JP6144792B1 - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

An object of the present invention is to enhance the fun of a game by providing an effect that can entertain a player. When a game machine stores (holds) new judgment information by winning a game ball at a start opening, based on a prior judgment result of the judgment information, a pending change notice is triggered by the judgment information. There is a case where an effect is performed and a case where a countdown notice effect is performed. In the case of the hold change notice effect, the hold icon corresponding to the determination information that has been triggered is temporarily displayed in the low expectation display mode, and then the medium expectation display mode with high expectation at the next symbol change or high Change to the expectation display mode. In the case of countdown notice effect, the hold icon corresponding to the triggering judgment information is once displayed in the change suggestion display mode, and then the medium expectation display mode and high expectation with high expectation at the time of the next and subsequent symbol changes Change to the degree display mode. [Selection] Figure 3

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine capable of performing a special game advantageous to a player and performing an effect that suggests to the player the degree of expectation that the special game will be performed before the special game is performed.

  Conventionally, a gaming machine that determines whether or not to play a special game advantageous to the player (for example, a big hit game) based on the fact that a game ball launched into the game area wins a start opening provided in the game area was there. When such a gaming machine determines whether or not to play a special game, after changing a predetermined symbol (for example, a special symbol) for a predetermined period, the gaming machine is stopped to show the determination result. In addition, in such a gaming machine, a so-called “pre-reading notice” is displayed in the hold display area on the display screen so as to indicate a promising expectation to the player by displaying an intense hot hold icon or a chance hold icon. There was also a thing (for example, refer the following patent document 1).

JP 2014-140538 A

  The effects performed by the prior art are familiar to the player, and even if such an effect is performed, the player may not be entertained.

  SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of enhancing the fun of a game by performing an effect that can entertain a player in order to eliminate problems with the prior art.

  In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, the gaming machine according to the present invention can store the right of the special game determination as to whether or not to play a special game advantageous to the player by satisfying the first condition. Before the special game determination is performed by the storage means, the special game determination means for performing the special game determination on the right stored in the storage means by the establishment of the second condition, and before the special game determination is performed by the special game determination means. A pre-determining means for pre-determining whether or not to play the special game for the right stored in the storage means, and an effect control means capable of executing a predetermined effect using a predetermined effect means including a display means. And the presentation control unit displays a predetermined presentation display on the display unit and displays the presentation display in a change suggestion display mode in response to the right being stored in the storage unit. Time and When the display is performed in a predetermined display mode different from the change suggestion display mode, the display of the effect is displayed regardless of whether the display is displayed in either the change suggestion display mode or the predetermined display mode. Based on the prior determination result of the prior determination means, the display may be changed to a high expectation display mode that suggests that the special game is likely to be performed, and the effect display is the change suggestion display mode. When displayed, the change suggestion display mode may be changed from the change suggestion display mode to the high expectation level display mode after elapse of a predetermined period, and when the effect display is displayed in the predetermined display mode, before the predetermined period elapses, When changing from the predetermined display mode to the high expectation level display mode and changing the effect display from the change suggestion display mode to the high expectation level display mode , Characterized in that the effect display can be performed progression effect suggesting period from the change suggested display mode to be changed to the high expectation display manner.

  In the above invention, the high expectation level display mode includes a first high expectation level display mode and a second suggesting that the possibility that the special game is performed is higher than the first high expectation level display mode. And when the effect display is changed from the change suggestion display mode to the high expectation display mode, the second high expectation display mode is more than the first high expectation level display mode. It is good also as being easy to be changed into a mode.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to enhance the fun of the game by performing an effect that can entertain the player.

It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the basic composition of the game machine of this Embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the internal structure of the game machine of this Embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the functional structure of the game machine of this Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing shown about the holding | maintenance icon of this Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing shown about the display mode of the hold icon of this Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a start opening prize process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a special symbol fluctuation | variation process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the jackpot determination in this Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the fluctuation pattern determination in this Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows an example of production control processing. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the production pattern in this Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a pending | holding icon display start process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the outline | summary of the various determination which an image and audio | voice control part performs. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a pending | holding icon display change process. It is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows the example of a countdown notice effect. It is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows the example of an effect of countdown notice effect. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of an effect of a pending | holding change notice effect.

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of a gaming machine according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the present embodiment, an example in which the gaming machine according to the present invention is applied to a pachinko gaming machine (so-called “digipachi”) belonging to the former type 1 will be described, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the gaming machine according to the present invention may be applied to a pachinko gaming machine referred to as a so-called “1 type / 2 type mixing machine”, or applied to a rotary type gaming machine referred to as a so-called “slot machine”. May be.

(Basic configuration of gaming machine of this embodiment)
First, the basic configuration of the gaming machine of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a basic configuration of the gaming machine according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment includes a gaming board 101. Below the game board 101, a launching unit (see reference numeral 292 in FIG. 2) for launching a game ball is provided. The game ball launched by the launching unit rises along the rail 102 and reaches the upper position of the game board 101, and then falls within the game area 103. Although not shown, the game area 103 is provided with a large number of nails and windmills. As a result, the falling trajectory of the game ball is difficult for the player to predict.

  An image display unit 104 is provided in the approximate center of the game board 101. The image display unit 104 displays effect designs, background images, hold icons, effect images of various effects (for example, reach effects), and the like. A liquid crystal display or the like can be used for the image display unit 104.

  In the game board 101, a first start port 105 is provided below the image display unit 104, and a second start port 106 is provided to the right of the first start port 105. The first start port 105 is provided in a region where a game ball launched by so-called “left strike” (that is, a game ball launched with a firing strength less than a predetermined value) falls. The second starting port 106 is provided in a region where a game ball launched by so-called “right-handed” (that is, a game ball launched with a firing strength of a predetermined value or more) falls.

  For this reason, the player can aim to win the first starting port 105 by adjusting the firing strength of the game ball (by left-handed or right-handed), or to the second starting port 106. You can aim for a prize. Note that the gaming machine 100 pays out a predetermined number (for example, three balls) of winning balls each time the gaming ball wins the first starting port 105 or the second starting port 106.

  The second starting port 106 is provided with an ordinary electric accessory (so-called “electric tulip”) 107 that can be opened and closed. When the ordinary electric accessory 107 is opened, the game ball is likely to win the second start port 106, and when the ordinary electric accessory 107 is closed, the game ball is difficult to win the second start port 106. The ordinary electric accessory 107 is normally closed, and is opened for a predetermined period (for example, 1 second) based on the normal symbol determination result. The normal symbol determination is performed when the game ball passes through the gate 108 provided on the right side of the image display unit 104.

  In the game board 101, a large winning opening (so-called “attacker”) 109 a that can be opened and closed is provided to the right of the first start opening 105. Similarly to the second starting port 106, the big winning port 109a is also provided in an area where a game ball hit by a right strike falls. When the grand prize opening 109a is open, the game ball can be awarded to the grand prize opening 109a, and when the big prize opening 109a is closed, the game ball cannot be awarded to the grand prize opening 109a (or difficult to win). Become. The special winning opening 109a is normally closed and is opened for a predetermined period based on the jackpot determination result. The big hit determination is performed by winning a game ball at the first start port 105 or the second start port 106. The gaming machine 100 pays out a predetermined number (for example, 15 balls) of prize balls every time a game ball wins the big prize opening 109a.

  In the game board 101, an openable / closable V area 109b is provided below the special winning opening 109a. The V area 109b is also provided in an area where a game ball hit by a right strike falls in the same manner as the second start opening 106 and the big winning opening 109a. When the V area 109b is opened, the game ball can pass through the V area 109b (can enter the V area 109b), and when the V area 109b is closed, the game ball cannot pass through the V area 109b ( V cannot enter the V region 109b). The V area 109b is also normally closed like the big prize opening 109a, and is opened for a predetermined period based on the jackpot determination result.

  In the game board 101, a normal winning opening 110 is provided on the left side of the first start opening 105. The gaming machine 100 pays out a predetermined number (for example, three balls) of winning balls each time a gaming ball wins the normal winning opening 110. In the lowermost part of the game area 103, the first starting port 105, the second starting port 106, the big winning port 109a, the V region 109b, and the normal winning port 110 were not won (entered). A collection port 111 for collecting game balls is provided.

  An information display unit 112 is provided at the lower left position of the game board 101. Although details will be described later, the information display unit 112 is a special symbol display unit (see reference numerals 112a, 112b, etc. in FIG. 2) for displaying a special symbol for indicating the jackpot determination result. Normal symbol display section for displaying normal symbols (see 112c, etc. in FIG. 2), Reservation number display section for displaying the number of holds (see 112d, etc. in FIG. 2), Round number display for displaying the number of rounds (See reference numeral 112e in FIG. 2) and the like.

  In FIG. 1, a frame member 113 is provided so as to surround the outer periphery of the game area 103. The frame member 113 has a shape that surrounds the periphery of the game area 103 on the four sides on the top, bottom, left, and right of the game board 101 and protrudes toward the player. The frame member 113 incorporates a speaker 114 that can output effect sounds (such as BGM and sound effects) of various effects, an effect light unit 115 that can be lit in a predetermined lighting mode, and the like.

  An operation handle 116 is provided at the lower right position of the frame member 113. The operation handle 116 is provided so as to protrude to the player side, and is used for a game ball launching operation. Specifically, the operation handle 116 includes a firing instruction member 117. The firing instruction member 117 is provided on the outer periphery of the operation handle 116 so as to be rotated clockwise as viewed from the player.

  The launcher launches a game ball with a launch intensity corresponding to the rotation angle of the launch instruction member 117 relative to the operation handle 116. In addition, the operation handle 116 is provided with a sensor that detects that the player directly operates the firing instruction member 117. The launching unit launches a game ball when it is detected by this sensor that the firing instruction member 117 is directly operated by the player.

  In FIG. 1, an effect button 118 and a cross key 119 are provided on the lower part of the frame member 113, and an operation lever 120 is provided on the upper part of the frame member 113. The effect button 118, the cross key 119, and the operation lever 120 function as operation means that can be operated by the player. In FIG. 1, a hitting ball supply tray (not shown) is provided on the lower portion of the frame member 113, and a game ball is accommodated in the hitting ball supply tray. Further, the hitting ball supply tray has a shape inclined toward the launching unit, and sequentially sends out the stored game balls to the launching unit.

  In addition, a movable accessory 130 is provided at a predetermined position of the game board 101. The movable accessory 130 is an accessory that is driven during a predetermined effect (for example, an effect with a high expectation level of jackpot such as so-called “super reach”). For example, the movable accessory 130 is usually positioned above the image display unit 104 as shown in FIG. 1, but is driven to advance to the front surface of the image display unit 104 during a predetermined effect. Here, the movable accessory 130 is provided on the game board 101, but is not limited thereto, and may be provided on the frame member 113, for example.

  In addition, the arrangement positions of the first start opening 105, the second start opening 106, the big winning opening 109a, the V region 109b, the normal winning opening 110, etc. are not limited to the example shown in FIG. For example, the second start port 106 and the big winning port 109 a may be provided below the image display unit 104 as with the first start port 105. These arrangement positions may be arbitrarily determined by the manufacturer of the gaming machine 100 in consideration of the game characteristics of the gaming machine 100 and the like. In the example shown in FIG. 1, one image display unit 104 is provided. However, the first image display unit (for example, a so-called “main display”) and the second image display unit (for example, a so-called “sub-display”). It is good also as a structure which provides two image display parts.

(Outline of game progress in gaming machine of this embodiment)
Next, an outline of the game progress in the gaming machine 100 of the present embodiment will be described. The gaming machine 100 makes a jackpot determination when a game ball wins the first starting port 105 or the second starting port 106. In the present embodiment, by this jackpot determination, a 16-round probability variation jackpot (hereinafter referred to as “16R probability variation jackpot”), an eight-round probability variation jackpot (hereinafter referred to as “8R probability variation jackpot”), an eight-round ordinary jackpot (hereinafter referred to as “8R ordinary jackpot”). It is assumed that it is determined to be either lost or lost.

  When the gaming machine 100 makes a jackpot determination, the special symbol display unit of the information display unit 112 starts to change the special symbol. In addition, the gaming machine 100 causes the image display unit 104 to start changing the effect symbol in synchronization with the start of changing the special symbol. In the present embodiment, it is assumed that three (three columns) effect symbols each representing one of the numbers “1 to 9” are displayed on the image display unit 104. When these effect symbols are changed, for example, the numbers are scrolled from the top to the bottom of the display screen of the image display unit 104 so that the numbers scroll in order from the smallest number.

