JP6228648B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine that launches a game ball on a game board surface.

  There is a game machine such as a pachinko game machine in which a latent effect for advancing a game is performed without clearly indicating to the player that the probability of winning a jackpot has reached a high probability state (for example, Patent Document 1). ). In addition, in this type of gaming machine, for example, when a latent effect is performed by winning a small hit, there is a game machine in which the latent effect ends when the number of fluctuations after the small hit reaches a predetermined number.

JP 2010-75517 A

  However, the conventional gaming machine only provides a monotonous effect during the period during which the latent effect is performed, and does not provide an effective effect according to the number of fluctuations after winning a big or small win, There was a problem of lacking.

  Accordingly, the present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of producing an effect that is more interesting than before.

  In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, the invention according to claim 1 is a gaming machine (1), and is a special game determination that determines whether or not to shift to a special gaming state advantageous to a player by establishing a starting condition. When a determination is made to shift to the special game state in the game determination means (52) and the special game determination, the special game state is shifted to the special game state with a first probability in the special game determination after the special game state. Or the second gaming state determined to shift to the special gaming state with a second probability higher than the first probability in the special gaming determination. A game state control means (55), and an effect control means (33) for causing the predetermined effect means to produce an effect, the effect control means (33) based on the result of the special game determination Announcement performance that informs the result of game determination Notification effect control means (80) for making an exit, and high probability effect control means (91) capable of performing a high probability effect for notifying the transition to the second gaming state in the notification effect. The notification effect control means (80) sets the time for performing the notification effect to a predetermined time when the predetermined condition is satisfied when the state is shifted to the second gaming state. If the high-probability effect is not performed, a notification effect including a specific effect suggesting that the game state is shifted to the second gaming state is performed as the notification effect corresponding to the predetermined time, and the high probability If an effect is performed, a notification effect that does not include the specific effect is performed as the notification effect corresponding to the predetermined time.

  The invention according to claim 2 is a gaming machine (1), comprising a special game determination means (52) for performing a special game determination as to whether or not to shift to a special game state advantageous to a player by establishing a start condition When it is determined that the special game state is shifted to the special game state, the special game state is determined to shift to the special game state with a first probability after the special game state. A gaming state control means (55) for shifting to a gaming state or a second gaming state determined to shift to the special gaming state with a second probability higher than the first probability in the special gaming determination And an effect control means (33) for causing the predetermined effect means to produce an effect, and the effect control means (33) notifies the result of the special game determination based on the result of the special game determination. Notification production control for making announcement production Means (80) and high-probability effect control means (91) capable of performing a high-probability effect informing that the transition to the second gaming state is performed in the special gaming state, The notification effect control means (80) sets a time for performing the notification effect to a predetermined time when the predetermined condition is satisfied when the state is shifted to the second gaming state, and the high-probability effect is set. If not performed, a notification effect including a specific effect suggesting that transition to the second gaming state is performed as a notification effect corresponding to the predetermined time, and the high-probability effect is performed. For example, the notification effect that does not include the specific effect is performed as the notification effect corresponding to the predetermined time.

  The invention according to claim 3 is a gaming machine (1), comprising a special game determination means (52) for performing a special game determination as to whether or not to shift to a special game state advantageous to a player by establishing a start condition. When it is determined that the special game state is shifted to the special game state, the special game state is determined to shift to the special game state with a first probability after the special game state. A gaming state control means (55) for shifting to a gaming state or a second gaming state determined to shift to the special gaming state with a second probability higher than the first probability in the special gaming determination And an effect control means (33) for causing the predetermined effect means to produce an effect, and the effect control means (33) notifies the result of the special game determination based on the result of the special game determination. Notification production control for making announcement production Means (80), and when the notification effect control means (80) is shifted to the first game state or the second game state, the notification effect control means (80) performs a predetermined number of special notification effects. The time for performing the notification effect is set to a predetermined time, and as the notification effect corresponding to the predetermined time, a notification effect including a specific effect that suggests the possibility of shifting to the second gaming state is performed. Is possible, and in the notification effect including the specific effect, it is possible to cause an effect to notify that the transition to the second gaming state is performed, and all of the plurality of special notification effects are performed. In the case where an effect for notifying that the game state has been shifted to the second gaming state is performed before the end, the notification effect that does not include the specific effect is performed in the special notification effect thereafter, and the specific effect is included. Make an announcement If a configuration, wherein to perform effect indicating a history of said specific effect has been made.

  According to the gaming machine according to the present invention, it is possible to produce an effect that is more interesting than before.

It is a front view which shows the external appearance structure of a gaming machine. It is a block diagram which shows the control mechanism of a gaming machine. It is the block diagram which showed typically the main function structure in the main control board. It is a figure which shows the type of jackpot won in special game determination. It is a figure which shows an example of the number of rounds in which a special winning opening is open | released in a special game state. It is a figure which shows the game state regarding the progress of the game after completion | finish of a special game. It is a figure which shows the concept of a fluctuation pattern table. It is a figure which shows the concept of the fluctuation | variation pattern table in a latent game state and the normal game state after a small hit. It is a flowchart which shows the main operation | movement in a main control board. It is a flowchart which shows the detail of a 1st start port switch process and a 2nd start port switch process. It is a flowchart which shows the detail of a gate switch process. It is a flowchart which shows the detail of a special symbol process. It is a flowchart which shows the detail of a special game determination process. It is a flowchart which shows the detail of a fluctuation | variation determination process. It is a flowchart which shows the detail of the process during a stop. It is a flowchart which shows the detail of a big prize opening process. It is a flowchart which shows the detail of a big prize opening process. It is a flowchart which shows the detail of a game state transfer process. It is a flowchart which shows the detail of a normal symbol process. It is a flowchart which shows the detail of an electric tulip process. It is a flowchart which shows the detail of an output process. It is a figure showing the production mode controlled by the production control board. It is a block diagram schematically showing the main functional configuration of the effect control board. It is a figure which shows the example of the prior suggestion effect performed in an image display. It is a figure which shows the example of the alerting | reporting effect of normal lose performed when the frequency | count of change in a time-saving game mode is not a predetermined number of times. It is a figure which shows the example of the alerting | reporting effect including the specific suggestion effect when the frequency | count of change in a time-saving game mode is a predetermined number of times. It is a figure which shows the production | presentation aspect by specific suggestion production It is a figure which shows the example of the alerting | reporting effect including the high probability suggestion effect performed when the frequency | count of change is the predetermined number of times in a latent game mode. It is a figure which shows an example of the final production | presentation aspect when a high probability suggestion production is performed repeatedly. It is a figure which shows an example of the high-probability effect in the notification effect. It is a figure which shows an example of the high-probability effect in the special game effect. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the predetermination process by a predetermination part. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the prior suggestion effect control process by the prior suggestion effect control part. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the process sequence in case the alerting effect by a time saving game effect control part is performed in a time saving game state. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the prior suggestion effect control process by the prior suggestion effect control part. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a latent game effect control process by a latent game effect control part.

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the embodiments described below, members that are common to each other are denoted by the same reference numerals, and duplicate descriptions thereof are omitted.

◇ Appearance structure of gaming machine ◇
FIG. 1 is a front view showing an external configuration of a gaming machine 1 in the present embodiment. This gaming machine 1 is a ball-type gaming machine configured to pay out a winning ball when a gaming ball launched by a launching device in accordance with a player's instruction operation wins various winning holes. As shown in FIG. 1, the gaming machine 1 has a gaming machine main body 1a fixed to an island facility of a hall (store), and a transparent glass plate 2 is fitted on the front side of the gaming machine main body 1a. A front frame door 3 is provided. The gaming machine main body 1 a includes a gaming board 10 that rolls gaming balls inside the front frame door 3.

  The front frame door 3 is pivotally supported at the left end of the gaming machine main body 1a so that the front side of the gaming machine main body 1a can be opened and closed. The transparent glass plate 2 is for making the gaming board 10 attached to the inside of the gaming machine main body 1a visible while the front frame door 3 closes the front side of the gaming machine main body 1a. In addition, a shelf-shaped sphere storage unit 4 that protrudes to the front side is provided at the lower center of the front frame door 3. On the upper surface of the ball storage section 4, an operation button 6 that can be operated by the player is provided, and a storage tray for storing a game ball for launching on the game board 10 is provided. Further, the front frame door 3 includes a handle lever 5 that can be rotated in the clockwise direction in order to allow the player to fire the game ball at the lower right portion of the ball storage unit 4. The front frame door 3 includes frame lamps 7 that are lit in various patterns as the game progresses, above the transparent glass plate 2, below the ball storage portion 4, and on both left and right sides of the transparent glass plate 2. Further, the front frame door 3 includes speakers 8 that perform sound output for various effects as the game progresses on the left and right sides of the frame lamp 7 located above the transparent glass plate 2.

  When the front frame door 3 is in a closed state, the game board 10 forms a game area where the game ball can roll between the board surface and the transparent glass plate 2 fitted in the front frame door 3. When the handle lever 5 is operated by the player, the game ball is launched to the upper left part of the game area with a hitting force corresponding to the operation angle, and then the game ball flows down while rolling in the game area. When the game ball wins various winning holes provided on the game board 10, the gaming machine 1 pays out the prize ball to the storage tray of the ball storage unit 4.

  In the center of the game board 10, a center accessory 11 for performing various effects as the game progresses is provided. The game board 10 is also known around the center object 11 such as a number of nails and windmills, as well as a first start port 13, a second start port 14, a prize winning port 15, a through gate 16 and an out port 23. A member is provided. In addition to this, the game board 10 is also provided with a normal winning opening not shown. Further, the game board 10 displays a special symbol corresponding to the determination result of the special game determination (big hit determination) by displaying a variation of the special symbol on the lower left part of the board surface outside the game area where the game ball rolls, In order to display the number of holds due to the winning of the game ball at the first start port 13 and the second start port 14, or to display the lottery result of the normal symbol due to the passing of the game ball through the through gate 16 The symbol display 22 is provided.

  In the game board 10 shown in FIG. 1, a through gate 16 is provided on the right side of the center accessory 11. The through gate 16 is a gate that is a condition for the normal symbol lottery to be performed in the gaming machine 1, and when the game ball passes this gate, the normal symbol lottery is performed in the gaming machine 1.

  The first start port 13 is provided below the center accessory 11, and the second start port 14 is provided on the right side of the first start port 13. Here, the game ball having a relatively high possibility of winning the first starting port 13 is a game ball that rolls on the left side of the center accessory 11 as indicated by an arrow F1. is there. That is, the first start port 13 is provided so that the possibility that the game ball rolling on the right side of the center accessory 11 wins the first start port 13 as shown by the arrow F2 is extremely low. A game ball with a relatively high possibility of winning at the second starting port 14 is a game ball that rolls on the right side of the center accessory 11 as indicated by an arrow F2 when the game ball is launched on the game board 10. . That is, the second start port 14 is provided so that the possibility that the game ball rolling on the left side of the center accessory 11 wins the second start port 14 as shown by the arrow F1 is extremely low.

  Each of the first start port 13 and the second start port 14 is a winning port for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls, and in the gaming machine 1 to a special game state that is a special game advantageous to the player. It is a winning opening as a condition for performing a special game determination (a jackpot determination) for determining whether or not to shift. That is, when the game ball won in the first or second start port 13 or 14 passes through the start detection area and the start condition is satisfied, the special game determination is performed in the gaming machine 1, and the special symbol is displayed on the symbol display 22. While the variable display is started, various effects according to the result of the special game determination are also started in the center accessory 11 or the like, and thereafter, when the predetermined time has elapsed, the special symbol variable display and the various effects are ended. The result of the special game determination is displayed. If the result of the special game determination indicates a jackpot, then the gaming machine 1 starts a special game that is advantageous to the player as a jackpot game.

  Here, the symbol display 22 is arranged at a corner of the game board 10 and is provided at a position that is difficult for the player to visually recognize. Are displayed in a display mode that is difficult for the player to identify. Therefore, the player generally recognizes the result of the special game determination mainly by a stop mode at the time when various effects performed for a predetermined time on the center accessory 11 or the like are completed.

  The second starting port 14 includes an electric tulip 14a that opens and closes like a blade at positions near the left and right sides. When the electric tulip 14a is in the closed state, the electric tulip 14a blocks the game ball rolling near the second start port 14 from winning the second start port 14. On the other hand, when the electric tulip 14a is opened in the left-right direction, it assists the game ball that rolls in the vicinity of the second start port 14 so that it can easily win the second start port 14. It becomes a state. That is, the electric tulip 14a is in an auxiliary state (open state) that assists the game ball launched into the game board 10 to win the second start port 14, and the game ball wins the second start port 14. It is provided as an auxiliary member that is driven to a non-assisting state (closed state) that is not assisted. The electric tulip 14a is normally in a closed state and does not assist the winning of the game ball to the second starting port 14. On the other hand, when the game ball launched on the game board 10 wins the normal symbol lottery performed by passing through the through gate 16, the electric tulip 14a has a predetermined time and a predetermined number of times according to the game state at that time. It becomes an open state, and it will be in the auxiliary state which assists the winning of the game ball to the 2nd starting port 14.

  The big prize opening 15 is provided on the game board 10 on the right side of the second start opening 14. The large winning opening 15 is a variable winning device that is driven into an open state in which game balls can be won and a closed state in which game balls cannot be won, and is normally closed. Then, in the special game that is started after that, when the big win or the small win is won in the special game determination performed by winning the game ball in the first start port 13 or the second start port 14 in the gaming machine 1, 15 is driven to an open state, and the game ball is in a state where it can win a prize winning opening 15. The special winning opening 15 is driven a predetermined number of times from the closed state to the open state in the special gaming state. When the special winning opening 15 is driven to the open state, the open state continues until a predetermined open time elapses or until a predetermined number of wins are counted. For example, when a big win is won, a game in which the big winning opening 15 is opened is defined as a round game, and a round game of a predetermined number of rounds is performed in a special game state. The opening time during which the open state of the big winning opening 15 is continued in the special jackpot game is set in advance for each round according to the type of the jackpot. That is, there are two types of rounds in which the grand prize opening 15 is opened: a long opening round and a short opening round. In the case of a long opening round, the opening time is set to a relatively long time of about 30 seconds. In the case of a short opening round, the opening time is set to an extremely short time of about 0.2 seconds. Accordingly, when the big winning opening 15 is driven to the open state in the long open round, it is possible to win up to a predetermined number of game balls until a predetermined open time elapses. You can win a prize ball. On the other hand, in the case of the short opening round, even if the grand prize opening 15 is driven to the open state, it immediately returns to the closed state, so that it is unlikely that the game ball will win the big prize opening 15, and the player Is difficult to win. On the other hand, in the special game when winning a small win, the big prize opening 15 only repeats the opening and closing operation a predetermined number of times, and the opening time per time is the same as the short opening round in the case of the big win 0.2 seconds It is set to an extremely short time.

  Since such a large winning opening 15 is provided in the area on the right side of the game board 10, a game ball having a relatively high possibility of winning in the large winning opening 15 in the open state is indicated by an arrow F2. A game ball rolling on the right side of the center actor 11. In other words, as shown by the arrow F1, the big prize opening 15 is provided so that the possibility that the game ball rolling on the left side of the center accessory 11 wins the big prize opening 15 is extremely low. For this reason, when a special game including a long open round is started in the gaming machine 1, the player increases the rotation angle of the handle lever 5 and operates the game ball to be launched into the right area of the game area. A game ball can be awarded to the winning opening 15.

  In addition, the center accessory 11 includes an image display 12 configured by, for example, a color liquid crystal display in the center. The image display 12 can display three decorative symbols 12a, 12b, and 12c with symbols such as numerals, alphabets, and characters. As the special game determination is performed in the gaming machine 1 and the variation display of the special symbol is started, the image display 12 performs a symbol variation effect that varies the three decorative symbols 12a, 12b, and 12c in the vertical direction. By starting the variation effect after a lapse of a predetermined time from the start, the effect of notifying the player of the result of the special game determination is performed. For example, when the symbol variation effect performed on the image display 12 stops when all three decorative symbols 12a, 12b, and 12c are aligned with the same symbol, it is informed that the stop symbol is a big hit with the aligned symbols. Is done. Further, when the three decorative symbols 12a, 12b, and 12c are aligned and the vehicle does not stop, it is notified that the game is lost.

