performance AB", "SP reach performance AB" is executed.If an enemy character is discovered in "search performance AC", "SP reach performance AC" is executed.If an enemy character is discovered in "search performance BC", "SP reach performance BC" is executed.If an enemy character is discovered in "search performance ABC", "SP reach performance ABC" is executed.

In other words, in pachinko machine 1A, when an enemy character is discovered in the "search effect", the "SP reach effect" is executed, which corresponds to the type (or number) of characters selected in the "character selection effect" executed prior to that.

When an enemy character is discovered in the "search effect", an image showing the enemy character is displayed in the inner area of the "scope image" (superimposed on the search range image). When an enemy character is discovered in this way, an effect suggesting this is executed. For example, an image showing the words "Enemy character discovered!" is displayed on the display screen of the effect display device 41.

The length of the execution time (time limit) of the "search effect" may correspond to the type or number of characters (type of search effect) selected in the "character selection effect." The longer the execution time (time limit) of the "search effect," the easier it may be to discover enemy characters.

In addition, the shorter the time between the start of the "search performance" and the discovery of the enemy character (the more time remaining in the time limit shown in the time image when the enemy character is discovered), the higher the "expectation of a big win" (the higher the possibility of defeating the enemy character in the SP reach performance).

Naturally, the above-mentioned "character selection effect", "search effect", and "SP reach effect" are executed when the change pattern associated with these effects is selected as the change pattern of the special symbol. In other words, these effects are executed while the change display of the special symbol is being executed based on the change pattern associated with these effects.

As described above, pachinko machine 1A is capable of executing a "search effect in which the displayed search range is changed in order to discover enemy characters." In the "character selection effect," some or all of the characters A through C can be selected, and this "search effect" is executed in a manner that corresponds to the type or number of characters selected. This allows a novel gameplay experience to be realized in which a player who is paying attention to the execution manner of the "search effect" is directed to the type or number of characters selected in the "character selection effect," thereby making it possible to increase interest in the game.

In addition, in pachinko machine 1A, the "size (width) of the search range," "brightness of the search range," and "speed of change of the search range" in the "search performance" correspond to the type or number of characters selected in the "character selection performance." This allows for a novel gameplay experience in which a player who is paying attention to the "size (width) of the search range," "brightness of the search range," and "speed of change of the search range" in the "search performance" is directed to the type or number of characters selected, thereby making it possible to increase interest in the game.

In addition, in pachinko machine 1A, if an enemy character is discovered in the "search performance", an "SP reach performance" is executed, and the execution mode (type) of this "SP reach performance" corresponds to the type or number of characters selected in the "character selection performance". In other words, in pachinko machine 1A, not only the execution mode of the "search performance", but also the execution mode of the "SP reach performance" that is executed afterwards corresponds to the type or number of characters selected in the "character selection performance". Therefore, it is possible to realize a novel gameplay that draws the attention of players who are paying attention not only to the execution mode of the "search performance" but also to the execution mode of the "SP reach performance" that is executed afterwards, to the type or number of characters selected in the "character selection performance", and it is possible to increase interest in the game.

The "search range" can also be considered as the "field of view," and the "search effect" can also be considered as a "field of view change effect." The "scope image" can also be considered as an "image that shows (specifies) the search range (search range specifying image)" or an "image that shows (specifies) the field of view (field of view specifying image)." The "search range image" can also be considered as a "field of view image (image that shows the field of view itself)." The "character selection effect" for selecting a character is executed by the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220. Therefore, the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 can also be considered as a "selection means." The "enemy character" can also be considered as a "target." The "SP reach effect" can also be considered as a "specific effect."

I-5. Variation 1 of the pachinko machine 1A:
In the above-mentioned pachinko machine 1A, when an enemy character is found in the "search performance" (when one is found), the "SP reach performance" is executed. Not limited to this, the execution conditions of the "SP reach performance" may be different depending on the type of the "search performance" (and thus the type or number of characters selected in the character selection performance). For example, the "SP reach performance" may be executed when a number of enemy characters corresponding to the type of the "search performance" (and thus the type or number of characters selected in the character selection performance) are found.