  The gaming machine 100 changes the special symbol for a predetermined period and then stops to show the jackpot determination result. For example, if the jackpot determination result is a 16R probability variation jackpot, it is stopped at the 16R probability variation jackpot provided corresponding to the 16R probability variation jackpot, and if it is an 8R probability variation jackpot, it corresponds to the 8R probability variation jackpot. Stop at the provided 8R probability variation jackpot symbol. Also, if the jackpot determination result is an 8R normal jackpot, it is stopped at the 8R normal jackpot symbol provided corresponding to the 8R normal jackpot, and if it is a loss, the loss provided corresponding to the loss Stop at the symbol.

  In addition, the gaming machine 100 also stops the change of the effect symbol in the image display unit 104 in synchronization with the change stop of the special symbol. For example, when the jackpot determination result is one of the jackpots, the effect symbol is stopped with the jackpot combination. The jackpot combination may be a characteristic combination such as a so-called “Zolo (for example,“ 1 · 1 · 1 ”)”. In this way, the player can easily determine that it is a jackpot combination.

  When the jackpot determination result is a loss, the effect symbol is stopped by a combination of the losses. For example, the combination of losers may be a combination different from the jackpot combination. Specifically, for example, so-called “reach loser eyes (for example,“ 1 · 2 · 1 ”)” or “break eyes (for example,“ 5 ”). • 1 · 6 ”)”. The reach lose eye is stopped when the jackpot determination result is a loss and a reach effect is performed. On the other hand, the loose eye is stopped when the jackpot determination result is lost and the reach effect is not performed. In the following, the loss when the reach loss eye is stopped, that is, the loss when the reach effect is performed is referred to as “reach loss”, and the lose when the loose eye is stopped, that is, the reach effect is not performed. In some cases, the loss in the case is referred to as “normal loss”.

  Moreover, when the jackpot determination result is a specific jackpot, the effect symbol may be stopped by a specific jackpot combination. In this case, when the jackpot determination result is a jackpot other than the specific jackpot, the effect symbol is stopped with a jackpot combination other than the specific jackpot combination (hereinafter referred to as “non-specific jackpot combination”). Specifically, for example, if the jackpot determination result is a 16R probability variation jackpot, the production symbol is stopped with a specific jackpot combination (for example, “7” doublet), and the other jackpot Is stopped with a non-specific jackpot combination (for example, a doublet other than “7”). Further, in this case, even if the jackpot determination result is a specific jackpot, it is possible to stop the effect symbols with a non-specific combination with a predetermined probability, and then perform a so-called “promotion effect”.

  Even if the jackpot determination result is a big hit or a loss, the effect symbol may be stopped at a so-called “chance” with a predetermined probability. For example, a chance combination is a characteristic combination other than a doublet such as “1, 2, 3”, or a combination including a predetermined chance symbol provided for the chance item (for example, a medium effect symbol among three effect symbols) Can be a chance pattern). In this way, it is possible to give the player a sense of expectation such as “may be a big hit” when stopping at the chance.

  When the jackpot determination result is a jackpot, the gaming machine 100 plays a jackpot game after the change of the special symbol or effect symbol is stopped. For example, when the jackpot determination result is a 16R probability variation jackpot, a 16R probability variation jackpot game is performed. The 16R probability variable jackpot game is a 16-round jackpot game. In the 16R probability variation jackpot game, for example, in each round from the first round to the 16th round, the grand prize opening 109a is opened for 29.5 seconds (or until 10 balls are won in the big prize opening 109a), and further, a predetermined round In the (for example, 14th round), the V region 109b is opened for a long period (for example, 5 seconds).

  Further, when the jackpot determination result is 8R probability variation jackpot, an 8R probability variation jackpot game is performed. The 8R probability variable jackpot game is an 8-round jackpot game. In the 8R probability variation jackpot game, for example, in each round from the 1st round to the 8th round, the grand prize opening 109a is opened for 29.5 seconds (or until 10 balls are won in the big prize opening 109a), and a predetermined round In the (for example, the sixth round), the V region 109b is opened for a long period (for example, 5 seconds).

  If the jackpot determination result is an 8R normal jackpot, an 8R normal jackpot game is performed. The 8R normal jackpot game is an 8-round jackpot game. In the 8R regular jackpot game, for example, in each round from the 1st round to the 8th round, the grand prize opening 109a is opened for 29.5 seconds (or until 10 balls are won in the big prize opening 109a), and a predetermined round The V region 109b is opened for a short period (for example, 0.5 seconds) in (for example, the sixth round).

  Although details will be described later, in the present embodiment, it is easy to enter a probability variation gaming state after an 8R probability variation jackpot game, and it is difficult to enter a probability variation gaming state after an 8R normal jackpot game. For this reason, whether it is an 8R probability variable jackpot game or an 8R normal jackpot game is of great concern to the player, but the 8R probability variable jackpot game and the 8R normal jackpot game differ only in the opening mode of the V region 109b. .

  For this reason, it is difficult for the player to determine whether the 8R probability variation jackpot game is being played or whether the 8R normal jackpot game is being played until the V region 109b is released. As a result, when an 8R probability variable jackpot game and an 8R regular jackpot game are played, until the V area 109b is released, a sense of expectation such as “may be an 8R probability variable jackpot game” and a sense of crisis such as “may be an 8R regular jackpot game” (So-called “pounding feeling”) can be given to the player, and the player can be entertained.

  The gaming machine 100 controls the progress of the game in a specific gaming state advantageous to the player after the big hit game. For example, when a game ball passes through the V area 109b during the jackpot game, the progress of the game is controlled in the probability variation game state after the jackpot game. Here, the probability variation gaming state is a high probability gaming state (a gaming state in which a so-called “probability variation function” is activated) and an auxiliary gaming state (a gaming state in which a so-called “electric chew support function” is activated).

  That is, when the gaming machine 100 is in the probability variation gaming state, the probability of determining a big hit in the jackpot determination (hereinafter referred to as “big hit probability”) compared to the normal gaming state (low probability gaming state and non-auxiliary gaming state). ) And the control so that the game ball can easily win the second starting port 106. Note that the gaming machine 100 terminates the probability variation gaming state when the symbol variation (variation and stop) of the special symbol is performed a predetermined number of times (185 times in the present embodiment) after entering the probability variation gaming state, and the normal gaming state Return to. The progress of the game is controlled in the normal game state until the next jackpot game is performed.

  Further, for example, when the game ball does not pass through the V area 109b during the jackpot game, the progress of the game is controlled in the short-time game state after the jackpot game. Here, the short-time gaming state is a low-probability gaming state and an auxiliary gaming state. That is, the gaming machine 100 performs control so that the game ball is likely to win the second starting port 106, although the jackpot probability is not increased when the gaming machine 100 is in the short-time gaming state compared with the normal gaming state. Note that the gaming machine 100 ends the short-time gaming state and returns to the normal gaming state when the special symbol is changed a predetermined number of times (100 times in the present embodiment) after entering the short-time gaming state. The progress of the game is controlled in the normal game state until the next jackpot game is performed.

  As described above, in the 16R probability variation jackpot game and the 8R probability variation jackpot game, the V region 109b is opened for a long period of time. For this reason, during these jackpot games, the game ball easily passes through the V region 109b. Therefore, after the 16R probability variation jackpot game and after the 8R probability variation jackpot game, the progress of the game is easily controlled in the probability variation gaming state. On the other hand, in the 8R normal jackpot game, the V region 109b is opened only for a short period. For this reason, during an 8R normal jackpot game, it is difficult for the game ball to pass through the V region 109b. Therefore, after the 8R normal big hit game, the progress of the game is easily controlled in the short-time game state (it is difficult to control in the probability variation game state).

  In the example described here, the jackpot determination result is one of 16R probability variable jackpot, 8R probability variable jackpot, 8R normal jackpot, or loser, and 16 round jackpot games or eight round jackpot games are determined. This is done, but is not limited to this. What jackpot is provided may be arbitrarily determined by the manufacturer in consideration of the game characteristics of the gaming machine 100 (for example, so-called “base”). In addition, the so-called “surprise jackpot”, “latent jackpot”, “crash jackpot”, “rush jackpot”, etc., the number of winning balls that a player can obtain is smaller than other jackpots such as a probable jackpot May be provided.

  Also, in the example described here, depending on whether or not the game ball has passed the V area 109b during the jackpot game, the probability change game state or the short-time game state is set after this jackpot game. It is not a thing. For example, the probability change game state may always be set after the 16R probability change jackpot game and the 8R probability change jackpot game, and the time-short game state may always be set after the 8R normal jackpot game. In this case, the V region 109b may not be provided.

  Further, in the example described here, the gaming machine 100 is a so-called “ST (special time) machine”, but is not limited thereto. For example, the gaming machine 100 may be a so-called “loop machine (sometimes referred to as a“ loop-type probability changing machine ”). In the case of a loop machine, when the gaming machine 100 is in the probability-changing gaming state, the gaming machine 100 continues this probability-changing gaming state until the next jackpot game is substantially performed.

(Internal configuration of gaming machine of this embodiment)
Next, the internal configuration (hardware configuration) of the gaming machine 100 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the gaming machine according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the control unit 200 of the gaming machine 100 includes a main control unit 201, an effect control unit 202, and a prize ball control unit 203.

(1. Main control unit)
The main control unit 201 controls the progress of the game in the gaming machine 100. The main control unit 201 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 211, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 212, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 213, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like.

  The CPU 211 controls the entire main control unit 201. The ROM 212 stores a program, data, and the like for controlling the progress of the game in the gaming machine 100. The RAM 213 is used as a work area for the CPU 211. The main control unit 201 receives signals from various switches (hereinafter abbreviated as “SW”).

  For example, a signal is input to the main control unit 201 from the first start port SW221 and the second start port SW222. The first start port SW 221 is a SW that detects a game ball that has won the first start port 105, and inputs a detection signal to the main control unit 201 when a win to the first start port 105 is detected. The second start port SW222 is a SW that detects a game ball that has won the second start port 106, and inputs a detection signal to the main control unit 201 when a win to the second start port 106 is detected. Accordingly, the main control unit 201 can detect winning in the first start port 105 and the second start port 106.

  Further, signals are input to the main control unit 201 from the gate SW 223, the big winning opening SW 224a, the V region SW 224b, and the normal winning opening SW 225. The gate SW 223 is a SW that detects a game ball that has passed through the gate 108, and when a passage through the gate 108 is detected, a detection signal is input to the main control unit 201. The special winning opening SW 224a is a SW that detects a game ball won in the special winning opening 109a, and inputs a detection signal to the main control unit 201 when detecting a winning in the special winning opening 109a. The V region SW 224b is a SW that detects a game ball that has passed through the V region 109b. When the V region SW 224b detects passage of the V region 109b, a detection signal is input to the main control unit 201. The normal winning opening SW 225 is a SW that detects a game ball won in the normal winning opening 110, and inputs a detection signal to the main control unit 201 when detecting a winning in the normal winning opening 110. For example, proximity switches can be used for these SWs.

  Further, the main control unit 201 is configured to be able to input control signals to various solenoids such as the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 231, the big prize opening solenoid 232 a, and the V region solenoid 232 b. The ordinary electric accessory solenoid 231 is a solenoid that opens and closes the ordinary electric accessory 107 based on a control signal from the main control unit 201. The special prize opening solenoid 232a is a solenoid that opens and closes the special prize opening 109a based on a control signal from the main control unit 201. The V region solenoid 232b is a solenoid that opens and closes the V region 109b based on a control signal from the main control unit 201.

  Further, the main control unit 201 is configured to be able to input a control signal to the information display unit 112. The information display unit 112 performs display control of various display units included in the information display unit 112 based on a control signal input from the main control unit 201. Here, the information display unit 112 includes a first special symbol display unit 112a, a second special symbol display unit 112b, a normal symbol display unit 112c, a reserved number display unit 112d, a round number display unit 112e, and the like. .

  The 1st special symbol display part 112a displays the 1st special symbol for showing the jackpot determination result performed when the game ball won the 1st starting port 105. FIG. The second special symbol display unit 112b displays a second special symbol for indicating a jackpot determination result made by winning the game ball at the second starting port 106. The normal symbol display unit 112c displays a normal symbol for indicating a normal symbol determination result performed by the game ball passing through the gate 108.

  The hold number display section 112d displays a so-called “hold number”. For example, when the game ball wins the first starting port 105 or the second starting port 106, the main control unit 201 uses a predetermined random number (for example, a winning random number, a design random number, and a variation pattern random number, which will be described later) used for jackpot determination or the like. The determination information representing these random numbers is acquired and stored in a predetermined storage area of the RAM 213. The main control unit 201 can store (so-called “hold”) up to four pieces of determination information for each starting port. In addition, when the game ball passes through the gate 108, the main control unit 201 acquires a predetermined random number used for normal symbol determination or the like, and stores normal symbol determination information representing the random number in a predetermined storage area of the RAM 213. The main control unit 201 can store up to four pieces of normal determination information.