  The image display 12 may perform various game effects between the start and stop of the symbol variation effect. For example, the normal reach effect in the normal reach state may be performed from the normal symbol variation effect, or the operation effect that prompts the player to operate the operation button 6 may be performed from the normal reach effect in the normal reach state. Further, when the player performs a button operation while performing the operation effect and the player succeeds in performing the operation effect, the image display device 12 shifts the normal reach effect in the normal reach state to the next stage, and a specific character or the like is displayed. There may be various development effects that display whether or not the target action can be achieved.

  The image display 12 also has a first hold display section 12d for displaying the number of holds due to the first starting port 13 game ball winning at the bottom of the screen and the hold due to the second starting port 14 game ball winning. And a second hold display unit 12e for displaying the number. For example, each of the first hold display unit 12d and the second hold display unit 12e can display a maximum of four holds.

  In addition to the image display 12, the center accessory 11 is provided with a panel lamp, a movable accessory, etc. (not shown). These panel lamps and movable accessories light up or operate in conjunction with the symbol variation effect and other various effects performed on the image display 12. Further, the frame lamp 7 is turned on or off in conjunction with an effect performed on the image display 12. Therefore, when any effect is started on the image display 12, an effect linked to the effect is performed on the entire gaming machine 1. Note that the image display 12, the frame lamp 7, a board lamp not shown in the figure, and a movable accessory are rendering means provided for performing various effects on the gaming machine 1.

  The out port 23 is provided at the lowermost center of the game board 10 and discharges game balls that have not won any of the above-described various winning ports to the back side of the game board 10 as out balls.

◇ Machine control mechanism ◇
Next, FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a control mechanism of the gaming machine 1 attached to the back side of the gaming board 10. On the back side of the gaming board 10, a main control board 30 that controls the main operation of the gaming machine 1 and a sub control board 31 that controls each part based on signals and commands output from the main control board 30 are provided. ing. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the sub control board 31 includes a payout control board 32, an effect control board 33, an image control board 34, a lamp control board 35, and the like. Of these sub-control boards 31, the effect control board 33, the image control board 34, and the lamp control board 35 are provided as effect control means.

  The main control board 30 controls the progress of the game in the gaming machine 1 and has a CPU 30a, a ROM 30b, and a RAM 30c. The main control board 30 has a first start port switch 41 for detecting that the game ball has won the first start port 13 and a second start port switch for detecting that the game ball has won the second start port 14. 42, a through gate switch 43 that detects that a game ball has passed through the through gate 16, an electric Chu solenoid 44 that opens and closes the electric tulip 14a, a large winning port solenoid 45 that opens and closes the large winning port 15, and a large winning port 15 Each of the big prize opening switches 46 for detecting that a game ball has won is connected. A symbol display 22 is connected to the main control board 30. The symbol display 22 is provided with a special symbol display 22a for displaying the variation of the special symbol and a normal symbol display 22b for displaying the variation of the normal symbol.

  The main control board 30 sends a prize ball command to the payout control board 32 when each of the first start opening switch 41, the second start opening switch 42, and the big winning opening switch 46 detects winning of a game ball. . The payout control board 32 includes a CPU 32a, a ROM 32b, and a RAM 32c, and is configured to control a payout motor 32d provided on the back side of the game board 10. When a payout ball command is input from the main control board 30, the payout control board 32 pays out a predetermined number of balls according to the winning opening where the game ball has won.

  Further, the main control board 30 is configured to perform a special game determination for determining whether or not to shift to a special game state in which a special game is performed, and a normal symbol lottery for determining whether or not to open the electric tulip 14a. Yes. For example, when a game ball passes through the through gate 16, the main control board 30 performs a normal symbol lottery for determining whether to open / close the electric tulip 14a, and the normal symbol display 22b results in the normal symbol lottery. Based on this, the normal symbol variation display is started. When the normal symbol lottery is won, the main control board 30 stops the fluctuation display of the normal symbol at the winning symbol after a predetermined time has elapsed, and then drives the electric chew solenoid 44 for a predetermined time or a predetermined number of times so that the electric tulip 14a is operated. Open. Note that when the normal symbol lottery is won and the electric tulip 14a is in the open state, as described above, it becomes easy for a game ball to enter the second start port 14, so the start condition that triggers the special game determination is It is in a state where it is easy to be established.

  Further, the main control board 30 detects that the game ball has won the first start port 13 or the second start port 14 and, when the start condition is satisfied, makes a special game determination according to the winning start port. Then, the special symbol display 22a starts displaying the variation of the special symbol for a predetermined time based on the determination result. Then, the main control board 30 causes the effect control board 33 to perform the symbol change effect for a predetermined time according to the result of the special game determination as the special symbol display 22a starts the change display of the special symbol. In response, signals and commands are sent. In addition, when it is detected that the game ball has won the first start port 13 or the second start port 14 and the change display of the previous special symbol has not ended, the main control board 30 performs in accordance with the winning. Reserves the right to a special game determination. Then, when the timing of the previous special symbol variation display ends and the next variation display can be started, the main control board 30 performs the next special game determination by digesting the reserved right, Based on the result of the special game determination, the next special symbol variation display is started.

  If the main control board 30 is found to have won the jackpot in the special game determination, the main control board 30 starts the special game according to the type of the jackpot after displaying the variation of the special symbol for a predetermined time. In each round during the game, the big prize opening solenoid 45 is driven to open the big prize opening 15. In addition, in the special game determination, there may be a win in addition to the big win. Even in the special game determination, it is found that the small bonus is won, the main control board 30 starts the special game corresponding to the small bonus after performing the special symbol variation display for a predetermined time, and the special game In each round during the game, the big prize opening solenoid 45 is driven to open the big prize opening 15. The main control board 30 sends a signal or a command to cause the effect control board 33 to perform a special game effect (big hit game effect) corresponding to the special game as the special game is started.

  The production control board 33 includes a CPU 33a, a ROM 33b, and a RAM 33c, determines specific production contents based on signals and commands from the main control board 30, and controls the execution of the decided production. That is, the effect control board 33 controls the execution of specific effects to be performed in the gaming machine 1 by controlling each of the image control board 34 and the lamp control board 35.

  For example, when the special game determination is performed by the main control board 30 and the special symbol variation display is performed for a predetermined time, the effect control board 33 displays the three decorative symbols 12a and 12b on the image display 12 during the predetermined time. , 12c is changed. In this symbol variation effect, the three decorative symbols 12a, 12b, and 12c are simply a normal symbol variation effect in which the up and down direction is changed, and various notice effects in which characters appear from such a normal symbol variation effect. Various effects are performed according to the result of the special game determination, such as an effect of transitional development. In addition, the operation buttons 6 are connected to the effect control board 33. Therefore, when it is detected that the operation button 6 has been operated at a predetermined timing at which the player can perform a button operation, the effect control board 33 can also perform an effect according to the button operation. . When a special game is played by the main control board 30, the effect control board 33 controls the execution of the special game effect corresponding to the big win or the small win won in the special game determination.

  The image control board 34 includes a CPU 34 a, a ROM 34 b, a RAM 34 c, and a VRAM 34 d, and controls an image displayed on the image display 12. The image control board 34 starts a design variation effect that varies the three decorative symbols 12a, 12b, and 12c based on an instruction from the performance control substrate 33, and shifts the design variation effect to a reach effect. Or shift to a more advanced production. Further, the image control board 34 displays a round of the current round during a special game based on an instruction from the effect control board 33 or displays a special game effect image such as a moving image. In the image control board 34, the VRAM 34 d is a memory for writing an image to be displayed on the image display 12. The CPU 34a executes various processes such as a background image display process, a decorative symbol display process, and a character image display process on the VRAM 34d, so that a background image, a decorative symbol image, a character image, etc. are displayed on the image display 12. The player can visually recognize the foreground image by displaying the images in a superimposed manner. Further, the image control board 34 is configured to generate a sound effect for production from the speaker 8.

  The lamp control board 35 includes a CPU 35a, a ROM 35b, and a RAM 35c. The lamp control board 35 is provided in the center accessory 11 by controlling the frame lamp 7 and the movable accessory driving unit 24 based on instructions from the effect control board 33. The board surface lamp and the frame lamp 7 are turned on, and a movable accessory is operated.

◇ Specific configuration example of main control board ◇
FIG. 3 is a block diagram schematically showing the main functional configuration of the main control board 30. The RAM 30c of the main control board 30 is provided with a game data storage unit 61 and a hold storage unit 62. The game data storage unit 61 stores various random numbers such as jackpot random numbers, symbol random numbers, variation pattern random numbers, reach random numbers, and the like as game data. The various random numbers stored in the game data storage unit 61 are random numbers that can take values within a predetermined range, and the values are sequentially updated by a random number update unit (not shown). For this reason, the values of various random numbers are randomly different depending on the timing at which the game data is read from the game data storage unit 61. In the game data storage unit 61, a normal symbol random number used for the normal symbol lottery is also stored as game data. On the other hand, the hold storage unit 62 stores the game data read from the game data storage unit 61 by the game data acquisition unit 51 up to a predetermined upper limit number, and temporarily holds the right for special game determination. It is a storage area.

  In the ROM 30b of the main control board 30, a determination table 63, a variation pattern table 64, and an open pattern table 65 are stored in advance. The determination table 63 is a table that is referred to in order to make a special game determination. The determination table 63 includes a low-probability determination table and a high-probability determination table. In the low-probability determination table, a predetermined number of values are determined as winning values for which a jackpot random number is a jackpot. In the high-probability determination table, more winning values than the low-probability determination table are determined. Further, the determination table 63 includes a jackpot type determination table that is referred to in order to determine a jackpot type when it is determined that the jackpot is a special jackpot. The jackpot type determination table includes a first start table for determining game data acquired by winning the first start port 13 and game data acquired by winning the second start port 14. There is a table for the second start port for determining whether or not the jackpot type is different between the case where the first start port 13 is won and the jackpot is won and the case where the second start port 14 is won and the jackpot is won. It is set to a different ratio.

  The variation pattern table 64 is a table that is referred to in order to determine the variation time of the special symbol for displaying the determination result when the special game determination is performed on the main control board 30. The variation pattern table 64 includes a plurality of tables such as a table that is referenced when the jackpot random number indicates a jackpot, a table that is referenced when the jackpot random number indicates a jackpot, and a table that is referenced when the reach random number indicates reach. It is. Each of the plurality of tables included in the variation pattern table 64 is a table in which the variation time of the special symbol is associated with the variation pattern random number. Therefore, referring to the variation pattern table 64, the variation time of the special symbol corresponding to the result of the special game determination, the reach random number, or the like can be determined. The variation pattern table 64 has a table corresponding to the gaming state of the gaming machine 1 described later, and a different table is referred to according to the gaming state of the gaming machine 1. Furthermore, the variation pattern table 64 includes a variation pattern table for jackpots that is referred to when it is determined to be a big hit in the special game determination, or a variation pattern table for small hits that is referred to when it is determined to be a small hit. Etc. are also included.

  The opening pattern table 65 is a table that is referred to in order to determine an opening pattern for opening the big winning opening 15 in a special game performed when a big win is won in the special game determination. The release pattern table 65 is a table in which a plurality of release patterns are defined, and the jackpot type is associated with the release patterns. Therefore, when it is determined that the jackpot is won in the special game determination, by referring to the opening pattern table 65 based on the type of the jackpot, one opening pattern for opening the jackpot 15 during the special game is determined. Can be determined. Note that, in the special game state when the small win is won in the special game determination, the special winning opening 15 is opened and closed in a predetermined opening pattern.

  The CPU 30a of the main control board 30 controls the operation of the gaming machine 1 in an integrated manner. Therefore, the CPU 30a functions as various processing units. FIG. 3 illustrates some of the functions, and the CPU 30a includes a game data acquisition unit 51, a special game determination unit 52, a special symbol control unit 53, a special game control unit 54, a game state control unit 55, and an auxiliary game. It functions as the control unit 56.

  When the first start port switch 41 and the second start port switch 42 detect that the start condition is established by winning the game ball, the game data acquisition unit 51 receives a big hit random number from the game data storage unit 61 at that timing. Game data including a design random number, a variation pattern random number, and a reach random number is acquired. When the game data acquisition unit 51 acquires the game data by winning the first start port 13 or the second start port 14, the game data acquisition unit 51 stores the game data in the holding storage unit 62. The holding storage unit 62 distinguishes between the game data acquired by winning the first start port 13 and the game data acquired by winning the second start port 14, and stores each game data in a predetermined state. Up to the upper limit number (for example, 4) can be stored. Therefore, the game data acquisition unit 51 stores the game data acquired by winning the first start port 13 in the storage area for the first start port, and the game data acquired by winning the second start port 14 Store in the reserved storage area for the second start port. Note that if the upper limit number of game data has already been stored in these reserved storage areas, the game data acquisition unit 51 does not perform the process of acquiring game data from the game data storage unit 61.

  The special game determination unit 52 reads the game data stored in the hold storage unit 62 and in the hold state, and makes a special game determination based on the game data. That is, the special game determination unit 52 refers to the determination table 63 based on the jackpot random number included in the game data, and whether or not the jackpot random number matches the jackpot winning value or matches the jackpot winning value. It is determined whether or not to do. As described above, the determination table 63 includes a high-probability determination table and a low-probability determination table. The special game determination unit 52 determines the low-probability determination table and the high-probability determination table according to the probability state at the time of reading game data. Select one of the probability determination tables, and determine whether the jackpot random number matches the jackpot winning value set in the selected table or whether it matches the jackpot winning value . Based on such determination, winning or losing of the game data read from the holding storage unit 62 is determined. The low probability determination table is a table in which the probability of jackpot is set to about 1/400, for example, and the high probability determination table has a higher probability of jackpot than the normal probability determination table, for example, 1/68. It is a table set to a degree. Note that the probability of winning a small hit is the same between the low probability determination table and the high probability determination table, and is set to, for example, about 1/100.

  When the special game determination unit 52 determines that the jackpot is in the special game determination, the special game determination unit 52 further determines the jackpot type by referring to the jackpot type determination table included in the determination table. For example, when it is determined that the jackpot is based on the game data acquired by winning the first starting port 13, the special game determining unit 52 refers to the first starting port table included in the jackpot type determining table. And determine the type of jackpot. When it is determined that the jackpot is based on the game data acquired by winning the second starting port 14, the special game determination unit 52 refers to the second starting port table included in the jackpot type determination table. Determine the type of jackpot. In the jackpot type determination table, the symbol random number and the jackpot type are associated with each other, and the special game determination unit 52 refers to the jackpot type determination table based on the symbol random number included in the game data. To determine the type of jackpot.

  Further, the special game determination unit 52 does not read out the game data from the holding storage unit 62 when the special symbol control unit 53 displays the variation of the special symbol. In this case, at the timing when the special symbol variation display performed by the special symbol control unit 53 is finished and the next variation display can be performed, the special game determination unit 52 reads the game from the hold storage unit 62. Data is read out and special game determination is performed based on the read out game data. At this time, if game data is stored in the reserved memory area for the second start port, the special game determination unit 52 reads the game data and performs a special game determination. That is, the special game determination unit 52 preferentially reads out the game data stored in the reserved memory area for the second starting port over the game data stored in the reserved memory area for the first starting port. It is configured to go on hold digestion.

  When the special game determination by the special game determination unit 52 is performed, the special symbol control unit 53 causes the special symbol display 22a of the symbol display 22 to display a variation display of the special symbol based on the result of the special game determination. Is. The special symbol control unit 53 refers to the variation pattern table 64 based on the variation pattern random number read out from the holding storage unit 62 by the special game determination unit 52 as a result of the current gaming state and special game determination, and changes the special symbol. Determine the time. The special symbol control unit 53 starts the special symbol variation display, and continues the special symbol variation display on the special symbol indicator 22a until the determined variation time elapses. Thereafter, when the variation time elapses, the special symbol control unit 53 stops the variation display of the special symbol and causes the special symbol display 22a to display the stop symbol corresponding to the result of the special game determination. For example, when it is determined that the bonus game is a big hit in the special game determination, the special symbol control unit 53 displays a special symbol variation display, and then displays a stop symbol corresponding to the jackpot type determined by the special game determination unit 52. It is displayed on the special symbol display 22a.

