JP5556121B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine, and more particularly, to a gaming machine (a ball game machine) such as a pachinko gaming machine such as a so-called seven machine, feathers, or a right-handed machine, or a combination type gaming machine (arranged ball gaming machine).

  Conventionally, pachinko machines have a probability variation function that improves the probability that a special symbol will stop and display with a combination of jackpot symbols after the jackpot game ends when the special symbol is a probabilistic jackpot symbol among the jackpot symbols combination There are many things. In such a gaming machine, when the probability variation function starts operating after the big hit game ends, whether or not the probability variation function is activated by performing an effect indicating that it is in the normal gaming state without notifying that effect It is also known to generate a “probability non-notification state (so-called latent probability variation state)” that is difficult for a player to identify (see Patent Document 1).

JP 2007-68589 A

  However, the gaming machine that generates the probability non-notification state described in Patent Document 1 has a merit that the player can obtain a sense of expectation (pounding feeling) for the operation of the probability variation function, while the probability variation function operates. If not, the player will not be able to obtain a prize ball for the execution of the jackpot game, and it will be difficult to understand the timing of ending the game, so the player's burden will increase excessively. There is a problem of incurring uplifting and amusement fun.

  Therefore, in view of the above points, the present invention has an object to maintain and improve a game entertainment without increasing gambling in a gaming machine that generates a probability non-notification state.

In order to achieve the above object, the gaming machine of the present invention provides:
A first starting port through which a game ball can enter,
A second starting port capable of changing between a closed state in which a game ball cannot enter and an open state in which a game ball can enter;
A normal symbol game execution means for displaying a normal symbol in the normal symbol display section in response to detection of a game ball flowing down on the surface of the game board, and for stopping and displaying after a predetermined period of time;
Starting port opening means for opening the second starting port when the normal symbol hits and displays a stop at the normal symbol;
A special symbol game execution means for variably displaying the special symbol on the special symbol display unit when the game ball enters the first starting port or the second starting port, and for stopping and displaying after a predetermined time,
A first winning game that opens and closes a prize winning opening when the special symbol is stopped and displayed as a special symbol, and an opening and closing action of the winning prize opening that is shorter than the first winning game. A winning game execution means for executing a winning game including a second winning game for performing,
An opening time extending means for extending a time for the second start port to be in an open state;
A probability setting means for setting a hit probability that the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the hit special symbol to a normal probability or a high probability higher than the normal probability;
Probability non-notification for generating a probability non-notification state in which it is difficult to identify whether the winning probability set by the probability setting means is the normal probability or the high probability after the second winning game is ended. State generating means;
A variation time table storage means for storing a first variation time table that defines a first variation time as the variation time of the normal symbol and a second variation time table that defines a second variation time shorter than the first variation time; ,
When the opening time of the second start port is not extended by the opening time extending means, the normal symbol changing time is determined using the first changing time table, and the opening time extending means determines the first changing time . (2) When the opening time of the start port is extended, a variation time determining means for determining a variation time of the normal symbol using the second variation time table;
When the opening time of the second start port is not extended by the opening time extension means, the first variable time table is used as the variable time table used in the normal symbol game when the second winning game is generated. Special variation game execution means for executing a special variation game for switching from the second variation time table to the second variation time table,
The special variation game execution means includes:
Special symbol variation display counting means for counting the number of times the special symbol is variably displayed after the start of the special variation game;
Special variation game ending means for ending the special variation game when the number of variations of the special symbol counted by the counting means reaches a predetermined number of times,
And a counting start delay means for delaying the start of counting the number of times of change of the special symbol by the special symbol variation display counting means until the normal symbol starts to display the variation after the start of the special variation game. Yes.

  According to the present invention, since the variation time of the normal symbol is shortened when the second hit game occurs when the opening time of the start port is not extended, the frequency of executing the normal symbol variation display is high. Accordingly, the frequency with which the normal symbol is stopped and displayed is increased accordingly. As a result, the opening frequency of the start opening is increased, the number of game balls entering the start opening is increased, and the number of executions of the special symbol variation display is increased. When the probability is high, the special symbol hits and it becomes easy to stop display with the special symbol. Thereby, the player can indirectly grasp the hit probability of the special symbol in the probability non-notification state, and can create a situation in which the player can guess the gaming state. As a result, in the gaming machine that generates the probability non-notification state, the burden on the player can be reduced, and the increase in gambling can be suppressed.

  In addition, the second winning game is a winning game in which the possibility of paying out a winning ball is reduced by shortening the opening time of the special winning opening (so-called playing without a ball). Since acquisition (payout) cannot be expected, the value as a hit game is low. However, in the present invention, since the player can obtain the benefit of notifying the game state by executing the special variable game triggered by the occurrence of the second per game, the player can open the opening time of the start port. When the game is not extended, the second game is expected to be generated. As a result, it is possible to give a new game value to the second per game, which is a per game (a so-called per game without a game) where the winning opening is short and the winning (payout) of the winning ball cannot be expected. Therefore, it is possible to maintain and improve the gaming interest of a gaming machine that generates a probability non-notification state.

  In addition, when the opening time of the start opening is not extended and the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is long, the start opening frequency (the possibility of entering the start opening) is a gaming state (first gaming state), When the opening time of the start port is extended and the variation time of the normal symbol is short, the game state (second game state) has a high start port release frequency (starting ball entering possibility). For these game states, during the execution of special variable games, the opening time of the start port is not extended, and the normal symbol change time is shortened. The third gaming state is higher than the first gaming state and lower than the second gaming state. As a result, in addition to the first gaming state with a low possibility of entering a starting opening and the second gaming state with a high possibility of entering a starting opening, a third gaming state in which the possibility of entering a starting opening is an intermediate stage is created. It is possible to provide new playability. As a result, it is possible to maintain and improve the gaming interest of the gaming machine that generates the probability non-notification state.

  Note that the “probability non-notification state” is (1) extension of the opening time of the starting port by the opening time extension means after the winning game is completed (which is so-called electric chew support) after the probability setting means sets the hit probability to a high probability. (2) Do not perform notification (effect) that a high probability state (probability variation state) will occur at the time of occurrence of a hit game involving the probability setting means setting the hit probability to a high probability ( 3) Do not give notification (effect) that a high probability state (probability variation state) will occur during the execution of the hit game, which involves setting the probability of winning by the probability setting means, and (4) probability setting means. Do not give notification (effect) that a high probability state (probability variation state) has occurred after the end of the hit game that involves setting a high probability of winning, (5) Fluctuate display and stop in conjunction with special symbols Stop figure of the production symbol to be displayed Is a chance symbol (such as “1 ・ 2 ・ 3”) or an odd number such as “1 ・ 3 ・ 5” indicating that a high probability state (probability variation state) may occur. This can be realized by stopping display with a symbol combination).

  Further, the special variation game execution means of the present invention comprises: a special symbol variation display counting unit that counts the number of times the special symbol is variably displayed after the start of the special variation game; and the special symbol counted by the counting unit. When the number of fluctuations reaches a predetermined number, the special variable game end means for ending the special variable game, and the special symbol fluctuation display counting means starts counting the number of fluctuations of the special symbol. It is characterized by comprising counting start delay means for delaying until the normal symbol starts to be displayed after the start.

  As a result, even if the normal symbol is being displayed at the beginning of the special variable game and the special symbol is displayed several times before the next normal symbol variable display, The execution period of the special variable game will not be shortened by the start of the normal symbol change display). As a result, the player can surely enjoy the benefits of the special variation game, so that there is no decline in the game interest.

Further, another invention related to the present invention is a special symbol variation display counting means for counting the number of times the special symbol is variably displayed after the start of the special variation game, and the variation of the special symbol counted by the counting means. When the number of times reaches a predetermined number of times, the special variable game end means for ending the special variable game and the opening time of the start opening are not extended by the open time extension means. When the normal symbol is variably displayed at the time of occurrence, the remaining variation time determining means for determining whether or not the remaining variation time of the normal symbol exceeds a predetermined time, and the normal symbol by the remaining variation time determining means And a special variable game start limiting means that does not start the special variable game when it is determined that the remaining variable time exceeds a predetermined time. To have.

  As a result, even if the special symbol is displayed in a variable state at the start of the special variable game and the special symbol is displayed several times before the next normal symbol variable display, the special variable game is The period is not shortened. As a result, the player can surely enjoy the benefits of the special variation game, so that there is no decline in the game interest.

  According to the configuration of the present invention described above, in the gaming machine that generates the probability non-notification state, it is possible to maintain and improve the gaming interest without increasing gambling.

1 is a front view of a gaming machine according to an embodiment to which the present invention is applied. It is a front view of a game board. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a screen display of an effect display apparatus. It is a block diagram which shows schematic structure of an electronic controller. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of a main job. It is a flowchart which shows a normal symbol game process. It is a flowchart which shows a normal symbol fluctuation pattern setting process. It is a flowchart which shows a normal electric accessory game process. It is a flowchart which shows the first half part of a special symbol game process. It is a flowchart which shows the second half part of a special symbol game process. It is a flowchart which shows a start opening prize process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol fluctuation related process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit hour variation pattern table distribution process. It is a flowchart which shows a small hit hour variation pattern table distribution process. It is a flowchart which shows a fluctuation pattern table distribution process at the time of a deviation. It is a flowchart which shows a special electric accessory game process. It is a flowchart which shows a process at the time of a hit game end. It is a flowchart which shows the normal symbol fluctuation pattern setting process of 2nd Example. It is a flowchart which shows the second half part of the special symbol game process of 2nd Example. It is a flowchart which shows the process at the time of completion | finish of a hit game of 3rd Example. It is a flowchart which shows the starting opening prize process of 4th Example. It is a flowchart which shows the prior determination process of 4th Example. It is a flowchart which shows the process at the time of completion | finish of a hit game of 4th Example. It is a front view of the game board of 5th Example.

(First embodiment)
Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following, a pachinko gaming machine (hereinafter simply referred to as a gaming machine) of a type (so-called “seven machine type”) in which a jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed in response to the end of the special symbol variation display, and the jackpot game is triggered by this. Examples to which the present invention is applied will be described.

  FIG. 1 is a front view of the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the front portion of the gaming machine 1 includes an outer frame 2, a middle frame 3, a front frame 4, an upper plate portion 5, a lower plate portion 6, a locking device 9, a game board 20, and the like. In FIG. 1, detailed illustration of the game board 20 is omitted. Further, the middle frame 3 is not clearly shown in FIG. 1 because the front frame 4 and the like are arranged on the front side.

  The outer frame 2 is a wooden plate-like body assembled into a substantially rectangular frame shape. The middle frame 3 is made of plastic and constitutes the main body frame of the gaming machine 1. The middle frame 3 is fitted inside the outer frame 2 and is pivotally supported at the left end so as to be openable and closable with respect to the outer frame 2. The middle frame 3 includes a frame body portion that occupies about 2/3 of the upper side and a lower plate portion that occupies about 1/3 of the lower side. The game board 20 and the front frame 4 are provided so as to overlap each other on the front side of the frame body part, and the upper plate part 5 and the lower plate part 6 are provided on the front side of the lower plate part. Note that the game board 20 is detachably attached to the frame body portion (the middle frame 3). The lower plate portion is provided with a launcher unit (not shown) constituting launching means for launching a game ball onto the game board 20, and a ball feeder (not shown) for supplying the game ball to the launcher unit.

  The front frame 4 is disposed on the front side of the middle frame 3 and is supported at the left end of the middle frame 3 so as to be opened and closed. The front frame 4 is made of plastic, and a circular opening 4a is formed in order to make the board surface of the game board 20 arranged on the back side visible. A substantially rectangular transparent plate frame (not shown) including a transparent plate such as a glass plate corresponding to the opening 4a is attached to the back surface of the front frame 4. Lamps such as LEDs (not shown) are provided around the game board 20 in the front frame 4. These lamps are turned on / off or blinking according to the progress of the game in order to enhance the game effect.

  The upper plate part 5 is provided on the lower side of the front frame 4 and is supported at the left end of the middle frame 3 so as to be opened and closed. The upper dish part 5 includes a dish outer edge part 5a, a discharge port 5b for discharging game balls from the inside of the gaming machine 1, and a ball release button 5c for discharging the game balls of the upper dish part 5 to the lower dish part 6. It has. An effect button 5d (operation means), a ball lending button 5e, and the like are provided on the upper surface of the dish outer edge portion 5a. The effect button 5d is provided so as to protrude from the upper surface of the outer edge 5a of the dish, and moves downward when the player presses it, and upwards by elastic means (for example, a spring member) (not shown) by releasing the press. It is configured as a moving push button.

  The lower plate part 6 is provided below the upper plate part 5. A discharge port 6 a for discharging game balls from the inside of the gaming machine 1 to the lower plate portion 6 is provided in the approximate center of the lower plate portion 6. An ashtray 7 is provided at the left end of the lower dish portion 6. At the right end of the lower plate part 6, a launching handle 8 is provided for a player to operate a launching device unit (not shown). The firing handle 8 is provided with a touch switch 8a as contact detection means for detecting that the player is touching. On the left side surface of the launch handle 8, a launch stop switch 8b that is operated by the player to temporarily stop the launch of the game ball is disposed.