  The number-of-holds display unit 112d is acquired by winning the winning number at the second starting port 106, the number of determination information acquired and stored by winning the first starting port 105 (hereinafter referred to as "first holding number"). The number of pieces of determination information stored (hereinafter referred to as “second holding number”) and the number of pieces of normal symbol determination information acquired and stored by passing through the gate 108 (hereinafter referred to as “normal symbol holding number”) Each is displayed independently.

  The number-of-rounds display unit 112e displays the number of rounds of the jackpot game when the jackpot game is being played. As described above, in this embodiment, a 16-round jackpot game (16R probability variable jackpot game) and an 8-round jackpot game (8R probability variable jackpot game, 8R normal jackpot game) are provided. For this reason, the round number display unit 112e includes, for example, a lamp indicating “16” and a lamp indicating “8”. The round number display unit 112e lights a lamp indicating “16” when a 16-round jackpot game is being played, and indicates “8” when an 8-round jackpot game is being played. Turn on the lamp.

  Further, the information display unit 112 may include a right-handed notification display unit. In this case, the right-handed notification display unit is turned on at a predetermined time to notify the player to make a right-hand hit. For example, in the case of the gaming machine 100, the second start opening 106 and the big winning opening 109a are provided in an area where a game ball launched by right-handed falls. For this reason, the right-handed notification display portion is lit when the probability changing game state or the short-time game state in which the second start opening 106 is easy to win, and when the big winning game that can win the big winning opening 109a is being played. Inform the player to make a right strike.

  The main control unit 201 is configured to be able to output various types of information to the effect control unit 202 and the prize ball control unit 203 (for example, a jackpot determination result). Further, the main control unit 201 can output various types of information to the outside via the board external information terminal board 297.

  The main control unit 201 can realize its function by, for example, a so-called “main control board (also referred to as“ main board ”)”.

(2. Production control unit)
The effect control unit 202 controls the effect on the gaming machine 100. The effect control unit 202 includes an effect control unit 202 a that controls the entire effect control unit 202, an image / audio control unit 202 b that performs display control of the image display unit 104, sound output control of the speaker 114, and the effect light unit 115. A lamp control unit 202c that performs lighting control, drive control of the movable accessory 130, and the like.

(2-1. Director of Production)
The production control unit 202a includes a CPU 241, a ROM 242, a RAM 243, an RTC (Real-Time Clock) 244, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like.

  The CPU 241 manages the overall control of the production control unit 202a. The ROM 242 stores programs and data (for example, later-described effect patterns Ep1 to Ep21) for controlling the effects in the gaming machine 100 by supervising the effect control unit 202. The RAM 243 is used as a work area for the CPU 241. The RTC 244 counts and outputs real time. The RTC 244 is supplied with power for a certain period (for example, one day) even when the power of the gaming machine 100 is shut off by a backup power supply (not shown). For this reason, the RTC 244 can continue the timing operation for a certain period even when the power of the gaming machine 100 is shut off.

  FIG. 2 shows an example in which the RTC 244 is provided in the production supervision unit 202a, but the present invention is not limited to this. The RTC 244 may be provided in the main control unit 201, the image / sound control unit 202b, or the like. Alternatively, the RTC 244 may be arranged alone and output information indicating the measured real time to the production control unit 202a or the like.

  In addition, a predetermined control signal is input from the effect button 118, the cross key 119, and the operation lever 120 to the effect control unit 202a. The effect button 118, the cross key 119, and the operation lever 120 input a predetermined control signal according to the player's operation to the effect control unit 202a. As a result, the production control unit 202a can accept operations on the production button 118, the cross key 119, and the operation lever 120.

  In addition, the production control unit 202a can communicate various information (for example, commands) with the image / sound control unit 202b and the lamp control unit 202c. For example, when the production control unit 202a receives a predetermined control signal from the production button 118, the cross key 119, and the operation lever 120 and receives an operation on the control signal, the image / sound control unit displays a command indicating the received operation. 202b and the lamp controller 202c. Thereby, the production control unit 202a can notify the image / sound control unit 202b and the lamp control unit 202c of the accepted operation.

  Here, control signals from the effect button 118, the cross key 119, and the operation lever 120 are input to the effect control unit 202a, and operations received from the effect control unit 202a to the image / sound control unit 202b and the lamp control unit 202c are performed. Although the command shown is transmitted, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a control signal from the effect button 118, the cross key 119, or the operation lever 120 may be directly input to the image / audio control unit 202b or the lamp control unit 202c.

  The production control unit 202a can realize its function by, for example, a so-called “production control board (sometimes referred to as“ sub-board ”)”.

(2-2. Image / Audio Control Unit)
The image / audio control unit 202b includes a CPU 251, a ROM 252, a RAM 253, a VRAM 254, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like.

  The CPU 251 controls the entire image / sound controller 202b. The ROM 252 stores programs and data for performing display control of the image display unit 104 and output control from the speaker 114 based on an instruction from the production control unit 202a. For example, the ROM 252 stores image data for causing the image display unit 104 to display effect symbols, background images, hold icons, and the like. Further, for example, the ROM 252 displays a predetermined effect image (for example, a countdown image described later) on the image display unit 104 or displays a predetermined effect sound in the speaker 114 in various effects such as a reach effect or a countdown notice effect described later. Production data is stored for output. The RAM 253 is used as a work area for the CPU 251.

  For example, the CPU 251 reads out effect data corresponding to the effect instructed to be executed from the effect control unit 202a from the ROM 252, and performs display control of the image display unit 104 and output control from the speaker 114 based on this effect data. . Note that the CPU 251 may use a known hidden surface removal method such as a Z buffer method for display control of the image display unit 104. As a result, the image / sound control unit 202b can display, for example, an effect design or a hold icon in front of the background image on the display screen of the image display unit 104.

(2-3. Lamp control unit)
The lamp control unit 202c includes a CPU 261, a ROM 262, a RAM 263, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like. The CPU 261 controls the entire lamp control unit 202c. The ROM 262 stores programs, data, and the like for performing lighting control of the effect light unit 115 and the panel lamp 264 and driving control of the movable accessory 130. The RAM 263 is used as a work area for the CPU 261.

  For example, the ROM 262 stores drive data for causing the movable accessory 130 to perform a predetermined operation (in this embodiment, advance to the front of the image display unit 104) at a predetermined stage. For example, when the CPU 261 is instructed to execute a predetermined effect from the effect supervision unit 202a, the CPU 261 reads out the drive data from the ROM 262 and sends a control signal based on the drive data to a drive motor (not shown) of the movable accessory 130. The input is made to cause the movable accessory 130 to perform a predetermined operation.

  In addition, a detection signal is input to the lamp control unit 202c from a movable accessory position sensor (not shown) that detects the position of the movable accessory 130, and the lamp control unit 202c receives the movable combination based on the detection signal. The driving of the object 130 may be controlled.

  In the present embodiment, the production control unit 202 is provided with a production control unit 202a, an image / sound control unit 202b, and a lamp control unit 202c as different boards, but these are configured on the same printed board. May be. However, each function is independent even when they are incorporated on the same printed circuit board.

(3. Prize ball control unit)
The prize ball control unit 203 controls the payout of prize balls in the gaming machine 100 and the like. The winning ball control unit 203 includes a CPU 281, a ROM 282, a RAM 283, an input / output interface (not shown), and the like. The CPU 281 governs overall control of the prize ball control unit 203. The ROM 282 stores programs, data, and the like related to payout of prize balls in the gaming machine 100. The RAM 283 is used as a work area for the CPU 281.

  The prize ball control unit 203 is configured to be able to input a control signal to the payout unit (payout drive motor) 291 and the launch unit 292. For example, the prize ball control unit 203 controls the payout unit 291 based on a payout instruction from the main control unit 201 to pay out a prize ball, or controls the launching unit 292 when an operation for launching a game ball is detected. Then, a game ball is fired toward the game area 103.

  The prize ball control unit 203 receives signals from various SWs. For example, the prize ball control unit 203 receives signals from the fixed position detection SW 293 and the payout ball detection SW 294. The fixed position detection SW 293 is a SW that detects a game ball located at a predetermined position. When a game ball located at a predetermined position is detected, a detection signal is input to the prize ball control unit 203. The payout ball detection SW 294 is a SW that detects a paid-out game ball, and inputs a detection signal to the prize ball control unit 203 every time a paid-out game ball is detected.

  Further, for example, the prize ball control unit 203 receives signals from a ball presence detection SW 295 and a full tank detection SW 296. The ball presence detection SW 295 is a SW that detects the presence or absence of a game ball in a hit ball supply tray provided on the front surface of the frame. When a game ball in the hit ball supply tray is detected, a detection signal is input to the winning ball control unit 203. . The full tank detection SW 296 is a SW for detecting that the hitting ball supply tray is filled with game balls. When it is detected that the hit ball supply tray is filled with game balls, a detection signal is input to the prize ball control unit 203. To do. For example, proximity switches can be used for these SWs.

  In addition, various information (for example, a payout instruction) is input from the main control unit 201 to the prize ball control unit 203. The winning ball control unit 203 pays out a winning ball or stops paying out a winning ball based on the information input from the main control unit 201 and the detection signals input from the various SW 293 to 296. The winning ball control unit 203 may output detection signals input from the various SWs 293 to 296 to the main control unit 201.

  The prize ball control unit 203 can also output various types of information to the outside via the frame external information terminal board 298. The prize ball control unit 203 can realize its function by, for example, a so-called “prize ball control board”.

(Functional configuration of gaming machine of this embodiment)
Next, a functional configuration of the gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of the gaming machine according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 3, the gaming machine 100 includes a storage unit 301, a special game determination unit 302, a prior determination unit 303, an effect execution control unit 304, and an effect device 305.

  The storage unit 301 has a function capable of storing the right of special game determination as to whether or not to play a special game advantageous to the player, when a first condition predetermined by the manufacturer of the gaming machine 100 is satisfied. In this embodiment, the special game is a jackpot game, and the special game determination is a jackpot determination. In the present embodiment, the first condition is that the game ball wins the first start port 105 or the second start port 106 and the first hold number (when the first start port 105 wins) or the first condition It is assumed that the number of 2 holds (when winning at the second start port 106) is less than a predetermined upper limit (for example, “4”).

  The first condition in the present embodiment is hereinafter referred to as “acquisition condition”. As described above, in the gaming machine 100, when this acquisition condition is satisfied, determination information representing a predetermined random number (for example, a winning random number, a design random number, and a variation pattern random number, which will be described later) is acquired. . The storage unit 301 stores the determination information acquired in this way as a jackpot determination right until a jackpot determination using the determination information is performed.

  In addition, the storage unit 301 sets and stores a priority order used for jackpot determination in the acquired determination information. In the present embodiment, the determination information acquired when the game ball has won the second starting port 106 has higher priority than the determination information acquired when the game ball has won the first starting port 105. Ranking is set. Furthermore, in the present embodiment, higher priority is set for the determination information acquired earlier in time series than the determination information acquired later in time series.

  For this reason, in this embodiment, first, the determination information acquired when the game ball wins the second starting port 106 is used for the jackpot determination in order from the first acquired in time series. Become. When the determination information acquired by winning the game ball at the second start port 106 is lost, the determination information acquired by winning the game ball at the first start port 105 is displayed first in time series. It will be used for jackpot determination in order from the acquired one.

  The special game determination unit 302 has a function of performing a special game determination on the right stored in the storage unit 301 when a second condition predetermined by the manufacturer of the gaming machine 100 is satisfied. In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the second condition is that there is determination information stored in the storage unit 301, and that neither the symbol variation nor the big hit game is in effect. The second condition in the present embodiment is hereinafter referred to as “starting condition”.

  In other words, in the present embodiment, the special game determination unit 302 makes a jackpot determination using the determination information stored in the storage unit 301 when the start condition is satisfied. As described above, in the present embodiment, this jackpot determination is determined as one of 16R probability variation jackpot, 8R probability variation jackpot, 8R normal jackpot, or loss. Since the specific contents of the jackpot determination will be described later, a detailed description thereof is omitted here.

  In the present embodiment, when the start condition is satisfied, the storage unit 301 may store a plurality of pieces of determination information. In this case, the special game determination unit 302 performs jackpot determination using the determination information set with the highest priority among the determination information stored in the storage unit 301.

  Prior determination unit 303 determines whether or not to perform a special game for the right (or stored right) stored in storage unit 301 before the special game determination unit 302 performs the special game determination. Has the function to perform. This prior determination is sometimes referred to as “look ahead”. In this embodiment, when the determination information is stored in the storage unit 301, the prior determination unit 303 determines in advance whether it is a big hit or a loss based on the determination information.