  The special game control unit 54 functions when the special game determination by the special game determination unit 52 is won in the big win or the small win and it is determined to shift the gaming machine 1 to the special game state. The special game control unit 54 functions after the special symbol control unit 53 stops displaying the variation of the special symbol after the special game determination unit 52 determines that it is a big win or a small hit, and in the special game state, The special game that opens and closes 15 is controlled. That is, when the special game determination unit 52 determines that the big game is a big hit, the special game control unit 54 refers to the release pattern table 65 according to the type of the big jackpot and opens the big prize opening 15 in the special game state. A special game is performed by determining the opening pattern and driving the special prize opening solenoid 45 based on the decided opening pattern to open and close the special prize opening 15. In addition, when the special game determination unit 52 determines that the special game control unit 54 is a small hit, the special game control unit 54 drives the special prize opening solenoid 45 based on a predetermined opening pattern determined in advance, whereby the special prize opening 15 Open and close to play special games. The special game control unit 54 is configured to determine whether or not the big prize opening switch 46 has detected the winning of the game ball in the special gaming state, and when the winning to the big prize opening 15 is detected, Based on this, a prize ball command is sent to the payout control board 32.

  The gaming state control unit 55 controls the gaming state of the gaming machine 1. There are two types of gaming state of the gaming machine 1, that is, a gaming state (probability state) related to the probability of winning a jackpot in the special game determination and a gaming state (game progress state) related to the progress of the game. Here, the gaming state related to the probability includes a low probability state that is determined to be a big hit with a normal probability (first probability) in the special game determination, and a high probability (second probability) that is higher than the normal probability in the special game determination. ) In two states, a high probability state determined to be a big hit. There are four game states related to the progress of the game: a normal game state, a short-time game state, a probability variation game state, and a latent probability variation game state (hereinafter referred to as a latent probability game state). Further, in the present embodiment, as described later, there are three game states of a first short-time game state, a second short-time game state, and a third short-time game state as described later.

  The probability state in the normal gaming state is a normal probability (first probability). Further, the probability state in the probability variation gaming state and the latent probability gaming state has a high probability (second probability). On the other hand, the probability state of the short-time gaming state (including the first short-time gaming state, the second short-time gaming state, and the third short-time gaming state) may be a normal probability (first probability) or a high probability ( Sometimes the second probability).

  When it is determined that the big game is a big win in the special game determination, the game state control unit 55 changes the two types of game states of the probability state and the game progress state according to the type of the big game after the special game is finished. . When it is determined that the special game is determined to be a small hit, the game state control unit 55 does not change the state before the start of the special game for both the probability state and the game progress state after the special game ends. The specific game state transition control by the game state control unit 55 will be described in detail later.

  The auxiliary game control unit 56 controls an auxiliary game for opening and closing the electric tulip 14a by performing a normal symbol lottery when a game ball passes through the through gate 16. When the through-gate switch 43 detects the passing of the game ball, the auxiliary game control unit 56 acquires a normal symbol random number from the game data storage unit 61 at that timing, and the acquired normal symbol random number is a predetermined winning value. A normal symbol lottery is performed by determining whether or not they match. When the game progress state is the normal game state or the latent game state, the probability that the normal symbol random number matches the winning value in the normal symbol lottery is low, for example, about 1/10. On the other hand, when the game progress state is the short-time game state or the probability variation game state, the probability that the normal symbol random number matches the winning value in the normal symbol lottery is high, for example, about 9/10. That is, the probability of winning the normal symbol lottery changes according to the game progress state, and when the game progress state is the short-time game state or the probability variation game state, it is won more than when it is the normal game state or the latent probability game state Probability increases.

  When the auxiliary game control unit 56 performs the normal symbol lottery, the normal symbol display 22b of the symbol display unit 22 then performs normal symbol variation display for a predetermined time, and after the predetermined time has elapsed, the normal symbol lottery result is displayed in the normal symbol display. Display on the device 22b. When the normal symbol random number matches the winning value and the normal symbol lottery is won, the auxiliary game control unit 56 displays the winning symbol after displaying the variation of the normal symbol, and then drives the electric chew solenoid 44 Then, an auxiliary game for opening the electric tulip 14a in the left-right direction is performed. On the other hand, when the normal symbol lottery is not won, the auxiliary game control unit 56 displays the lost symbol after displaying the variation of the normal symbol, and ends the process associated with the normal symbol lottery.

  In addition, the auxiliary game control unit 56 changes the variation time of the normal symbol and the opening time of the electric tulip 14a when winning the normal symbol lottery according to the game progress state. For example, when the game progress state is the short-time game state or the probability variation game state, the auxiliary game control unit 56 sets the normal symbol variation time to a relatively short time of about 3 seconds and wins the normal symbol lottery. The opening time of the electric tulip 14a is set to a relatively long time of about 3.5 seconds. On the other hand, when the game progress state is the normal game state or the latent game state, the auxiliary game control unit 56 sets the normal symbol variation time to a relatively long time of about 29 seconds and performs the normal symbol lottery. The opening time of the electric tulip 14a when winning is set to a relatively short time of about 0.2 seconds. Therefore, the short-time gaming state and the probability-changing gaming state are gaming states in which a gaming ball can easily enter the second starting port 14 as compared with the normal gaming state and the latent certain gaming state, and the starting condition that triggers the special gaming determination Is a gaming state in which is easily established.

◇ Type of jackpot and game state ◇
FIG. 4 is a diagram showing types of jackpots that are won in the special game determination. FIG. 4A shows the percentage of jackpot types that occur when a game ball wins the first start opening 13 and wins a jackpot, and FIG. 4B shows the game at the second start opening 14. The ratio of the jackpot type that occurs when the ball wins and wins is shown. First, when it is determined that the game data acquired by winning the first starting port 13 is a big hit, the special game determination unit 52, as shown in FIG. 4A, the probability variation jackpot A, B, C, D , E, F, G, and normal jackpot A, B, C Cone jackpot is determined based on the design random number. Here, the probable jackpot is a jackpot in which the probability state after the end of the special game shifts to a high probability state. If the game moves to a high probability state after the special game ends, the high probability state continues until the next jackpot is won. On the other hand, the normal jackpot is a jackpot in which the probability state after the end of the special game shifts to a low probability state. If the game moves to a low probability state after the special game ends, the low probability state continues until the next jackpot is won. It should be noted that the probability state when the gaming machine 1 is turned on is a low probability state. When a game ball wins the first starting port 14 and wins a big hit, the probability variation jackpot A, B, C is 5%, the probability variation jackpot D is 30%, the probability variation jackpot E is 15%, the probability variation jackpot F is 15%, The probability variation jackpot G is 7%, the normal jackpot A is 7%, the normal jackpot B is 6%, and the normal jackpot C is 5%. Therefore, the ratio that the probability state after the end of the special game is a high probability state is 82% as a whole, and the ratio that the probability state after the end of the special game is a low probability state is 18% as a whole.

  Next, when it is determined that the game data acquired by winning the second starting port 14 is a big hit, the special game determination unit 52, as shown in FIG. 4 (b), the probability variation jackpot A, B, C, One jackpot is determined based on the design random number from seven kinds of jackpots of D and normal jackpots A, B, and C. Here, the probability variation jackpots A, B, C, and D and the normal jackpots A, B, and C are jackpots that are common to each other in FIGS. 4 (a) and 4 (b). When winning the second start port 14 and winning a big hit, the rate of occurrence of the probable big hit E, F, G is zero. Also, when winning the second starting port 14 and winning a big hit, the probability variation jackpot A, B, C is 5%, the probability variation jackpot D is 67%, the normal jackpot A is 7%, the normal jackpot B is 6%, the normal jackpot C is generated at a rate of 5%. Therefore, the ratio that the probability state after the end of the special game becomes a high probability state is 82% as a whole, and the ratio that the probability state after the end of the special game becomes a low probability state is 18% as a whole. That is, the ratio that the probability state after the end of the special game becomes the high probability state is the same in the case where the first starting port 13 is won and the jackpot is won and the case where the second starting port 14 is won and the jackpot is won. It has become.

  Next, the number of rounds in which the special winning opening 15 is opened in the special game state when winning the jackpot will be described. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of the number of rounds in which the special winning opening 15 is opened in the special gaming state. If a big win is won in the special game determination, the total number of rounds in which the special winning opening 15 is opened in the special game state is 16, and special games with different numbers of long open rounds and short open rounds are performed depending on the type of jackpot. Is called. For example, in the probability variation jackpot A, B, C and the normal jackpot A, B, C, the long open round number is set to 4, and the short open round number is set to 12. Therefore, in the special game state when winning the probable jackpot A, B, C or the normal jackpot A, B, C, 4 rounds of the 16 rounds where the big winning opening 15 is opened are long open rounds. , 12 rounds become short open rounds. Accordingly, the player can substantially obtain four rounds of prize balls in the special game state. In the probability variation jackpots D and G, the number of long open rounds is set to 16, and all rounds are long open rounds. On the other hand, in probability variation jackpots E and F, the number of long open rounds is set to 0 and the number of short open rounds is set to 16, so all rounds are short open rounds. Therefore, the special game in the case of the probability variation jackpots E and F is a special game in which it is difficult for the player to substantially obtain a prize ball. On the other hand, in the case of a small hit, no round is set. However, in the special game in the case of small win, the big prize opening 15 is opened and closed 16 times in the same manner as the special game in the case of winning the promising big hit E and F.

  Here, the probable jackpots A, B, C and the common jackpots A, B, C are common to each other in that the same game is played as a special game, but they have different game states after the special game is finished. It is a jackpot. Further, the probability variation jackpots E, F and the small hit are common to each other in that the same game is played as a special game, but these are different wins after the special game is finished. Further, the probability variation jackpots D and G are common to each other in that the same game is played as a special game, and the game state after the special game is finished is also common to each other. The difference between these probability variation jackpots D and G is in the performance that is performed after the special game determination is made until the special game is finished. For example, in the case of the probability variation jackpot D, an effect is provided to notify that the probability variation jackpot is displayed during the variation display of the special symbol after the special game determination is performed, whereas in the case of the probability variation jackpot G, During the variation display of the special symbol, it is not notified that it is a promiscuous jackpot, and an effect of notifying that it is a promising jackpot in the subsequent special gaming state is performed.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a game progress state after the special game is over. As shown in FIG. 6, when a special game is played by winning the probability variation jackpot A, the gaming state after the end of the special game is the first short game state ST1. This first short-time gaming state ST1 continues until the number of changes in the special symbol after the special game ends becomes ten. When the number of changes of the special symbol after the end of the special game reaches 10, the game state thereafter shifts to the probability change game state ST4. This probability variation gaming state ST4 continues until the next jackpot winning.

  When the special game is played with winning the promising jackpot B, the game state after the special game ends is the second short game state ST2. This second short-time gaming state ST2 continues until the number of changes in the special symbol after the special game ends becomes 20. When the number of changes of the special symbol after the end of the special game reaches 20, the subsequent game state shifts to the probability change game state ST4. This probability variation gaming state ST4 continues until the next jackpot winning.

  When the special game is performed with winning the promising jackpot C, the game state after the special game ends is the third short game state ST3. This third short-time gaming state ST3 continues until the number of changes in the special symbol after the special game ends reaches 30 times. When the number of changes in the special symbol after the end of the special game reaches 30, the game state thereafter shifts to the probability change game state ST4. This probability variation gaming state ST4 continues until the next jackpot winning. As described above, the probabilistic jackpots A, B, and C are common to each other in that the game state after the special game is shifted to the short-time game state, but the durations of the respective short-time games are different from each other.

  In the probable jackpot D, for example, during the special symbol variation display after the special game determination is performed, an effect (high probability effect) indicating that the promising jackpot is won is performed, and the game state after the special game ends It becomes gaming state ST4. This probability variation gaming state ST4 continues until the next jackpot winning.

  In the probability variation jackpot E, for example, during the special symbol change display after the special game determination is performed and during the special game thereafter, an effect (so-called surprise effect) indicating that the state is shifted to the probability variation game state ST4 is performed. The gaming state after the end becomes the probability variation gaming state ST4. This probability variation gaming state ST4 continues until the next jackpot winning. In the special game of the probable jackpot E, as described above, it is difficult for the player to obtain a prize ball, so that the player suddenly shifts to the probable game state ST4 without going through the jackpot. Have an impression. Therefore, the probability variation jackpot E is a so-called sudden jackpot.

  In the probable jackpot F, for example, during the special symbol variation display after the special game determination is performed and during the special game after that, an effect indicating that the mode shifts to a latent game mode described later is performed, and the game after the special game ends. The state becomes the latent game state ST6. This latent game state ST6 continues until the next jackpot winning.

  In the probable bonus jackpot G, for example, after a special symbol is displayed after the special game determination is made, an effect that does not clearly indicate that the winning promising jackpot has been won is given, and then the probable bonus jackpot is in the predetermined round during the special game. An effect indicating this is performed, and the gaming state after the end of the special game becomes the probability variation gaming state ST4. This probability variation gaming state ST4 continues until the next jackpot winning. When these probable jackpots A to G occur, the probability state after the end of the special game is a high probability state, and the probability of winning the next jackpot will be higher than the case of winning the normal jackpot A, B, C. .

  On the other hand, when the special game is played by winning the normal jackpot A, the game state after the end of the special game is the first short game state ST1. This first short-time gaming state ST1 continues until the number of changes in the special symbol after the special game ends becomes ten. When the number of changes in the special symbol after the end of the special game reaches 10, the subsequent game state shifts to the normal game state ST5. This normal gaming state ST5 continues until the next jackpot winning. That is, when the normal jackpot A is won, the same first short-time gaming state ST1 as the probability variation jackpot A is performed until the number of changes of the special symbol after the special game ends becomes 10.

  When the special jackpot B is won and a special game is played, the gaming state after the end of the special game is the second short game state ST2. This second short-time gaming state ST2 continues until the number of changes in the special symbol after the special game ends becomes 20. When the number of changes in the special symbol after the end of the special game reaches 20, the subsequent game state shifts to the normal game state ST5. This normal gaming state ST5 continues until the next jackpot winning. That is, when the normal jackpot B is won, the second short-time gaming state ST2 which is the same as the probability variation jackpot B is performed until the number of changes of the special symbol after the special game ends becomes 20.

  When the special jackpot C is won and a special game is played, the game state after the special game ends is the third short game state ST2. This third hour short game state ST2 continues until the number of times the special symbol fluctuates after the special game ends is 30 times. When the number of changes in the special symbol after the end of the special game reaches 30, the subsequent game state shifts to the normal game state ST5. This normal gaming state ST5 continues until the next jackpot winning. That is, when the normal jackpot B is won, the third short game state ST3 which is the same as the probability variation jackpot C is performed until the number of changes of the special symbol after the special game ends is 30 times. When these normal jackpots A to C occur, the probability state after the end of the special game is in a low probability state, and the probability of winning the next jackpot is lower than the case of winning the promising jackpots A to G.

  Further, when a special game is played by winning a small hit, the game state after the end of the special game becomes the normal game state ST5. For example, during the special symbol variation display after the special game determination that is determined to be a small hit, and during the special game after that, an effect indicating that the game shifts to the latent game mode described later is performed. The game state after the end becomes the normal game state ST5. This normal gaming state ST5 continues until the next jackpot winning. Here, even if a special game is played by winning a small jackpot, the probability state of winning the next jackpot does not change from that before the special game is played. Therefore, if a small win is won in the high probability state, the high probability state is maintained even after the special game ends, and if the small win is won in the low probability state, the low probability is maintained even after the special game ends. The probability state is maintained.

  7 and 8 are diagrams illustrating the concept of a variation pattern table that is referred to when the special symbol control unit 53 performs variation display of a special symbol in each gaming state described above. FIG. 7A is a concept of a variation pattern table for the first short-time gaming state ST1. In the variation pattern table of the first short-time gaming state ST1, the table that is referred to when the number of variations of the special symbol after the end of the special game is the predetermined number of times (the tenth time), and the table that is referred to when it is not the predetermined number of times. The table is different from the table. More specifically, when the number of changes in the special symbol after the end of the special game is from the first time to the ninth time, a change pattern in which the change time is 3 seconds is selected when it is determined that the special game is a normal loss. When the number of fluctuations is from the first time to the ninth time, the probability of reaching is set to 1/10. It should be noted that the fluctuation time in the case of losing after reaching is longer than 3 seconds in the case of losing normally. On the other hand, when the number of changes of the special symbol after the end of the special game is tenth, if it is determined that the normal game is lost in the special game determination, a change pattern with a change time of 10 seconds is selected. Further, when the number of fluctuations is the tenth, the probability of reaching is set to zero. Therefore, when the special symbol variation display is performed for the 10th time in the first short-time gaming state ST1, the variation time is fixed to 10 seconds unless it is determined that the big game or the small game is won in the special game determination. .