  The locking device 9 is provided at the center of the right end of the middle frame 3 and is used to lock the front frame 4 when it is closed.

  Further, the gaming machine 1 is provided with speakers 10a to 10d for generating sound effects and the like corresponding to the gaming state. The speakers 10 a to 10 d are composed of upper speakers 10 a and 10 b provided at the upper part of the gaming machine 1 and lower speakers 10 c and 10 d provided at the lower part of the gaming machine 1. Further, a prepaid card unit 13 (CR unit) is mounted on the left side of the gaming machine 1.

  Next, the surface structure of the game board 20 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 2 is a front view of the game board 20. The game board 20 is a substantially rectangular wooden plate-like body and is detachably attached to the middle frame 3, and its back side is covered by a back mechanism board (not shown).

  As shown in FIG. 2, a substantially circular game area 21 is formed on the game board 20 by an outer rail 22 and an inner rail 23 provided on the surface (board surface) of the game board 20. In the game area 21, there are a central device 24, a normal symbol operating gate 27, a large winning device (special electric accessory) 33, a starting port 28, left winning ports 34 and 35, right winning ports 36 and 37, and a first decorative member. 50, game devices such as the second decorative member 60 are disposed. In addition, a number of obstacle nails are arranged in the game area 21 in consideration of the position balance with each gaming device.

  The central device (center accessory) 24 is disposed at a substantially central portion of the game area 21 and includes an effect display device 25. In the present embodiment, a large liquid crystal display device is used as the effect display device 25, and various effect displays are performed in the display area of the effect display device 25.

  The big winning device 33 is arranged below the central device 24 in the game area 21. The first decoration device 50 is arranged on the left side of the big prize device 33 in the game area 21, the second decoration device 60 is arranged on the right side of the big prize device 33 in the game area 21, and the decoration devices 50, 60 are so-called side. Make up decorations. Further, the first winning device 34 is integrated with the left winning holes 34 and 35, and the second winning device 60 is integrated with the right winning ports 36 and 37.

  The normal symbol operating gate 27 is provided on the left side of the central device 24. Inside the normal symbol operation gate 27, a normal symbol operation gate detection switch 27s (see FIG. 4) for detecting the passage of a game ball flowing down on the game board is provided. When the game ball passes through the normal symbol operating gate 27, the normal symbol starts to fluctuate.

  The start port 28 is provided below the central position of the central device 24. The start port 28 is a first start port provided on the upper side, in which two entrance ports formed with a game ball receiving port for receiving a game ball flowing down on the surface of the game board 20 are arranged side by side in the vertical direction. 28a and a second start port 28b provided on the lower side.

  The first starting port 28a is configured as a fixed starting port in which the size of the game ball receiving port does not change and the possibility of entering the game ball is constant, so that the game ball can always enter the game. It has become. On the other hand, the second start port 28b is a so-called tulip type and has a pair of wing pieces on the left and right, and the upper end gap between the pair of wing pieces serves as a game ball receiving port. The pair of wing pieces are each opened and closed by tilting in the left-right direction. With this opening and closing action, the second start port 28b is the size of the game ball receiving port of the pair of wing pieces. It is configured as a variable starter that changes. The second start port 28b is in an open state with a high probability of entering by opening a pair of blade pieces, and in a normal state with a low possibility of entering by closing a pair of blade pieces (incoming balls) Including an impossible closed state). When the normal symbol is stopped and displayed as a combination of symbols, the pair of wing pieces are opened to expand the game ball receiving port of the second start port 28b, and the second start port 28b is a normal electric accessory. Function as. The opening and closing of the second start port 28b is controlled by the main control unit 200, and the main control unit 200 corresponds to the start port opening means of the present invention.

  Inside the start port 28, a start port entrance detection switch 28s (see FIG. 4) for detecting the entrance of a game ball, and a start port solenoid 28c (see FIG. 4) for operating a pair of wing pieces. Is provided. When the pair of wing pieces are opened to the left and right, the size of the game ball receiving port of the second start port 28b is enlarged from the normal time, and the second start port 28b has a possibility of entering a game ball. It becomes an open state that becomes larger. On the other hand, when the pair of wing pieces are erected, the size of the game ball receiving port of the second start port 28b is slightly larger than the diameter of the game ball (one game ball can pass). The second start port 28b is in a normal state (closed state) in which the possibility of entering a game ball is reduced (or entry is impossible). When a game ball enters one of the start ports 28a, 28b, a special symbol described later starts to fluctuate.

  The big prize device 33 is disposed below the start port 28. Here, the special winning device 33 includes a special winning opening 33a opened in a belt shape, an opening / closing plate 33b for opening / closing the special winning opening 33a, and a large winning opening solenoid 33c (for operating the opening / closing plate 33b). 4), and an incoming ball detection switch 33s (see FIG. 4) for detecting an incoming game ball.

  A left winning opening 34 and 35 and a right winning opening 36 and 37 are provided on the upper left side and the upper right side of the big winning device 33. Each of these winning openings is provided with a winning opening entering detection switch (not shown).

  The first decorative member 50 is provided with a plurality of LEDs, and a combination of these LEDs constitutes a normal symbol display portion 51, a general symbol hold display portion 52, and a special symbol hold display portion 53. Similarly, the second decorative member 60 is provided with a plurality of LEDs, and a special symbol display unit 61 is configured by a combination of these LEDs.

  The normal symbol display part 51 is comprised from one LED, and a normal symbol is displayed by this LED. In the normal symbol display unit 51, the normal symbol variation display and stop display are performed. In the normal symbol display unit 51, the normal symbol starts to change when the game ball passes through the normal symbol operating gate 27, and after a predetermined time has passed, the normal symbol hits and stops display in the normal symbol display mode or the dismissed normal symbol display mode. Is done. When the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in the preset normal symbol display mode, the second start port 28b is opened according to a predetermined opening pattern. A plurality of opening patterns of the second start port 28b are set. When the opening time extension function for extending the opening time of the second start port 28b is not in operation (normal time), a short opening pattern in which a first opening time (for example, 1 to 2 seconds) is set is set and opened. When the time extension function is activated, a long-time opening pattern in which a second opening time (for example, 4 to 6 seconds) longer than the first opening time is set is set. The open time extension function will be described later.

  In the present embodiment, a random number for determining whether or not a normal symbol is provided is prepared. This random number for determining whether or not a normal symbol is used determines whether or not the second starting port 28b is activated when the game ball passes through the normal symbol operating gate 27. This is used to determine whether or not a normal symbol is appropriate. The normal symbol success / failure random number is set in advance with a hit value, and the normal symbol success / failure determination random number acquired at the timing when the game ball passes the normal symbol operation gate 27 matches the win value. Determined. In this embodiment, the probability that the random number for normal symbol success / failure coincides with the winning value (winning probability for normal symbol determination) is “65355/65356”. (Winning) ”. The winning probability of the normal symbol success / failure determination may be set to “90% or more”, preferably “95% or more”. As a result, when the normal symbol success / failure determination is performed, most of the results can be “winning (winning)”. When it is determined that the normal symbol is determined to be a win, the normal symbol that is stopped and displayed on the normal symbol display unit 51 is determined as the display mode of the normal symbol. On the other hand, when it is determined to be out (when the acquired normal symbol success / failure random number does not match the winning value), the normal symbol stopped and displayed in the normal symbol display unit 51 is determined as the display mode of the out of normal symbol. Is done.

  The normal symbol is configured so as to change and display in accordance with a predetermined change pattern. This variation pattern defines the variation time of normal symbols. The variation pattern of the normal symbol is selected by lottery from a variation pattern table in which a plurality of variation patterns are stored when the normal symbol validity determination is executed.

  A plurality of normal pattern variation pattern tables are prepared, and are selected and used according to the gaming state. These multiple variation pattern tables are selected when the variation time shortening function that shortens the variation time of normal symbols, etc. is not activated (normal time) and when the variation time shortening function is activated. And a shortened variation pattern table. These normal variation pattern table and short time variation pattern table are selected regardless of the result of the normal symbol success / failure determination. Note that the variation time shortening function will be described later, but when the variation time shortening function is not activated, the above-described opening extension function is also deactivated. In addition, the fluctuation time reduction function includes a normal figure fluctuation time reduction function that reduces the fluctuation time of normal symbols compared to normal, and a special figure fluctuation time reduction function that reduces the fluctuation time of special symbols compared to normal. Yes. In the following, when the “variation shortening function” is simply referred to, it means both the “general map variation time shortening function” and the “special drawing variation time shortening function”.

  The normal variation pattern table includes a long-time variation pattern in which the variation time of the normal symbol is set to the variation time for normal variation (for example, 40 minutes), and the shortened variation pattern table includes the variation time of the ordinary symbol. A short-time variation pattern set to a shortened variation variation time (for example, 1 second) shorter than the normal variation variation time is included. The normal symbol variation pattern table is stored in the ROM of the main control unit 200, and the ROM of the main control unit 200 corresponds to the variation time table storage means of the present invention.

  Here, the variation time of the normal symbol is the frequency at which the start port 28b is in the open state (open time is 1 to 2 seconds) from the viewpoint of "guessing the game state (whether it is a high probability state) by the player". It can be preset in consideration. In other words, in this embodiment, since the result of the normal symbol win / fail determination is almost “winning (winning)” (winning probability “65355/65356”), the longer the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is, the longer it is. The frequency (opening frequency) at which the start port 28b is in the open state is low. If the opening frequency of the start port 28b is low, the frequency of game balls entering the start port 28b is also decreased, and the execution frequency of the special symbol variation display accompanying the game ball entering the start port 28b is also decreased. . As a result, when the variation time of the normal symbol is long, the special symbol variation display triggered by the entry of the game ball into the fixed start port 28a is the main, and the special symbol variation display execution frequency. Therefore, it is difficult to estimate the gaming state (whether or not it is a high probability state) based on the special symbol variation display status (special symbol success / failure determination result).

  On the other hand, as the variation time of the normal symbol becomes shorter, the opening frequency of the start port 28b becomes higher, and if the opening frequency of the start port 28b is higher, the frequency of entering the game ball into the start port 28b increases. The execution frequency of the special symbol variation display accompanying the game ball entering the ball 28b is also increased. As a result, when the variation time of the normal symbol is short, the variation display of the special symbol is not only the game ball entering the fixed start port 28a but also the game ball entering the open / close start port 28b. Therefore, the execution frequency of the special symbol change display is higher than that in the case where the normal symbol change time is long. As a result, when the variation time of the normal symbol is short, the estimation of the gaming state (whether it is a high probability state) based on the variation display status of the special symbol (special symbol success / failure determination result) is long. It becomes easier than the case.

  In consideration of the above, in this embodiment, the normal symbol variation time (specified by the long-term variation pattern) when the normal diagram variation time shortening function is not activated (the normal time and the open time extension function is also deactivated). The fluctuation time for normal fluctuation) is “40 minutes”. That is, the start port 28b can be in an open state once every 40 minutes (the open time per time is 1 to 2 seconds). As a result, when the normal symbol variation time shortening function is not in operation (normal time), the opening frequency of the start port 28b is low, and the special symbol variation display frequency is rarely increased. It is difficult to guess the gaming state (identify whether or not it is a high probability state) based on the fluctuation display status (special symbol success / failure determination result).

  On the other hand, the fluctuation time of the normal symbol (the fluctuation time for shortening fluctuation defined by the short-time fluctuation pattern) at the time of operating the normal figure fluctuation time shortening function is set to “1 second”. That is, the start port 28b can be in an open state once per second (the open time per operation when the open extension function is not activated is 1 to 2 seconds, and the open time per operation is 4 to 6 seconds. ). As a result, when the normal figure fluctuation time shortening function is activated, the opening frequency of the start port 28b is increased (the number of times of opening is increased) compared to when it is not activated, and accordingly, the frequency of executing the special symbol variation display is increased. Therefore, it is easy to estimate the gaming state (identify whether or not the state is a high probability state) based on the special symbol variation display status (special symbol success / failure determination result).

  There is no need to set the normal symbol fluctuation time to “40 minutes”, and the opening time of the start port 28b does not become remarkably high when the normal symbol fluctuation time reduction function is not in operation (normal time). Then, as long as it is not easy to “guess the gaming state (whether it is a high probability state) by the player”, the variation time is not limited. In other words, the fluctuation time for normal variation of the normal symbol is “the ease of guessing (or difficulty) of the game state (high probability state) by the player”, “the game continuity of the player”, It may be set in consideration of the “variation time of the normal symbol when the time shortening function is activated” or the like, for example, “10 minutes or more”, preferably “30 to 60 minutes”.