  The prior determination unit 303 may determine in advance which jackpot (that is, the type of jackpot) when it is determined in advance that it is a jackpot. Furthermore, the prior determination unit 303 may also perform prior determination of the variation pattern when the determination information is stored (or acquired). The prior determination unit 303 may perform prior determination when the determination information is acquired (for example, immediately before the determination information is stored by the storage unit 301). Since the specific content of the prior determination will be described later, detailed description thereof is omitted here.

  The effect execution control unit 304 has a function of performing a predetermined effect using the effect device 305 provided in the gaming machine 100. The rendering device 305 includes an image display unit 104 that functions as display means in the present invention. In addition, the effect device 305 may include a speaker 114, an effect light unit 115, a movable accessory 130, and the like.

  In the present embodiment, the effect execution control unit 304 can execute the hold notice effect, the hold change notice effect, and the countdown notice effect based on the prior determination result of the prior determination unit 303. These effects are effects that suggest to the player the possibility that the determination information stored in the storage unit 301 has been previously determined to be a big hit by the determination unit 303. For example, in the storage unit 301, It is an effect using a so-called “hold icon (corresponding to an effect display in the present invention)” displayed on the image display unit 104 so as to correspond to each stored determination information.

(About the hold icon)
First, the hold icon in the present embodiment will be described here. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing the hold icon of the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 4, the display screen of the image display unit 104 includes a left effect symbol Ez1, a middle effect symbol Ez2, and a right effect symbol Ez3 (hereinafter collectively referred to as “effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3”). An effect symbol display area ZR to be displayed and a hold display area HR in which a hold icon Hi is displayed are provided.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, the production symbols Ez1 to Ez3 represent one of the numbers from “1 to 9” when stopped, but in the example illustrated in FIG. Therefore, it is represented by an open arrow. Hereinafter, in the present embodiment, when the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 are illustrated by lower white arrows, this means that the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 are changing.

  For example, the hold display area HR is an area different from the effect symbol display area ZR, whereby the hold icon Hi displayed in the hold display area HR and the effect symbol Ez1 displayed in the effect symbol display area ZR. Securing the visibility with ~ Ez3. Further, for example, the hold display area HR includes a first hold display area HR1, a second hold display area HR2, and a changing hold display area HR3.

  In the first hold display area HR1, the same number of hold icons Hi as the first hold number are displayed. That is, the gaming machine 100 can suggest the first hold number to the player based on the number of hold icons Hi displayed in the first hold display area HR1. In the present embodiment, since the upper limit of the first hold number is “4”, a maximum of four hold icons Hi can be displayed in the first hold display area HR1. In the example illustrated in FIG. 4, one hold icon Hi is displayed in the first hold display area HR1, which suggests that the first hold number is “1”.

  For example, the production execution control unit 304 each time new determination information is stored in the storage unit 301 when the game ball wins the first starting port 105 (that is, every time the first holding number increases by “1”). ), The hold icon Hi corresponding to the determination information is displayed in the first hold display area HR1. In addition, the production execution control unit 304 holds the hold icon corresponding to the determination information stored earlier in time series among the determination information stored in the storage unit 301 when the game ball wins the first starting port 105. It arrange | positions so that it may come to the right side in 1st holding | maintenance display area HR1 so that Hi is.

  Then, the performance execution control unit 304 performs the jackpot determination based on the determination information stored in the storage unit 301 when the game ball wins the first starting port 105 (that is, the first hold number is “1”). As for the other hold icons Hi excluding the rightmost hold icon Hi among the hold icons Hi in the first hold display area HR1, as shown by the arrow 401 in FIG. The region HR1 is shifted to the right by one by one. Further, the rightmost hold icon Hi among the hold icons Hi in the first hold display area HR1 is shifted to the changing hold display area HR3 as indicated by the arrow 402 in FIG.

  In the second hold display area HR2, the same number of hold icons Hi as the second hold number are displayed. That is, the gaming machine 100 can suggest the second hold number to the player based on the number of hold icons Hi displayed in the second hold display area HR2. In the present embodiment, since the upper limit of the second hold number is “4”, a maximum of four hold icons Hi can be displayed in the second hold display area HR2. In the example illustrated in FIG. 4, one hold icon Hi is displayed in the second hold display area HR2, which suggests that the second hold number is “1”.

  For example, the production execution control unit 304 each time new determination information is stored in the storage unit 301 by winning a game ball at the second start port 106 (that is, every time the second holding number increases by “1”). ), The hold icon Hi corresponding to the determination information is displayed in the second hold display area HR2. In addition, the production execution control unit 304 holds the hold icon corresponding to the determination information stored earlier in time series among the determination information stored in the storage unit 301 when the game ball wins the second starting port 106. It arrange | positions so that Hi may come to the left side in 2nd holding | maintenance display area HR2.

  And every time the big hit determination based on the determination information memorize | stored in the memory | storage part 301 because the game ball won the 2nd starting port 106 is performed (that is, the 2nd holding | maintenance number is "1"). As the other hold icons Hi other than the leftmost hold icon Hi of the hold icons Hi in the second hold display area HR2 are displayed as indicated by the arrow 403 in FIG. The region HR2 is shifted leftward by one by one. Further, the leftmost hold icon Hi among the hold icons Hi in the second hold display area HR2 is shifted to the changing hold display area HR3 as indicated by the arrow 404 in FIG.

  In the changing hold display area HR3, a hold icon Hi corresponding to the determination information used for the jackpot determination is displayed when the symbol change for indicating the jackpot determination result is performed. That is, the effect execution control unit 304 performs a jackpot determination based on the determination information stored in the storage unit 301 when the game ball wins the first starting port 105, and there is a symbol variation for indicating the jackpot determination result. If this is done, at the start of this symbol change (or just before the start of this symbol change), the hold icon Hi that has been displayed at the right end of the first hold display area HR1 is shifted to the changing hold display area HR3. To display.

  In addition, the effect execution control unit 304 performs a jackpot determination based on the determination information stored in the storage unit 301 when the game ball wins the second starting port 106, and there is a symbol variation for indicating the jackpot determination result. If this is done, at the start of this symbol change (or just before the start of this symbol change), the hold icon Hi that has been displayed at the left end of the second hold display area HR2 is shifted to the changing hold display area HR3. To display.

  In addition, for example, the effect execution control unit 304 deletes the hold icon Hi that has been displayed in the changing hold display area HR3 so far from the display screen of the image display unit 104 when the symbol change ends. The timing at which the hold icon Hi in the changing hold display area HR3 is erased from the display screen is not limited to this. For example, a predetermined timing during symbol change (for example, at the start of a predetermined effect such as “super reach”). It is good. Further, depending on the content of the symbol variation (for example, whether or not there is a reach effect including super reach), the on-hold icon Hi in the on-change pending display area HR3 may be erased at the end of the symbol variation or erased during the symbol variation. It may be.

  In this way, the effect execution control unit 304 causes the image display unit 104 to display the hold icon Hi corresponding to each piece of determination information stored in the storage unit 301. In addition, the production execution control unit 304 can display the hold icon Hi in a plurality of types of display modes, and each hold icon Hi is based on a determination result in advance of determination information corresponding to each hold icon Hi. By displaying in the display mode, it is possible to suggest this preliminary determination result to the player.

(About the display mode of the hold icon)
Here, the display mode of the hold icon in the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing the display mode of the hold icon according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 5, in the present embodiment, as a display mode of the hold icon Hi, a low expectation display mode (for example, a white circle image) for suggesting that there is a low possibility of a big hit, Medium expectation display mode (for example, a yellow circle image) for suggesting that there is a high probability of becoming a high probability display mode (for example, red Circle image). Although details will be described later, a change suggestion display mode (for example, an image obtained by adding “?” To a white circle image) used for the countdown notice effect is also provided separately from these display modes.

  For example, when new determination information is stored in the storage unit 301, the effect execution control unit 304 displays the hold icon Hi corresponding to this determination information in any display mode based on the prior determination result of the determination information. Decide what you want to do. At this time, when the prior determination result is the hold icon Hi corresponding to the jackpot determination information, it is easy to determine the high expectation display mode or the medium expectation display mode (for example, the most likely display is the most likely display mode). ), It is difficult to determine the low expectation degree display mode. In addition, when the prior determination result is the hold icon Hi corresponding to the determination information of the loss, it is easy to determine the low expectation display mode and it is difficult to determine the high expectation display mode or the medium expectation display mode (for example, high It is the most difficult to determine the expectation display mode).

  Accordingly, the hold icon Hi corresponding to the determination information whose jackpot determination result is the jackpot is easily displayed in the high expectation level display mode or the medium expectation level display mode, and is difficult to be displayed in the low expectation level display mode. In addition, the hold icon Hi corresponding to the determination information indicating that the pre-determination result is lost is easily displayed in the low expectation level display mode and is difficult to be displayed in the high expectation level display mode or the medium expectation level display mode. And it is suggested that the low expectation display mode is less likely to be a big hit, and the medium expectation display mode is moderately likely to be a big win (the possibility of being a big hit than the low expectation display mode may be It is suggested that the high expectation display mode is likely to be a big hit (more likely than the medium expectation display mode).

  In addition, when displaying the hold icon Hi corresponding to certain determination information in the high expectation level display mode or the medium expectation level display mode, the effect execution control unit 304 starts displaying the hold icon Hi (that is, the hold icon). It is possible to display in the high expectation display mode or the medium expectation display mode from the time when the determination information corresponding to Hi is stored), but when the display of the hold icon Hi is started, the display is temporarily performed in another display mode. It is also possible to change the display mode to a high expectation level display mode or a medium expectation level display mode after a predetermined period has elapsed.

  That is, as described above, the effect execution control unit 304 can execute the hold notice effect, the hold change notice effect, and the countdown notice effect. The timing at which the hold icon Hi in the high expectation level display mode or the medium expectation level display mode is displayed differs depending on which of the effects.

  Specifically, in the case of the hold notice effect, the effect execution control unit 304 displays the hold icon Hi in the high expectation display mode or the medium expectation display mode from the start of display. In the case of the hold change notice effect, the effect execution control unit 304 displays the hold icon Hi in the low expectation degree display mode once, and then the high expectation degree after a predetermined first period has elapsed. The display mode or the medium expectation level display mode is changed.

  Here, the first period can be, for example, a period until the next symbol variation is started. That is, in the case of the hold change notice effect, when the hold icon Hi that is the target of the display mode change is started to be displayed, it is once displayed in the low expectation display mode, and then the next symbol variation is started. The hold icon Hi is changed to a high expectation level display mode or a medium expectation level display mode. Therefore, the effect execution control unit 304 performs the hold change notice effect when it is determined that the next symbol variation will be performed (that is, when the number of holds is “1” or more).

  Since there is a hold change notice effect, the gaming machine 100 may indicate that the hold icon Hi in the low expectation display mode is changed to the high expectation display mode even when the hold icon Hi in the low expectation display mode is displayed. It is possible to give the player a sense of expectation that “may be.”

  Further, in the case of the countdown notice effect, the effect execution control unit 304 displays the change icon display mode once at the start of displaying the hold icon Hi, and the count progresses with the passage of time or the progress of the game (for example, Every time symbol variation is performed, a count of “2” → “1” → “0” is performed). This count becomes a predetermined count value (for example, “0”) when a predetermined second period has elapsed. In the case of the countdown notice effect, the effect execution control unit 304 is accompanied by a predetermined count value (that is, when the second period has elapsed since the hold icon Hi in the change suggestion display mode is displayed). The hold icon Hi displayed in the change suggestion display mode is changed to the high expectation level display mode or the medium expectation level display mode.

  Here, the second period can be, for example, a period until at least the next symbol variation is started, from the viewpoint of making the player sufficiently enjoy the progress of counting. That is, the second period can be longer than the first period. For example, if the second period is the period until the next symbol variation starts as in the first period, if the count starts immediately before the end of symbol variation, the next symbol variation starts immediately after the count starts. As a result, the count is ended immediately after the count is started. In such a case, the progress of the count cannot be sufficiently enjoyed by the player.

  By setting the second period as a period until at least the next symbol variation is started, it is possible to prevent such a situation from occurring, and to make the progress of the count sufficiently enjoyed by the player. . Therefore, the effect execution control unit 304 performs the countdown notice effect when it is determined that at least the next symbol variation will be performed (that is, when the number of holds is “2” or more).

  Since there is a countdown notice effect, when the gaming machine 100 displays the hold icon Hi in the change suggestion display mode, the expectation that “the hold icon Hi in the change suggestion display mode may change to the high expectation display mode” A feeling can be given to the player, and further, this expectation can be amplified as the counting progresses.