  FIG. 7B is a concept of a variation pattern table of the second short game state ST2. Also in the variation pattern table of the second short-time gaming state ST2, the table referred to when the number of variations of the special symbol after the end of the special game becomes the predetermined number of times (the 10th time and the 20th time) is not the predetermined number of times. The table sometimes referred to is a different table. Specifically, when the number of changes in the special symbol after the end of the special game is 1st to 9th and 11th to 19th, if it is determined that the game is normally lost in the special game determination, the change time is 3 seconds. A variation pattern is selected. When the number of fluctuations is from the first time to the ninth time and from the 11th time to the 19th time, the probability of reaching is set to 1/10. On the other hand, when the number of changes in the special symbol after the end of the special game is the predetermined number of times, that is, the 10th time and the 20th time, if the special game is determined to be a normal loss, there is a change pattern in which the change time is 10 seconds. Selected. The probability of reaching is set to 0 when the number of fluctuations is the 10th and 20th. Therefore, when the 10th and 20th special symbol variation display is performed for the 10th time and the 20th time in the second short game state ST2, the variation time is 10 seconds unless it is determined that the special game determination is a big win or a small win. It is fixed.

  FIG. 7C shows the concept of the variation pattern table in the third short game state ST3. Also in the variation pattern table of the third short-time gaming state ST3, a table that is referred to when the number of variations of the special symbol after the end of the special game is the predetermined number of times (10th, 20th, 30th), and the predetermined number of times The table that is referenced when it is not a different table. Specifically, when the number of changes in the special symbol after the end of the special game is 1st to 9th, 11th to 19th, and 21st to 29th, when it is determined as normal loss in the special game determination, A variation pattern with a variation time of 3 seconds is selected. The probability of reaching is set to 1/10 when the number of fluctuations is from the 1st to the 9th, from the 11th to the 19th, and from the 21st to the 29th. On the other hand, when the number of changes in the special symbol after the end of the special game is the predetermined number of times, that is, the 10th, 20th and 30th times, if it is determined that the special game is determined to be a normal loss, the change time is 10 seconds. A variation pattern is selected. The probability of reaching is set to 0 when the number of fluctuations is the 10th, 20th and 30th. Therefore, when the special symbol variation display of the 10th, 20th, and 30th times is performed in the third short-time gaming state ST3, the variation time unless the special game determination determines that it is a big win or a small hit. Is fixed for 10 seconds.

  FIG. 7D shows the concept of the variation pattern table of the probability variation gaming state ST4. In the variation pattern table of the probability variation gaming state ST4, a variation pattern having a variation time of 2 seconds is selected when it is determined that the special game determination is a normal loss regardless of the number of variations. The probability of reaching is set to 1/30. In other words, in the probability variation gaming state ST4, in order to generate the next jackpot relatively early, the fluctuation time at the time of a normal loss is set to a time shorter than the short-time gaming state, and the probability that a loss will occur after reaching the short-time gaming state Is set lower.

  FIG. 7E shows the concept of the variation pattern table in the normal gaming state ST5 excluding after the occurrence of a small hit. Also in the variation pattern table of the normal gaming state ST5, a variation pattern with a variation time of 13.5 seconds is selected when it is determined that the normal game is lost in the special game determination regardless of the number of variations. The probability of reaching is set to 1/30. In other words, in the normal game state ST5, in order to ensure a relatively long time for the effect to be performed during one special symbol variation display, the variation time during the normal lose is longer than the short-time gaming state or the probability variation gaming state. Set to However, when the number of reserved special game determinations has reached the upper limit, the fluctuation time is shorter than 13.5 seconds, for example, about 2 seconds, even in the case of normal loss. Further, in the normal game state ST5, the reach probability is set to be higher than that in the probability variation game state ST4 in order to evoke the player's expectation that it may be a big hit at a certain frequency.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the concept of a variation pattern table of the latent game state ST6 and the normal game state ST5 after occurrence of the small hit. In the variation pattern table of the latent game state ST6 and the normal game state ST5 after occurrence of the small hit, the number of variations of the special symbol after the end of the special game is the predetermined number of times (10th time, 20th time, 30th time, 50th time, 70th time) ) Is different from the table referred to when the predetermined number of times is not reached. Specifically, when the number of changes in the special symbol after the special game is 1st to 9th, 11th to 19th, 21st to 29th, 31st to 49th, and 51st to 69th When it is determined that the game is normally lost in the special game determination, a variation pattern having a variation time of 13.5 seconds is selected. Also, when the number of fluctuations is 1st to 9th, 11th to 19th, 21st to 29th, 31st to 49th, 51st to 69th, and 71st or later, the probability of reaching is set to 1/10 Is done. On the other hand, when the number of changes of the special symbol after the end of the special game is the 10th, 20th, 30th, 50th, and 70th times, and when it is determined that the normal game is lost in the special game determination, the change time A variation pattern of 20 seconds that is longer than when is not the predetermined number is selected. The probability of reaching is set to 0 when the number of fluctuations is a predetermined number of times such as the 10th, 20th, 30th, 50th and 70th. Therefore, when the special symbol variation display is performed a predetermined number of times in the latent gaming state ST6 and the normal gaming state ST5 after occurrence of the small hit, the variation time is as long as it is not determined to be a big hit or a small hit in the special game determination. It is fixed for 20 seconds.

◇ Main control board operation ◇
Next, main operation procedures performed in the main control board 30 will be described. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing main operations in the main control board 30. The CPU 30a of the main control board 30 uses a process based on the flowchart shown in FIG. 9 as a timer interrupt process for a predetermined time (for example, 4 milliseconds) during normal operation, except in special cases such as when the power is turned on or when the power is turned off. Repeat every time. When this process is started, the main control board 30 performs a random number update process (step S101), a first start port switch process (step S102), a second start port switch process (step S103), and a gate switch process (step S104). ), Various switch processes (step S105), prize ball process (step S106), special symbol process (step S107), special prize opening process (step S108), normal symbol process (step S109), electric tulip (electric chew) process (Step S110) and the output process (Step S111) are sequentially executed as a series of processes. When the series of processes is completed, the initial value random number update process (Step S112) is repeatedly executed. Thereafter, when time elapses and an interrupt is generated again by the timer, execution of the processes after the random number update process (step S101) is started again. Thereafter, such processing is repeated.

  In the random number update process (step S101), a process of updating the values of various random numbers such as a jackpot random number, a design random number, a variation pattern random number, and a reach random number stored in the game data storage unit 61 of the RAM 30c is performed. In the first start port switch process (step S102), the game data acquisition unit 51 described above monitors the state of the first start port switch 41, and the game ball that has entered the first start port 13 passes through a predetermined area. Thus, when the first start port switch 41 is turned on, processing for acquiring game data from the game data storage unit 61 is performed. In the second start port switch process (step S103), the game data acquisition unit 51 monitors the state of the second start port switch 42, and the game ball entering the second start port 14 passes through a predetermined area. When the second start port switch 42 is turned on, processing for obtaining game data from the game data storage unit 61 is performed. In the gate switch process (step S104), the auxiliary game control unit 56 monitors the state of the through gate switch 43, and when the through ball 16 passes through the through gate 16 and the through gate switch 43 is turned on, a normal symbol is randomly selected. In order to do this, a process of obtaining a normal symbol random number is performed. In the various switch processes (step S105), a process of inputting signals from all other switches (for example, a big prize opening switch) is performed. In the winning ball process (step S106), a process of counting the number of winnings in various winning ports and setting a winning ball command based on the counted value is performed. In the special symbol process (step S107), a special game determination process by the special game determination unit 52 and the special symbol control unit 53, a special symbol variation display process based on the result of the special game determination, and the like are performed. Processing for shifting the game state (game progress state) by 55 is also performed. In the special prize opening process (step S108), the operation of the special game for opening the special prize opening 15 in the special game state is controlled. In the normal symbol process (step S109), a normal symbol variation process by the auxiliary game control unit 56 and a process associated with the variation of the normal symbol are performed. In the electric tulip process (step S110), the auxiliary game control unit 56 controls the opening / closing operation of the electric tulip 14a. In the output process (step S111), a process of outputting a control command, game data, and the like from the main control board 30 to each of the payout control board 32 and the effect control board 33 is performed. The commands and data output from the main control board 30 to the sub control board 31 are generated in each process of steps S102 to S110 and set in advance in the RAM 30c. Therefore, in the output process of step S111, the commands set in the RAM 30c. Read and output data. In the initial value random number update process (step S112), initial values of various random numbers such as jackpot random numbers, symbol random numbers, variation pattern random numbers, reach random numbers stored in the game data storage unit 61 are updated.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing details of the first start port switch process (step S102 in FIG. 9) and the second start port switch process (step S103 in FIG. 9). First, as shown in FIG. 10A, in the first start port switch process (step S102), it is determined whether or not a game ball has won a prize at the first start port 13 and the first start port switch 41 is turned on. (Step S201). If the first start port switch 41 is not turned on, the first start port switch process is terminated. If the first start port switch 41 is on, it is determined whether or not the number of holds U1 stored in the hold memory area for the first start port of the hold storage unit 62 is less than the upper limit (step S202). . In the example shown in the figure, the upper limit value is four. If the number of holdings U1 has reached the upper limit (NO in step S202), the number of holdings cannot be increased any more, and the first start port switch process is terminated. On the other hand, if the hold number U1 is less than the upper limit value (YES in step S202), the value of the hold number U1 is incremented by 1 (step S203). The game data is read from the game data storage unit 61 when the start condition is established by winning the first start port 13, and various random number values included in the game data are reserved for the first start port of the hold storage unit 62. Store in the storage area (step S204). Depending on the value of the jackpot random number read out at this time, it is determined whether the jackpot is “losing” or “lost”. In the case of “big hit”, the type of big hit is determined by the value of the read design random number. Then, the main control board 30 sets game data including various read random numbers as game data for transmission for transmitting to the effect control board 33 (step S205). The transmission game data set at this time is given information indicating that it is game data acquired by winning the first start port 13. When the game data setting is completed, the first start port switch process is terminated.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 10B, in the second start port switch process (step S103 in FIG. 9), whether a game ball has won the second start port 14 and the second start port switch 42 is turned on. It is determined whether or not (step S301). If the second start port switch 42 is not turned on, the second start port switch process is terminated. If the second start port switch 42 is on, it is determined whether or not the number of holds U2 stored in the hold storage area for the second start port of the hold storage unit 62 is less than the upper limit value (step S302). . In the example shown in the figure, the upper limit value is four. If the number of holdings U2 has reached the upper limit (NO in step S302), the number of holdings cannot be increased any more, so the second start port switch process is terminated. On the other hand, when the hold number U2 is less than the upper limit value (YES in step S302), 1 is added to the value of the hold number U2 (step S303). Then, the game data is read from the game data storage unit 61 when the start condition is established by winning the second start port 14, and various random number values included in the game data are reserved for the second start port of the storage unit 62. Store in the storage area (step S304). Whether or not it is a big hit is determined by the values of the various random numbers read at this time. Then, the main control board 30 sets game data including various read random numbers as transmission game data for transmitting to the effect control board 33 (step S305). The transmission game data set at this time is given information indicating that it is game data acquired by winning the second starting port 14. When the game data setting is completed, the second start port switch process is terminated.

  Next, FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing details of the gate switch process (step S104 in FIG. 9). In this process, first, it is determined whether or not the game ball has passed through the through gate 16 and the through gate switch 43 is turned on (step S401). If the through gate switch 43 is not turned on, the gate switch process is terminated. If the through gate switch 43 is on, it is determined whether or not the normal symbol lottery holding number G is less than the upper limit value (step S402). In the example shown in the figure, the upper limit value is four. If the number of reservations G has reached the upper limit (NO in step S402), the number of reservations cannot be increased any more, and the gate switch process is terminated. On the other hand, when the reserved number G is less than the upper limit value (YES in step S402), 1 is added to the value of the reserved number G (step S403). Then, the normal symbol random number for the normal symbol lottery when the game ball passes through the through gate 16 is read, and the random number value is stored in the RAM 30c (step S404). The random symbol value read at this time determines whether or not the normal symbol lottery due to the game ball passing through the through gate 16 is successful.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing details of the special symbol process (step S107 in FIG. 9). In this process, first, it is determined whether or not the current state of the gaming machine 1 is executing a special game (step S501). If the special game is being executed, the special symbol processing cannot be performed until the special game is completed, and thus the special symbol processing is terminated without starting the special symbol variation processing (YES in step S501). ). On the other hand, when the special game is not being executed (NO in step S501), the main control board 30 determines whether or not the current state of the gaming machine 1 is displaying the variation of the special symbol (step S502). When the special symbol variation display is not in progress (NO in step S502), it is determined whether or not the number of holdings U2 is 1 or more (step S503). When the holding number U2 is 1 or more (YES in step S503), the main control board 30 reads the game data stored first in the holding storage area for the second start port of the holding storage unit 62 (step S504). ), 1 is subtracted from the value of the holding number U2 (step S505). Then, the other reserved storage areas stored in the reserved storage area for the second start port are sequentially shifted (step S506).

  On the other hand, when the hold number U2 is 0 (NO in step S503), the main control board 30 determines whether or not the hold number U1 is 1 or more (step S507). When the holding number U1 is 1 or more (YES in step S507), the main control board 30 reads out the game data stored first in the holding storage area for the first start port of the holding storage unit 62 (step S508). ), 1 is subtracted from the value of the holding number U1 (step S509). Then, the other reserved storage areas stored in the reserved storage area for the first start port are shifted (step S510). On the other hand, if the number of holds U1 is 0 (NO in step S507), it means that the hold that is the right for the special game determination is not stored, and thus the process is terminated without starting the special symbol variation display. .

  When the game data is read out in either step S504 or step S508, the process proceeds to a process for determining a special game based on the read game data (steps S511 to S517). That is, the main control board 30 first determines whether or not the current gaming state (probability state) of the gaming machine 1 is a high probability state (step S511). If it is selected and read (step S512), and if it is not in a high probability state, the low probability determination table is selected and read (step S513). Then, a special game determination process for determining whether or not to play a special game advantageous to the player is executed (step S514). In this special game determination process (step S514), whether or not the jackpot is determined is determined based on the jackpot random number included in the game data read in step S504 or S508, and the special symbol is displayed on the basis of the determination result. The variation time to perform is determined. The details of this special game determination process will be described later.

  After performing the special game determination process (step S514), the main control board 30 performs a symbol variation effect including a variation display of the decorative symbols 12a, 12b, and 12c corresponding to the variation time determined in the special game determination process. A change start command for causing the effect control board 33 to execute is set in the RAM 30c (step S515). Then, the main control board 30 starts the special symbol variation display on the special symbol indicator 22a (step S516), and starts the variation time measurement in order to continue the variation display until the variation time elapses (step S516). S517).

  On the other hand, when the variation of the special symbol is being displayed in step S502 (YES in step S502), the main control board 30 determines whether or not the variation time has ended (step S518). Here, it is determined whether or not the variation time measured in step S517 has reached the variation time determined in the special game determination process (step S514) when the special symbol variation display is started. If the variation time has not ended (NO in step S518), the special symbol variation display is continued, and the special symbol processing is terminated as it is. On the other hand, when the variation time has ended (YES in step S518), the main control board 30 sets a variation stop command for stopping the variation effect performed by the effect control board 33 in the RAM 30c ( Step S519). Then, the variation display of the special symbol on the special symbol display 22a is stopped at the stop symbol corresponding to the result of the special game determination (step S520), and the measured variation time is reset (step S521). Then, the main control board 30 executes a stop process (step S522). The details of the stop process will be described later.