In more detail, as shown in FIG. 29, if "search performance A" is performed (and thus character A is selected in the character selection performance), "SP reach performance A" is executed if seven enemy characters are discovered. Also, if "search performance B" is performed (and thus character B is selected in the character selection performance), "SP reach performance B" is executed if six enemy characters are discovered. Also, if "search performance C" is performed (and thus character C is selected in the character selection performance), "SP reach performance C" is executed if five enemy characters are discovered.

Furthermore, if an "exploration performance AB" is performed (and thus, if character A and character B are selected in the character selection performance), then if four enemy characters are discovered, an "SP reach performance AB" is executed. Furthermore, if an "exploration performance AC" is performed (and thus, if character A and character C are selected in the character selection performance), then if three enemy characters are discovered, an "SP reach performance AC" is executed. Furthermore, if an "exploration performance BC" is performed (and thus, if character B and character C are selected in the character selection performance), then if two enemy characters are discovered, an "SP reach performance BC" is executed. Furthermore, if an "exploration performance ABC" is performed (and thus, if character A, character B, and character C are selected in the character selection performance), then if one enemy character is discovered, an "SP reach performance ABC" is executed.

In this variant 1 of pachinko machine 1A, if the number of enemy characters corresponding to each "search effect" is not found, the "SP reach effect" is not executed.

As described above, in variant 1 of pachinko machine 1A, when a set number of enemy characters are discovered in the "search performance", the "SP reach performance" is executed, and this set number corresponds to the type or number of characters selected in the "character selection performance" (the type of search performance). This allows for a novel gameplay experience that draws the player's attention, who is expecting the "SP reach performance" to be executed, to the type or number of characters selected in the "character selection performance" (and thus the number of enemy characters to be discovered in the search performance), thereby making it possible to increase interest in the game.

I-6. Variation 2 of the pachinko machine 1A:
In addition, when an enemy character of a type corresponding to the type of "exploration effect" (and thus the type or number of characters selected in the character selection effect) is discovered, an "SP reach effect" may be executed.

In more detail, as shown in FIG. 30, if "search performance A" is performed (and thus character A is selected in the character selection performance), "SP reach performance A" is executed if enemy character T is discovered. Also, if "search performance B" is performed (and thus character B is selected in the character selection performance), "SP reach performance B" is executed if enemy character U is discovered. Also, if "search performance C" is performed (and thus character C is selected in the character selection performance), "SP reach performance C" is executed if enemy character V is discovered.

Furthermore, if a "search performance AB" is performed (and thus characters A and B are selected in the character selection performance), then an "SP reach performance AB" is executed if enemy character W is discovered. Furthermore, if a "search performance AC" is performed (and thus characters A and C are selected in the character selection performance), then an "SP reach performance AC" is executed if enemy character X is discovered. Furthermore, if a "search performance BC" is performed (and thus characters B and C are selected in the character selection performance), then an "SP reach performance BC" is executed if enemy character Y is discovered. Furthermore, if a "search performance ABC" is performed (and thus characters A, B, and C are selected in the character selection performance), then an "SP reach performance ABC" is executed if enemy character Z is discovered.

In this variant 1 of pachinko machine 1A, if an enemy character of a type corresponding to each "search effect" is not found, the "SP reach effect" is not executed.

As described above, in variant 2 of pachinko machine 1A, when a specific type of enemy character is discovered in the "search performance", an "SP reach performance" is executed, and this specific type corresponds to the type or number of characters selected in the "character selection performance" (the type of search performance). This allows for a novel gameplay experience that draws the player's attention, who is expecting the "SP reach performance" to be executed, to the type or number of characters selected in the "character selection performance" (and thus the type of enemy character to be discovered in the search performance), thereby making it possible to increase interest in the game.

I-7. Variation 3 of the pachinko machine 1A:
In the above-mentioned pachinko machine 1A, the search range (the position of the scope image and the content of the search range image) is changed in the "search performance" even if the player does not perform an operation. However, the search range may be changed based on the player's operation (also referred to as a "change operation" in this specification).