  For example, when the prior determination result is a big hit, the production execution control unit 304 performs the countdown notice effect with a higher probability than the hold change notice effect. As a result, the gaming machine 100 can further increase the player's expectation when displaying the hold icon Hi in the change suggestion display mode than when displaying the hold icon Hi in the low expectation level display mode. You can please the player.

  Further, the effect execution control unit 304 may perform the gasse countdown notice effect with a predetermined probability when the countdown notice effect is not performed. For example, in the case of the gasse countdown notice effect, first, the hold icon Hi of the change suggestion display mode is displayed and the count is started as in the countdown notice effect. In the case of a gasse countdown notice effect, this count is interrupted before reaching a predetermined count value (for example, “0”) (that is, the count is interrupted before the second period elapses) and changed. The hold icon Hi displayed in the suggestion display mode is changed to the low expectation level display mode.

  That is, in this case, the change suggestion display mode is not changed to the high expectation level display mode or the medium expectation level display mode. By performing the gasse countdown notice effect, the gaming machine 100 may display a “maybe countdown notice effect (i.e., high expectation degree display mode or medium expectation degree) when the change suggestion display mode hold icon Hi is displayed. The player may also be given a sense of crisis such as “may not change to the display mode”, and the so-called “pounding feeling” coupled with the sense of expectation given when the hold icon Hi in the change suggestion display mode is displayed. Can be given to the player.

  In the present embodiment, the display means in the present invention is an image display unit 104 (for example, a liquid crystal display), and a hold notice effect, a hold change notice effect, or a countdown notice effect is displayed by a hold icon Hi displayed on the image display unit 104. However, it is not limited to this. For example, it is possible to display a lamp indicator for production on the gaming machine 100 (for example, eight lamps each capable of lighting with a plurality of lighting colors (each lamp corresponds to each determination information stored in memory)) and a count value. A lamp indicator having a 7-segment LED display), and the display means in the present invention is the lamp indicator. By controlling the lighting of the lamp indicator, a hold notice effect, a hold change notice effect, or a countdown notice effect is provided. May be performed.

  In the present embodiment, the production execution control unit 304 performs the hold notice effect and the hold change notice effect in addition to the countdown notice effect. However, the present invention is not limited to this. You may make it not produce. Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the performance execution control unit 304 performs the countdown notice effect in which the count decreases with the passage of time or the progress of the game. You may make it perform the count-up notice effect which performs the count which increases with progress. In this case, for example, the production execution control unit 304 performs a count of “1” → “2” → “3” every time the symbol variation is performed, and the predetermined count is counted when the second period has elapsed since the count start. The hold icon Hi displayed in the change suggestion display mode is changed to the high expectation display mode or the medium expectation level display mode in accordance with the predetermined count value. Let's make it.

  Further, the effect execution control unit 304 may perform a predetermined effect based on the determination result of the special game determination unit 302 (a jackpot determination result in the present embodiment). For example, the effect execution control unit 304 can perform a reach effect based on the jackpot determination result during symbol variation to indicate the jackpot determination result. Although detailed description is omitted because it is a well-known technique, the reach effect is an effect that suggests to the player that there is a possibility of a big win (for example, a high probability of a big win) with the production symbol as a reach state. It is. In addition, the production execution control unit 304 performs so-called “super reach” by, for example, displaying a predetermined moving image (so-called “movie”) on the image display unit 104 when the production symbol is in the reach state. Also good.

  Note that the storage unit 301 can realize its function by the RAM 213 of the main control unit 201, for example. Further, the special game determination unit 302 and the prior determination unit 303 can realize their functions by the CPU 211 of the main control unit 201 executing a program stored in the ROM 212, for example. In addition, for example, the effect execution control unit 304 causes the CPU 241 of the effect supervision unit 202a to execute a program stored in the ROM 242 or the CPU 251 of the image / sound control unit 202b executes the program stored in the ROM 252. The function can be realized.

(An example of processing performed by the main control unit of the present embodiment)
Next, processing performed by the gaming machine 100 will be described. First, an example of processing performed by the main control unit 201 will be described. FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the start opening winning process. For example, while the gaming machine 100 is activated, the main control unit 201 executes the start opening winning process shown in FIG. 6 at a predetermined cycle (for example, every 4 ms).

(Start-up winning process)
In the start opening winning process, the main control unit 201 determines whether or not a predetermined acquisition condition is satisfied (step S601). In step S <b> 601, for example, the main control unit 201 receives a prize at the first start port 105 and the first holding number is less than “4”, or a win at the second start port 106. If the second hold number is less than “4”, an affirmative determination is made. There is no winning at the first starting port 105 or the second starting port 106, or there is a winning at the first starting port 105, but the first holding number is “4” or more, If there is a win but the second hold number is “4” or more, a negative determination is made. If the acquisition condition is not satisfied (step S601: No), the main control unit 201 ends the start port winning process.

  When the acquisition condition is satisfied (step S601: Yes), the main control unit 201 acquires new determination information (step S602). In the present embodiment, a winning random number, a design random number, and a variation pattern random number are acquired as determination information. Here, as the winning random number, any integer in the range of “0 to 399” is randomly acquired. It is assumed that any integer in the range of “0 to 99” is randomly acquired as the design random number. In addition, any integer in the range of “0 to 99” is randomly acquired as the variation pattern random number. Note that the values that these random numbers can take are not limited to this, and the manufacturer of the gaming machine 100 may arbitrarily determine the gaming machine 100 in consideration of the game characteristics.

  Subsequently, the main control unit 201 uses the newly acquired determination information (that is, the combination of the newly acquired winning random number, the design random number, and the variation pattern random number) as determination information to be subject to prior determination. Is determined in advance (step S603). In this prior determination, the main control unit 201 determines, for example, whether or not the winning random number of the determination information to be determined in advance matches a predetermined jackpot value. If it is determined that they do not coincide with each other, it is determined in advance that it is lost.

  In the present embodiment, the jackpot determination value includes a low probability gaming state jackpot determination value (for example, “0”) and a high probability gaming state jackpot determination value (for example, “0 to 2”). Therefore, the main control unit 201, for example, jackpot determination value according to the current gaming state (low probability gaming state jackpot determination value if low probability gaming state, high probability gaming state for high probability gaming state The jackpot determination value) and the winning random number of the determination information to be determined in advance are used to determine in advance whether it is a jackpot or lost.

  Further, when it is determined in advance that the jackpot is a jackpot, the main control unit 201 may further determine which jackpot (that is, the jackpot type) in advance. In this case, the main control unit 201 determines whether the design random number of the determination information to be predetermined and the determination information to be predetermined have been acquired by winning the first start opening 105 or to the second start opening 106. Based on whether or not it is acquired by winning a prize, a process similar to the jackpot symbol determination described later is performed, and which jackpot is determined in advance.

  In this prior determination, the main control unit 201 may also determine in advance a variation pattern that is used when symbol variation is performed based on determination information that is subject to prior determination. In this case, the main control unit 201 performs the same processing as the later-described variation pattern determination based on whether or not it has been determined in advance as a big hit, the variation pattern random number of the determination information to be determined in advance, the current gaming state, and the like. The variation pattern used for the symbol variation based on the determination information to be subjected to prior determination is determined in advance. Note that the variation pattern in the present embodiment will be described later.

  Then, the main control unit 201 stores the newly acquired determination information and the prior determination result for the determination information, for example, in a predetermined hold storage area provided in the RAM 213 of the main control unit 201 (step S604). ). As described above, at this time, the main control unit 201 sets the priority order in the determination information and stores it. When the main control unit 201 performs jackpot determination, the main control unit 201 erases (discards) the determination information used for the jackpot determination from the reserved storage area. And the main control part 201 raises the priority of the other determination information currently memorize | stored one by one with having erase | eliminated the determination information used for jackpot determination from the pending | holding storage area.

  In addition, the main control unit 201 transmits, for example, a predetermined command such as a hold increase command or a pre-determination result command to the effect supervising unit 202a, thereby acquiring new determination information (notifying that the number of holds has increased). And the prior determination result with respect to this determination information is notified to the production control unit 202a (step S605), and the start opening winning process is terminated. At this time, the main control unit 201 determines whether the newly acquired determination information has been acquired by winning the first starting port 105 or by winning the second starting port 106. May be notified to the production control unit 202a. In addition, the main control unit 201 may notify the rendering control unit 202a of the priority order set in the newly acquired determination information. Note that the main control unit 201 may perform the process of step S604 after performing the process of step S605.

(Special symbol variation processing)
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the special symbol variation process. For example, the main control unit 201 executes the special symbol variation process shown in FIG. 7 at a predetermined cycle (for example, every 4 ms) while the gaming machine 100 is activated. In the special symbol variation process, the main control unit 201 determines whether or not a predetermined start condition is satisfied (step S701). In step S701, the main control unit 201 makes an affirmative determination when, for example, there is stored determination information, and neither the symbol variation nor the jackpot game is in effect. A negative determination is made when there is no stored determination information, or when a symbol is changing or a jackpot game. When the starting condition is not satisfied (step S701: No), the main control unit 201 ends the special symbol variation process.

  When the start condition is satisfied (step S701: Yes), the main control unit 201 performs jackpot determination based on the stored determination information (step S702). As described above, the determination information used for the jackpot determination at this time is the determination information having the highest priority among the determination information stored by the main control unit 201. Hereinafter, determination information used for jackpot determination, that is, determination information having the highest priority at the time of step S702 is referred to as “variation determination information”. Note that the specific contents of the jackpot determination will be described later with reference to FIG. 8 and the like, and thus detailed description thereof is omitted here.

  Subsequently, the main control unit 201 performs a variation pattern determination for determining the variation time of the special symbol when the present jackpot determination result is shown (step S703). Although details will be described later with reference to FIG. 9 and the like, the manufacturer of the gaming machine 100 stores a plurality of variation patterns in the main control unit 201 in advance. In this variation pattern determination, the main control unit 201 determines one variation pattern from a plurality of variation patterns stored in the main control unit 201 based on the jackpot determination result or the variation pattern random number of the variation determination information ( Identify.

  Subsequently, the main control unit 201 performs a special symbol variation based on the jackpot determination result and the variation pattern determination result (step S704). Specifically, the main control unit 201 changes the special symbol for a variation time corresponding to the variation pattern obtained as the variation pattern determination result, and then stops at the symbol corresponding to the jackpot determination result. At this time, the main control unit 201 performs symbol variation of the special symbol in the first special symbol display unit 112a if the variation determination information is acquired by winning the first starting port 105, and the variation determination information If the symbol is acquired by winning at the second starting port 106, the special symbol change of the special symbol is performed in the second special symbol display unit 112b.

  Further, when the main control unit 201 performs the symbol variation of the special symbol, the main control unit 201 notifies the contents of the symbol variation unit 202a of the content of the symbol variation. For example, when the main control unit 201 starts the symbol variation of the special symbol, the main control unit 201 transmits a predetermined command such as a variation start command to the effect supervision unit 202a, thereby obtaining a variation pattern obtained as a variation pattern determination result (that is, The change pattern used for the current symbol variation) and the jackpot determination result (that is, the symbol stopped due to the current symbol variation) are notified to the production control unit 202a. Furthermore, when the symbol change of the special symbol is finished, the main control unit 201 notifies the effect supervising unit 202a that the symbol change of the special symbol is finished. As a result, the production control unit 202a can start the change of the effect symbol in synchronization with the start of the change of the special symbol, and also produce the effect in synchronization with the change of the special symbol being stopped. It becomes possible to stop the fluctuation of the symbol.

  When the main control unit 201 changes the symbol of the special symbol, the main control unit 201 determines whether or not the jackpot symbol is stopped due to the symbol variation (step S705). When stopping the jackpot symbol (step S705: Yes), the main control unit 201 plays a jackpot game according to the stopped jackpot symbol (step S706). Specifically, the main control unit 201 performs a 16R probability variable jackpot game if stopped at the 16R probability variable jackpot symbol, performs an 8R probability variable jackpot game if stopped at the 8R probability variable jackpot symbol, and uses an 8R normal jackpot symbol. If it is stopped, 8R normal jackpot game is played. Since the contents of each jackpot game have been described above, description thereof is omitted here.

  Subsequently, the main control unit 201 performs a gaming state setting process after the jackpot game (step S707), sets the probability variation gaming state or the short-time gaming state, and ends the special symbol variation process. In the present embodiment, by this game state setting process, if a game ball passes through the V area 109b during the jackpot game, the probability change game state is set after the jackpot game, and the game ball moves through the V area 109b during the jackpot game. If it does not pass, it is set to the short-time game state after this jackpot game. Further, when the game state is set to the probability change game state by this game state setting process, the period of the probability change game state (in this embodiment, the special symbol change of 185 times) is set and the time-short game state is set. In this case, the period of the short game state at this time (in this embodiment, the special symbol variation of 100 times) is set.