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing details of the special game determination process (step S514 in FIG. 12). When this process is started, the main control board 30 determines whether or not the jackpot random number included in the game data is a jackpot based on the table selected in step S512 or S513 in FIG. 12 (step S531). If the jackpot is won (YES in step S532), the type of jackpot is determined on the basis of the design random number (step S533), and the special winning state 15 is determined by referring to the open pattern table 65. An opening pattern for opening is determined (step S534). When determining the design random number, the design random number to be determined is a random number read from the reserved storage area for the first start opening, and read from the reserved storage area for the second start opening. Different tables are referenced depending on the random number. In the case of the symbol random number read from the reserved storage area for the first start port, as described above, one jackpot is determined from the probability variation jackpots A to G and the normal jackpots A to C. Further, in the case of the symbol random number read from the reserved storage area for the second start port, as described above, any one jackpot is determined from the probability variation jackpots A to D and the normal jackpots AC. When the type of jackpot is determined, the main control board 30 sets a special symbol corresponding to the type of jackpot (the jackpot symbol) as a stop symbol to be stopped after the special symbol variation display (step S535). Subsequently, the main control board 30 refers to the jackpot variation pattern table from the variation pattern table 64 of the ROM 30b (step S536), and determines the variation time of the special symbol based on the variation pattern random number (step S537). Thereafter, the main control board 30 sets in advance an opening pattern for opening the special winning opening 15 in the special gaming state that occurs thereafter based on the one opening pattern determined in step S534 (step S538).

  If the big win is not won (NO in step S532), the main control board 30 determines whether or not it is a small win (step S539). When winning a small winning (YES in step S539), the main control board 30 sets a special symbol (small winning symbol) corresponding to the small bonus as a stop symbol to be stopped after the special symbol variation display (step S541). ). Subsequently, the main control board 30 refers to the variation pattern table for small hits from the variation pattern table 64 of the ROM 30b (step S542), and determines the variation time of the special symbol based on the variation pattern random number (step S543). Thereafter, the main control board 30 sets in advance an opening pattern for opening the special winning opening 15 in a special gaming state that occurs after that based on an opening pattern predetermined for the small hit (step S544). ).

  In addition, when the winning combination is not won (NO in step S539), the main control board 30 executes a variation determination process (step S545). In this variation determination process (step S545), a variation pattern corresponding to the gaming state is selected, and a variation time such as normal lose or reach lose is determined.

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing details of the variation determination process (step S545 in FIG. 13). When the main control board 30 starts this process, first, the current gaming state of the gaming machine 1 is one of the first short-time gaming state ST1, the second short-time gaming state ST2, and the third short-time gaming state ST3. Is determined (step S551). When it is in the short-time gaming state (YES in step S551), the main control board 30 confirms the number of times of variation since the special gaming state has ended (step S552), and the current variation display is the 10th, 20th or 30th. It is determined whether it is the predetermined number of times (step S553). When the current variation display is the predetermined number of times (YES in step S553), the main control board 30 selects a predetermined variation pattern (step S554), and a special symbol corresponding to the predetermined number of times based on the variation pattern. Is determined (step S555). That is, in step S555, the variation time is determined to be 10 seconds regardless of the value of the variation pattern random number or the reach random number. On the other hand, if the current variation display is not the predetermined number of times (NO in step S553), the main control board 30 refers to the variation pattern table for short-time game (step S556), and displays the variation pattern random number and reach random number. The variation time of the special symbol is determined based on the value (step S557). That is, in step S557, when the reach random number matches a preset reach value, the variation time corresponding to the variation pattern random number is determined. If the reach random number does not match the reach value, the loss is normally lost, so the variation time is determined to be 3 seconds. If the current gaming state is not the short-time gaming state (NO in step S551), the processes in steps S552 to S557 are skipped.

  Next, the main control board 30 determines whether or not the current gaming state of the gaming machine 1 is the latent gaming state ST6 or the normal gaming state ST5 after the small hit (step S558). In the case of the latent game state ST6 or the normal game state ST5 after the small hit (YES in step S558), the main control board 30 confirms the number of changes after the special game state ends (step S559), and this time It is determined whether or not the fluctuation display is the predetermined number of times of the 10th, 20th, 30th, 50th or 70th (step S560). When the current variation display is the predetermined number of times (YES in step S560), the main control board 30 selects a predetermined variation pattern (step S561), and the special symbol corresponding to the predetermined number of times based on the variation pattern. Is determined (step S562). That is, in step S562, the variation time is determined to be 20 seconds regardless of the value of the variation pattern random number or the reach random number. In contrast, if the current variation display is not the predetermined number of times (NO in step S560), the main control board 30 refers to the variation pattern table for latent probability game (step S563), and variation pattern random numbers or reach random numbers Based on this value, the variation time of the special symbol is determined (step S564). That is, in step S564, when the reach random number matches the preset reach value, the change time corresponding to the change pattern random number is determined. If the reach random number does not match the reach value, the loss is normally lost, so the variation time is determined to be 13.5 seconds. If the current gaming state is not the latent gaming state ST6 or the normal gaming state ST5 after the small hit (NO in step S558), the processes in steps S559 to S564 are skipped.

  Next, the main control board 30 determines whether or not the current gaming state of the gaming machine 1 is the probability variation gaming state ST4 (step S565). In the case of the probability variation game state ST4 (YES in step S565), the main control board 30 refers to the probability variation game variation pattern table (step S566), and the variation time of the special symbol based on the variation pattern random number or the reach random number value. Is determined (step S567). At this time, if it is normal loss, the variation time is determined to be 2 seconds. If the current gaming state is not the probability variation gaming state ST4 (NO in step S565), the processes in steps S556 to S567 are skipped.

  Next, the main control board 30 determines whether or not the current gaming state of the gaming machine 1 is the normal gaming state ST5 except after the small hit (step S568). Here, it is determined as YES when the normal gaming state ST5 after power-on or the normal gaming state ST5 after the completion of the short-time gaming states ST1, ST2, ST3. As a result, in the case of the normal gaming state ST5 excluding after a small hit (YES in step S568), the main control board 30 refers to the normal game variation pattern table (step S569), and values of variation pattern random numbers and reach random numbers. The variation time of the special symbol is determined based on (Step S570). At this time, if it is normal loss, the variation time is determined to be 13.5 seconds. If the current gaming state is not the normal gaming state ST5 (NO in step S568), the processes in steps S569 to S570 are skipped. With the above, the variation determination process (step S545) ends, and the special game determination process (step S514) also ends.

  Next, FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing details of the stop process (step S522 in FIG. 12). In this process, after the special symbol change display is stopped, the game state of the gaming machine 1 is shifted to the special game state, or the time-short game state is shifted to the probability change game state ST4 or the normal game state ST5. Is called. When the stop process is started, the main control board 30 determines whether or not a big hit or a small win has occurred and a transition to a special game is made (step S571), and a transition to a special game (YES in step S571). The special game corresponding to the type of jackpot or the jackpot is set (step S572). Then, a special game start command is set in the RAM 30c to cause the effect control board 33 to perform an effect corresponding to the special game (step S573). Thereafter, the main control board 30 starts execution of a special game that becomes a big hit game or a small hit game (step S574).

  Further, when the main control board 30 determines not to shift to the special game (NO in step S571), the current game state is any of the first short-time game state ST1, the second short-time game state ST2, and the third short-time game state ST3. At this time, it is determined whether or not the short game state is set (step S575). As a result, if the game is in the short-time gaming state (YES in step S575), the main control board 30 decrements the count value JC, which is the remaining number of times of the special symbol variable display for continuing the short-time gaming state, by 1 (step S576). Then, it is determined whether or not the count value JC has become 0 (step S577). As a result, when the count value JC is not 0, the short-time gaming state continues, so the in-stop process is terminated. When count value JC becomes 0 (YES in step S577), main control board 30 determines whether or not the current probability state is a high probability state (step S578). The gaming state is shifted to the probability-changing gaming state ST4 (step S579), and if it is a low probability state, the gaming state is shifted to the normal gaming state ST5 (step S580). If the current gaming state is not the short-time gaming state (NO in step S575), the in-stop process ends.

  Next, FIG. 16, FIG. 17 and FIG. 18 are flowcharts showing the details of the special prize opening process (step S108 in FIG. 9). In this process, the opening / closing operation of the special winning opening 15 after the start of the special game is controlled, and the game state after the end of the special game is set. When starting this process, the main control board 30 determines whether or not the current gaming state of the gaming machine 1 is a special game (step S601). If it is not during the special game (NO in step S601), the opening / closing operation of the special prize opening 15 is not performed, and thus the special prize opening process ends. On the other hand, when the special game is in progress (YES in step S601), the main control board 30 is in the special game opening operation started by the gaming machine 1 in the stopped process (step S574 in FIG. 15). It is determined whether or not (step S602). When the gaming machine 1 is in the opening operation (YES in step S602), the main control board 30 determines whether or not a predetermined time for opening operation (opening time) has elapsed (step S603). . If the opening time has not elapsed (NO in step S603), the opening operation is continued, and the big prize opening process is terminated.

  If the opening time has elapsed (YES in step S603), the main control board 30 adds 1 to the current round value R that opens the special winning opening 15 (step S604). This round value R is initialized to 0 at the start of the special game, and becomes a round value to be performed this time by adding 1 in step S604. The main control board 30 confirms the preset opening pattern (step S605), and sets the opening time of the special winning opening 15 in the current round R determined in the opening pattern (step S606). Then, the main control board 30 opens the special winning opening 15 corresponding to the current round R (step S607). When the special winning opening 15 is opened, the main control board 30 starts the operation for measuring the opening time set in step S606.

  The main control board 30 determines whether or not the opening time set in step S606 has elapsed since the opening of the special winning opening 15 (step S608), and if the opening time has not elapsed (in step S608). In NO, it is further determined whether or not a predetermined upper limit number of game balls have been won in the open big winning opening 15 (step S609). As a result, when the opening time has not elapsed and the number of winnings has not reached the upper limit value (NO in step S609), the open state of the big winning opening 15 continues, so the big winning opening process is terminated. To do.

  On the other hand, when the opening time has elapsed (YES in step S608), or when the number of winning prizes to the big prize opening 15 has reached the upper limit (YES in step S609), the main control board 30 is currently open. Is closed (step S610). Then, it is determined whether or not the current round R is a value indicating the final round (ie, “16”) (step S611). If it is not the final round (NO in step S611), the special game continues, and thus the big prize opening process is terminated.

  When the current round R is the final round (YES in step S611), the main control board 30 executes the processing from step S612 onward to end the special game. That is, the main control board 30 resets the current round value R to 0 (step S612), starts time measurement for the ending of the special game (step S613), and determines whether the ending has ended. (Step S14). If the predetermined time has not elapsed since the start of the ending, it is determined that the ending has not been completed (NO in step S614), and the big prize opening process is terminated. If a predetermined time has elapsed since the ending was started, it is determined that the ending has ended (YES in step S614), and a special game end command is set on the effect control board 33 to end the special game effect. (Step S615), the special gaming state is terminated (Step S616). Thereafter, the main control board 30 executes a game state transition process in order to shift the gaming state of the gaming machine 1 (step S617). The detailed processing procedure of this game state transition process (step S617) will be described later.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S602 that the gaming machine 1 is not opening (NO in step S602), the process proceeds to the flowchart of FIG. 17 and the main control board 30 determines whether or not the big prize opening 15 is open. Is determined (step S621). If it is open (YES in step S621), the processing from step S608 shown in FIG. 16 is executed. If not open (NO in step S621), it is determined whether or not the gaming machine 1 is in the ending of a special game (step S622). If the ending is in progress (YES in step S622), the processing from step S614 shown in FIG. 16 is executed. If the ending is not in progress (NO in step S622), it is determined whether the elapsed time (interval time) of each round that has been set in advance after the special winning opening 15 is closed (step S623). ). If the interval time has not elapsed (NO in step S623), it is not yet time to execute the next round, so the big prize opening process is terminated. On the other hand, when the interval time has elapsed (YES in step S623), the processing after step S604 shown in FIG. 16 is executed to execute the next round.

  FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing details of the game state transition process (step S617 in FIG. 16). When starting this process, the main control board 30 determines whether or not to shift the probability state after the end of the special game to the high probability state (step S631). That is, if the jackpot that triggered the special game is one of the probable jackpots A to G, a high probability state is set. When shifting to the high probability state (YES in step S631), the main control board 30 sets the high probability state as the subsequent probability state (step S632). If not in the high probability state (NO in step S631), the main control board 30 sets the low probability state as the subsequent probability state (step S633).

  Next, the main control board 30 determines whether or not to shift to the short-time game state as the game progress state (step S635). That is, if the jackpot that triggers the special game is a promiscuous jackpot A to C or a normal jackpot A to C, the game shifts to the short-time gaming state. When shifting to the short time gaming state (YES in step S635), the main control board 30 determines whether or not to shift to the first short time gaming state ST1. In other words, if the jackpot that triggered the special game is a probable jackpot A or a regular jackpot A, the transition to the first short-time gaming state ST1 is made. When shifting to the first short-time gaming state ST1 (YES in step S635), the main control board 30 sets “10” to the count value JC for counting the number of fluctuations in the first short-time gaming state ST1. (Step S636). As a result, the special symbol variation count in the first short-time gaming state ST1 is set to 10 times. If the transition to the first short-time gaming state ST1 is not made (NO in step S635), the main control board 30 determines whether or not to shift to the second short-time gaming state ST2. That is, if the jackpot that triggered the special game is a probable jackpot B or a normal jackpot B, the transition to the second short-time gaming state ST2 is made. When shifting to the second short-time gaming state ST2 (YES in step S637), the main control board 30 sets “20” to the count value JC for counting the number of fluctuations in the second short-time gaming state ST2. (Step S638). As a result, the special symbol variation count in the second short-time gaming state ST2 is set to 20 times. Further, when it is not the transition to the second short-time gaming state ST2 (NO in step S637), the transition to the third short-time gaming state ST3 is made. That is, if the jackpot that triggered the special game is a probable jackpot C or a normal jackpot C, the transition to the third short game state ST3 is made. In this case, the main control board 30 sets “30” to the count value JC for counting the number of times of change in the third short-time gaming state ST3 (step S639). As a result, the special symbol variation count in the third short game state ST3 is set to 30 times. Thereafter, the main control board 30 shifts the gaming state to any one of the first short-time gaming state ST1, the second short-time gaming state ST2, and the third short-time gaming state ST3 (step S640).

  If it is not the transition to the short-time gaming state (NO in step S634), the main control board 30 determines whether or not to transition to the latent probability gaming state ST6 (step S641). That is, if the hit that triggered the special game is a probable big hit F, the game moves to the latent promising game state ST6. When shifting to the latent game state ST6 (YES in step S641), the main control board 30 shifts the game progress state to the latent game state ST6 (step S642). Further, if it is not the transition to the latent probability gaming state ST6 (NO in step S641), the main control board 30 determines whether or not to shift the gaming state to the probability changing gaming state ST4 (step S643). In other words, if the win that triggered the special game is the probable big hit D, E, or G, the transition to the probable game state ST4 is made. When shifting to the probability change game state ST4 (YES in step S643), the main control board 30 shifts the game progress state to the probability change game state ST4 (step S644). Further, if it is not the transition to the probability variation gaming state ST4 (NO in step S643), the main control board 30 shifts the game progress state to the normal gaming state ST5 (step S645). Note that the transition to the normal gaming state ST5 in step S645 is when a special game corresponding to the small hit is performed. By performing such a game state transition process at the end of the special game, the game state after the end of the special game is controlled.

  Next, FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing details of the normal symbol processing (step S109 in FIG. 9). In this process, first, it is determined whether or not the current state of the gaming machine 1 is an auxiliary game (step S701). Here, during the auxiliary game means that the normal symbol lottery is won and the electric tulip 14a is being opened. If the auxiliary game is being performed (YES in step S701), the main control board 30 ends the normal symbol process without starting the normal symbol variation. If it is not in an auxiliary game (NO in step S701), it is determined whether or not the current state of the gaming machine 1 is displaying a normal symbol variation (step S702). If the normal symbol is not being variably displayed (NO in step S702), the main control board 30 determines whether or not the normal symbol lottery holding number G is 1 or more (step S703). When the number of holdings G is 0 (NO in step S703), it means that there is no game ball passing through the through gate 16 which is a condition for the normal symbol lottery, so that the normal symbol variation display is not started. Normal symbol processing ends.