The content of the change operation for changing the search range (the position of the scope image and the content of the search range image) and whether or not a change operation is necessary may correspond to the type of "search performance" (and thus the type or number of characters selected in the character selection performance).

For example, as shown in FIG. 31, while "search effect A" is being performed, the search range is changed based on the player's operation of the up button and down button of the directional buttons 10c. In this case, an image indicating that the search range can be changed by operating the up button and down button is displayed on the display screen of the effect display device 41. For example, an image showing the words "Operate the up and down buttons!" is displayed.

In addition, while "Search Presentation B" is being performed, the search range will be changed based on the player's operation of the left and right buttons of the directional buttons 10c. In this case, an image indicating that the search range will be changed by operating the left and right buttons is displayed on the display screen of the presentation display device 41. For example, an image showing the words "Operate the left and right buttons!" is displayed.

In addition, while "search effect C" is being performed, the search range is changed based on the player operating (rotating) the jog shuttle 10b. In this case, an image indicating that the search range will be changed by operating the jog shuttle 10b is displayed on the display screen of the effect display device 41. For example, an image showing the words "Rotate the jog shuttle!" is displayed.

Here, even when the above-mentioned "search performance A", "search performance B", and "search performance C" are performed, there are cases where sufficient change operations (changes in the search range) are not performed to find the enemy character. Despite this, if an "SP reach performance" is performed following these "search performances", the "SP reach performance" will be performed without the enemy character being found, which may cause the player to feel distrustful. Therefore, when the above-mentioned "search performance A", "search performance B", and "search performance C" are performed, even if sufficient change operations (changes in the search range) are not performed to find the enemy character, the enemy character is displayed in the search range (superimposed on the search range image) before the SP reach performance begins (so that the enemy character is almost forcibly found).

On the other hand, while "Search performance AB", "Search performance AC", "Search performance BC" and "Search performance ABC" are being executed, the search range is changed automatically even if no change operation is performed, as in the pachinko machine 1A described above.

In addition, while some of "search performance A", "search performance B" and "search performance C" (for example, search performance C) are being performed, the search range may be changed automatically even if no change operation is performed, and for some of "search performance AB", "search performance AC", "search performance BC" and "search performance ABC" (for example, search performance ABC), the search range may not be changed unless a change operation is performed.

As described above, in the modified example 3 of the pachinko machine 1A, the search range being displayed is changed based on the change operation by the player in "search performance A,""search performance B," and "search performance C." This allows the player to participate in the "search performance," thereby increasing the interest in the game.
In the "search performance" of the modified example 3 of the pachinko machine 1A, the content of the change operation for changing the search range (the position of the scope image and the content of the search range image) and the necessity of the change operation correspond to the type of "search performance" (and thus the type or number of characters selected in the character selection performance). Therefore, not only can the player participate in the "search performance", but also a novel gameplay can be realized in which a player who is about to perform a change operation in the "search performance" is made to pay attention to the type or number of characters selected in the "character selection performance", thereby making it possible to increase the interest in the game.

Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to these, and is not limited to the wording of each claim as long as it does not deviate from the scope of each claim, and includes a range that can be easily substituted by a person skilled in the art, and improvements based on the knowledge that a person skilled in the art would normally possess can be added as appropriate.

For example, in the pachinko machine 1 described above, if "Line 1" to "Line 4" (in a modified example, lines A1 to A4, lines B1 to B3, and lines C1 to C2) are output as voice based on multiple "operations of the jog shuttle 10b during the effective operation period B," it is possible to execute an effect in which a "result line" (in a modified example, lines A5, B4, and C3) is output as voice when the "SP reach effect" ends, without executing a "prompt effect C" and without setting the "effective operation period C" (even if no operation of the jog shuttle 10b is performed).

In addition, in the pachinko machine 1 described above, as the "prompt performance C", a performance may be executed that prompts the player to operate the performance button 10a, and a performance may be executed in which the "result line" (in a modified example, line A5, line B4, or line C3) is audibly output by operating the performance button 10a during the "valid operation period C".