  Further, when the jackpot symbol is not stopped (step S705: No), that is, when the lose symbol is stopped, the main control unit 201 determines whether it is a return timing to the normal gaming state (step). S708). In the present embodiment, the timing of returning to the normal gaming state when the symbol variation of the special symbol is 185 times after the probability variation gaming state is set and when the symbol variation of the special symbol is 100 times after the time-saving gaming state is set. It is said.

  Therefore, if the main control unit 201 is set to the probability variation gaming state, it is determined in step S708 whether or not the symbol variation of the special symbol has been performed 185 times after the probability variation gaming state has been set, and has been performed 185 times. If it determines, it will determine with the return timing to a normal game state. If it is determined that the game has not been performed 185 times, it is determined that it is not time to return to the normal gaming state. Further, when the short time gaming state is set, the main control unit 201 determines in step S708 whether or not the symbol variation of the special symbol has been performed 100 times after setting the short time gaming state and determines that it has been performed 100 times. If it does, it will determine with the return timing to a normal game state. If it is determined that the game has not been performed 100 times, it is determined that it is not time to return to the normal gaming state.

  If the main control unit 201 determines that it is a return timing to the normal gaming state (step S708: Yes), the main control unit 201 sets the normal gaming state (step S709) and ends the special symbol variation process. If the main control unit 201 determines that it is not the return timing to the normal gaming state (step S708: No), the special symbol variation process is terminated as it is.

(An example of jackpot determination in the present embodiment)
Next, an example of jackpot determination in the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of jackpot determination in the present embodiment. The following jackpot determination value and jackpot symbol determination value used for the jackpot determination are predetermined by the manufacturer of the gaming machine 100 and stored in the ROM 212 of the main control unit 201 or the like.

  In the jackpot determination, first, a win determination is made as to whether or not a jackpot. In this winning determination, a winning random number of the variation determination information and a jackpot determination value are used. Here, the jackpot determination value includes a jackpot determination value for a low probability gaming state and a jackpot determination value for a high probability gaming state. In the present embodiment, the jackpot determination value for the low probability gaming state is “0”, and the jackpot determination value for the high probability gaming state is “0 to 2”.

  The main control unit 201 uses the low-probability gaming state jackpot determination value for the winning determination in the low-probability gaming state. In this case, as shown in FIG. "Is determined to be a big hit, and" 1 to 399 "is determined to be lost. That is, the jackpot probability in this case is 1/400. In addition, for the winning determination in the high probability gaming state, the jackpot determination value for the high probability gaming state is used. In this case, as shown in FIG. 8A, the winning random number in the variation determination information is “0 to 2”. If there is, it is determined to be a big hit, and if it is “3 to 399”, it is determined to be lost. In other words, the jackpot probability in this case is 3/400 (≈ 1/133).

  Thus, in this embodiment, when the low probability gaming state (normal gaming state, short-time gaming state), the jackpot determination with a jackpot probability of 1/400 is performed, and the high probability gaming state (probability variation gaming state). Sometimes a jackpot determination with a jackpot probability of 3/400 (that is, a jackpot determination with a higher jackpot probability than in the low probability gaming state) is performed. For this reason, the gaming machine 100 can increase the player's sense of expectation for jackpot when in the high probability gaming state than in the low probability gaming state.

  In the jackpot determination in which the winning determination result is a jackpot, a jackpot symbol determination is further performed. For the jackpot symbol determination, the symbol random number of the variation determination information and the jackpot symbol determination value are used. Here, the jackpot symbol determination value includes a first startup port jackpot symbol determination value and a second startup port jackpot symbol determination value. In this embodiment, the first start-up jackpot symbol determination value is set to “0 to 51” for the 8R probability variation jackpot symbol and “52 to 99” for the 8R normal jackpot symbol. It has become. Further, the second start opening jackpot symbol determination value is set to “0 to 99” for the 16R probability variation jackpot symbol.

  If the variation determination information is acquired by winning the first start port 105, the main control unit 201 uses the first start port jackpot symbol determination value for the jackpot symbol determination. In this case, FIG. ), If the symbol number of the variation determination information is “0 to 51”, it is determined as an 8R probability variation jackpot symbol, and if it is “52 to 99”, it is determined as an 8R normal jackpot symbol. That is, in this case, the probability that the 8R probability variation jackpot symbol is determined is 52/100, the probability that the 8R normal variation jackpot symbol is determined is 48/100, and the probability that the 16R probability variation jackpot symbol is determined is 0/100.

  Further, the main control unit 201 uses the second start-up jackpot symbol determination value for the jackpot symbol determination if the variation determination information is acquired by winning the second starting port 106. In this case, FIG. As shown in (B), if the symbol random number in the variation determination information is “0 to 99”, the symbol is determined to be a 16R probability variation big hit symbol. That is, in this case, the probability that the 16R probability variation jackpot symbol is determined is 100/100, the probability that the 8R probability variation jackpot symbol is determined is 0/100, and the probability that the 8R normal variation jackpot symbol is determined is 0/100.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the jackpot determination based on the winning at the second starting port 106 is performed with contents that are more advantageous to the player than the jackpot determination based on the winning at the first starting port 105. It has become. Specifically, the jackpot determination based on the winning at the second starting port 106 is determined to be a 16R probability variable jackpot (that is, the jackpot most advantageous for the player) than the jackpot determination based on the winning at the first starting port 105. It is easy. For this reason, the gaming machine 100 mainly performs the first start when it is in the auxiliary gaming state (time-short gaming state, probability variation gaming state) in which the game is advanced by making a jackpot determination mainly based on winning at the second starting port 106. It is possible to increase the player's sense of expectation for the 16R probability variation jackpot as compared to the non-auxiliary gaming state (normal gaming state) in which the jackpot determination based on winning in the mouth 105 is performed to advance the game.

(Example of variation pattern determination in the present embodiment)
Next, an example of variation pattern determination in the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the variation pattern determination in the present embodiment. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9, the variation patterns Hp1 to Hp21 are prepared in advance by the manufacturer of the gaming machine 100 and stored in the ROM 212 of the main control unit 201 or the like. Further, in the variation patterns Hp1 to Hp21, a condition derived as a variation pattern determination result is set by the manufacturer of the gaming machine 100.

  For example, the variation patterns Hp1 to Hp7 are normal game state variation patterns, and among these, the variation patterns Hp1 to Hp4 are loss patterns. For this reason, when the jackpot determination result is lost in the normal gaming state, any of the variation patterns Hp1 to Hp4 is derived as the variation pattern determination result. In this case, which of the variation patterns Hp1 to Hp4 is determined according to the variation pattern random number of the variation determination information. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 9, if the variation pattern random number is “0 to 89”, If the variation pattern Hp1 is “90 to 95”, the variation pattern Hp2 is derived as the variation pattern determination result. If the variation pattern Hp1 is “96 to 98”, the variation pattern Hp3 is derived as the variation pattern determination result. .

  Of the variation patterns Hp1 to Hp7 for the normal gaming state, the variation patterns Hp5 to Hp7 are the variation patterns for jackpot. For this reason, when the jackpot determination result is a jackpot in the normal gaming state, any of the variation patterns Hp5 to Hp7 is derived as the variation pattern determination result. In this case, which of the variation patterns Hp5 to Hp7 is determined according to the variation pattern random number of the variation determination information. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 9, if the variation pattern random number is “0 to 19”, If the variation pattern Hp5 is “20 to 49”, the variation pattern Hp6 is derived as the variation pattern determination result. If the variation pattern Hp5 is “50 to 99”, the variation pattern Hp7 is derived.

  Similarly, the variation patterns Hp8 to Hp14 are variation patterns for the short-time gaming state, and among these, the variation patterns Hp8 to Hp11 are variation patterns for loss. For this reason, when the jackpot determination result is lost in the short-time gaming state, any of the variation patterns Hp8 to Hp11 is derived as the variation pattern determination result according to the variation pattern random number of the variation determination information.

  In addition, among the variation patterns Hp8 to Hp14 for the short-time gaming state, the variation patterns Hp12 to Hp14 are set as variation patterns for jackpot. For this reason, when the jackpot determination result is a big hit in the short-time gaming state, any of the variation patterns Hp12 to Hp14 is derived as the variation pattern determination result according to the variation pattern random number of the variation determination information.

  Similarly, the variation patterns Hp15 to Hp21 are the variation patterns for the probability variation gaming state, and among these, the variation patterns Hp15 to Hp18 are the variation patterns for loss. For this reason, when the jackpot determination result is lost in the probability variation gaming state, any of the variation patterns Hp15 to Hp18 is derived as the variation pattern determination result according to the variation pattern random number of the variation determination information.

  Of the variation patterns Hp15 to Hp21 for the probability variation gaming state, the variation patterns Hp19 to Hp21 are the variation patterns for jackpot. For this reason, when the jackpot determination result is a big hit in the probability variation gaming state, any of the variation patterns Hp19 to Hp21 is derived as the variation pattern determination result according to the variation pattern random number of the variation determination information.

  In the example described here, an example is described in which any variation pattern is derived as the variation pattern determination result based on the gaming state, the jackpot determination result, and the variation pattern random number, but is not limited thereto. Although detailed description is omitted because it is a known technique, a variation pattern that can be derived as a variation pattern determination result when the number of holdings is less than a predetermined value, and a variation pattern determination result that is derived when the number of holdings is a predetermined value or more It is also possible to provide a variation pattern that can be obtained and to derive one of these as a variation pattern determination result according to the number of suspensions at the time of variation pattern determination.

(Example of processing performed by the production control section of the present embodiment)
Next, an example of processing performed by the effect control unit 202 will be described. First, an example of the process performed by the effect supervising unit 202a in the effect control unit 202 will be described. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the effect management process. For example, while the gaming machine 100 is activated, the production supervision unit 202a executes the production supervision processing shown in FIG. 10 at a predetermined cycle (for example, every 4 ms).

  In the effect control process, the effect control unit 202a determines whether or not the symbol change of the special symbol has been started (step S1001). As described above, when the symbol variation of the special symbol is started, the main control unit 201 notifies the effect supervising unit 202a of the content of the symbol variation. In step S1001, the production control unit 202a makes an affirmative determination when the notification is received, and a negative determination when the notification is not received, for example.

  When it is determined that the symbol variation of the special symbol has not been started (step S1001: No), the production supervision unit 202a proceeds to a process of step S1007 described later. If it is determined that the special symbol variation has started (step S1001: Yes), the content of the current symbol variation is specified based on the notification from the main control unit 201 (step S1002). By the processing in step S1002, the symbol that the main control unit 201 stops in the current symbol variation (that is, the jackpot determination result) and the variation pattern that the main control unit 201 uses for the current symbol variation (that is, the variation pattern determination result) are identified. Is done.

  Then, the effect supervising unit 202a sets the effect pattern in the RAM 243 based on the specific result obtained by the process of step S1002 (step S1003). Although details will be described later, in the present embodiment, an effect pattern in which the presence or absence of reach effect is determined corresponding to each of the variation patterns Hp1 to Hp21 is prepared in advance by the manufacturer of the gaming machine 100, and the effect control unit 202a Is stored in the ROM 242. In step S1003, the effect supervising unit 202a sets an effect pattern corresponding to the variation pattern specified in step S1002 in the RAM 243.

  Subsequently, the effect supervising unit 202a determines a combination of effect symbols to be stopped based on the identification result obtained by the process of step S1002 and the effect pattern set by the process of step S1003 (step S1004). In step S1004, for example, when the jackpot determination result is a 16R probability variation jackpot, the effect supervising unit 202a determines a specific jackpot combination (for example, a “7” doublet) and the other jackpot Is determined to be a non-specific jackpot combination (for example, a doublet other than “7”). Also, if the jackpot determination result is a loss, if the set production pattern is a production pattern that determines that the reach production is performed, the production pattern is determined to reach reach loss and the reach production is not performed. If so, it will be decided.

  Subsequently, the effect supervising unit 202a determines a background image to be displayed based on the variation pattern specified by the process of step S1002 (step S1005). For example, when the specified variation pattern is the variation pattern Hp1 to Hp7 for the normal gaming state, the normal background image provided corresponding to the normal performance mode that is the performance mode for the normal gaming state is determined. Further, when the specified variation pattern is the variation pattern Hp8 to Hp14 for the short-time gaming state, the short-time background image provided corresponding to the short-time effect mode which is the effect mode for the short-time gaming state is determined. When the specified variation pattern is the variation pattern Hp15 to Hp21 for the probability variation gaming state, the probability variation background image provided corresponding to the probability variation rendering mode which is the rendering mode for the probability variation gaming state is determined. If a dedicated BGM or the like is provided for each effect mode, the background image to be displayed and the BGM to be output may be determined by the processing in step S1005.