  On the other hand, when the holding number G is 1 or more (YES in step S703), the main control board 30 reads game data (normal symbol random number) corresponding to the earliest holding (step S704), and the holding number G 1 is subtracted by 1 (step S705), and the storage area storing other hold is shifted (step S706). Then, the main control board 30 determines whether or not the normal symbol random number read from the hold is a winning value predetermined according to the gaming state, and determines whether or not the normal symbol lottery is won ( Step S707). When the normal symbol lottery is won (YES in step S707), the main control board 30 sets a symbol (winning symbol) indicating that the normal symbol lottery is won in the RAM 30c (step S708). If the normal symbol lottery is not won (NO in step S707), a symbol (losing symbol) indicating that the normal symbol lottery is lost is set in the RAM 30c (step S709).

  The main control board 30 determines that the current gaming state of the gaming machine 1 is one of the first short-time gaming state ST1, the second short-time gaming state ST2, and the third short-time gaming state ST3, or the probability variation gaming state. It is determined whether or not it is ST4 (step S710), and when it is in the short time gaming state ST1, ST2, ST3 or the probability variation gaming state ST4 (YES in step S710), the normal symbol variation time is set to a short time of 3 seconds. (Step S711). If it is determined that the current gaming state is neither the short-time gaming state ST1, ST2, ST3 or the probability-changing gaming state ST4 but the normal gaming state ST5 or the latent gaming state ST6 (NO in step S710), it is normal. The symbol variation time is set to a relatively long time of about 29 seconds (step S712). The main control board 30 starts normal symbol variation display on the normal symbol display 22b of the symbol display 22 based on the variation time set in step S711 or S712 (step S713), and the variation time is measured. Is started (step S714).

  If the normal symbol variation display is in progress (YES in step S702), the main control board 30 determines whether or not the regular symbol variation time has ended (step S715). That is, it is determined whether or not the variation time at which the measurement operation is started in step S714 has reached the variation time set in step S711 or S712. If the variation time has not ended (NO in step S715), the normal symbol variation display is continued, and the normal symbol processing is terminated as it is. When the variation time has ended (YES in step S715), the main control board 30 stops the variation display of the normal symbol and displays the symbol set in step S708 or S709 (step S716). Thereafter, the measured variation time is reset (step S717). Then, it is determined whether or not the normal symbol lottery is won (step S718), and if it is won (YES in step S718), an auxiliary game for opening the electric tulip 14a is started (step S719). As a result, the gaming state is in the auxiliary game. On the other hand, if the normal symbol lottery is not won (NO in step S718), the normal symbol processing is terminated while the current state of the gaming machine 1 is maintained.

  Next, FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing details of the electric tulip process (step S110 (electricity Chu process) in FIG. 9). In this process, first, it is determined whether or not the current state of the gaming machine 1 is an auxiliary game (step S801). When the auxiliary game is not being performed (NO in step S801), the electric tulip 14a is not opened, and thus the electric tulip process is terminated. When the auxiliary game is being performed (YES in step S801), the main control board 30 determines whether or not the electric tulip 14a is being opened (step S802). If the electric tulip 14a is not being opened (step S802) It is determined whether or not the current gaming state is the short-time gaming state ST1, ST2, ST3 or the probability variation gaming state ST4 (NO in step S802) (step S803). When the time-short gaming state ST1, ST2, ST3 or the probability variation gaming state ST4 (YES in step S803), the main control board 30 sets the opening time of the electric tulip 14a to a relatively long time of 3.5 seconds ( Step S804). In addition, when not in the short-time gaming state ST1, ST2, ST3 or the probability variation gaming state ST4 but in the normal gaming state ST5 or the latent certain gaming state ST6 (NO in step S803), the main control board 30 sets the opening time of the electric tulip 14a. A very short time of 0.2 seconds is set (step S805). Then, the main control board 30 opens the electric tulip 14a (step S806) and starts measuring the elapsed time after opening (step S807). On the other hand, if the electric tulip 14a has already been opened (YES in step S802), the processes in steps S803 to S807 are skipped. Thereafter, the main control board 30 determines whether or not the opening time set in step S804 or S805 has elapsed (step S808). If the opening time has not elapsed (NO in step S808), the electric tulip 14a Since the open state is continued, the electric tulip process is terminated. If the opening time has elapsed (YES in step S808), the main control board 30 returns the electric tulip 14a to the closed state (step S809), ends the auxiliary game, and ends the electric tulip process (step S810).

  19 and 20, the electric tulip 14a is more frequently used in the short-time gaming state ST1, ST, 2, ST3 or the probability-changing gaming state ST4 than in the normal gaming state ST5 or the latent-probable gaming state ST6. Moreover, since the game ball is opened for a long time, it becomes easy for a game ball to enter the second start port 14, and a start condition for determining a special game is easily established.

  Next, FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing details of the output process (step S111 in FIG. 9). In this process, various data and commands are output from the main control board 30 to the sub-control board 31. First, when the game data for transmission is set, the main control board 30 transmits it to the effect control board 33 (step S901). If the game data for transmission is not set, the transmission process in step S901 is not performed. Next, if the variation start command is set, it is transmitted to the effect control board 33, and an instruction is given to effect for the time corresponding to the variation time of the special symbol (step S902). Thereby, the fluctuating effect which fluctuates the decorative symbols 12a, 12b and 12c by the effect control board 33 is started. If the change start command is not set, the transmission process in step S902 is not performed. Next, if the change stop command is set, is it transmitted to the effect control board 33, and the change effect being executed by the effect control board 33 is stopped and the result of the special game determination is a big hit? An instruction is given to notify the player whether or not (step S903). If the change stop command is not set, the transmission process in step S903 is not performed. Next, if the special game start command is set, it is transmitted to the effect control board 33, and the start of the effect operation accompanying the start of the special game is instructed (step S904). If the special game start command is not set, the transmission process in step S904 is not performed. Next, if the special game end command is set, it is transmitted to the effect control board 33, and the end of the effect corresponding to the special game is instructed (step S905). If the special game end command is not set, the transmission process in step S906 is not performed. Next, if the gaming state transition command is set, it is transmitted to the effect control board 33 to notify that the gaming state of the gaming machine 1 has transitioned to another state (step S906). This gaming state transition command is a command that is set in the RAM 30c every time the gaming state transition processing is performed by the main control board 30. If the gaming state transition command is not set, the transmission process in step S906 is not performed. Finally, if various other commands are set, each part is controlled by transmitting it to the effect control board 33 and the payout control board 32 (step S907). For example, a prize ball command that accompanies winning of a game ball at various winning openings is transmitted to the payout control board 32 at this time, and the payout control board 32 pays out a prize ball. Thus, the output process ends.

◇ Direction mode ◇
Next, an effect mode controlled by the effect control board 33 will be described. The effect mode defines the effect mode of the effect that is performed to notify the result of the special game determination in conjunction with the change display of the special symbol when the main control board 30 performs the change display of the special symbol. . The effect modes controlled by the effect control board 33 include a plurality of effect modes according to the game progress state controlled by the main control board 30. FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating an effect mode controlled by the effect control board 33. As shown in FIG. 22, the effect modes include a time-saving game mode M1, a probability change game mode M2, a latent game mode M3, a probability change game mode M4, and a normal game mode M5.

  The short-time game mode M1 functions when the main control board 30 performs the game progress in the short-time game state in any one of the first short-time game state ST1, the second short-time game state ST2, and the third short-time game state ST3. This is a production mode. At this time, the short game mode M1 is continued during the period in which the short time gaming state of any one of the first short time gaming state ST1, the second short time gaming state ST2, and the third short time gaming state ST3 is continued, and the short time gaming state is ended. It ends with doing.

  The probability variation game mode M2 is an effect mode that functions when the main control board 30 is progressing in the probability variation game state ST4. This probability change game mode M2 is continued for a period during which the probability change game state ST4 continues, and ends when the probability change game state ST4 ends due to the occurrence of a jackpot.

  The latent game mode M3 functions when the main control board 30 is progressing in the latent game state ST6 or when the game progress is being performed in the normal game state ST5 after the small hit. Mode. This latent game mode M3 is continued until the special symbol with the probability variation big hit F or the small bonus is finished, until the special symbol variation count reaches 70 times, and the 70th special symbol variation display is terminated. finish. When the special game of the probability variation jackpot F is performed, when the variation display of the 70th special symbol ends and the latent game mode M3 ends, the subsequent effect mode shifts to the probability variation game mode M4. On the other hand, when a special bonus game is performed, when the 70th special symbol variation display ends and the latent game mode M3 ends, the subsequent effect mode shifts to the normal game mode M5.

  The probability variation game mode M4 is a mode that functions when the main control board 30 is performing a game progress in the latent probability game state ST6. This probability changing game mode M4 is continued during the period in which the latent probability gaming state ST6 continues, and ends when the latent probability gaming state ST6 ends due to the occurrence of a jackpot.

  The normal game mode M5 is a mode that functions when the main control board 30 is progressing in the normal game state ST5. The normal game mode M5 is continued while the normal game state ST5 continues, and ends when the normal game state ST5 ends due to the occurrence of a jackpot.

  The production control board 33 controls the production mode as described above, and produces a common production under the same production mode regardless of the game progress state of the main control board 30. For example, when the main control board 30 is proceeding with the game in one of the first short-time game state ST1, the second short-time game state ST2, and the third short-time game state ST3, the effect control board 33 is Regardless of which of the first short-time gaming state ST1, the second short-time gaming state ST2, and the third short-time gaming state ST3, the common short-time gaming mode M1 is performed. In addition, when the main control board 30 is proceeding with the game in any one of the latent gaming state ST6 and the normal gaming state ST5 after the small hit, the effect control board 33 is in the latent gaming state ST6 and the small hit Regardless of which of the following normal gaming states ST5, until the number of times the special symbol changes to 70, the common effects are performed as the latent game mode M3. Hereinafter, various types of effect control by the effect control board 33 will be described in detail.

◇ Composition of production control board ◇
The effect control board 33 controls the execution of various effects performed on the gaming machine 1 based on the various commands sent from the main control board 30 as described above. For example, the presentation control board 33 changes the three decorative symbols 12a, 12b, and 12c on the image display 12 based on the result of the special game determination performed on the main control board 30 in response to receiving the change start command. The symbol variation effect to be started is started, and in response to receiving the variation stop command, the symbol variation effect is stopped and a notification effect for notifying the result of the special game determination is performed. In addition, when the game control data is received from the main control board 30, the effect control board 33 performs a prior determination as to whether or not the game data is to be shifted to the special game state, and based on the result of the prior determination in advance. It is possible to perform suggestive effects. When the special game start command is received, the effect control board 33 causes the special game effect to be performed in the special game state. In this special game effect, an effect is performed according to the type of winning determined in the special game determination, such as the type of jackpot or small hit. In addition, when the player performs a button operation on the operation button 6 at a predetermined timing when performing a notification effect, a prior suggestion effect, a special game effect, or the like, the effect control board 33 performs an effect corresponding to the button operation. It is also possible.

  FIG. 23 is a block diagram schematically showing the main functional configuration of the effect control board 33. As shown in FIG. 23, in the effect control board 33, when the CPU 33a executes a predetermined program, the reception data processing unit 70, the prior determination unit 71, the prior suggestion effect control unit 72, the notification effect control unit 80, and the special game It functions as an effect control unit 90.

  The reception data processing unit 70 analyzes data received from the main control board 30 and operates any of the prior determination unit 71, the notification effect control unit 80, and the special game effect control unit 90 based on the analysis result. For example, when game data is received from the main control board 30, the reception data processing unit 70 operates the advance determination unit 71 and sends the received game data to the advance determination unit 71. When receiving the variation start command from the main control board 30, the reception data processing unit 70 operates the notification effect control unit 80, sends the received variation start command to the notification effect control unit 80, and then changes stop command. Is sent to the notification effect control unit 80. Further, when receiving the special game start command from the main control board 30, the reception data processing unit 70 operates the special game effect control unit 90 to send the received special game start command to the special game effect control unit 90, and then When the special game end command is received, the special game end command is sent to the special game effect control unit 90.

  Further, the reception data processing unit 70 manages the hold state on the main control board 30 and updates the hold display of the first hold display unit 12d or the second hold display unit 12e at the lower part of the image display 12. That is, when game data is received from the main control board 30, the reception data processing unit 70 stores the game data in the RAM 33c and displays a new hold display on the first hold display unit 12d or the second hold display unit 12e. To do. When the change start command is received from the main control board 30, the game data stored in the RAM 33c is deleted, and one hold display displayed on the first hold display unit 12d or the second hold display unit 12e is turned off. To update the hold display.

  When the received data processing unit 70 acquires game data, the prior determination unit 71 performs prior determination based on the game data. The pre-determination is to shift the game data to the special game state before the special game determination of the game data obtained by entering the game ball into the first start port 13 or the second start port 14 is made. It is determined in advance whether or not there is. By this prior determination, it is determined in advance whether or not the game data stored as a hold is one that wins a big or small win, or whether or not a reach effect is performed although it is a loss. be able to. The prior determination unit 71 outputs the result of the prior determination to the prior suggestion effect control unit 72. In the present embodiment, the case where the preliminary determination unit 71 is provided on the effect control board 33 is illustrated, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the preliminary determination unit 71 is provided on the main control board 30 to provide the main control board. 30 may make a prior determination.

  The prior suggestion effect control unit 72 determines whether or not to perform the prior suggestion effect based on the result of the prior determination, and controls the image control board 34 and the lamp control board 35 when performing the prior suggestion effect. To do. In other words, the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 causes the prior suggestion effect to be performed as an effect for the right when the right of the special game determination is stored as the hold on the main control board 30. There are multiple types of effects in the prior suggestion effects that the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 performs. The prior suggestion effect control unit 72 selects at least one of the plural types of effects or performs the prior suggestion effect by combining the plural types of effects. In addition, even if the result of the prior determination is not a big win or a small win but a loss, the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 may perform a prior suggestion effect.

  The notification effect control unit 80 controls the effect mode described above. When the reception data processing unit 70 receives the change start command, the notification effect control unit 80 selects one of the plurality of types of effect patterns corresponding to the current effect mode corresponding to the change time specified by the change start command. The effect pattern for notifying the result of the special game determination is performed by controlling the image control board 34 and the lamp control board 35 based on the selected effect pattern. This notification effect includes a symbol variation effect that varies the three decorative symbols 12a, 12b, and 12c in the image display 12. In addition, the notification effect may include a reach effect, a development effect that is developed from the reach effect, a button effect that prompts the player to perform a button operation, and the like.

  The notification effect control unit 80 includes a normal game effect control unit 81, a probability variation game effect control unit 82, a time-short game effect control unit 83, a latent game effect control unit 85, and a high probability effect control unit 87. The normal game effect control unit 81 operates when the effect mode is the normal game mode M5, that is, when the game progress state is the normal game state ST5, and controls the execution of the notification effect in the normal game mode M5. When the notification effect in the normal game mode M5 is performed by the normal game effect control unit 81, the notification effect clearly indicates to the player that the probability state is the low probability state.

  The probability change game effect control unit 82 operates when the effect mode is the probability change game mode M2 or M4, that is, when the game progress state is the probability change game state ST4 or the latent probability game state ST6, and the notification effect in the probability change game mode M2 or M4. Control the execution of When the notification effect in the probability variation game modes M2 and M4 is performed by the probability variation game effect control unit 82, the notification effect clearly indicates to the player that the probability state is a high probability state. Here, the probability variation game state ST4 is a game state in which the start condition is easily established, whereas the latent probability game state ST6 is a state in which the start condition is less likely to be established than in the probability variation game state ST4. Therefore, the probability-changing game effect control unit 82 selects different effect patterns for the probability-changing game mode M2 and the probability-changing game mode M4, and performs a notification effect in an effect mode corresponding to each probability-changing game mode M2, M4.