In addition, in the above-mentioned pachinko machine 1, if the jog shuttle 10b is not operated during the "valid operation period B", the "timing suggestion effect" ends, but the subsequent "valid operation period B" may not be invalidated. In this case, naturally, if the jog shuttle 10b is operated during the subsequent "valid operation period B" (when the timing suggestion effect is not being performed), the corresponding "lines" will be audibly output during the "valid operation period B".

In addition, in the pachinko machine 1A described above, when a character is selected in the "character selection effect", a "search effect" corresponding to the character selected in the "character selection effect" is performed. Then, when an enemy character is discovered in the "search effect", an "SP reach effect" corresponding to the character selected in the "character selection effect" is executed. Then, in such an "SP reach effect", a "valid operation period" is started and a "prompt effect" is performed. Then, when a "player operation (operation of the effect button 10a in the pachinko machine 1A described above)" is performed during the "valid operation period", a "result effect" is performed.

The above-mentioned "operation valid period", "prompt effect", "player operation", and "result effect" may correspond to the type or number of characters (type of search effect) selected in the "character selection effect". For example, if character A is selected in the "character selection effect", the "operation valid period" may be set to 2 seconds, an effect displaying the text "Press the effect button" may be executed as the "operation effect", operation of effect button 10a may be used as the "player operation", and an image showing character A may be displayed as the "result effect". In contrast, if character B is selected in the "character selection effect", the "operation valid period" may be set to 5 seconds, an effect displaying the text "Press the jog shuttle" may be executed as the "operation effect", operation of jog shuttle 10b may be used as the "player operation", and an image showing character B may be displayed as the "result effect".

Alternatively, if one character is selected in the "character selection effect", the "operation valid period" may be set to two seconds, an effect displaying the text "Press the effect button" may be executed as the "operation effect", operation of effect button 10a may be used as the "player operation", and an image showing character A may be displayed as the "result effect". In contrast, if two characters are selected in the "character selection effect", the "operation valid period" may be set to five seconds, an effect displaying the text "Press the jog shuttle" may be executed as the "operation effect", operation of jog shuttle 10b may be used as the "player operation", and an image showing character B may be displayed as the "result effect".

In addition, in the pachinko machine 1A described above, if an enemy character (or a predetermined number of enemy characters) is found in the "search performance", an "SP reach performance" is executed. Not limited to this, if an enemy character (or a predetermined number of enemy characters) is found in the "search performance", a "double number" is displayed (a big win) without the "SP reach performance" being executed, and if an enemy character (or a predetermined number of enemy characters) is not found in the "search performance", a "variable number" is displayed (a miss) without the "SP reach performance" being executed.

In addition, in the above-mentioned pachinko machine 1A, in the "search effect," a "scope image" is displayed and the inside of the image is the search range, but this is not limited to the above, and the search range may be indicated using various means. For example, the entire display screen of the effect display device 41 may be the search range.

In addition, in the pachinko machine 1A described above, the "search effect" is an effect in which an enemy character is discovered as an "object". However, the "search effect" may be an effect in which other things are discovered as "objects". For example, a specific weapon, tool, food, person, animal, etc. may be discovered as an "object".

In addition, in the pachinko machine 1A described above, a "search effect" for discovering an object (enemy character) is performed as a "viewpoint change effect." This is not limited to this, and the "viewpoint change effect" may be any effect in which the displayed viewpoint is changed. For example, if the displayed viewpoint is changed (or reduced or enlarged) and a specific location (such as the finish line of a race) is displayed (within a time limit), a specific effect (such as an SP reach effect or an effect in which a repeat number is displayed) is performed, and if the specific location is not displayed (within the time limit), the specific effect may not be performed.

In the above-mentioned embodiment, the present invention is applied to a pachinko machine 1 that pays out game balls supplied from an island facility in a game hall, thereby providing the player with a profit (game value) as a result of the game. The present invention can also be applied to a type of game machine that provides a game profit in a form other than "paying out game balls". For example, the present invention can be applied to a type of pachinko machine that provides a game profit (game value) to the player by storing data indicating the amount of profit (magnitude of game value) corresponding to the entrance of game balls into various ball entrances, and in this case, the same effect as the above-mentioned embodiment can be obtained. An example of a pachinko machine that converts gaming profits (gaming value) into digital data and awards them to players is a gaming machine that uses multiple gaming balls built into the machine by circulating them, specifically a pachinko machine that is configured to return gaming balls discharged through various ball entrances or exits to the back of the gaming board to the launch position and launch them again (a so-called sealed gaming machine).