  In addition, it is not necessary to set the variation time for the shortening variation of the normal symbol to “1 second”, and the player is sure that the opening frequency of the start port 28b is higher than when the normal variation time shortening function is not activated. If the time when the player can guess the game state (whether it is a high probability state or not) is easier than when the normal time reduction function is not activated, the change time Does not matter. In other words, the variation time for shortening variation of the normal symbol is “the ease of guessing (or difficulty) of the game state (high probability state) by the player”, “game continuity of the player”, It may be set in consideration of the “variation time of the normal symbol when the time shortening function is not in operation” or the like, for example, “0.5 seconds or more”, preferably “1 to 10 seconds”.

  In this embodiment, when a specific hit game (second probability variable big hit game, second normal big hit game, small hit game) occurs when the open time extension function is not activated, a normal symbol is displayed at the end of the specific hit game. The special variation game is configured to switch the variation pattern table from the normal variation pattern table to the shortened variation pattern table. In ordinary special variation game, the game state in which the normal symbol variation time is short and the opening time of the second start port 28b is short (the game state in which the normal variation time reduction function is activated and the release time extension function is not activated). It becomes. The specific hit game (second probability variable big hit game, second normal big hit game, small hit game) will be described later.

  After the end of the specific game, when the number of fluctuations of the special symbol reaches a predetermined number (30 times in the present embodiment), the special figure variation game ends, and the variation pattern table of the normal symbol becomes a shortened variation pattern table. To the normal variation pattern table. In the present embodiment, the number of changes of the special symbol that becomes the end timing of the special special variation game is set to a fixed value (30 times), but it may be determined randomly by random lottery or the like as the change value. It should be noted that the execution process and end process of the special-purpose special game and the process of counting the number of times of special symbol are realized by the control of the main control unit 200, and the main control unit 200 performs the special variable game execution means, special variation of the present invention. This corresponds to game ending means and special symbol variation display counting means.

  Here, normal symbol holding will be described. The normal symbol hold display section 52 displays the normal symbol hold number, and the number of game balls that have passed through the normal symbol operation gate 27 can be held up to the maximum hold number (four in this embodiment). Each time the next normal symbol win / fail determination is made and the normal symbol variation display is started, the number of unstarted times (the number of reservations) is consumed, and the number of normal symbol reservations is decreased by one. The general-purpose hold display unit 52 includes two LEDs, and can display the number of holds with an upper limit of four by combining turning off, lighting, and blinking of the two LEDs. Along with the holding of the normal symbol, a random number for determining whether or not the normal symbol is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM of the main control unit 200.

  The determination of whether or not the normal symbol is determined, the determination of the stop symbol of the normal symbol, the setting of the variation pattern of the normal symbol, the holding of the normal symbol and the holding of the normal symbol are performed by the main control unit 200 described later. Therefore, the main control unit 200 corresponds to the normal symbol game execution means and the variation time determination means of the present invention.

  Next, the special symbol will be described. The special symbol display unit 61 is composed of seven LEDs, and special symbols are displayed by these LEDs. Each LED constituting the special symbol display unit 61 can be turned on and off, and a plurality of special symbol display modes can be displayed by a combination of turning on and off the LEDs. Of the combinations of special symbols displayed by 7 LEDs, a specific combination is set as a hit special symbol (big hit symbol or small hit symbol), and other than the hit special symbol comes off and the special symbol (out symbol) ) Is set. In this embodiment, the special symbol variation display is performed by blinking display in which each LED is repeatedly turned on and off. In the special symbol display unit 61, when the game ball enters the start port 28, the special symbol starts to change, and after a predetermined time has elapsed, the special symbol is stopped and displayed as a big hit symbol or a missed symbol. In this embodiment, a plurality of jackpot symbols are set. Specifically, as will be described later, “first probability variable jackpot symbol”, “second probability variable jackpot symbol”, and “first normal jackpot symbol” “Second normal jackpot symbol” is set.

  In the present embodiment, the first special symbol success / failure determination, which is acquired when a game ball enters the first start port 28a and is used for determining whether or not to execute the big hit game (special game), is performed. Random numbers for use and second special symbol success / failure determination, which is acquired when a game ball enters the second start port 28b and is used to determine whether or not to execute a big hit game (special game). A random number is provided. Furthermore, a first special symbol determining random number for determining the stop symbol of the first special symbol and a second special symbol determining random number for determining the stop symbol of the second special symbol are provided.

  As the game ball enters the first starting port 28a, the first special symbol success / failure determination random number and the first special symbol determination random number are acquired. One special symbol determination random number is stored in a predetermined area (first reserved storage area) of the RAM of the main control unit 200. Along with the game ball entering the second start port 28b, a second special symbol success / failure determination random number and a second special symbol determination random number are acquired, and a predetermined area (second) of the RAM of the main control unit 200 is obtained. Stored in a reserved storage area).

  Here, the holding of special symbols will be described. The first special symbol hold display unit 53 and the second special symbol hold display unit 54 are each composed of two LEDs, and the number of holds can be set up to 4 each by combining the turn-off, lighting, and blinking of the two LEDs. Can be displayed.

  The number of game balls that have entered the first start port 28a can be held until reaching the maximum number of reservations (four in this embodiment) as the number of first special symbol reservations. The first special symbol hold number is acquired every time a game ball enters the first start port 28a and is stored in a predetermined area (first hold storage area) of the RAM of the main control unit 200. This corresponds to the number (stored number) of special symbol random numbers (first special symbol success / failure determination random number, first special symbol determination random number). In the present embodiment, the first special symbol determination random number is acquired together with the first special symbol success / failure random number as the game ball enters the first starting port 28a, so the first special symbol hold number is This also corresponds to the number of stored random numbers for determining the first special symbol. The first special symbol hold count is digested and decreased by one each time the first special symbol determination is made and the first special symbol variation display is started.

  The number of game balls that have entered the second start port 28b can be held until reaching the maximum number of reservations (four in this embodiment) as the number of second special symbol reservations. The second special symbol hold number is acquired every time a game ball enters the second start port 28b and is stored in a predetermined area (second hold storage area) of the RAM of the main control unit 200. This corresponds to the number (stored number) of special symbol random numbers (second special symbol determination random number, second special symbol determination random number). In the present embodiment, the second special symbol determination random number is also acquired together with the second special symbol success / failure random number as the game ball enters the second starting port 28b. This also corresponds to the number of stored random numbers for determining the second special symbol. The second special symbol hold count is digested each time the second special symbol success / failure determination is performed and the variation display of the second special symbol is started, and decreases by one. The holding of the first and second special symbols and the holding digest are performed by the main control unit 200 described later.

  The special symbol success / failure determination random number is set with a hit value for success / failure determination, and the special symbol success / failure random number acquired at the timing when the game ball enters the first start port 28a or the second start port 28b. Is determined to be a big hit if it matches the hit value. The first special symbol success / failure determination is performed when the first special symbol starts variable display, and the second special symbol correctness determination is performed when the second special symbol starts variable display.

  When the first special symbol success / failure determination random number matches the winning value, it is determined to be a big hit, and the first special symbol stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display unit 61 becomes a big hit symbol (probability big hit symbol or normal big hit symbol). It is determined. If the random number for determining whether or not the first special symbol is true does not match the winning value, a small hitting lottery for determining whether or not to generate a small hitting game is performed. In the case of winning), the first special symbol stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display unit 61 is determined as the small hit symbol. On the other hand, if the result of the first special symbol success / failure determination is not a big hit (losing to the big hit lottery) and the result of the small hit lottery is not a big hit (losing to the small hit lottery), it is a failure and the first special The first special symbol that is stopped and displayed by the symbol display unit 61 is determined to be a detached symbol.

  Similarly, when the second special symbol success / failure random number coincides with the winning value, it is determined as a big hit, and the second special symbol stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display unit 62 is the big hit symbol (probability big hit symbol or normal big hit) Design). If the random number for determining whether or not the second special symbol is correct does not coincide with the winning value, a small hitting lottery for determining whether or not to generate a small hitting game is performed. In the case of winning), the second special symbol stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display unit 62 is determined as the small hit symbol. On the other hand, if the result of the second special symbol success / failure determination is not a big hit (losing to the big hit lottery) and the result of the small hit lottery is not a big hit (losing to the small hit lottery), it is a failure and the second special The second special symbol that is stopped and displayed by the symbol display unit 62 is determined to be a detached symbol.

  The special symbol is configured to change and display according to a predetermined change pattern. This variation pattern defines the variation time of the special symbol and the presence / absence of the reach effect in the variation (effect content). The special symbol variation pattern is selected by lottery from a variation pattern table in which a plurality of variation patterns are stored when the special symbol success / failure determination is executed.

  A plurality of special symbol variation pattern tables are prepared, and are selected and used according to the gaming state. The plurality of variation pattern tables include a hit variation pattern table selected when the success / failure determination result is a big hit, and a miss variation pattern table selected when the success / failure determination result is unacceptable.

  In addition, the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment is configured such that the second special symbol priority variation process is performed in which the variation display of the second special symbol is executed with priority over the variation display of the first special symbol. That is, when both the number of the first special symbol hold and the number of the second special symbol hold are 1 or more, the second special symbol starts to fluctuate preferentially from the first special symbol, and the hold of the second special symbol is stopped. Digested preferentially. Then, when the first special symbol hold count is 1 or more and the second special symbol hold count becomes zero, the variable display of the first special symbol is executed.

  Also, first special symbol success / failure determination, second special symbol success / failure determination, determination of special symbol variation mode, special symbol stop symbol determination, first special symbol variation display and stop display, second special symbol variation display The stop display and the priority change of the second special symbol are configured to be performed by the main control unit 200 described later. Therefore, the main control unit 200 corresponds to the special symbol game execution means of the present invention.

  Next, the jackpot game (special game) will be described. When the special symbol stopped and displayed in the special symbol display unit 61 is the above-mentioned jackpot special symbol (when the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a big hit), the main control unit 200 is relatively advantageous to the player. A big hit game (special game) is started. The jackpot game is started by setting the jackpot game flag to ON. The big hit game is to give a player a profit (prize ball) with respect to entering the game ball into the big prize opening 33a by operating the big prize device 33, in other words, by opening and closing the big prize opening 33a a plurality of times. It is. The big hit game is realized by repeatedly executing a special electric accessory game process described later.

  During the big hit game (during special game), the big prize device 33 is operated, and a predetermined number of prize balls (for example, 15 for one pitch) according to the number of game balls entered into the big prize opening 33a. Award balls). Specifically, at the start of the big hit game, the big prize opening device (special electric accessory) 33 is continuously operated, and the big prize opening opening / closing operation for switching the big prize opening 33a between the open state and the closed state is continuously performed a plurality of times. Done. With the start of the operation of the special winning device 33, the special winning opening 33a is opened. This open state is ended when a predetermined end condition is established, and the open special winning opening 33a is closed. As a predetermined termination condition, when the opening time of the grand prize opening 33a has reached a specified time, or the number of game balls that have entered the open big prize opening 33a has reached a predetermined number (10 in this embodiment). It can be when.

  When it is assumed that one round is from the start to the end of the open state of the big winning opening 33a, the big hit game is ended by performing a predetermined number of rounds. In the grand prize winning device 33, after the opening of the big prize winning opening 33a ends, that is, after a predetermined time has passed since the big winning prize opening 33a is closed, the big winning prize opening 33a is again opened and the next round starts. . The opening / closing operation of the grand prize winning opening 33a in which one round is from the start to the end of the big winning opening 33a is continuously repeated until the predetermined maximum number of continuous rounds is completed.

  In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, two types of jackpot games are provided according to the type of jackpot symbol. Specifically, when the jackpot symbol is the first jackpot symbol ("first normal jackpot symbol" or "first probability variable jackpot symbol") (special symbol success / failure judgment result is the first normal jackpot symbol or the first probability variation jackpot) In the case of the game), the “first big hit game” occurs. And, if the big hit symbol is the second big hit symbol ("second probability variable big hit symbol" or "second normal big hit symbol") (special symbol success / failure determination result was the second normal big hit symbol or the second positive variable big hit symbol) ), A “second big hit game (second probability variable big hit game, second normal big hit game)” occurs. Note that the second big hit game constitutes a specific hit game together with a small hit game described later.

  These first and second big hit games differ in the opening time (specified time) of the big winning opening 33a for one round. The opening time of the first jackpot game big winning opening 33a (the first big hit game big winning opening opening time) is a prescribed number (10) of entering the big winning opening 33a and the execution of the winning ball payout associated therewith. It is set as a time when the possibility is extremely high, and is preferably 25 to 30 seconds. In this embodiment, it is set to 26 seconds. The opening time of the big winning hole 33a for the second big hit game (the big winning hole opening time for the second big hit game) is a specified number (10) of the balls to the big winning hole 33a and the execution of the winning ball payout associated therewith. It is set as a time when the possibility is extremely low, and is preferably 0.1 second to 6 seconds, and is set to 0.2 seconds in this embodiment. It should be noted that the maximum continuation round number of the first jackpot game is set to 15 rounds, and the maximum continuation round number of the second jackpot game is set to 2 rounds. Based on the number of rounds of the first big hit game and the second big hit game, the “first probability variable big hit” is also called “15R probability big hit”, the “first normal big hit” is also called “15R normal big hit” “Two probability variation big hit” is also called “2R probability variation big hit”, and “second normal big hit” is also called “2R normal big hit”.