  Then, the effect supervising unit 202a transmits an effect start command for instructing start of the effect to the image / sound control unit 202b and the lamp control unit 202c (step S1006). This effect start command includes, for example, information representing the processing results of steps S1003 to S1005. Thereby, the production control unit 202a can notify the image / sound control unit 202b and the lamp control unit 202c of the processing results of steps S1003 to S1005.

  Subsequently, the production supervision unit 202a determines whether or not the special symbol variation has ended (step S1007). As described above, when the symbol variation of the special symbol is terminated, the main control unit 201 notifies that the symbol variation is terminated. In step S1007, for example, the production control unit 202a makes an affirmative determination when the notification is received, and a negative determination when the notification is not received.

  When it is determined that the symbol variation of the special symbol has not been completed (step S1007: No), the production supervision unit 202a proceeds to the process of step S1009 described later. When it is determined that the symbol variation of the special symbol has ended (step S1007: Yes), an effect end command for instructing the end of the effect is transmitted to the image / sound control unit 202b and the lamp control unit 202c (step S1008). The process proceeds to S1009.

  Subsequently, the production control unit 202a determines whether or not there is a notification of a prior determination result with respect to the newly acquired determination information from the main control unit 201 (step S1009). When it is determined that the notification has been received (step S1009: Yes), the production supervision unit 202a notifies the image / sound control unit 202b and the like of the preliminary determination result for the newly acquired determination information (step S1010). The production control process ends. That is, in the gaming machine 100, when the main control unit 201 makes a pre-determination, the pre-determination result is notified to the image / sound control unit 202b via the effect supervision unit 202a. Further, when it is determined that there is no prior determination result notification from the main control unit 201 (step S1009: No), the production control unit 202a ends the production control processing as it is.

(Example of effect pattern in the present embodiment)
Next, an example of the effect pattern in this Embodiment is demonstrated. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the effect pattern in the present embodiment. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 11, corresponding to the variation patterns Hp1 to Hp21, the production patterns Ep1 to Ep21 are prepared in advance by the manufacturer of the gaming machine 100 and stored in the ROM 242 of the production control unit 202a or the like. ing.

  The production patterns Ep1 to Ep21 define the production mode during the symbol variation by the variation patterns Hp1 to Hp21. For example, the effect pattern Ep1 defines that the effect of normal loss (the effect of stopping the effect symbol with a break without causing the reach effect) in the symbol variation by the variation pattern Hp1 is defined. Further, the effect pattern Ep2 defines that the normal reach is performed and the effect symbol is stopped at the reach loss point in the symbol variation by the variation pattern Hp2.

  Furthermore, the effect pattern Ep3 defines that the super-reach α is performed in the symbol variation by the variation pattern Hp3, and the effect symbol is stopped at the reach loss point. In addition, the effect pattern Ep7 is defined to cause the super-reach β to be performed in the symbol variation by the variation pattern Hp7 and to stop the effect symbol with a combination indicating a jackpot.

  Here, the normal loss α and the normal loss β are different normal loss effects. For example, the normal loss α is an effect in which the production symbols are stopped one by one, and the normal loss β is an effect. It is an effect that the symbols are stopped at the same time. Here, the super reach α and the super reach β are different types (directions) of the super reach, for example, reach display images displayed in each case and output reach effect sounds (for example, for reach display). BGM) is different.

(An example of processing performed by the image / sound controller of the present embodiment)
Next, an example of processing performed by the image / sound control unit 202b in the effect control unit 202 will be described. FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the hold icon display start process. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an outline of various decisions made by the image / sound controller. For example, while the gaming machine 100 is activated, the image / sound controller 202b executes the hold icon display start process shown in FIG. 12 at a predetermined cycle (for example, every 4 ms).

(Hold icon display start processing)
In the hold icon display start process, the image / sound control unit 202b determines whether or not a prior determination result has been notified from the production control unit 202a (step S1201). The image / sound control unit 202b ends the hold icon display start process when there is no prior determination result notification from the production control unit 202a (step S1201: No).

  The image / sound control unit 202b, when notified of the predetermination result from the production control unit 202a (step S1201: Yes), stores the predetermination result in a predetermined storage provided in the RAM 253 of the image / sound control unit 202b. Store in the area (step S1202). In this manner, the image / sound control unit 202b stores the prior determination result in a predetermined storage area of the RAM 253 every time there is a prior determination result notification from the effect supervising unit 202a.

  Subsequently, the image / sound control unit 202b determines whether or not the condition for executing the countdown notice effect is satisfied (step S1203). In the present embodiment, the conditions under which the countdown notice effect can be executed are the normal game state (the game state in which winning to the second starting port 106 is unlikely to occur), and during the countdown notice effect or on hold change It is assumed that the notice effect is not in progress and the number of holds is “2” or more. As described above, in this embodiment, as a condition for executing the countdown notice effect, a condition that the number of holdings is “2” or more is set, and the countdown notice effect that can sufficiently enjoy the progress of the count is provided. Like to do. In the present embodiment, the executable conditions for the countdown notice effect are set as described above. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the manufacturer of the gaming machine 100 may arbitrarily set the game machine 100 in consideration of the game characteristics. You may decide to.

  The image / sound control unit 202b determines whether or not the countdown notice effect is to be performed, for example, by performing a predetermined lottery process when the condition for executing the countdown notice effect is satisfied (step S1203: Yes). (Step S1204). In this determination, for example, as shown in FIG. 13C, the image / sound control unit 202b receives the prior determination result notified in the latest step S1201 (that is, the prior determination result of the newly acquired determination information). If it is a big hit, it is determined that the countdown notice effect will be performed with a higher probability than if it was a loss.

  Specifically, in the present embodiment, when the prior determination result notified in the latest step S1201 is a loss, it is determined that the countdown notice effect is to be performed with a probability of 2/100, and 98/100 It is decided not to perform the countdown notice effect with probability. On the other hand, when the prior determination result notified in the most recent step S1201 is a big hit, it is determined that the countdown notice effect is performed with a probability of 70/100, and the countdown notice effect is not performed with a probability of 30/100. decide.

  Subsequently, the image / sound controller 202b determines whether or not it is determined to perform the countdown notice effect by the process of step S1204 (step S1205). If it is determined that the countdown notice effect is to be performed (step S1205: Yes), for example, a predetermined lottery process is performed to determine the display mode after the change due to the current countdown notice effect (step S1206). In this determination, for example, as shown in FIG. 13D, the image / sound control unit 202b receives the prior determination result notified in the latest step S1201 (that is, the prior determination result of the newly acquired determination information). If it is a big hit, it is determined to be a high expectation degree display mode with a higher probability than when it is a loss.

  Specifically, in the present embodiment, when the prior determination result notified in the most recent step S1201 is a loss, the high expectation display mode is determined with a probability of 50/100, The medium expectation degree display mode is determined by the probability. On the other hand, if the previous determination result notified in the most recent step S1201 is a big hit, the high expectation display mode is determined with a probability of 90/100 and the medium expectation display mode is determined with a probability of 10/100. To do.

  Subsequently, the image / sound controller 202b determines an initial count value of the current countdown notice effect (a count value at the start of the current countdown notice effect) (step S1207). For example, the image / sound controller 202b determines an initial count value based on the current number of holds. More specifically, the image / sound controller 202b can determine the initial count value within the range of “2 to 4”, and determines the initial count value equal to or less than the current number of holds.

  Thus, for example, when the number of holds is “2”, the initial count value is determined as “2”, and when the number of holds is “3”, the initial count value is determined as “2” or “3”. When the number of holds is “4”, the initial count value is determined as “2”, “3”, or “4”. When the initial count value is determined to be “2”, a countdown notice effect is performed in which “1” is counted down from “2” every time the symbol variation is performed. When the initial count value is determined to be “3”, a countdown notice effect is performed in which “1” is counted down from “3” every time the symbol variation is performed. When the initial count value is determined to be “4”, a countdown notice effect is performed in which “1” is counted down from “4” every time the symbol variation is performed.

  Further, the image / sound control unit 202b may determine the initial count value to be as large as possible from the viewpoint of sufficiently enjoying the progress of counting. In this case, for example, the image / audio control unit 202b determines the initial count value to be “3” when the number of holds is “3”, and sets the initial count value to “4” when the number of holds is “4”. To be determined. In this way, the counting period in the countdown notice effect can be made as long as possible, so that the counting can be sufficiently enjoyed.

  Then, the image / sound control unit 202b sets the countdown notice effect flag indicating that the countdown notice effect is being performed to ON (step S1208), and the determination information in which the prior determination result notified in the latest step S1201 is obtained. As the hold icon Hi corresponding to, the hold icon Hi in the change suggestion display mode is displayed on the image display unit 104 (step S1209), and the count image representing the count in the countdown notice effect is displayed (step S1210), and the hold icon display is performed. End the start process. An example of the count image will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Also, the image / sound control unit 202b determines that the countdown notice effect executable condition is not satisfied (step S1203: No), and if it is determined not to perform the countdown notice effect (step S1205: No). Then, it is determined whether or not a condition for executing the hold change notice effect is established (step S1211). In the present embodiment, the condition for executing the hold change notice effect is that the game is in the normal game state (the game state in which winning to the second starting port 106 is difficult to occur), and during the countdown notice effect or on hold. It is assumed that there is no change notice effect and the number of holds is “1” or more.

  Execution conditions for the hold change notice effect are generally the same as those for the countdown notice effect. However, in the case of the hold change notice effect, there is no need to set a period for counting like the countdown notice effect. Regarding the condition regarding the number, the number of reservations is assumed to be “1” or more. In the present embodiment, the execution condition of the pending change notice effect is set as described above, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the manufacturer of the gaming machine 100 takes into consideration the game characteristics of the gaming machine 100, etc. It may be determined arbitrarily.

  The image / sound control unit 202b determines whether or not to perform the hold change notice effect by performing a predetermined lottery process, for example, when the execution condition of the hold change notice effect is satisfied (step S1211: Yes). Determination is made (step S1212). In this determination, for example, as shown in FIG. 13E, the image / sound control unit 202b receives the prior determination result notified in the latest step S1201 (that is, the prior determination result of the newly acquired determination information). In the case of a big hit, it is determined that the hold change notice effect is performed with a higher probability than in the case of a loss.

  Specifically, in the present embodiment, when the prior determination result notified in the most recent step S1201 is a loss, it is determined that the hold change notice effect is performed with a probability of 5/100, and 95/100 It is decided not to perform the hold change notice effect with the probability of. On the other hand, when the prior determination result notified in the most recent step S1201 is a big hit, it is determined that the hold change notice effect is performed with a probability of 60/100, and the hold change notice effect is performed with a probability of 40/100. It is decided not to.

  Subsequently, the image / sound controller 202b determines whether or not it is determined to perform the hold change notice effect by the process of step S1212 (step S1213). If it is determined to perform the hold change notice effect (step S1213: Yes), for example, a predetermined lottery process is performed to determine the display mode after the change due to the current hold change notice effect (step S1214). In this determination, for example, as shown in FIG. 13F, the image / sound control unit 202b receives a big hit on the prior determination result notified in step S1201 (that is, the previous determination result of the newly acquired determination information). If there is, it is determined to be a high expectation degree display mode with a higher probability than when this is a loss.

  Specifically, in the present embodiment, if the previous determination result notified in the most recent step S1201 is a loss, the high expectation degree display mode is determined with a probability of 30/100, and 70/100 The medium expectation degree display mode is determined by the probability. On the other hand, if the previous determination result notified in the most recent step S1201 is a jackpot, the high expectation display mode is determined with a probability of 70/100 and the medium expectation display mode is determined with a probability of 30/100. To do.

  Subsequently, the image / sound controller 202b determines the timing of the display mode change due to the current pending change notice effect (step S1215). For example, the image / sound controller 202b determines the next symbol variation start time as the timing of the display mode change due to the current hold change notice effect. The image / sound controller 202b may determine this timing based on the current number of holds. Specifically, for example, in this case, when the number of holdings is “1”, it is determined as “at the start of next symbol change”, and when the number of holdings is “2”, “at the time of starting next symbol change” or “ “At the start of the next symbol variation”. If the number of holds is “3”, it is determined as “at the start of the next symbol variation”, “at the start of the next symbol variation”, or “at the beginning of the third symbol variation start”. For example, when the number of holds is “4”, “at the start of next symbol variation”, “at the beginning of next symbol variation”, “at the beginning of third symbol variation”, or “four times ahead of symbol variation” Decide at the beginning of change.