In the above-mentioned embodiment, the present invention is applied to a pachinko machine 1A in which a game is played by firing a game ball toward a game area 21 formed on a game board 20. However, the present invention may also be applied to a slot machine (reel type gaming machine) in which a game is played by inserting a game medal (game medium), rotating a reel having multiple types of patterns on its outer periphery (displaying the patterns in a variable manner), and stopping the reel.

<Gaming machines A1 to A8 that can be extracted from the above-described embodiments>
The pachinko machines of the above-mentioned embodiments can also be regarded as gaming machines A1 to A8 as follows.

<Gaming machine A1>
＜Overview＞
A multiple operation corresponding performance can be executed based on the fact that multiple unit operations are performed during one execution of the identification information variation.
<Claim format>
An identification information changing means capable of changing the identification information, which is a change display of the identification information;
a specific game execution means for executing a specific game when the identification information is stopped and displayed in a specific manner by the variation of the identification information;
Equipped with
A gaming machine capable of executing a multiple operation corresponding presentation based on a plurality of unit operations being performed during one execution of the variation of the identification information.

In conventional gaming machines, it is natural that one effect is performed in response to one operation. In this regard, in this gaming machine, a multiple operation corresponding effect (one effect) is performed in response to multiple unit operations (multiple operations). Therefore, it is possible to realize a novel gameplay that allows players who are expecting a multiple operation corresponding effect (one effect) to perform multiple unit operations (multiple operations), thereby making it possible to increase interest in the game.

<Gaming Machine A2>
＜Overview＞
Subordinate to gaming machine A1.
Each time one of a number of unit operations is performed, a unit operation-specific performance can be executed in which a specific character's lines are output as voice.
The multiple operation compatible performance is a performance that outputs lines related to the lines output in the unit operation compatible performance.
<Claim format>
In the gaming machine A1,
Each time each of the plurality of unit operations is performed, a unit operation corresponding performance is executed in which a predetermined character's lines are output as voice;
The gaming machine, characterized in that the multiple operation corresponding presentation is a presentation that outputs a line related to the line output in the unit operation corresponding presentation.

In such gaming machines, each time one of a number of unit operations is performed, a line from a specific character is output as audio, and when all of the multiple unit operations have been performed, a line related to that line is output as audio (a multiple operation compatible presentation is performed). This allows the player to perform multiple unit operations rhythmically, and also allows the player to feel a unified sense of the line output each time a unit operation is performed (in the unit operation compatible presentation) and the line output in the multiple operation compatible presentation, thereby increasing the player's interest in the game.

<Gaming machine A3>
＜Overview＞
Subordinate to gaming machine A1 and gaming machine A2.
When a specific change is being performed, a specific operation corresponding performance can be executed based on the specific operation being performed during the specific operation valid period.
Even if a specific change is being executed, if a plurality of unit operations are performed before the start of a specific operation valid period, a specific operation corresponding performance is not executed, but a multiple operation corresponding performance is executed.
<Claim format>
In gaming machine A1 or gaming machine A2,
As the identification information variation, a specific variation can be performed,
During the execution of the specific variation, a specific operation corresponding performance can be executed based on the specific operation being performed during the specific operation validity period,
This gaming machine is characterized in that, even if the specific variation is being executed, if some or all of the multiple unit operations are performed before the specific operation valid period begins, the specific operation corresponding presentation is not executed, and the multiple operation corresponding presentation may be executed, regardless of whether the specific operation is executed during the specific operation valid period.