  In the gaming machine of this embodiment, after the big hit game is finished, a specific game (so-called short-time game and probability variable game) in which the variable time shortening function, the open time extending function, and the probability varying function are activated is started. The variable time shortening function, the opening time extending function, and the probability varying function operate by setting the fluctuation shortening flag, the opening extension flag, and the probability changing flag to ON, respectively.

  When the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a normal jackpot (the special symbol stop symbol is the first normal jackpot symbol or the second normal jackpot symbol), after the jackpot game is over, the variable time shortening function and the second start port 28b The opening time extension function for extending the opening time starts to operate, and the short time game is started. The short-time game is realized by the control of the main control unit 200. The fluctuation time reduction function includes a normal figure fluctuation time reduction function for reducing the fluctuation time of a normal symbol and a special symbol for reducing the fluctuation time of a special symbol. The figure fluctuation time reduction function is included. By the operation of the opening time extension function, the opening time of the second start port 28b is extended from the first opening time (for example, 1 to 2 seconds) to the second opening time (for example, 4 to 6 seconds). As a result, the frequency of entering the game ball into the second start port 28b is higher than that at normal time (when the opening extension function is not activated). The fluctuation time shortening function and the opening time extension function operate after the big hit game is finished until the next big hit game is started, or until the number of fluctuations of the special symbol reaches a predetermined number (100 times in this example). .

  If the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a probable big hit (the stop symbol of the special symbol is the first probable big hit symbol or the second probable big hit symbol), after the big hit game is over, the probability variation function will start and Be started. The probability variation game is realized by the control of the main control unit 200. In this probability variation game, the probability variation function that changes (improves) the probability of the special symbol success / failure determination, that is, the probability that the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the jackpot symbol. Operates. The probability variation function is usually used when the variable time reduction function and the open time extension function are operated (probability change state), when the change time reduction function and the open time extension machine are operated in a non-operation state (latency probability change state), There is a case where the figure variation time shortening function is activated and the special figure variation time shortening function and the open time extension function are operated in a non-actuated state (latency probability changing state).

  While the probability variation function is in operation, the probability of winning or failing determination increases, so that the probability that the result of the special symbol success / failure determination becomes a big hit is improved. Specifically, a normal probability success / failure determination table and a high probability success / failure determination table in which the hit value is increased from the normal probability success / failure determination table are prepared. During normal games (when the probability variation function is inactive), the normal probability determination table is used to determine whether or not, and during probability change games (when the probability variation function is in operation), a high probability determination table is used. Make a pass / fail decision.

  The probability variation function operates after the jackpot game is over until the next jackpot game is started. In this embodiment, the maximum execution period of the probability variation game is set until the number of fluctuations of the special symbol after the big hit game reaches 10,000 times until the next big hit game is substantially started. .

  The fluctuation time shortening function, the opening time extension function, and the probability fluctuation function are realized by the control of the main control unit 200, and the main control unit 200 corresponds to the opening time extension means and the probability setting means of the present invention. ing.

  When the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is the second big hit (the special symbol stop symbol is the second probability variable big hit symbol or the second normal big hit symbol), when the big hit game starts (second positive variable big hit symbol or the second normal big hit symbol) The operating state of the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function is maintained. That is, when the variation time shortening function and the opening time extension function are activated at the start of the big hit game, the variation time shortening function and the opening time extension function are activated even after the big hit game ends. On the other hand, if the fluctuation time shortening function and the opening time extension function are not activated at the start of the big hit game, the fluctuation time shortening function and the opening time extension function are not activated even after the big hit game ends.

  Therefore, when a big hit game is triggered by the stop display of the second probability variable big hit symbol, the probability variation function is activated after the end of the 2R big hit game and the operation time of the big winning opening 33a is short and the number of times of operation is small. The operation state of the open time extension function when this occurs is maintained. In this case, the probability variation function starts operating without changing the operating state of the starting port 28 (the lower starting port 28b) visible to the player. Also, when a big hit game is triggered by the stop display of the second normal big hit symbol, the probability variation function does not operate after the end of the 2R big hit game where the operation time of the big winning opening 33a is short and the number of operations is small. The operation state of the open time extension function when this occurs is maintained. From this, it is possible to make it difficult for the player to recognize whether or not the probability variation function is activated after the 2R big hit game is over. Thus, the state in which the player has difficulty in recognizing that the probability variation function is operating is referred to as a “probability non-notification state” or a “latent probability variation state (internal probability variation state)”.

  Next, the small hit game will be described. When the special symbol stopped and displayed on the special symbol display unit 61 is a small hit symbol (when the result of the small hit lottery is a small hit), the main control unit 200 starts the small hit game. The small hit game is a hit game that is started by setting the small hit game flag to ON, and constitutes a specific hit game together with the second big hit game. In the small hit game, the big prize device 33 operates in the same manner as the second big hit game described above. In other words, in the small hit game, the large winning opening 33a is configured to be opened twice for 0.2 seconds, and the possibility that a game ball enters the large winning opening 33a is very low, so that the payout of the winning ball is substantially reduced. It is in a gaming state that does not accompany. In addition, after the small hit game ends, the operating state of the open time extension function when the small hit game is generated (when the small hit symbol is stopped and displayed) is maintained.

  In the small hit game, since the operation of the second big hit game and the big prize device 33 is the same mode, the player can open and close the big winning opening 33a twice in a short time (a big winning opening opening pattern in the second big hit game) ) Cannot be discriminated whether the second big hit game or the small hit game has occurred. For this reason, it is possible to make it more difficult to recognize whether or not the probability varying function is activated after the operation of the big winning device 33 is finished (after the second big hit game or the small hit game is finished). Thus, the probability non-notification state can be made more effective due to the presence of the small hit game.

  The first big hit game (first normal big hit game, first probability variable big hit game) corresponds to the first hit game of the present invention, the second big hit game (second normal big hit game, second positive variable big hit game) and small The winning game corresponds to the second winning game of the present invention. The first jackpot game, the second jackpot game, the jackpot game, and the probability non-notification state (latency probability variation state) generated by the end of the second jackpot game and the jackpot game are realized by the control of the main control unit 200. The main control unit 200 corresponds to the hit game executing means and the probability non-notification state generating means of the present invention.

  Next, the effect symbols displayed on the effect display device 25 will be described. FIG. 3 shows a screen display example of the effect display device 25. As shown in FIG. 3, in the display area of the effect display device 25, effect symbol display units 25a to 25c for displaying effect symbols are provided. The effect symbols of the effect symbol display units 25a to 25c are displayed in conjunction with the change display and stop display of the first special symbol of the first special symbol display unit 61 or the second special symbol of the second special symbol display unit 62.

  The effect symbol display sections 25a to 25c are three symbol displays including a left symbol display region 25a in which a left symbol is displayed, a middle symbol display region 25b in which a middle symbol is displayed, and a right symbol display region 25c in which a right symbol is displayed. It consists of areas. Each of the symbol display areas 25a to 25c is set in a direction that is substantially orthogonal to the arrangement direction of these display areas, in this case, in the vertical direction (vertical direction). Each of the symbol display areas 25a to 25c can display symbols consisting of “1” to “9”.

  When the first special symbol or the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in any of the symbols, the first symbol or the second special symbol is started. The special symbol or the second special symbol is stopped and displayed with a symbol corresponding to the stop symbol. In the production symbol, the combination of even symbols with the same three digits corresponds to the first normal jackpot symbol of the special symbol, and the combination of odd symbols with the same three digits corresponds to the first positive variable jackpot symbol of the special symbol. -Predetermined specific deviations other than winning symbols, such as a combination of order such as "3", an order of odd numbers such as "1, 3, 5", and an unreachable combination such as "7, 6, 7" Chance symbols that are symbols (so-called chance eyes) correspond to special per symbol symbols (second normal big hit symbol, second probable big hit symbol, small hit symbol), and combinations of other symbols are out of special symbols It corresponds to.

  The design pattern variation mode (variation pattern) and stop symbol determination are configured to be performed by the sub-control unit 260 based on a variation pattern designation command and a stop information designation command transmitted from the main control unit 200. Here, the variation pattern designation command transmitted from the main control unit 200 to the sub-control unit 260 indicates the variation pattern of the special symbol. Specifically, the variation time of the special symbol and the presence / absence of the reach effect The contents of the production are shown. The main control unit 200 determines a variation pattern of the special symbol at random (by random number lottery) according to the determination result of the special symbol. Based on the special symbol variation pattern determined by the main control unit 200, the sub-control unit 260 determines the effect pattern of the effect symbol displayed on the effect symbol display unit 25a. Further, the stop information designation command transmitted from the main control unit 200 to the sub-control unit 260 indicates a special symbol stop symbol, and the main control unit 200 determines whether the special symbol is determined according to the result of the special symbol determination. A stop symbol is determined at random (by random number lottery). Then, based on the stop information designation command indicating the stop symbol of the special symbol determined by the main control unit 200, the sub control unit 260 determines the stop symbol of the effect symbol to be stopped and displayed on the effect symbol display unit 25a.

  In the present embodiment, during the period from the start of the display of the effect symbols to the stop display, the background change effect, the notice effect, the reach effect, etc. are displayed on the display area of the effect display device 25 (the effect symbol display unit 25a). It is configured to perform various symbol variation effects. This “design variation execution pattern” corresponds to the “design pattern presentation pattern determined by the sub-control unit 260 based on the special symbol variation pattern determined by the main control unit 200” described above.

  Then, when the result of the special symbol success / failure determination (big hit lottery) in the main control unit 200 is the second big hit, or when the result of the small hit lottery is the small win, that is, the special symbol effect, that is, the special symbol The symbol variation effect performed when the sub-control unit 260 receives a stop information designation command indicating that the symbol is stopped and displayed with a specific hit symbol (second normal big hit symbol, second positive variation big hit symbol, small hit symbol) Are common. Then, through the common symbol variation effect, the chance symbol is stopped and displayed on the effect symbol display unit 25a. As a result, for the player, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed at the specific hit symbol through the variable display, the symbol change effect or chance stop display performed on the display area of the effect display device 25 is accompanied. Even if it is confirmed, it is difficult to recognize (understand) which of the “second normal big hit”, “second probable big hit”, and “small hit” has occurred from the contents of the effect display. In this way, by making it difficult (impossible) to identify (understand) which of the “second normal big hit”, “second probable big hit”, and “small hit” has occurred from the contents of the effect display, A “probability non-notification state (latency probability variation state)” can be created. The sub-control unit 260 that executes such effect display control causes the big winning device 33 to be in the same mode (second game) in accordance with the execution of the specific hit game (second normal big hit game, second probability variable big hit game, small hit game). Together with the main control unit 200 that is operated by the big winning game opening / closing pattern of the big hit game), the probability non-notification state generating means of the present invention is constituted.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the display area of the effect display device 25 is provided with a first hold display section 25d and a second hold display section 25e. The first hold display unit 25d is displayed in conjunction with the first special symbol hold display unit 53, and displays a number of circular figures “◯” corresponding to the first special symbol hold number. The second hold display unit 25e is displayed in conjunction with the second special symbol hold display unit 54, and the number of circular figures “◯” corresponding to the second special symbol hold number is displayed. In the hold display sections 25d and 25e of the present embodiment, the leftmost circle figure “◯” indicates the hold stored first, and the hold newly stored in order toward the right side.

  Next, the electronic control device of the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the electronic control device.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the electronic control device includes a main control unit 200 and sub-control units 230, 260, and 280 connected to the main control unit 200. The sub control unit includes a payout control unit (prize ball control unit) 230, a sub control unit 260, and an effect display control unit 280. The main control unit 200 includes a main control board 200a, and the sub control units 230, 260, and 280 include a payout control board 230a, a sub control board 260a, and an effect display control board 280a, respectively, as peripheral control boards. Each of these control boards and other boards (a power board, a relay board, a drive board, a decoration board, an amplifier board, an effect button board, etc.) are arranged on the back side of the gaming machine 1.

  Each control unit 200, 230, 260, 280 is supplied with power from a main power source (not shown). Further, when the power is turned on, a system reset signal is transmitted to each control unit 200, 230, 260, 280. Note that the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment includes a backup power supply unit (not shown) that supplies an operating voltage to the main control unit 200 and the payout control unit 230 when the power is turned off. 200 and RAM data of the payout control unit 230 are held.

  The main control unit 200 constitutes a main control unit that controls the progress of the game. The main control unit 200 transmits a command signal (command data) instructing processing contents to each of the sub control units 230 and 260, and each sub control unit 230, Reference numerals 260 and 280 are configured to perform various controls based on the command signal.