  The short-time game effect control unit 83 is when the effect mode is the short-time game mode M1, that is, when the game progress state is any one of the first short-time game state ST1, the second short-time game state ST2, and the third short-time game state ST3. To control the execution of the notification effect in the short-time game mode M1. The short-time game effect control unit 83 displays a special symbol change display after the game progress state has shifted to the first short-time game state ST1, the second short-time game state ST2, or the third short-time game state ST5 for a predetermined number of times (ie, When it is not the 10th, 20th and 30th), the notification effect is performed in the normal effect mode. In the notification effect of the normal effect mode, an effect that does not clearly indicate whether the current probability state is the high probability state or the low probability state is performed, and the number of variable display times of the special symbol that the short-time game mode M1 continues. There will be a production that will not be clearly indicated. The short-time game effect control unit 83 includes a specific suggestion effect control unit 84. The specific suggestion effect control unit 84 displays the variation display of the special symbol for a predetermined number of times after the game progress state has shifted to the first short-time game state ST1, the second short-time game state ST2, or the third short-time game state ST5 (that is, 10th time, 20th time and 30th time), and in the time-saving game mode M1, a notification effect including an effect different from normal is performed. The notification effect performed by the specific suggestion effect control unit 84 is, for example, an effect that suggests whether or not the time-saving game mode M1 continues or an effect that suggests whether or not to shift to the probability-changing game mode M2. A specific example of the effect performed by the specific suggestion effect control unit 84 will be described later.

  The latent game effect control unit 85, when the production mode is the latent game mode M3, that is, after the special game is finished when winning the probable big hit F or small win until the number of times of the special symbol change display becomes 70 times. It operates and controls the execution of the notification effect in the latent game mode M3. The latent game effect control unit 85 is normal when the special symbol change display after the transition to the latent game mode M3 is not the predetermined number of times (that is, the 10th time, the 20th time, the 30th time, the 50th time and the 70th time). The notification effect is performed in the effect mode. In the notification effect of the normal effect mode, an effect that does not clearly indicate whether the current probability state is the high probability state or the low probability state is performed. The latent game effect control unit 85 includes a high probability suggestion effect control unit 86. The high-probability suggestion effect control unit 86 operates when the change display of the special symbol after shifting to the latent game mode M3 is the predetermined number of times (that is, the 10th time, the 20th time, the 30th time, the 50th time and the 70th time). In addition, a notification effect including an effect that suggests to the player the possibility of high probability in a mode different from normal is performed. A specific example of the effect performed by the high probability suggestion effect control unit 86 will be described later.

  The high-probability effect control unit 87 operates under a predetermined condition when it is determined that any of the probable jackpots A to G is determined in the special game determination. The normal game effect control unit 81 and the probability change game effect control are performed. When the notification effect linked to the change display of the special symbol is performed by any one of the part 82, the short-time game effect control unit 83, and the latent game effect control unit 85, the result of the special game determination is definitely changed in the notification effect. It is a big hit, and a high-probability effect that notifies that the probability state after the end of the special game becomes a high-probability state is performed. For example, the high-probability effect control unit 87 stops all the three decorative symbols 12a, 12b, and 12c with the symbol “7” at the end of the notification effect, and the subsequent probability state is a high-probability state. Announce that

  When the reception data processing unit 70 receives the fluctuation stop command, the notification effect control unit 80 ends the notification effect and causes the image display 12 to display the three decorative symbols 12a, 12b, and 12c in a stopped state. The result of the special game determination is notified. At this time, if the three decorative symbols 12a, 12b, and 12c are stopped at the same symbol, the jackpot is informed. Further, if the three decorative symbols 12a, 12b, 12c are stopped in a state where they are not aligned, it is informed that it is a loss. Here, in the case of winning the odd variation jackpot F and winning the jackpot, usually, the three decorative symbols 12a, 12b, 12c are stopped with a combination of specific symbols, and the jackpot is a jackpot or a jackpot This prevents the player from distinguishing between them. However, when the probability variation jackpot F is won, the above-described high-probability effect control unit 87 rarely operates under a predetermined condition, and the player may be informed that the probability variation jackpot is during the notification effect.

  The special game effect control unit 90 operates when the reception data processing unit 70 receives a special game start command. Then, the special game effect control unit 90 executes a special game effect corresponding to the type of jackpot if it is a jackpot. In the case of a small hit, the special game effect control unit 90 executes a special game effect corresponding to the small hit. The special game effect control unit 90 includes a high probability effect control unit 91. The high-probability effect control unit 91 operates under predetermined conditions when it is determined that any of the probable jackpots A to G is determined in the special game determination, and performs the special game effect in the special game state. Sometimes, the result of the special game determination is a probable big hit, and a high-probability effect is provided to notify that the game state (probability state) after the special game ends becomes a high-probability state. For example, if the three decorative symbols 12a, 12b, and 12c are stopped in a state where all the symbols other than “7” are aligned at the time when the notification effect is finished, the subsequent probability state is a low probability state and a high probability as the notification effect. It is an effect that does not clearly indicate which of the probability states. In such a case, the high-probability effect control unit 91 is operating under a predetermined condition, and when the special game is being executed with the symbols other than “7” being stopped and the special game is being executed, , It shows that the jackpot won in the special game determination is a probabilistic jackpot, and notifies that the subsequent probability state becomes a high probability state.

  In addition, when the special game effect control unit 90 wins a jackpot of any one of the probable jackpots A, B, C and the normal jackpot A, B, C in the special game determination, as a special game effect in the special game state, An effect that does not clearly indicate which jackpot was won. As a result, since the player cannot grasp whether the probability state after the end of the special game is a high probability state or a low probability state, the player can have a sense of expectation that it may be a high probability state. , The fun of the game is improved. In addition, since the player cannot grasp the period (number of fluctuations) in which the short-time gaming state continues after the end of the special game, the player can have a sense of expectation that the short-time gaming state may continue up to 30 times, The fun of the game is improved.

  Further, when the special game effect control unit 90 is won in either of the probable big hit F or the small win in the special game determination, as a special game effect in the subsequent special game state, it is usually determined which win is won. Perform a production that is not specified. As a result, since the player cannot grasp whether the probability state after the end of the special game is a high probability state or a low probability state, the player can have a sense of expectation that it may be a high probability state. , The fun of the game is improved. However, if the probability variation jackpot F is won, the special game effect control unit 90 rarely operates the high-probability effect control unit 91 under a predetermined condition, and the special game effect control unit 90 is a probability variation jackpot during execution of the special game effect in the special game state. This may be notified to the player.

◇ Example of pre-directed production ◇
Next, an example of the prior suggestion effect performed by the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 will be described. FIG. 24 is a diagram illustrating an example of a prior suggestion effect performed in the image display 12. FIG. 24A shows an example of a normal notification effect in which the prior suggestion effect is not performed. When the notification effect control unit 80 starts the notification effect when the prior suggestion effect is not performed, the three decorative symbols 12a, 12b, and 12c are vertically moved on the image display 12 as shown in FIG. Start the variable display. At this time, the three decorative symbols 12a, 12b, and 12c perform variable display on the front side of the predetermined background 12g according to the effect mode. Further, in each of the first hold display portion 12d and the second hold display portion 12e displayed at the lower part of the image display 12, the number of holds stored by entering the first start port 13 and the second start port 14 is stored. Corresponding hold display is performed.

  On the other hand, when the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 performs the prior suggestion effect based on the result of the prior determination by the prior determination unit 71, the notification effect as shown in FIG. That is, when the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 determines to perform the prior suggestion effect based on the result of the prior determination, first, the hold display corresponding to the game data acquired by the main control board 30 is changed to a display mode different from normal. Change. In the example of FIG. 24 (b), the display mode of the third hold display 12f that is stored by entering the second start port 14 is displayed in a mode different from the display mode of other hold displays, It can be seen that the hold display 12f is an object of prior suggestion effect by prior determination. Therefore, the player comes to have a sense of expectation that the hold changed to the display mode different from the normal may win a jackpot.

  Moreover, the prior suggestion production | generation control part 72 will switch the background in which the variable display of the three decoration symbols 12a, 12b, 12c is performed to the special background 12h different from the normal background 12g, if a prior suggestion production is started. At this time, not only the background is switched to the special background 12h, but also the display mode in which the three decorative symbols 12a, 12b, and 12c fluctuate as shown in FIG. 24 (b) is changed to a different display mode. Also good. The prior suggestion effect performed by switching to the special background 12h or the like is continued until the hold (hold corresponding to the hold display 12f) that triggered the advance suggestion is consumed in principle. Therefore, such a prior suggestion effect may be continuously performed over a plurality of notification effects. In this way, by performing the prior suggestion effect on the entire screen of the image display 12 on which the notification effect is performed, the expectation that the game data stored as the hold is shifted to the special game is higher than usual. This can be notified to the player.

  Further, the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 outputs not only the image display 12 but also a predetermined effect sound from the speaker 8, turns on the frame lamp 7 with a predetermined lighting pattern, and controls the movable accessory driving unit 24. Thus, it is also possible to perform a prior suggestion effect by causing the movable accessory to perform a predetermined operation. For example, when the background on the image display 12 is switched to the special background 12h, a more effective prior suggestion effect can be performed by outputting a predetermined effect sound from the speaker 8 and operating the movable accessory. Thus, by performing the prior suggestion effect on the entire gaming machine 1, the player's expectation can be further enhanced.

◆ Indication production in short-time game mode ◆
Next, an example of the notification effect performed by the short-time game effect control unit 83 among the notification effects performed by the notification effect control unit 80 will be described. The short-time game effect control unit 83 performs a notification effect in the short-time game mode M1 in a state in which the special short game is ended and the state is shifted to any one of the first short-time game state ST1, the second short-time game state ST2, and the third short-time game state ST3. At this time, a notification effect during the short-time game is performed in a manner that does not clearly indicate whether the first short-time game state ST1, the second short-time game state ST2, or the third short-time game state ST3 has been shifted. The short-time game effect control unit 83 performs the notification effect in a manner that does not clearly indicate whether the probability state of winning the jackpot in the special game determination is a high probability state or a low probability state. In other words, the short-time game effect control unit 83 has the same effect that does not clearly indicate the probability state, regardless of whether the first short-time game state ST1, the second short-time game state ST2, or the third short-time game state ST3 has been entered. The notification effect of the aspect is performed. As described above, in the first short-time gaming state ST1, the second short-time gaming state ST2, and the third short-time gaming state ST3, the special game is performed when the number of fluctuations is not the predetermined number of times (10th, 20th and 30th). If the result of the determination is normal loss, the special symbol change time is a predetermined time (that is, 3 seconds), whereas if the change number is the predetermined number of times (10th, 20th and 30th), a special game determination Unless the result of the above is a transition to the special gaming state, the variation time of the special symbol is a fixed variation time of 10 seconds longer than the predetermined time (3 seconds). Therefore, the notification effect performed by the short-time game effect control unit 83 is different depending on whether or not it is the predetermined number of times.

  FIG. 25 is a diagram illustrating an example of a normal lose notification effect that is performed when the number of changes in the short-time game mode M1 is not the predetermined number. Since the variation time is 3 seconds when the number of times of variation is not the predetermined number of times, the short-time game effect control unit 83 performs a notification effect corresponding to the 3 seconds. For example, when a change start command is received as shown in FIG. 25, the short-time game effect control unit 83 starts the change display of the three decorative symbols 12a, 12b, and 12c on the image display 12, and after 3 seconds, the change stop command , The three decorative symbols 12a, 12b, and 12c are stopped by a combination of symbols that cause a loss. Then, in a state where the number of times of fluctuation does not reach the predetermined number of times, when normal loses continue as a result of the special game determination, a notification effect as shown in FIG. 25 is continuously performed.

  In particular, in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, in the short-time gaming state ST1, ST2, ST3, it is easy for the game ball to enter the second starting port 14 by passing the game ball through the through gate 16, The player enters a right-handed state in which the operation angle of the handle lever 5 is increased and a game ball is launched into the right region of the center accessory 11. In this right-handed state, the possibility that a game ball enters the first start port 13 is reduced. Further, in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, a special game determination is made by preferentially reading the stored hold by entering the second start port 14 rather than the hold stored by entering the first start port 13. Configured to do. Therefore, in the short-time gaming state ST1, ST2, ST3, the hold stored by entering the second starting port 14 is continuously digested. For this reason, the notification effect as shown in FIG. 25 is an effect mainly performed in order to efficiently digest the hold that is frequently entered and stored in the second start port 14.

  By the way, as described above, when the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment shifts to the first short-time gaming state ST1 after the special game ends, the number of times of change after shifting to the first short-time gaming state ST1 exceeds 10 times. Then, the subsequent gaming state shifts to the probability changing gaming state ST4 or the normal gaming state ST5 according to the probability state at that time. In addition, when the transition to the second short-time gaming state ST2 is made after the special game is finished, if the number of changes after the transition to the second short-time gaming state ST2 exceeds 20, the subsequent gaming state is determined according to the probability state at that time. Transition to the probable gaming state ST4 or the normal gaming state ST5. Further, when the transition to the 3rd short game state ST3 is made after the special game ends, if the number of changes after the transition to the 3rd short game state ST3 exceeds 30 times, the subsequent game state is changed according to the probability state at that time. Transition to the probable gaming state ST4 or the normal gaming state ST5. In the case of such a gaming machine 1, the player expects to shift to the probability-changing gaming state ST4 after the short-time gaming state ST1, ST2, ST3 ends.

  Here, after the end of the special game, the transition to the first short-time gaming state ST1 is two as shown in FIG. 4, the probability variation jackpot A and the normal jackpot A, the probability that the probability variation jackpot A occurs is 5%, Usually, the rate of occurrence of jackpot A is 7%. Therefore, the rate at which the first short-time gaming state ST1 ends and the transition to the probability variation gaming state ST4 is 5/12. In addition, as shown in FIG. 4, there are two probability variation big hits B and normal big hits B as shown in FIG. 4, and the rate of occurrence of the probable big hit B is 5%. The rate at which jackpot B is generated is 6%. Therefore, the probability that the second short-time gaming state ST2 ends and shifts to the probability variation gaming state ST4 is 5/11. In addition, as shown in FIG. 4, there are two chances of changing to the third short-time gaming state ST3 after the end of the special game, namely, the probability variation jackpot C and the normal jackpot C. The rate at which jackpot C is generated is also 5%. Therefore, the probability that the third short-time gaming state ST3 ends and shifts to the probability variation gaming state ST4 is ½. In other words, after the special game ends, the transition to the second short-time gaming state ST2 and the third short-time gaming state ST3 can become the probability-changing gaming state ST4, rather than the transition to the first short-time gaming state ST1. More likely, the transition to the third short-time gaming state ST3 is more likely to be the probability-changing gaming state ST4 than to the transition to the second short-time gaming state ST2. Therefore, when the special game ends, when the game state shifts to any one of the short-time game states ST1, ST2, ST3, the player expects that the short-game state will continue for a long time.

  Therefore, the short-time game effect control unit 83 has a predetermined number of times (the tenth time) after the shift to the short-time game mode M1, that is, the first short-time game state ST1, the second short-time game state ST2, or the third short-time game state ST5. , 20th and 30th), the specific suggestion effect control unit 84 is operated, and the notification effect corresponding to the fluctuation time of 10 seconds is different from the normal notification effect performed when it is not the predetermined number of times. Let it be done.

  FIG. 26 is a diagram illustrating an example of a notification effect including a specific suggestion effect when the number of changes in the short-time game mode M1 is a predetermined number. Since the variation time is 10 seconds when the number of times of variation is the predetermined number of times, the specific suggestion effect control unit 84 performs a notification effect including the specific suggestion effect corresponding to the 10 seconds. First, upon receiving the variation start command, the specific suggestion effect control unit 84 starts variation display of the three decorative symbols 12a, 12b, and 12c on the image display 12 as shown in FIG. Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 26 (b), the specific suggestion effect control unit 84 displays the first notification image 101 indicating the continuation of the time-saving game mode M1 and the probability change game mode M2 in the screen of the image display 12. A second notification image 102 indicating transition, a third notification image 103 indicating transition to the normal game mode M5, and an operation guidance image 104 that prompts the player to operate a button are displayed. At this time, the specific suggestion effect control unit 84 switches the variable display of the three decorative symbols 12a, 12b, and 12c to the small symbol display 105 that displays a small area in the screen. In the illustrated example, each of the first notification image 101, the second notification image 102, and the third notification image 103 is displayed one by one. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the first notification image 101 and the second notification image are displayed. You may make it increase / decrease the display number of each of 102 and the 3rd alerting | reporting image 103 by lottery etc., for example. Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 26C, the specific suggestion effect control unit 84 performs high-speed sliding of the first notification image 101, the second notification image 102, and the third notification image 103 displayed on the screen, for example, in the horizontal direction of the screen. A roulette effect 106 to be moved is performed to prompt the player to operate a button. Also at this time, the variable display of the three decorative symbols 12a, 12b, and 12c is performed by the small symbol display 105. When the button operation by the player is performed within a predetermined time, the specific suggestion effect control unit 84 displays the first notification image 101, the second notification image 102, and the third notification image 103 as shown in FIG. One of the notification images is displayed. In the illustrated example, the first notification image 101 is displayed, and the first notification image 101 indicates to the player that the short-time game mode M1 is continued. If the player does not operate the button within a predetermined time, one of the first notification image 101, the second notification image 102, and the third notification image 103 is displayed on the screen after the predetermined time has elapsed. Is displayed. And the specific suggestion production | presentation control part 84 stops the three decoration symbols 12a, 12b, and 12c displayed on the small symbol display 105 by the loss symbol according to the result of special game determination with receiving a change stop command.