In such gaming machines, when a specific variation is being executed, a specific operation-responsive presentation is executed based on the specific operation being performed during the specific operation valid period. However, even when such a specific variation is being executed, if multiple unit operations are performed before the specific operation valid period begins, the specific operation-responsive presentation is not executed, and a multiple operation-responsive presentation is executed, regardless of whether a specific operation is performed during the specific operation valid period. In other words, while a specific operation-responsive presentation based on a specific operation would normally be executed, a multiple operation-responsive presentation is executed for a player who has performed multiple unit operations. This makes it possible to give a player who has performed multiple unit operations a sense of superiority, and to increase interest in the game.

<Gaming machine A4>
＜Overview＞
Subordinate to gaming machines A1 to A3.
The player can select one character from a number of different characters.
Selection of a character suggests multiple unit operation configurations, whereas no character selection suggests multiple unit operation configurations.
<Claim format>
In gaming machines A1 to A3,
It is possible to allow the player to select one character from among a plurality of types of characters,
A gaming machine characterized in that when one of the characters is selected by a player, an aspect of the plurality of unit operations is suggested, and when the one of the characters is not selected by the player, an aspect of the plurality of unit operations is not suggested.

In such gaming machines, multiple operation-compatible effects can be executed based on the execution of multiple unit operations, but some players do not know what operations they should perform as multiple unit operations (for example, which operation unit they should operate). In this regard, this gaming machine allows the player to select one character from multiple types of characters, and if a character is not selected, the form of the multiple unit operations (for example, the operation unit to be operated as a unit operation) is not suggested. For this reason, it is possible to allow a player who is attempting to perform multiple unit operations in the hope of a multiple operation-compatible effect to select a character, which can increase the player's interest in the game.

<Gaming machine A5>
＜Overview＞
Subordinate to gaming machines A1 to A4.
When all of the multiple unit operations are performed during the valid period of the unit operation corresponding to them, a multiple operation compatible performance can be executed.
<Claim format>
In any one of the gaming machines A1 to A4,
A gaming machine characterized in that a unit operation validity period is set corresponding to each of the plurality of unit operations, and the multiple operation corresponding presentation can be executed when all of the plurality of unit operations are performed during the unit operation validity period corresponding to each of the plurality of unit operations.

In such gaming machines, if all of the multiple unit operations are performed during the valid period of the unit operations corresponding to the gaming machine, a multiple operation compatible effect is executed. In other words, if the multiple unit operations are not performed at the right time, the multiple operation compatible effect will not be executed. This allows a novel gameplay experience to be realized in which players who are expecting a multiple operation compatible effect to be executed are forced to consider the timing of the multiple unit operations, making it possible to increase interest in the game.

<Gaming Machine A6>
＜Overview＞
Subordinate to gaming machine A5.
It is possible to implement a timing indication display that indicates when the unit operation validity period will arrive.
<Claim format>
In the gaming machine A5,
A gaming machine characterized in that it is capable of executing a timing suggestion effect that suggests the timing when the valid period of the unit operation will arrive.

In this type of gaming machine, unless multiple unit operations are performed at the right time, the multiple operation compatible effect will not be executed, but by executing a timing suggestion effect, this timing (the timing when the unit operation valid period will arrive) can be suggested. This makes it possible to realize a novel gameplay that draws the attention of players who are expecting the multiple operation compatible effect to be executed, to the timing suggestion effect, thereby making it possible to increase interest in the game.

<Gaming Machine 7>
＜Overview＞
Subordinate to gaming machine A6.
The player can select one character from a number of different characters.
In the timing suggestion presentation, the display position of a character image (a character image showing a character selected by a player) is moved to suggest the timing when the unit operation valid period will arrive.
<Claim format>
In the gaming machine A6, it is possible to allow a player to select one character from among a plurality of types of characters,
The timing suggestion presentation can display a character image showing one of the characters selected by the player, and by moving the display position of the character image, suggests the timing when the unit operation valid period will arrive.

In this type of gaming machine, the player can select one character from a number of different characters, and the timing suggestion effect suggests the "timing when the unit operation valid period will arrive" by moving the display position of the character image (a character image showing the character selected by the player). In this way, the player can feel as if the character he or she selected is suggesting the "timing when the unit operation valid period will arrive," making it possible to increase interest in the game.