  The CPU 200b of the main control board 200a constituting the main control unit 200 includes a CPU core, a built-in RAM (hereinafter simply referred to as RAM), a built-in ROM (hereinafter also simply referred to as ROM), etc., and is stored in the ROM. The control program controls operation of the entire gaming machine 1 (basic progress control of the game) using the RAM as a work area. Further, the main control unit 200 constitutes a go / no-go determination unit that performs the go / no-go determination of the special symbol by the go / no-go determination program stored in the ROM, with the CPU 200b as the main body. Further, the CPU 200b of the main control unit 200 determines a specific variation pattern from the variation pattern table of the special symbol stored in the ROM when executing the special symbol validity determination. Note that the control cycle of the CPU 200b of the main control unit 200 of this embodiment is set to 4 ms.

  A board input relay board 201 and a board output relay board 202 are connected to the main controller 200. The board input relay board 201 is connected with a normal symbol operation gate detection switch 27 s, a start opening prize detection switch 28 s, and a big prize opening ball detection switch 33 s so that these signals are input to the main controller 200. It is configured. The board output relay board 202 is connected with a normal symbol display device 51, special symbol display devices 61 and 62, a start port solenoid 28c, and a big prize port solenoid 33c, and a control signal from the main control unit 200 is output. .

  The payout control board 230a constituting the payout control unit 230 includes a CPU 230b having the same configuration as the CPU 200b of the main control unit 200. To the payout control unit 230, the launch control unit 250, the CR unit 13, and the like are connected. From the main control unit 200 to the payout control unit 230, commands such as a prize ball instruction command for instructing a prize ball payout, a game start permission signal for instructing a game start permission, and various launch control commands are transmitted. Various launch control commands include ball feed permission / prohibition, launch permission / prohibition, game start permission, and the like. When the CPU 230b of the payout control board 230a receives a prize ball instruction command from the main control unit 200, the CPU 230b of a game ball payout device (not shown) provided on the back side of the gaming machine 1 based on the number of prize balls indicated by the command. By paying off the payout motor, game balls are paid out (prize ball payout) for the designated number of prize balls. In this game ball payout (prize ball payout), game balls stored in a game ball tank (not shown) provided on the upper back side of the gaming machine 1 are supplied to a game ball payout device via a game ball rail (not shown). Then, the supplied game ball is discharged by rotating the payout motor of the game ball payout device.

  The sub-control unit 260 constitutes sub-control means for controlling various effects executed as the game progresses. The sub-control board 260a has a CPU 260b, a ROM, a RAM (not shown), an input / output port, etc. Circuit components and a sound generator are provided, and are connected to the main controller 200 at the input / output ports. The sub-control unit 260 is configured to control effect control using decoration display by various lamps, sound effects output from the speakers 10a to 10d, display of effect symbols by the effect display device 25, and the like.

  From the main control unit 200 to the sub-control unit 260, various symbol control commands (variation pattern designation command, stop information designation command, symbol stop command, etc.) related to special symbol variation display, various lamp control commands, and various voice control commands Is sent. Various symbol control control commands for instructing display control of the effect symbols are transmitted from the main control unit 200 to the effect display control unit 280 via the sub-control unit 260. An effect display control unit 280 is connected to the sub control unit 260, and display of effect symbols according to various symbol control commands from the main control unit 200 (from the sub control unit 260 to the effect display control unit 280). Various effect display control commands for instructing effect display control for realizing a symbol variation effect) are simultaneously transmitted.

  The effect display control board 280a of the effect display control unit 280 is provided with arithmetic circuit components (not shown) including a CPU 280b, a RAM, a ROM, an input / output port, a VDP (video display processor), and the like. The display unit 25 is connected to the control unit 260, and the effect display device 25 is connected to the effect display control unit 280. In addition, an image ROM (not shown) is provided on the effect display control board 280a, and the image data of the effect symbols displayed on the effect display device 25 (such as the image data relating to the above-described variation effect) is stored in the image ROM. Is stored more than once.

  In addition, various LEDs and lamps 262 are connected to the sub-control unit 260 via a decorative driving board 261, and the speaker 10a that outputs various sounds, sounds, and the like to the amplifier board 263 in accordance with the progress of the game. 10d are connected. Further, the effect button 5 d is connected to the sub-control unit 260 via the effect button board 264. The sub-control unit 260 selects / selects lighting / flashing patterns of various LEDs / lamps based on various commands from the main control unit 200 and the production button 5d (reception of a variation pattern designation command, input of a production button operation signal, etc.). An execution process, a selection / output process of sound effect data output from the speakers 10a to 10d, an effect display pattern selection / execution process on the effect display device 25, and the like are performed.

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment will be described based on a flowchart. FIG. 5 is an example of a main job performed under the control of the main control unit 200. The main job shown in FIG. 5 is executed by the CPU 200b mounted on the main control board 200a based on a program stored in a ROM (not shown) (an internal ROM of the CPU 200b or a ROM mounted on the main control board 200a). After the power-on process S100, each step of the game start process S200, the normal symbol game process S300, the normal electric game game process S400, the special symbol game process S500, and the special electric game game process S600 is reset each time the timer is reset. Repeatedly. In the power-off generation process S50, when a power-off occurs due to a power failure or the like, the used registers and stack pointers are saved, the payout motor is stopped, and so on, and when a system reset occurs, the process proceeds to the power-on process S100. It has become.

  The power-on process S100 is performed when the power is turned on and when the power is restored after the power is cut off. When the power is turned on, a RAM initialization process or the like is performed, and when the power is turned off, the game state is restored. The return setting is performed. In the game start process S200, detection of various switch states, update of various random numbers, prize ball payout control, and the like are performed.

  Next, the normal symbol game process S300 will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. First, it is determined by the normal symbol operation gate detection switch 27s whether or not the game ball has passed the normal symbol operation gate 27 (S301). As a result, when it is determined that the game ball does not pass through the normal symbol operation gate 27 (S301: NO), the process proceeds to S304. On the other hand, when it is determined that the game ball has passed the normal symbol operation gate 27 (S301: YES), it is determined whether or not the normal symbol hold number is less than 4 (S302). As a result, when the number of normal symbols held is 4 or more (S302: NO), the process proceeds to S304. On the other hand, when the number of normal symbols held is less than 4 (S302: YES), a normal design success / failure random number is acquired and stored in a predetermined area of the RAM (S303). As a result, the number of normal symbol reservations increases by one.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the second start port 28b is open (S304). If it is determined that the second start port 28b is open (S304: YES), the normal symbol game process When it is determined that the second start port 28b is not open (S304: NO), it is determined whether or not the normal symbol is changing (S305). As a result, when it is determined that the normal symbol is changing (S305: YES), the process proceeds to S313. On the other hand, when it is determined that the normal symbol is not fluctuating (S305: NO), it is determined whether or not the normal symbol is in the stop display time (S306). Here, the stop display time of the normal symbol is a time for determining the normal symbol stopped and displayed. In this embodiment, the stop display time of the normal symbol is “1 second”. If it is determined that it is during the normal symbol stop display time (S306: NO), the process proceeds to S316 described later, and if it is determined that it is not during the normal symbol display time (S306: YES). ), It is determined whether or not the number of normal symbol hold is zero (S307).

  As a result, when it is determined that the number of normal symbol hold is zero (S307: YES), the normal symbol game process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the number of normal symbols held is not zero (S307: NO), the random numbers for normal symbol success / failure determination are read from the predetermined area of the RAM for the normal symbol determination random numbers obtained and stored in the process of S303. (S308), normal symbol win / no-go determination is performed (S309).

  Next, normal symbol variation pattern setting processing is performed (S310). Here, the normal symbol variation pattern setting process will be described based on the flowchart of FIG.

  First, it is determined whether or not the ordinary special variation flag is set to ON (S310a). The “special variation flag” is a flag indicating that a special variation game is being executed. A specific hit game is generated when the open time extension function is inactive, and the specific hit game ends. Is set to ON in the process of S610d (see FIG. 16). As a result, when it is determined that the special map special variation flag is not set to ON (S310a: NO), it is determined whether or not the variation shortening flag is set to ON (S310b), and is set to ON. If not (S310b: NO), the normal variation variation time (2400 seconds = 40 minutes in this embodiment) is set as the normal symbol variation time using the normal variation pattern table (S310c). On the other hand, if it is determined that the variation shortening flag is set to ON (S310b: YES), the variation time for shortening variation (1 in this embodiment) is used as the variation time of the normal symbol using the shortened variation pattern table. Second) is set (S310d). Further, even when it is determined in the determination process of S310a that the special figure special variation flag is set to ON (S310a: YES), the variation time of the normal symbol is shortened using the shortened variation pattern table. Time (1 second in this embodiment) is set (S310d). As a result, even if the open time extension function is not in operation, if a special figure special variation game is being executed (when the special figure special variation flag is set to ON), the normal symbol variation time Is shortened. In other words, during the execution of the special figure variable game, the normal figure change time reduction function is in operation.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the result of the normal symbol success / failure determination performed in the process of S309 (see FIG. 6) is a win (S310e). As a result, when it is determined that the result of the normal symbol win / fail determination is a win (S310e: YES), a hit symbol (a hit normal symbol) is set as a stop symbol of the normal symbol (S310f). On the other hand, when it is determined that the result of the normal symbol success / failure determination is not a hit (deletion) (S310e: NO), an out symbol (out-of-normal symbol) is set as a stop symbol of the normal symbol (S310g).

  When the stop symbol of the normal symbol is set, the process proceeds to the process of S311 in FIG. 6 to start the variation of the normal symbol (S311), and the normal symbol holding number is subtracted by 1 (S312). The processing up to this point is to start the normal symbol variation display.

  Next, when it is determined in the process of S305 that the normal symbol is changing (S305: YES), it is determined whether or not the normal symbol change time has passed (S313), and the normal symbol change is determined. If it is determined that the time has not elapsed (S313: NO), the normal symbol game process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the normal symbol variation time has elapsed (S313: YES), the normal symbol variation is stopped (S314), and the normal symbol stop display time is set (S315).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the normal symbol stop display time has elapsed (S316). If it is determined that the normal symbol stop display time has not elapsed (S316: NO), the normal symbol game processing is performed. Exit. On the other hand, when it is determined that the normal symbol stop display time has elapsed (S316: YES), the normal symbol stop symbol activates the second start port 28b (opening operation). It is determined whether or not it is a normal symbol) (S317). As a result, when it is determined that the stop symbol of the normal symbol is not a winning symbol (S317: NO), the normal symbol game process is terminated.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the stop symbol of the normal symbol is a winning symbol (S317: YES), whether or not the release extension flag is set to ON (whether or not the release time extension function is activated). Is determined (S318). As a result, when the opening extension flag is ON (when the opening time extension function is activated) (S318: YES), the opening pattern of the second start port 28b is an opening pattern for a long time (for example, 4 to 6 seconds). Is set (S319), and when the opening extension flag is OFF (when the opening time extension function is not activated), a short opening pattern (for example, 1 to 3 seconds) is set as the opening pattern of the second start port 28b. Set (S320). Then, the operation of the second start port 28b is started (S321). As a result, the pair of blade pieces are opened left and right, and the second start port 28b is opened.

  Next, the ordinary electric accessory game process S400 will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. First, it is determined whether or not the second start port 28b is operating (opening operation) (S401). As a result, when it is determined that the second start port 28b is not in operation (S401: NO), the ordinary electric accessory game process is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the second start port 28b is in operation (S401: YES), it is determined whether or not the operation time (opening time) of the second start port 28b has elapsed (S402). If it is determined that the operation time of the second start port 28b has not elapsed (S402: NO), whether or not a predetermined number of winnings has been won at the second starting port 28b (a predetermined number of game balls have entered) Whether or not) is determined (S403).

  As a result, when it is determined that there is no predetermined number of winnings in the second starting port 28b (S403: NO), the ordinary electric accessory game process is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the predetermined number of winnings has been won at the second starting port 28b (S403: YES), and when it is determined that the operating time (opening time) of the second starting port 28b has elapsed. (S402: YES), the operation of the second start port 28b is stopped (S404). When the operation of the second start port 28b is stopped, the pair of blade pieces are closed, and the second start port 28b is in a closed state (normal state).

  Next, the special symbol game process S500 will be described based on the flowcharts of FIGS. First, as shown in FIG. 9A, a start opening winning process is performed (S501). Here, the start opening winning process will be described based on the flowchart of FIG.