  Then, the image / sound control unit 202b sets the hold change notice effect flag indicating that the hold change notice effect is being performed to ON (step S1216), and the prior determination result notified in the latest step S1201 is obtained. As the hold icon Hi corresponding to the determination information, the hold icon Hi in the low expectation display mode is displayed on the image display unit 104 (step S1217), and the hold icon display start process is ended.

  Further, the image / sound control unit 202b determines that the execution condition for the hold change notice effect is not satisfied (step S1211: No), and when it is determined that the hold change notice effect is not performed (step S1213: No), based on the previous determination result notified in the latest step S1201, the display mode of the hold icon Hi corresponding to the determination information from which the previous determination result is obtained is determined (step S1218).

  When making this determination, the image / sound control unit 202b determines that if the prior determination result notified in step S1201 (that is, the prior determination result of the newly acquired determination information) is a big hit, this is a loss. Rather than a high expectation display mode or medium expectation display mode. On the other hand, when the prior determination result notified in step S1201 (that is, the prior determination result of the newly acquired determination information) is lost, the low expectation display is performed with a higher probability than when this is a big hit. Determine the mode.

  Then, the image / sound control unit 202b displays on the image display unit 104 the hold icon Hi corresponding to the determination information obtained from the previous determination result notified in the latest step S1201 in the display mode determined by the process of step S1218. Display (step S1219), and the hold icon display start processing ends.

  In the case where the image / sound control unit 202b is configured not to perform the hold change notice effect, for example, the process of step S1211 to step S1216 is not performed, the process proceeds to step S1217, and the latest step S1201 is performed. The hold icon Hi corresponding to the determination information for which the notified prior determination result is obtained may be displayed in the low expectation level display mode. Similarly, when the image / sound control unit 202b is configured not to perform the hold notice effect, for example, the process of step S1218 and step S1219 is not performed, the process proceeds to the process of step S1217, and the latest step S1201 is performed. The hold icon Hi corresponding to the determination information for which the notified prior determination result is obtained may be displayed in the low expectation level display mode.

(Hold icon display change process)
FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the hold icon display change process. For example, while the gaming machine 100 is activated, the image / sound control unit 202b executes the hold icon display change process shown in FIG. 14 at a predetermined cycle (for example, every 4 ms). In the hold icon display change process, the image / sound control unit 202b determines whether or not the countdown notice effect flag is ON (step S1401).

  When the countdown notice effect flag is ON (step S1401: Yes), the image / sound control unit 202b determines whether or not the design variation of the effect symbol has started (step S1402). For example, when the image / sound control unit 202b receives an effect start command from the effect control unit 202a, the image / sound control unit 202b starts changing the design of the effect symbol. Therefore, in step S1402, the image / sound control unit 202b determines whether or not the symbol variation of the effect symbol has started due to the reception of the effect start command from the effect control unit 202a.

  The image / sound control unit 202b ends the hold icon display change process when the symbol variation of the effect symbol has not started (step S1402: No). When the change of the effect symbol is started (step S1402: Yes), the count in this countdown notice effect is advanced by one (step S1403). That is, the image / sound control unit 202b determines the initial count value of the current countdown notice effect by the process of the latest step S1207, and then increments the count from the initial count value by “1” every time the process of step S1403 is performed. Count down one by one. Then, the image / sound control unit 202b determines whether or not the count value is “0” as a result of the process of step S1403 (step S1404). When it is determined that the count value is not “0” (step S1404: No), the hold icon display change process is terminated.

  If the image / sound control unit 202b determines that the count value has become “0” (step S1404: Yes), the hold icon Hi that has been displayed in the change suggestion display mode by the current countdown notice effect is displayed in the latest display. While changing to the display mode determined by the process of step S1206 (step S1405), the count image is hidden (step S1406), the countdown notice effect flag is set to OFF (step S1407), and the hold icon display change process is performed. finish.

  If the countdown notice effect flag is OFF (step S1401: No), the image / sound control unit 202b determines whether the hold change notice effect flag is ON (step S1408). If the hold change notice effect flag is OFF (step S1408: No), the hold icon display change process is terminated. If the hold change notice effect flag is ON (step S1408: Yes), it is determined whether or not it is time to change the display mode determined by the process of the latest step S1215 (step S1409). If it is determined that it is not time to change the display mode (step S1409: No), the hold icon display change process is terminated.

  If the image / sound control unit 202b determines that it is time to change the display mode (step S1409: Yes), the hold icon Hi (that is, the current hold change) that is the target of the display mode change by the current hold change effect. The hold icon Hi) corresponding to the determination information that triggers the notice effect is changed to the display mode determined by the latest processing in step S1214 (step S1410), and the hold change notice effect flag is set to OFF ( Step S1411), the hold icon display change process is terminated.

(Specific production example by the gaming machine of this embodiment)
Next, a specific effect example by the gaming machine 100 will be described. First, an example of a countdown notice effect will be described. FIG. 15A is an explanatory diagram (part 1) of an example of a countdown notice effect. FIG. 15-2 is an explanatory diagram (part 2) of an example of the effect of the countdown notice effect.

  In FIG. 15-1 (t1), the gaming machine 100 varies the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 in the image display unit 104. For this reason, the hold icon Hi corresponding to the changing determination information is displayed in the changing hold display area HR3. Further, in FIG. 15-1 (t1), the first reservation number is “2”. For this reason, the gaming machine 100 displays two hold icons Hi in the first hold display area HR1. Assume that a game ball wins the first starting port 105 in the state of FIG. 15-1 (t1).

  In this case, the gaming machine 100 acquires new determination information for the winning (that is, the first hold number becomes “3”), and a hold icon Hi corresponding to this determination information is newly added to the first hold display area. It is displayed on HR1. Here, it is assumed that the gaming machine 100 determines to perform the countdown notice effect with the initial count value “3” based on the newly acquired determination information.

  In this case, as shown in FIG. 15-1 (t2), the gaming machine 100 displays the hold icon Hi in the change suggestion display mode in the first hold display area HR1, and for example, count images near the hold icon Hi. Cg is displayed. In the example described here, since the count value (that is, the initial count value) by the countdown notice effect is “3” at this time, the count image Cg is an image representing “3”. Here, the count image Cg is displayed in the vicinity of the hold icon Hi in the change suggestion display mode, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the count image Cg may be displayed on the upper right of the display screen of the image display unit 104 or may be displayed on the hold icon Hi in the change suggestion display mode.

  Thereafter, as shown in FIGS. 15-1 (t3) and 15-2 (t4), the gaming machine 100 changes every time it starts the symbol variation of the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 (that is, the symbol variation of the special symbol). The hold icon Hi in the suggestion display mode is shifted to the right one by one in the first hold display area HR1, and the count by the countdown notice effect is advanced. As a result, the count image Cg represents “2” in the example shown in FIG. 15-1 (t3) and “1” in the example shown in FIG. 15-2 (t4).

  Then, as shown in FIG. 15-2 (t5), the gaming machine 100 displays the hold icon Hi that has been displayed in the change suggestion display mode when the count value by the countdown notice effect is “0”, in the medium expectation level display mode. Or it changes to a high expectation degree display mode. Here, when it is determined that the countdown notice effect is to be performed, it is determined that the display form after the change by the countdown notice effect is the high expectation display form, and therefore the count value becomes “0”. The hold icon Hi displayed in the change suggestion display mode is changed to the high expectation level display mode.

  Although illustration and detailed description are omitted, for example, when the initial count value by the countdown notice effect is determined to be “2”, the change suggestion display mode is shown in FIG. 15-2 (t4). The hold icon Hi is changed to a high expectation level display mode or a medium expectation level display mode.

  Next, an example of the effect of the pending change notice effect will be described. FIG. 16 is an explanatory view showing an example of the effect of the pending change notice effect. In FIG. 16 (t11), the gaming machine 100 varies the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 in the image display unit 104. For this reason, the hold icon Hi corresponding to the changing determination information is displayed in the changing hold display area HR3. Further, in FIG. 16 (t11), the first hold number is “2”. For this reason, the gaming machine 100 displays two hold icons Hi in the first hold display area HR1. Assume that a game ball wins the first starting port 105 in the state of FIG. 16 (t11).

  In this case, the gaming machine 100 acquires new determination information for the winning (that is, the first hold number becomes “3”), and a hold icon Hi corresponding to this determination information is newly added to the first hold display area. It is displayed on HR1. Here, it is assumed that the gaming machine 100 determines to perform the hold change notice effect that changes the display mode at the start of the next symbol variation based on the newly acquired determination information.

  In this case, as shown in FIG. 16 (t12), the gaming machine 100 first displays the hold icon Hi corresponding to the newly acquired determination information in the first hold display area HR1 in the low expectation display mode. Then, after that, as shown in FIG. 16 (t13), the gaming machine 100 starts the next variation of the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 (that is, the symbol variation of the special symbol) in the first hold display area HR1. The hold icon Hi is shifted to the right one by one, and the hold icon Hi started to be displayed in FIG. 16 (t12) is changed to the high expectation display mode or the medium expectation display mode. Here, when it is determined that the hold change notice effect is to be performed, the display form after the change by the hold change notice effect is determined to be the high expectation display form, and therefore, the display is changed to the high expectation display form.

  As described above, while the gaming machine 100 is counting with the countdown notice effect, the game machine 100 may indicate to the player that “the hold icon Hi displayed in the change suggestion display mode is changed to the high expectation level display mode. It is possible to give a sense of expectation such as "I can't do it", and as the count progresses, this expectation can be amplified and the game can be enjoyed.

  In addition to the countdown notice effect, the gaming machine 100 can also perform a hold change notice effect. Thereby, the gaming machine 100 does not display the hold icon Hi corresponding to the newly acquired determination information in the change suggestion display mode but displays it in the low expectation level display mode. It is possible to give a sense of expectation that “the display mode may be changed”, and to entertain the game.

  In the present embodiment, even when the normal lose judgment information is stored, the countdown notice effect can be performed using the judgment information as a trigger. However, the countdown notice is triggered by the normal lose judgment information. The production may not be performed. For example, in this case, when the determination information is stored (or acquired), the variation pattern of the determination information is also determined by prior determination. In addition, in addition to the fact that the countdown notice effect executable condition is not a normal loss, it is determined in step S1203 whether the prior determination result notified in the most recent step S1201 is not a normal loss. In this way, when the countdown notice effect is performed, it is determined that the reach effect will be performed, so the expectation that can be given to the player when the countdown notice effect is performed is greater. To be able to do things.

  In addition, when a countdown notice effect with an initial count value of a predetermined value (for example, “3” or “4”) is performed, it is determined that a reach effect is performed, and the initial count value is other than a predetermined value (for example, “2”). When the countdown notice effect of “)” is performed, it may not be determined that the reach effect is performed. Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the count value is set to advance only “1” in one symbol variation, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the count value may be advanced by “2” in one symbol variation. In this way, it is possible to perform a countdown notice effect with a large initial count value even if the number of holds is small.

  As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to enhance the fun of the game by performing an effect that can entertain the player.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Game machine 104 Image display part 105 1st starting opening 106 2nd starting opening 109a Grand prize opening

Claims (2)

Storage means capable of storing the right of the special game determination as to whether or not to perform a special game advantageous to the player by the establishment of the first condition;
Special game determination means for performing the special game determination on the right stored in the storage means by the establishment of the second condition;
Prior determination means for performing prior determination as to whether or not to perform the special game for the right stored in the storage means before the special game determination is performed by the special game determination means;
An effect control means capable of executing a predetermined effect using a predetermined effect means including a display means,
With
The production control means includes
In response to the rights in the storage means is stored, along with displaying a predetermined effect displayed on the display means, and when the effect display, displays in changes suggested display modes, and the changes suggested display state like There is, as when it is required to show different predetermined display mode,
Regardless of whether the effect display is displayed in either the change suggestion display mode or the predetermined display mode, the special game is performed based on the prior determination result of the prior determination means. May change to a high-expectation display that suggests a high probability,
The effect when the display was allowed to appear in the change suggested display mode, after over a predetermined period Makei, there Ri changing to the high degree of expectation display manner from the changes suggested display modes,
The effect when the display has been displayed in the predetermined display mode, before elapse between the plants regularly, may be changed to the high degree of expectation display mode from the predetermined display mode,
When changing the effect display from the change suggestion display mode to the high expectation level display mode, a progress effect suggesting a period until the effect display is changed from the change suggestion display mode to the high expectation level display mode A game machine characterized by being able to execute . In the high expectation display mode,
A first high expectation display mode, there is a corresponding possibility of the special game is performed than the first high expectation display form second high expectations display manner suggesting high Ikoto,
When the effect display is changed from the change suggestion display mode to the high expectation level display mode, it is more easily changed to the second high expectation level display mode than the first high expectation level display mode. The gaming machine according to claim 1.

Images