<Gaming Machine 8>
＜Overview＞
Subordinate to gaming machines A5 to A7.
The player can select one character from a number of different characters.
The unit operation validity period is set corresponding to the character selected by the player.
<Claim format>
In any one of the gaming machines A5 to A7,
It is possible to allow the player to select one character from among a plurality of types of characters,
The gaming machine, wherein the unit operation validity period is set corresponding to one of the characters selected by a player.

In such gaming machines, it is possible for the player to select one character from a number of different characters, and the unit operation valid period (the timing at which the unit operation valid period arrives) is set in accordance with the character selected by the player. This allows for a novel gaming experience that forces players hoping for a multiple operation-compatible presentation to ponder which character to select, thereby making it possible to increase interest in the game.

<Gaming machines B1 to B8 that can be extracted from the above-described embodiments>
The pachinko machine of the above-mentioned embodiment can also be regarded as gaming machines B1 to B8 as follows.

<Gaming Machine B1>
＜Overview＞
The manner in which the field of view change performance is executed corresponds to the selected character.
<Claim format>
A gaming machine for playing a game using a gaming medium,
A selection means for selecting a part of characters from among a plurality of characters is provided;
It is possible to execute a visual field change effect that changes the visual field being displayed,
The game machine according to claim 1, wherein the execution mode of the field of view change effect corresponds to the character selected by the selection means.

In this type of gaming machine, it is possible to execute a "view-changing effect that changes the displayed view." Furthermore, a character can be selected from among a number of characters, and this view-changing effect is executed in a manner that corresponds to the selected character. This allows for a novel gaming experience in which a player who is paying attention to the manner in which the view-changing effect is executed is directed to the selected character, thereby making it possible to increase interest in the game.

<Gaming Machine B2>
＜Overview＞
Subordinate to gaming machine B1.
The size of the field of view displayed at one time during the field of view change production corresponds to the selected character.
<Claim format>
In the gaming machine B1,
A gaming machine characterized in that the size of the field of view displayed at one time in the field of view changing presentation corresponds to the character selected by the selection means.

In this type of gaming machine, the size of the field of view displayed at one time during the field of view change presentation corresponds to the selected character. This allows players who pay attention to the size of the field of view displayed at one time during the field of view change presentation to focus on the selected character, providing a novel gaming experience and increasing interest in the game.

<Gaming Machine B3>
＜Overview＞
Subordinate to gaming machine B1.
The brightness of the field of view displayed during the field of view change performance corresponds to the selected character.
<Claim format>
In the gaming machine B1,
The brightness of the field of view displayed in the field of view change presentation corresponds to the character selected by the selection means.

In this type of gaming machine, the brightness of the field of view displayed during the field of view change presentation corresponds to the selected character. This allows players who pay attention to the brightness of the field of view displayed during the field of view change presentation to focus on the selected character, providing a novel gaming experience and increasing interest in the game.

<Gaming Machine B4>
＜Overview＞
Subordinate to gaming machine B1.
The speed at which the field of view displayed in the field of view change performance changes corresponds to the selected character.
<Claim format>
In the gaming machine B1,
A speed at which the field of view displayed in the field of view change presentation is changed corresponds to the character selected by the selection means.

In this type of gaming machine, the speed at which the field of view is changed during the field of view change presentation corresponds to the selected character. This allows players who pay attention to the speed at which the field of view is changed during the field of view change presentation to focus on the selected character, providing a novel gaming experience and increasing interest in the game.

<Gaming machine B5>
＜Overview＞
Subordinate to gaming machine B1.
In the field of view change effect, the field of view being displayed can be changed based on the change operation performed by the player.
<Claim format>
In the gaming machine B1,
The gaming machine is characterized in that, in the field of view change presentation, the field of view being displayed can be changed based on a change operation by a player.

In this type of gaming machine's view-changing presentation, the displayed view may be changed based on the player's manipulation. This allows the player to participate in the view-changing presentation, making it possible to increase the player's interest in the game.