  First, it is determined whether or not the first start port 28a has been won (a game ball has entered) (S501a). If it is determined that the first start port 28a has not been won (S501a: NO). The process proceeds to S501d. On the other hand, if it is determined that the first start port 28a has been won (S501a: YES), it is determined whether or not the first special symbol hold number is less than 4 (S501b). As a result, when it is determined that the first special symbol reservation number is not less than 4 (4 or more) (S501b: NO), the process proceeds to S501d, and the first special symbol reservation number is less than 4. Is determined (S501b: YES), the first special symbol random number (first symbol success / failure determination information) is acquired and stored in a predetermined area of the RAM (S501c). The first special symbol random number includes a first special symbol determination random number, a first special symbol hit random number, a reach random number, and the like. Thereby, the 1st special symbol reservation number increases by one.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the second start port 28b has been won (S501d). If it is determined that the second start port 28b has not been won (S501d: NO). The start opening winning process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the second start port 28b has been won (S501d: YES), it is determined whether or not the second special symbol hold number is less than 4 (S501e). As a result, when it is determined that the second special symbol hold number is not less than 4 (4 or more) (S501e: NO), the start opening winning process is terminated, and the second special symbol hold number is less than 4. If it is determined that there is (S501e: YES), a second special symbol random number (second symbol success / failure determination information) is acquired and stored (S501f). The second special symbol random number includes a second special symbol determination random number, a second special symbol determination random number, a reach random number, and the like. Thereby, the number of second special symbol reservation increases by one.

  Next, returning to FIG. 9A, it is determined whether or not a winning game is being performed (whether the big hit game flag or the small hit game flag is ON) (S502). As a result, when it is determined that a hit game is being played (a big hit game flag or a small hit game flag is ON) (S502: YES), the special symbol game process is terminated and no hit game is being played (a big win game) If it is determined that the flag and the small hit game flag are OFF) (S502: NO), it is determined whether or not the special symbol (the first special symbol or the second special symbol) is changing (S503). ).

  As a result, when it is determined that the special symbol is changing (S503: YES), the process proceeds to S510 described later, and when it is determined that the special symbol is not changing (S503: NO). Then, it is determined whether or not it is during the special symbol stop display time (S504). Here, the stop display time of the special symbol is a time for determining the special symbol stopped and displayed. In this embodiment, the stop display time of the special symbol is “1 second”. If it is determined that it is during the special symbol stop display time (S504: YES), the process proceeds to S513 described later, and if it is determined that it is not during the special symbol stop display time (S504). : NO), it is determined whether or not the number of second special symbol hold is zero (S506). As a result, when it is determined that the number of second special symbol reservation is zero (S506: YES), it is determined whether or not the number of first special symbol reservation is zero (S507).

  And when it determines with the 1st special symbol holding | maintenance number being zero (S507: YES), a special symbol game process is complete | finished. On the other hand, when it is determined that the number of first special symbol hold is not zero (S507: NO), a first special symbol variation display process is performed (S508).

  On the other hand, if it is determined in S506 that the second special symbol hold count is not zero (S506: NO), a second special symbol variation display process is performed (S509). That is, if it is determined in the determination process of S506 that the second special symbol hold number is not zero (S506: NO), the first special symbol hold number is not zero (even if it is 1 or more). 2. The special symbol variation display process is executed. Thereby, the variation display of the second special symbol is performed in preference to the first special symbol, and the priority variation function of the second special symbol is realized by the determination processing in S506.

  Here, the first special symbol variation display process and the second special symbol variation display process will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. The first special symbol variation display process and the second special symbol variation display process are processes having the same contents except that the portions of the “first special symbol” and the “second special symbol” are different. The symbol is “first special symbol” in the first special symbol variation display process, and “second special symbol” in the second special symbol variation display process. Here, the first special symbol variation display process will be described, and the description of the second special symbol variation display process will be omitted.

  First, a random number for determining whether or not the first special symbol is stored in a predetermined area (first reserved storage area) of the RAM of the main control unit 200 (for determining whether or not the game ball has entered the first start port 28a) (Random number) is read (S508a), and the first special symbol determination is made (S508b). In the first special symbol success / failure determination, if the probability variation function is in operation (probability change game), the success / failure determination at the time of probability variation, that is, the state in which the determination result is a big hit (high probability state) When the decision is made and it is determined that the probability variation function is not operating (during normal game), it is determined whether or not it is a non-probability variation, that is, in a state where the probability that the determination result is a big hit (low probability state) Make a pass / fail decision.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the result of the first special symbol success / failure determination is a big hit (S508c). As a result, if it is determined that it is a big hit (S508c: YES), a big hit fluctuation pattern table distribution process is performed (S508d). Here, the big hit variation pattern table distribution processing will be described based on the flowchart of FIG.

  First, it is determined whether or not the probability variation flag is ON (S550). As a result, when it is determined that the probability variation flag is set to ON (S550: YES), the probability variation big hit variation pattern table is set (S551). On the other hand, when it is determined that the probability variation flag is not set to ON (S550: NO), it is determined whether or not the variation shortening flag is set to ON (S552).

  As a result, when it is determined that the fluctuation shortening flag is set to ON (S552: YES), a time-saving big hit fluctuation pattern table is set (S553). On the other hand, when it is determined that the fluctuation shortening flag is not set to ON (S552: NO), the normal big hit fluctuation pattern table is set (S554).

  Next, returning to FIG. 11, if it is determined in the determination processing in S508c that it is not a big hit (is out of place) (S508c: NO), it is determined whether or not the result of the determination in S508b is a small hit. (S508e). As a result, when it is determined that a small hit is made (S508e: YES), a small hit variation pattern table distribution process is performed (S508f). Here, the small hit variation pattern table distribution processing will be described based on the flowchart of FIG.

  First, it is determined whether or not the probability variation flag is ON (S560). As a result, when it is determined that the probability variation flag is set to ON (S560: YES), the probability variation small hit variation pattern table is set (S561). On the other hand, if it is determined that the probability variation flag is not set to ON (S560: NO), it is determined whether or not the variation shortening flag is set to ON (S562).

  As a result, when it is determined that the fluctuation shortening flag is set to ON (S562: YES), a time reduction small hit fluctuation pattern table is set (S563). On the other hand, when it is determined that the fluctuation shortening flag is not set to ON (S562: NO), the normal small hit fluctuation pattern table is set (S564).

  Next, returning to FIG. 11, if it is determined in S508e that the game is not a small hit (S508c: NO), the result of the first special symbol success / failure determination of this time is not a big hit or a small hit. Therefore, the deviation variation pattern table distribution process is performed (S508g). Here, the deviation variation pattern table distribution processing will be described based on the flowchart of FIG.

  First, it is determined whether or not the probability variation flag is ON (S570). As a result, if it is determined that the probability variation flag is set to ON (S570: YES), a probability variation deviation variation pattern table is set (S571). On the other hand, when it is determined that the probability variation flag is not set to ON (S570: NO), it is determined whether or not the variation shortening flag is set to ON (S572).

  As a result, when it is determined that the fluctuation shortening flag is set to ON (S572: YES), the time-shortening fluctuation pattern table is set (S573). On the other hand, when it is determined that the fluctuation shortening flag is not set to ON (S572: NO), a normal outlier fluctuation pattern table is set (S574).

  When the variation pattern table distribution process (S508d, S508f, S508g) is completed as described above, the process proceeds to S508h in FIG. 11 to acquire a variation pattern determination random number and to obtain a predetermined RAM in the main control unit 200. The design determination random number stored in the area (the first special symbol determination random number acquired when the game ball enters the first start port 28a) is read (S508h).

  Next, a variation pattern and a stop symbol of the first special symbol are determined (S508i). For the first special symbol variation pattern, the first special symbol variation pattern determination random number acquired in S508h is used to select a specific variation pattern from the variation pattern table set in any one of S508d, S508f, and S508g. . For the stop symbol of the first special symbol, the stop symbol of the first special symbol is determined as one of the probable big hit symbol, the normal big hit symbol, the small hit symbol, or the off symbol using the symbol determining random number read in S508h.

  Next, according to the stop symbol and variation pattern determined in S508i, the first special symbol display unit 61 starts the variation display of the first special symbol (S508j), and the sub-control unit 260 designates the variation pattern of the first special symbol. A command and a stop information designation command are transmitted (S508k). The variation pattern designation command is a command for designating the variation pattern of the first special symbol set in S508i, and the first special symbol information designation command is a command for designating the stop symbol of the first special symbol. When this variation pattern designation command and stop information designation command (variation start command) are transmitted to the sub-control unit 260, the symbol variation effect (effect design) under the control of the sub-control unit 260 and the effect display control unit 280 that have received these commands. Display of fluctuation). Then, 1 is subtracted from the first special symbol reservation number (S508l). The above is the processing when starting the variable display of the first special symbol. When the special symbol stop symbol is “2R probability variation big hit symbol”, “2R normal big hit symbol”, or “small hit symbol”, a variation pattern having the same or approximate variation time is selected. Yes. This makes it possible to execute a common (same) effect as a symbol variation effect when a specific hit (2R probability variable big hit, 2R normal big hit, small hit) occurs. Then, by performing a common (same) symbol variation effect at the occurrence of a specific hit (2R probability variation big hit, 2R normal variation big hit, small hit), from this effect content "second normal big hit", "second probability variable big hit", " It becomes difficult to identify (understand) which of “small hits” has occurred.

  Next, returning to FIG. 9A, if it is determined in S503 that the special symbol is changing (S503: YES), whether or not the changing display time of the changing special symbol has elapsed. Is determined (S510). As a result, if it is determined that the special symbol variation display time has not elapsed (S510: NO), it is determined that the special symbol game processing is terminated and the special symbol variation display time has elapsed. In this case (S510: YES), the special symbol variation display is stopped (S511), and the special symbol stop display time is set (S512). It should be noted that a symbol stop command is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 when the special symbol variation display is stopped by the processing of S511.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the special symbol stop symbol display time has elapsed (S513). As a result, when it is determined that the special symbol stop symbol display time has not elapsed (S513: NO), the special symbol game processing is terminated and it is determined that the special symbol stop symbol display time has elapsed. If it is determined (S513: YES), it is determined whether or not the special symbol stop symbol is a big hit symbol (S514 in FIG. 9B). As a result, when it is determined that the stop symbol of the special symbol is a big hit symbol (S514: YES), the special symbol stop symbol is the second big hit symbol (second positive variation big hit symbol or second normal big hit symbol). It is determined whether or not there is (S515). As a result, when the stop symbol of the special symbol is the second jackpot symbol (S515: YES), the opening pattern (2R jackpot opening pattern for 2R) for the second jackpot game is set ( S516) When the stop symbol of the special symbol is not the second big hit symbol (when it is the first big hit symbol) (S515: NO), the opening pattern of the big winning opening 33a for the first big hit game (15R big prize) Mouth opening pattern) is set (S517). Then, the big hit game flag is set to ON (S518). Thereby, the big hit game is started according to the big winning opening opening pattern set in the process of S516 or S517.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the probability variation flag is ON (S519). If it is determined that the probability variation flag is ON (S519: YES), the probability variation flag is set to OFF (S520). Transition to processing. On the other hand, if it is determined that the probability variation flag is not ON (S519: NO), the process proceeds to S521 as it is.

  In the process of S521, it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening flag is ON. If it is determined that the fluctuation shortening flag is not ON (S521: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated as it is. On the other hand, when it is determined that the fluctuation shortening flag is ON (S521: YES), the fluctuation shortening flag is set to OFF (S522), and the release extension flag is further set to OFF (S523). Thereby, with the start of the big hit game, the probability variation function, the variation time shortening function, and the open time extension function stop operating.

  Next, when it is determined in the determination process of S514 that the special symbol stop symbol is not a big hit symbol (S514: NO), it is determined whether or not the special symbol stop symbol is a small hit symbol (No. S524). As a result, when it is determined that the stop symbol of the special symbol is not a small hit symbol (S524: NO), the process proceeds to S527, and when it is determined that the stop symbol of the special symbol is a small hit symbol. (S524: YES), a small winning big opening opening pattern is set (S525). The small winning jackpot opening pattern is an opening pattern of the small winning jackpot 33a and has the same mode as the second jackpot game. Then, the small hit game flag is set to ON (S526). Thereby, the small hit game is started according to the big winning opening opening pattern for the small hit set in the process of S525.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the special figure special variation flag is set to ON (whether or not the special figure special variation game is being performed) (S527). As a result, when it is determined that the special map special variation flag is not set to ON (S527: NO), the process proceeds to S532, and it is determined that the special map special variation flag is set to ON. If it is found (S527: YES), 1 is subtracted from the common special variation counter (S528). The “special special variation counter” is a counter that indicates the execution period of the special special variation game (that is, a counter that defines the end condition of the special special variation game). Is set in the process of S610d (see FIG. 16), which will be described later.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the ordinary special variation counter is zero (whether or not the end time of the ordinary special variation game has arrived) (S529). As a result, if it is determined that the special figure special variation counter is not zero (the special figure special variation game has not ended) (S529: NO), the process proceeds to S532. On the other hand, when it is determined that the special figure special variation counter is zero (the special figure special variation game has ended) (S529: YES), the special figure special variation flag is set to OFF (S530). Then, a game state designation command indicating that the special-purpose special variable game has ended is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S531).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening flag is ON (S532). As a result, if it is determined that the variation shortening flag is not ON (S532: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated, and if it is determined that the variation shortening flag is ON (S532: NO), the variation shortening is performed. The counter is decremented by 1 (S533), and it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening counter has become zero (S534). The fluctuation shortening counter is for counting the operating period of the fluctuation time shortening function and the opening time extension function, and is set in the processing of S609k and S609q described later (see FIG. 16) according to the big hit symbol after the big hit game is completed. Is done.