<Gaming Machine B6>
＜Overview＞
Subordinate to gaming machine B5.
The manner of the change operation corresponds to the selected character.
<Claim format>
In the gaming machine B5,
The mode of the change operation corresponds to the character selected by the selection means.

In this type of gaming machine's view-changing presentation, the displayed view may be changed based on the player's change operation, and the manner in which this change operation is performed corresponds to the selected character. This not only allows the player to participate in the view-changing presentation, but also provides a novel gaming experience by drawing the attention of the selected character to the player who is about to perform a change operation in the view-changing presentation, thereby making it possible to increase interest in the game.

<Gaming machine B7>
＜Overview＞
Subordinate to gaming machines B1 to B6.
If a target object is discovered during a field of view change, a specific effect can be executed.
The manner in which the specific performance is executed corresponds to the selected character.
<Claim format>
In any one of the gaming machines B1 to B6,
When an object is found in the field of view change performance, a specific performance can be executed;
The execution mode of the specific effect corresponds to the character selected by the selection means.

In this type of gaming machine, if an object is found in the field of view-changing performance, a specific performance is executed, and the execution mode of this specific performance corresponds to the selected character. In other words, in this gaming machine, not only the execution mode of the field of view-changing performance, but also the execution mode of the specific performance that is executed thereafter corresponds to the selected character. This makes it possible to realize a novel gameplay that draws the attention of players who are paying attention not only to the execution mode of the field of view-changing performance, but also to the execution mode of the specific performance that is executed thereafter, to the selected character, thereby making it possible to increase interest in the game.

<Gaming machine B8>
＜Overview＞
Subordinate to gaming machines B1 to B6.
If a specified number of objects are discovered during a field of view change performance, a specific performance can be executed.
The number of required items corresponds to the character selected.
<Claim format>
In any one of the gaming machines B1 to B6,
When a prescribed number of objects are found in the field of view change performance, a specific performance can be executed;
The specified number corresponds to the character selected by the selection means.

In such gaming machines, if a set number of objects are found in the field of view change presentation, a specific presentation is executed, with this set number corresponding to the selected character. For example, if a first character is selected, a specific presentation is executed if a first number of objects are found in the field of view change presentation, whereas if a second character is selected, a specific presentation is not executed even if the first number of objects are found in the field of view change presentation, but is executed if a second number of objects, which is greater than the first number, are found. This allows for a novel gameplay experience that draws the attention of players expecting a specific presentation to be executed to the selected character (and thus the set number, which is the number of objects to be found in the field of view change presentation), thereby making it possible to increase interest in the game.

This invention can be used in gaming machines used in gaming halls.

1... Pachinko machine (game machine), 24... First start port, 25... Second start port, 28... Large prize port, 35... Small prize port, 38... Specific prize port, 41... Performance display device, 50... Segment display unit, 200... Main control board, 201... CPU (identification information changing means, specific game execution means), 202... ROM, 220... Sub-control board, 221... CPU (performance execution means, selection means).

Claims (8)

A gaming machine for playing a game using a gaming medium,
A selection means for selecting a part of characters from among a plurality of characters is provided;
It is possible to execute a visual field change performance that changes the visual field being displayed,
The gaming machine, characterized in that the execution mode of the view change performance corresponds to the character selected by the selection means. 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1,
A gaming machine characterized in that the size of the field of view displayed at one time in the field of view changing presentation corresponds to the character selected by the selection means. 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1,
The brightness of the field of view displayed in the field of view change presentation corresponds to the character selected by the selection means. 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1,
A speed at which the field of view displayed in the field of view change presentation is changed corresponds to the character selected by the selection means. 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1,
The gaming machine is characterized in that, in the field of view change presentation, the field of view being displayed can be changed based on a change operation by a player. 6. The gaming machine according to claim 5,
The mode of the change operation corresponds to the character selected by the selection means. In the gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 6,
When an object is found in the field of view change performance, a specific performance can be executed;
The execution mode of the specific effect corresponds to the character selected by the selection means. In the gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 6,
When a prescribed number of objects are found in the field of view change performance, a specific performance can be executed;
The specified number corresponds to the character selected by the selection means.

Images