  When it is determined that the fluctuation shortening counter is not zero (S534: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated, and when it is determined that the fluctuation shortening counter is zero (S534: YES), The fluctuation shortening flag is turned off (S535), and the open extension flag is turned off (S536). As a result, the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function are deactivated. Then, a gaming state designation command indicating that the operations of the variable time shortening function and the opening time extending function have ended (that is, that the short time game has ended) is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S537). Upon receiving this game state designation command, the sub-control unit 260 displays characters, characters, backgrounds, and the like indicating that the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function are inactive (normal state) on the effect display device 25. Process to display in the area.

  Next, the special electric accessory game process S600 will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. First, it is determined whether or not a winning game is in progress (whether the big hit game flag or the small hit game flag is ON) (S601). As a result, when it is determined that the winning game is not being played (the big hit game flag and the small hit game flag are OFF) (S601: NO), the special symbol game processing is terminated and the winning game is being played (the big hit game) If it is determined that the flag or the small hit game flag is ON) (S601: YES), it is determined whether or not the big winning opening 33a is being opened (S602). As a result, when it is determined that the special winning opening 33a is being opened (S602: YES), it is determined whether or not the opening time of the special winning opening 33a has elapsed (S603), and the special winning opening 33a is determined. When it is determined that the opening time has not elapsed (S603: NO), it is determined whether or not the specified winning number 33a has been won (whether or not the specified number of game balls have entered). (S604).

  As a result, if it is determined that the specified number of winnings has not been won in the big winning opening 33a (S604: NO), the special electric accessory game process is terminated, and the predetermined winning number is won in the large winning opening 33a. If it is determined (S604: YES) or if it is determined that the opening time of the special winning opening 33a has elapsed (S603: YES), the special winning opening 33a is closed (S605).

  If it is determined in S602 that the special winning opening 33a is not open (S602: NO), it is determined whether or not a winning game end condition is satisfied (S606). In the determination process of S606, if the first big hit game, the number of rounds of the big hit game has reached 15 rounds, if the second big hit game, whether the number of rounds of the big hit game has reached two rounds, If the game is a small hit game, it is determined whether or not the number of times of opening / closing the large winning opening 33a has reached two.

  As a result, when it is determined that the winning game end condition is not satisfied (S606: NO), it is determined whether or not the closing time (interval time) of the special winning opening 33a has elapsed (S607). When it is determined that the closing time of the special winning opening 33a has not elapsed (S607: NO), it is determined that the special electric accessory game process is finished and the closing time of the special winning opening 33a has elapsed. In the case of a match (S607: YES), the special winning opening 33a is opened (S608).

  When it is determined in S606 that the winning game end condition is satisfied (S606: YES), a winning game end process is performed (S610). Here, the winning game end process will be described based on the flowchart of FIG.

  In the winning game end process, first, the winning game flag (big hit game flag or small hit game flag) is set to OFF (S610a). Next, it is determined whether or not the winning game to be ended is a specific winning game (second probability variable big hit game, second normal big hit game, small hit game) (S610b). As a result, when it is determined that the winning game to be ended is not the specific winning game, that is, the winning game to be ended is the first big hit game (S610b: NO), the process proceeds to S610f. On the other hand, if it is determined that the winning game to be ended is a specific winning game (S610b: YES), whether or not the game state at the time of the hit is a normal state in which the probability variation function and the open time extension function are not activated. Is determined (S610c). When the open time extension function is activated, the variable time shortening function is also activated. Therefore, the fact that the open time extension function is not activated means that the variable time reduction function is not activated.

  If it is determined that the gaming state at the time of occurrence of the hit is not the normal state (S610c: NO), the process proceeds to S610f. On the other hand, if it is determined that the gaming state at the time of hitting is the normal state (S610c: YES), the special figure special fluctuation flag is set to ON (S610d), and the special figure special fluctuation counter is set a predetermined number of times (this In the embodiment, it is set to 30 times (S610e).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the current hit is a probable big hit (first probable big hit or second probable big hit) (S610f). As a result, when it is determined that the probability variation is a big hit (S610f: YES), the probability variation flag is set to ON (S610g). Thereby, the operation of the probability variation function starts (becomes a high probability state).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the completed winning game is accompanied by the operation of the opening time extension function (S610h). In the processing of S610h, the winning game that has ended is “first probability variable big hit game (15R probability variable big hit game)” or “second probability variable big hit game (2R probability variable big hit game) generated when the open time extension function is activated”. If it is determined that it is accompanied by the operation of the opening time extension function, and the winning game that has been completed is “the second probability variable big hit game (2R probability variable big hit game) that occurred when the opening time extension function was not activated”. In addition, it is determined that the operation is not accompanied by the operation of the open time extension function. If it is determined that the opening time extension function is not activated (S610h: NO), the process proceeds to S610l. If it is determined that the opening time extension function is activated (S610h: YES). ), The fluctuation shortening flag is set to ON (S610i), the open extension flag is set to ON (S610j), and the fluctuation shortening counter is set to 10,000 times (S610k). As a result, the operation of the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function starts.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in the determination process of S610f that the current hit is not a probable big hit (S610f: NO), it is determined whether or not the current hit is a normal big hit (S610m). As a result, when it is determined that it is not normally big hit (that is, when the current hit is a small hit) (S610m: NO), the process proceeds to S610l, and when it is determined that the normal big hit is ( S610m: YES), it is determined whether or not the normal jackpot game ended this time is accompanied by the operation of the opening time extension function (S610n). In the processing of S610n, the completed normal big hit game is the “first normal big hit game (15R normal big hit game)” or “the second normal big hit game generated when the open time extension function is activated (2R normal big hit game)” ”Is determined to be accompanied by the operation of the opening time extension function, and the finished normal big hit game is“ the second normal big hit game (2R normal big hit game) generated when the open time extension function is not operated ”. In some cases, it is determined that the operation is not accompanied by the opening time extension function. If it is determined that the opening time extension function is not operated (S610n: NO), the process proceeds to S610l. If it is determined that the opening time extension function is operated (S610n: YES). ), The fluctuation shortening flag is set to ON (S610o), the open extension flag is set to ON (S610p), and the fluctuation shortening counter is set to 100 times (S610q). Thereby, the operation of the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function starts (start of the short time game).

  Then, a gaming state designation command indicating whether or not each of the probability variation function, the variation time shortening function, and the opening time extension function is activated is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S610l). Upon receiving the gaming state designation command, the sub-control unit 260 operates each of the current gaming state (probability variation function, variation time shortening function, release time extension function) in the main control unit 200 based on the received gaming state designation command. Presence / absence) is determined, and an effect display (state display) indicating the gaming state is performed according to the result. Specifically, when all of the probability variation function, the variation time shortening function, and the open time extension function are operating (probability variation state), a character or character indicating that the display area of the effect display device 25 is in the probability variation state When the variable time reduction function and the open time extension function are activated (short time state), characters, characters, backgrounds, and the like indicating the short time state are displayed in the display area of the effect display device 25. indicate. In the state in which none of the probability variation function, the variation time shortening function, and the open time extension function is in operation (normal state) and only the probability variation function is in operation (latency probability variation state), the effect display device 25 A character, character, background, or the like indicating that there is a possibility of a normal state or a probable change state is displayed in the display area. This “indication indicating the possibility of a probable change state” is “high probability state” compared to the “indication indicating normal state” although the gaming state is “high probability state” or uncertain. This corresponds to an effect display that allows the player to hold the expectations of the player.

  Here, the correspondence between the processing shown in the flowcharts of FIGS. 6 to 16 and each means of the present invention will be described. The processing of S301 to S314 (FIG. 6) corresponds to the normal symbol game executing means, and S317. -S321 processing (FIG. 6) corresponds to the start opening means, S310a-S310d processing (FIG. 7) corresponds to the variable time determination means, S501-S511 processing (FIG. 9 (a)) is a special symbol. Corresponding to the game execution means, the processing of S518, S526, S601 to S608 (FIG. 9B, FIG. 15) corresponds to the hit game execution means, and the processing of S319, S610j, S610p (FIG. 6, FIG. 16). Corresponding to the open time extension means, the processing of S508b, S509b, S610g (FIGS. 11 and 16) corresponds to the probability setting means, and the processing of S310a, S310d, and S610d (FIGS. 7 and 16). Corresponding to the special variation game execution means, the processing of S528 and S529 (FIG. 9 (b)) corresponds to the special symbol variation display counting means, and the processing of S530 (FIG. 9 (b)) corresponds to the special variation game end means. doing.

  In the present embodiment described above, the normal symbol variation time is triggered by the execution of a specific hit game (second probability variable big hit game, second normal big hit game, small hit game) when the open time extension function is not activated. By executing the special symbol special variation game that shortens the normal symbol, the variation frequency of the normal symbol is improved, and the execution frequency of the normal symbol success / failure determination is improved. For this reason, compared with the case where the special symbol special variation game is not executed, the frequency of obtaining the result of the normal symbol success / failure determination is improved, and the occurrence frequency of the opportunity to open the second start port 28b is also improved accordingly. Thereby, even if the opening time extension function is not activated, the frequency of opening the second starting port 28b can be improved during execution of the special special variation game, so that it is possible to increase the chances of winning a prize at the starting port 28b. As a result, it is possible to increase the chances of the second special symbol change display (the number of times the special symbol changes). Increase the number of times).

  In particular, in the present embodiment, most of the results of the normal symbol success / failure determination are configured to be “winning” (the winning probability of the normal symbol success / failure determination “65355/65356”), and the special symbol special variation game is not executed. The normal symbol variation time (normal variation variation time) is set to a long time of “40 minutes”, and the normal symbol variation time (short variation variation time) during the execution of the special special variation game is “ It is set to a short time of “1 second”. For this reason, when the opening time extension function is not in operation, the opening frequency of the second start port 28b during the usual special variation game is overwhelmingly higher than the opening frequency when the usual special variation game is not being performed. As a result, the opening frequency of the second start port 28b can be improved with the execution of the special-purpose special game, and even if the open time extension function is not activated, the opportunity to win the start port 28b can be increased. As a result, it is possible to effectively increase the chance of the variable display of the second special symbol (the number of variations of the special symbol).

  And, when the probability variation function is activated (in the latent probability variation state) due to an increase in the number of times of variation of the second special symbol accompanying the execution of the special special variation game, a big hit is likely to occur. Thereby, the player indirectly grasps the operation state of the probability variation function (whether or not the latent probability variation state has occurred) triggered by the execution of the specific hit game when the open time extension function is not activated. It is possible to create a situation in which the player can guess the gaming state. As a result, in the gaming machine that generates the probability non-notification state (latency probability variation state), it is possible to reduce the burden on the player and to suppress the increase in euphoria.

  In addition, by executing the specific hit game when the open time extension function is not activated as an opportunity to start the execution of the special variable game, the player has the benefit of notifying the game state by the occurrence of the specific hit game. Can be obtained. For this reason, the player expects the occurrence of a specific hit game when the opening time extension function is inactive, and the game where the winning opening is short and the player cannot expect to win a prize ball (the so-called game without a ball) ) Can be given a new game value.

  During normal games (when the opening time extension function is not activated), the normal symbol fluctuation time is long (40 minutes in this embodiment) and the opening time of the second start port 28b is short (1 to 2 in this embodiment). 2 seconds), the opening frequency of the second starting port 28b (starting port winning possibility) is a gaming state that is low, during the probability variation game and the short-time game (when the variable time shortening function and the opening time extension function are activated) Since the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is short (1 second in this embodiment) and the opening time of the second starting port 28b is long (4 to 6 seconds in this embodiment), the opening frequency of the second starting port 28b (starting port winning a prize) A gaming state with a high possibility). With respect to these gaming states, during the special special variation game of the present embodiment, the variation time of the normal symbol is short (1 second in the present embodiment) and the opening time of the second start port 28b is short (this embodiment). 1 to 2 seconds), the start port opening frequency (start port winning possibility) is higher than that in the normal game, and lower than that in the probability change game and the short-time game. As a result, the start opening frequency (start opening winning possibility) can create a game state in an intermediate stage between when the opening time extension function is inactive and when the opening time extension function is in operation, thereby providing new gaming characteristics. be able to.

(Second embodiment)
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the second embodiment, only the parts different from the first embodiment will be described.

  In the first embodiment, the special special variation counter starts operating (starts subtraction) from the end of the specific hit game that occurs when the opening time extension function is not operated, whereas in the second embodiment, it is opened. The difference is that, after the end of the specific game that occurs when the time extension function is inactive, the normal figure special variation counter starts to operate (begin subtraction) from the beginning of the first normal symbol variation start.

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the normal symbol variation pattern setting process of the second embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 7 of the first embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 17, in the second embodiment, when it is determined in the determination process of S310a that the special figure special variation flag is ON (S310a: YES), the universal figure counter operation flag is set to ON. It is determined whether or not (S310h). The “common figure counter operation flag” is a flag for determining the timing for starting the operation of the special figure special variation counter. As a result, when it is determined that the usual figure counter operation flag is not set to ON (S310h: NO), the ordinary figure counter operation flag is set to ON (S310i).

  FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the latter half of the special symbol game process of the second embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 9B of the first embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 18, in the second embodiment, whether or not the general counter operation flag is set to ON after the negative determination result in S524 or after the small hit flag setting process in S526. Is determined (S538). As a result, when it is determined that the common figure counter operation flag is set to ON (S538: YES), the special figure special fluctuation counter is decremented by 1 (S528), and the common figure special fluctuation counter becomes zero. If this is the case (S529: YES), the special figure variation flag is set to OFF (S530), and the common figure counter operation flag is set to OFF (S539).

  In the second embodiment, the processes of S310h, S310i, and S538 correspond to the counting start delay unit.

  According to the configuration of the second embodiment described above, the normal special variation counter does not start operating until the normal symbol starts to display the variation after the specific hit game that has occurred when the open time extension function is not activated. For this reason, when the normal symbol shifts to the special variation game during the variation display with the normal variation pattern (variation time 40 minutes), the special symbol is displayed several times before the next regular symbol variation display starts. However, the special figure variation counter is not subtracted with the execution of the fluctuation display of the special symbol, and the execution period of the special figure variation game is not shortened by the start of the fluctuation of the normal symbol. As a result, the player can surely enjoy the benefits of the special special variation game in which the variation time of the normal symbol is shortened.

  In the configuration of the second embodiment, a special fluctuation start command (game) indicating that a special figure variable game is started when the common figure counter operation flag is set to ON in the process of S310i (FIG. 17). A type of state designation command) is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260, and the sub-control unit 260 that has received this command notifies the display area of the effect display device 25 that the normal special variation game is started. May be. As a result, even if it takes a long time to start the fluctuation display of the next normal symbol when the normal symbol shifts to the special variation game during the fluctuation display in the normal fluctuation pattern (variation time 40 minutes), The player can correctly recognize the timing at which the special figure special variation game is actually started (operation start timing of the special figure special variation counter).

(Third embodiment)
Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the third embodiment, only parts different from the above embodiments will be described.

  In the first embodiment, the special special game is started when the specific hit game generated when the opening time extension function is not operated. However, in the third embodiment, the opening time extension function is used. If the normal symbol is displayed fluctuating at the end of the specific per game that occurred when the game is not in operation, the special special variable game is started only if the remaining fluctuation time of the fluctuation display is less than the predetermined time. The point is different.

  FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the process at the end of the winning game of the third embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 16 of the first embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 19, in the third embodiment, it is determined in the determination processing of S610c that the gaming state at the time of occurrence of a hit (at the time of occurrence of a specific hit) is a normal state (when the open time extension function is not activated). In the case (S610c), it is determined whether or not the normal symbol is changing (S610r). As a result, when it is determined that the normal symbol is not changing (S610r: NO), the process proceeds to S610f, and when it is determined that the normal symbol is changing (S610r: YES), the normal symbol is changed. It is determined whether or not the remaining fluctuation time of the symbol is less than a predetermined time (5 minutes in this embodiment) (S610s). As a result, when it is determined that the remaining fluctuation time of the normal symbol is not less than 5 minutes (the remaining fluctuation time is 5 minutes or more) (S610s: NO), the process proceeds to S610f, If it is determined that the remaining fluctuation time is less than 5 minutes (S610s: YES), the special figure special fluctuation flag is set to ON (S610d), and the special figure special fluctuation counter is set a predetermined number of times (in this embodiment). 30 times) (S610e). In the third embodiment, the process at S610s corresponds to the remaining variation time determination means, and the process when S610s results in a negative result corresponds to the special variation game start restriction means.

  According to the configuration of the third embodiment described above, when a normal symbol is displayed in a variable manner at the end of a specific game that has occurred when the open time extension function is not operated, if the remaining variable time of the normal symbol is long, it is normal. If the figure special variable game does not start and the remaining fluctuation time of the normal symbol is short, the general figure special variable game starts. For this reason, even if the special per-game has ended and the special figure special variable game has started, the normal symbol does not start to be changed after the start of the special figure special variable game. It is no longer possible to display only the fluctuation and only the counting process of the special figure special fluctuation counter proceeds to shorten the execution period of the special figure special fluctuation game. As a result, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of a problem that the player cannot fully enjoy the benefits of the usual special variation game. In addition, the longer the remaining fluctuation time of the normal symbol, the more likely that a specific hit game will occur again within that remaining fluctuation time, so if the remaining fluctuation time of the normal symbol is not less than the predetermined time, Even if the game is not started, it is unlikely that the player is disadvantaged. As a result, the player can appropriately enjoy the benefits of the special special variation game that shortens the variation time of the normal symbol.

(Fourth embodiment)
Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the fourth embodiment, only portions different from the above embodiments will be described.

  In the first embodiment, the special special game is started when the specific hit game generated when the open time extension function is not operated. However, in the fourth embodiment, the specific hit game is started. The difference is that when the first special symbol random number to be generated is stored (that is, when the holding of the first special symbol that will generate a specific hit game occurs), the special special variation game is started. .

  In the gaming machine 1 according to the fourth embodiment, when a game ball enters the first start port 28a and the suspension occurs, the special symbol random number that is suspended is a specific hit (second probability variation big hit, second normal change A pre-determination process is performed to determine whether or not a big hit or a small hit is generated (whether or not a big hit is held) when the hold occurs.

  In the pre-determination process, a first special symbol random number (a special symbol success / failure determination random number, a special symbol determination random number) acquired when a game ball enters the first start port 28a is stored in the RAM of the main control unit 200. Whether or not the first special symbol random number held is a per-hold for generating a specific hit prior to the first special symbol success / failure determination when stored in the predetermined area (first hold storage area), Determine when the hold occurs. This prior determination process is performed by the main control unit 200. For this reason, the main control unit 200 corresponds to the prior determination means of the present invention.

  FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the start opening winning process of the fourth embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 10 of the first embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 20, in the fourth embodiment, the first special symbol random number is acquired in S501c and stored in a predetermined area of the RAM, and then a preliminary determination process is performed (S501g). Here, the prior determination process will be described based on the flowchart of FIG.

  First, it is determined whether or not the first special symbol random number stored in the predetermined area of the RAM in the process of S501c matches the hit value for generating a specific hit (second probability variation big hit, second normal big hit, small hit). (S580). As a result, when it is determined that the first special symbol random number does not coincide with the winning value for generating the specific winning (S580: NO), the preliminary determination processing is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the random number for the first special symbol coincides with the winning value for generating the specific winning (S580: YES), the special special variation flag is set to ON (S581). The special variation counter is set to a predetermined number (30 times in this embodiment) (S582).

  FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the process at the end of the winning game of the fourth embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 16 of the first embodiment.

  In the fourth embodiment, since the common figure special variation flag and the common figure special variation counter are set in the pre-determination process, as shown in FIG. The process of S610e is not provided.

  In the fourth embodiment described above, the pre-determining process is performed when the opening time extension function is not activated, and the special-purpose special variable game is started in response to the occurrence of the hold for the first special symbol that generates the specific hit. It is configured as follows. As described above, the same effect as in the first embodiment can also be obtained by the configuration in which the special special variation game is started before the start of the specific hit game in a situation where occurrence of the specific hit is committed.

(5th Example)
Next, a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the fifth embodiment, only parts different from the above embodiments will be described.

  FIG. 23 is a front view of the game board 20 of the fifth embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 2 of the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 23, in the fifth embodiment, the normal symbol operation gate 27 is arranged in the right area of the game area 21 (right side of the central device 24). Further, the fixed first start port 28a and the variable second start port 28b are arranged apart from each other. Specifically, the first start port 28a is disposed below the central device 24, and the second start port 28b is disposed in the right region of the game area 21 (the right side of the central device 24). In the example shown in FIG. 23, the normal symbol operation gate 27 is disposed above the second start port 28b.

  In the configuration of the fifth embodiment, during a normal game in which the opening time extension function is not activated, the player aims to enter the game ball from the left region of the game region 21 into the first start port 28a. Left-handed to fire (so-called “bukkake aim”). As a result, it is possible to generate a hit in the first special symbol determination due to the game ball entering the first start port 28a.

  Then, when a specific hit occurs when the open time extension function is not activated and the special special game starts after the end of the specified hit game, the player aims at the right area of the game area 21 and plays the game ball. Make a right-hand shot to fire. As a result, the game ball that has been fired to the right passes through the normal symbol operation gate 27 with a high probability, and the normal start / fail determination made based on the passage becomes a hit, thereby opening the second start port 28b. be able to. Furthermore, by making a right strike, a game ball can enter the second start port 28b that has been opened.

  In the configuration of the fifth embodiment described above, the player makes a left strike when the opening time extension function is inactive (when the special-purpose special game is not being executed). When the specific hit occurs when the open time extension function is not activated and the specific hit game is executed, the normal symbol is not displayed in a variable manner. For this reason, the normal symbol does not fluctuate in a long-time fluctuation pattern at the start of the special symbol special variation game, and the player can surely enjoy the benefits of the special diagram special variation game that shortens the variation time of the normal symbol be able to.

(Other embodiments)
As mentioned above, although the Example of this invention was described, this invention is not limited to this, Unless it deviates from the range described in each claim, it is not limited to the description word of each claim, and those skilled in the art Improvements based on the knowledge that a person skilled in the art normally has can be added as appropriate to the extent that they can be easily replaced.

  For example, in each of the above embodiments, the second big hit game is set so that the number of big hit rounds is smaller than the first big hit game and the opening time of the big winning opening 33a is shortened. The number of jackpot rounds for the jackpot game and the first jackpot game may be the same, and the opening time of the jackpot 33a for the second jackpot game may be set shorter than the opening time of the jackpot 33a for the first jackpot game. . At this time, in the small hit game, the number of times of opening / closing the big winning opening may be the same as the first big winning game and the second big winning game, and the big winning opening time may be the same as that of the second big winning game.

  Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the special symbol variation game end condition is that the number of times the special symbol variation exceeds the predetermined number. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The fact that the number of times of fluctuation exceeds a predetermined number may be set as the termination condition of the usual special fluctuation game.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Game machine, 28 ... Start opening, 33a ... Grand prize opening, 61 ... Special symbol display part (symbol display part), 200 ... Main control part (Normal symbol game execution means, start opening opening means, special symbol game execution means) , Winning game execution means, opening time extension means, probability setting means, probability non-notification state generation means, variation time table storage means, variation time determination means, special variation game execution means, special symbol variation display counting means, special variation game end Means, counting start delay means, remaining variation time determination means, special variation game start restriction means), 260... Sub-control unit (probability non-notification state generation means).

Claims (1)

A first starting port through which a game ball can enter,
A second starting port capable of changing between a closed state in which a game ball cannot enter and an open state in which a game ball can enter;
A normal symbol game execution means for displaying a normal symbol in the normal symbol display section in response to detection of a game ball flowing down on the surface of the game board, and for stopping and displaying after a predetermined period of time;
Starting port opening means for opening the second starting port when the normal symbol hits and displays a stop at the normal symbol;
A special symbol game execution means for variably displaying the special symbol on the special symbol display unit when the game ball enters the first starting port or the second starting port, and for stopping and displaying after a predetermined time,
A first winning game that opens and closes a prize winning opening when the special symbol is stopped and displayed as a special symbol, and an opening and closing action of the winning prize opening that is shorter than the first winning game. A winning game execution means for executing a winning game including a second winning game for performing,
An opening time extending means for extending a time for the second start port to be in an open state;
A probability setting means for setting a hit probability that the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the hit special symbol to a normal probability or a high probability higher than the normal probability;
Probability non-notification for generating a probability non-notification state in which it is difficult to identify whether the winning probability set by the probability setting means is the normal probability or the high probability after the second winning game is ended. State generating means;
A variation time table storage means for storing a first variation time table that defines a first variation time as the variation time of the normal symbol and a second variation time table that defines a second variation time shorter than the first variation time; ,
When the opening time of the second start port is not extended by the opening time extending means, the normal symbol changing time is determined using the first changing time table, and the opening time extending means determines the first changing time . (2) When the opening time of the start port is extended, a variation time determining means for determining a variation time of the normal symbol using the second variation time table;
When the opening time of the second start port is not extended by the opening time extension means, the first variable time table is used as the variable time table used in the normal symbol game when the second winning game is generated. Special variation game execution means for executing a special variation game for switching from the second variation time table to the second variation time table,
The special variation game execution means includes:
Special symbol variation display counting means for counting the number of times the special symbol is variably displayed after the start of the special variation game;
Special variation game ending means for ending the special variation game when the number of variations of the special symbol counted by the counting means reaches a predetermined number of times,
Count start delay means for delaying the start of counting the number of variations of the special symbol by the special symbol variation display counting means until the normal symbol starts variation display after the start of the special variation game. To play.

Images