  When the specific suggestion effect control unit 84 displays one notification image on the screen, the first notification image 101, the second notification image 102, and the third notification image 103 are displayed according to the subsequent effect mode (that is, the game progress state). One of the notification images is selected and displayed. FIG. 27 is a diagram illustrating a relationship between a subsequent gaming state and a notification image displayed on the screen. When the number of changes in the short-time game mode M1 reaches the predetermined number, after the roulette effect 106 shown in FIG. 27A is performed, any one of FIGS. 27B, 27C, and 27D is displayed. Production is performed.

  FIG. 27B is an effect in which the first notification image 101 indicating the continuation of the time-saving game mode M1 is displayed. For example, in the specific suggestion effect that is performed when the number of times of change is 10th in the state of transition to the second short-time game state ST2 or the third short-time game state ST3 after the end of the special game, finally, as shown in FIG. Thus, the first notification image 101 is displayed on the screen. Further, even in the specific suggestion effect that is performed when the number of times of change is 20th in the state of shifting to the third short-time gaming state ST3 after the special game ends, the first notification image 101 is finally displayed as shown in FIG. Displayed in the screen. That is, the effect shown in FIG. 27 (b) is an effect informing that the time-saving gaming states ST2 and ST3 continue.

  FIG. 27 (c) is an effect in which the third notification image 103 indicating the transition to the normal game mode M5 is displayed. For example, when a special jackpot A is won in the special game determination and the number of changes in the first short-time game state ST1 after the special game is 10th, finally, as shown in FIG. 27 (c), the third notification image 103 is displayed in the screen. Also, in the special game determination, when the normal jackpot B is won and the number of changes in the second short game state ST2 after the special game ends becomes the 20th time, the third notification is finally made as shown in FIG. 27 (c). An image 103 is displayed in the screen. Further, when the special jackpot C is won in the normal jackpot C and the number of times of change in the third hour short gaming state ST3 after the special game is 30th, the third notification is finally made as shown in FIG. 27 (c). An image 103 is displayed in the screen. Therefore, the effect shown in FIG. 27 (c) is an effect of notifying that the effect mode shifts from the short-time game mode M1 to the normal game mode M5 and the subsequent game progress state shifts to the normal game state ST5.

  FIG. 27 (d) is an effect in which the second notification image 102 indicating the transition to the probability changing game mode M2 is displayed. For example, when the probability variation jackpot A is won in the special game determination, and the number of changes in the first short-time gaming state ST1 after the special game is 10th, finally the second notification image as shown in FIG. 102 is displayed in the screen. Also, when the probability change big hit B is won in the special game determination and the number of changes in the second short game state ST2 after the special game is 20th, the second notification is finally made as shown in FIG. 27 (d). An image 102 is displayed in the screen. Further, when the special game determination wins the probable big hit C and the number of changes in the third short-time game state ST3 after the special game ends becomes the 30th change, the second notification is finally made as shown in FIG. 27 (d). An image 102 is displayed in the screen. Therefore, the effect shown in FIG. 27 (d) is an effect for notifying that the effect mode shifts from the short-time game mode M1 to the probability change game mode M2 and the subsequent game progress state shifts to the probability change game state ST4.

  As described above, in the short-time game mode M1, whether or not the short-time game mode M1 is continued when the number of changes after the special game ends becomes a predetermined number of times, in other words, the start condition is likely to be satisfied. An effect suggesting whether or not to continue is performed. Further, in other words, such an effect can be said to be an effect suggesting that the current probability state is a high probability state. That is, as described above, as the time-saving game mode M1 continues for a long period of time, the possibility that the subsequent game state becomes the probability-changing game state ST4 increases. Therefore, the effect of displaying the first notification image 101 is the current probability state. Is an effect that suggests that the possibility of a high probability state is high. Therefore, by performing such an effect during the short-time game, it is possible to improve the interest in the short-time game state ST1, ST2, ST3 as compared with the prior art.

◇ Announcement production in latent game mode ◇
Next, an example of the notification effect performed by the latent game effect control unit 85 among the notification effects performed by the notification effect control unit 80 will be described. The latent game effect control unit 85 performs the notification effect in a manner that does not clearly indicate whether the probability state is the high probability state or the low probability state in the latent game mode M3 after the special game ends. In other words, the latent game effect control unit 85 causes a notification effect of the same effect mode that does not clearly indicate the subsequent probability state, regardless of whether the probability variation big hit F or the small win is won in the special game determination. As described above, in the latent game state ST6 and the normal game state ST5 after the small hit, the special game determination is performed when the number of times of change is not the predetermined number of times (10th time, 20th time, 30th time, 50th time and 70th time). If the result is normal loss, the variation time of the special symbol is a predetermined time (that is, 13.5 seconds), whereas the variation frequency is the predetermined number of times (10th, 20th, 30th, 50th and 70th). In the case of the second time), unless the result of the special game determination is a shift to the special game state, the variation time of the special symbol is a variation time fixed to 20 seconds longer than the predetermined time (13.5 seconds). Therefore, the notification effect performed by the latent game effect control unit 85 is different depending on whether or not it is the predetermined number of times.

  When the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment wins the probability variation jackpot F as described above, the probability state becomes a high probability state when the game proceeds to the latent probability gaming state ST6 after the special game ends. In addition, when winning a small win, the probability state becomes a low probability state when the special game is over and the state shifts to the normal game state ST5. In the case of such a gaming machine 1, the player expects that the probability state is a high probability state when the effect mode after the end of the special game shifts to the latent game mode M3.

  Therefore, the latent game effect control unit 85 performs the high-probability suggestion effect control when the number of changes after the transition to the latent game mode M3 is the predetermined number of times (10th time, 20th time, 30th time, 50th time and 70th time). The unit 86 is operated, and a notification effect including a high-probability suggestion effect is performed as a notification effect corresponding to a change time of 20 seconds in a mode different from a normal notification effect performed when it is not the predetermined number of times.

  FIG. 28 is a diagram illustrating an example of a notification effect including a high probability suggestion effect that is performed when the number of changes is a predetermined number in the latent game mode M3. Since the variation time is 20 seconds when the number of times of variation is the predetermined number of times, the high probability suggestion effect control unit 86 performs a notification effect including the high probability suggestion effect corresponding to the 20 seconds. First, when a variation start command is received, the high-probability suggestion effect control unit 86 starts variation display of the three decorative symbols 12a, 12b, and 12c on the image display 12 as shown in FIG. Thereafter, the high-probability suggestion effect control unit 86 switches the display screen of the image display 12 as shown in FIG. That is, as shown in FIG. 28B, in the center of the screen, a first item image 111 including one star-shaped item, a second item image 112 including two star-shaped items, and a star-shaped item. And a third item image 113 including the three items are displayed. In addition, a storage display unit 114 that stores and displays a predetermined number (for example, 10) of star-shaped items is displayed at the top of the screen. Further, an operation guide image 104 that prompts the player to operate the button is displayed at the bottom of the screen, and a small symbol display that displays the variable display of the three decorative symbols 12a, 12b, and 12c in a small area in the screen. 105 is displayed. In the example shown in the figure, each of the first item image 111, the second item image 112, and the third item image 113 is displayed one by one. The display numbers of the second item image 112 and the third item image 113 may be increased or decreased by, for example, lottery. Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 28C, the high-probability suggesting effect control unit 86 displays the first item image 111, the second item image 112, and the third item image 113 displayed on the screen at a high speed in the horizontal direction of the screen, for example. A roulette effect 106 for sliding is performed, and the player is prompted to operate the buttons. Also at this time, the variable display of the three decorative symbols 12a, 12b, and 12c is performed by the small symbol display 105. When the button operation by the player is performed within a predetermined time, the high-probability suggestion effect control unit 86, as shown in FIG. 28 (d), the first item image 111, the second item image 112, and the third item image 113 are displayed. One of the item images is displayed. In the illustrated example, a state is shown in which a second item image 112 including two star-shaped items is displayed. Then, the high-probability suggestion effect control unit 86 enlarges and displays the storage display unit 114 at the center of the screen as shown in FIG. 28E, and the number of star-shaped items included in one item image displayed immediately before that. Depending on the item, the item is stored. In the illustrated example, a state in which two items are stored according to the second item image 112 displayed immediately before that is shown. Then, the high-probability suggestion effect control unit 86 receives the variation stop command from the main control board 30 and displays the three decorative symbols 12a, 12b, and 12c to be displayed on the small symbol display 105 according to the result of the special game determination. Stop at the lost pattern.

  The high probability suggestion effect as described above is performed within a change time of 20 seconds. In the latent game mode M3, the same high-probability suggestion effect as described above is repeatedly performed every time the number of changes reaches the predetermined number (10th, 20th, 30th, 50th and 70th). However, when the second and subsequent effects are performed, the items are displayed on the storage display unit 114 in a state where the number of storages up to the previous time is maintained. Then, the high probability suggestion effect control unit 86 sequentially stores the items while performing the high probability suggestion effect of up to five times in the latent game mode M3, and finally stores the items up to a predetermined number (for example, ten). Depending on whether it succeeds or not, an effect that suggests whether or not the current probability state is a high probability state is performed.

  FIG. 29 is a diagram illustrating an example of a final effect mode when a high probability suggestion effect is repeatedly performed. FIG. 29A shows an example in which items are finally successfully stored up to a predetermined number (for example, 10). For example, when the high probability suggesting effect is started, seven items are already displayed on the storage display unit 114, and thereafter, a third item image 113 including three items is displayed according to the player's button operation. In this case, a total of 10 items are stored in the storage display unit 114, and a predetermined number of items are successfully stored. In this case, it becomes the effect which alert | reports that the present probability state is a high probability state. The effect shown in FIG. 29A may be generated at any number of times as long as the number of fluctuations is a predetermined number of times (10th, 20th, 30th, 50th and 70th). However, it is preferable to generate them at the last predetermined number of times, that is, the 70th time.

  Next, FIG. 29B shows an example in which it fails to store items up to a predetermined number (for example, 10) in the end. For example, when the last high-probability suggestion effect is started, seven items are already displayed on the storage display unit 114, and thereafter, the first item image 111 including one item is displayed in accordance with the player's button operation. When displayed, the storage display unit 114 is in a state where a total of eight items are stored, and fails to store a predetermined number of items. In this case, the effect is to notify that the current probability state is a low probability state. Note that the effect shown in FIG. 29B is an effect that is generated when the number of fluctuations is the 70th.

  Therefore, when performing the high probability suggestion effect in the latent game mode M3, the high probability suggestion effect control unit 86 adjusts the number of items stored according to the current probability state. In particular, when the current probability state is a low probability state, the high probability suggestion effect control unit 86 does not eventually become a state where a predetermined number of items are stored even if the high probability suggestion effect is performed five times in total. Adjust the number of occurrences of an item.

  In this way, in the latent game mode M3, when the number of changes after the special game is over is a predetermined number of times, an effect that suggests whether or not the current probability state is a high probability state is performed. Therefore, the high probability suggestion effect is performed a plurality of times in the latent game mode M3, so that the interest in the latent game mode M3 can be improved as compared with the conventional case.

◇ High probability production during notification production ◇
Next, a specific example of the high probability effect performed by the high probability effect control unit 87 among the notification effects performed by the notification effect control unit 80 will be described. FIG. 30 is a diagram illustrating an example of a high probability effect by the high probability effect control unit 87. First, when a variation start command is received, the high-probability effect control unit 87 starts the variation display of the three decorative symbols 12a, 12b, and 12c on the image display 12 as shown in FIG. Thereafter, the high-probability effect control unit 87 stops two of the three decorative symbols 12a, 12b, and 12c with a symbol other than “7”, for example, as shown in FIG. The reach state is to continue the fluctuation state. In the reach state, various notice effects and development effects may be performed. Then, the high-probability effect control unit 87 displays the remaining one symbol as a symbol aligned with the other two symbols as shown in FIG. At this time, the high-probability effect control unit 87 does not completely stop the three decorative symbols 12a, 12b, and 12c, but continues the fine movement state of the three decorative symbols 12a, 12b, and 12c, and the variable display continues. Indicates that In this state, the high-probability effect control unit 87 prompts the player to perform a button operation as shown in FIG. At this time, the high probability effect control unit 87 may perform the fine movement state of the three decorative symbols 12a, 12b, and 12c in the small symbol display mode. When the button operation by the player is performed within a predetermined time, the high-probability effect control unit 87 determines that all of the three decorative symbols 12a, 12b, and 12c are probable big hits as shown in FIG. Is displayed in a state of switching to the symbol “7”, and then, in response to receiving the change stop command, the three decorative symbols 12a, 12b, and 12c are completely stopped while being aligned with the symbol “7”. Let Thus, by arranging and stopping the three decorative symbols 12a, 12b, and 12c with the symbol “7”, the high-probability effect control unit 87 determines that the probability state after the end of the special game becomes a high-probability state. Inform the person. Such a notification effect is the notification effect with the highest interest for the player because it is notified that the three decorative symbols 12a, 12b, and 12c have won the probable big hits until they completely stop.

◇ High probability production in special gaming state ◇
Next, of the special game effects performed by the special game effect control unit 90, a specific example of the high probability effect performed by the high probability effect control unit 91 will be described. The high-probability effect control unit 91 performs a high-probability effect for notifying that the probability state after the end of the special game becomes a high-probability state in a predetermined round during the special game when the probable jackpot G is won in the special game determination. Make it.

  FIG. 31 is a diagram illustrating an example of a high probability effect by the high probability effect control unit 91. First, as shown in FIG. 31 (a), for example, when the probability variation jackpot G is won, the notification effect by the notification effect control unit 80 is either the low probability state or the high probability state after the special game is finished. Stops in a state where all symbols other than “7” are unclear. And if it transfers to a special game state, the special game production | generation control part 90 will start the special game production | presentation 121 in the state which took over the stop symbol displayed by the notification production | presentation control part 80 as shown in FIG.31 (b). When the special game effect 121 is started, the stop symbol that is a big hit is displayed as a small symbol display 122 in a small area of a part of the screen. Then, the special game effect control unit 90 updates the round display every time one long open round of the special winning opening 15 advances during the special game. Then, when winning the normal jackpot A, B, C, when the winning prize opening 15 has progressed to the same round as the final round in which the game is long open, the high-probability effect control unit 91 plays a game as shown in FIG. An operation guidance effect 123 that prompts the user to operate the button is performed. Thereafter, when a button operation by the player is detected within a predetermined time, the high-probability effect control unit 91 displays a notification image 129 indicating that it is a probable big hit as shown in FIG. As a result, during the execution of the special game, the player is notified that the probability state after the end of the special game becomes a high probability state. If the player does not operate the button within a predetermined time, a screen as shown in FIG. 31D is displayed after the predetermined time has elapsed. Thereafter, the special game effect control unit 90 continues the special game effect 121 in accordance with the progress of the round as shown in FIG. At this time, the winning symbol displayed as the small symbol display 122 is the same symbol as the decorative symbols 12a, 12b, and 12c displayed in the notification effect. However, as shown in FIG. 31 (e), a specific image 122a indicating a probable big hit is added to these winning symbols. Therefore, after the effect shown in FIG. 31D is performed, when returning to the original special game effect 121, a specific image 122a is added to the small symbol display 122, so that Thus, it is continuously notified that the probability state after the end of another game becomes a high probability state. Since such a high-probability effect is performed during a special game, the player's expectation can be enhanced, so that the interest is improved as compared with the conventional game.

  Here, the effect as described above is not necessarily performed only when winning the probable jackpot G, and the operation guidance effect 123 shown in FIG. 31C is also performed when winning another jackpot. There is. However, even if the operation guidance effect 123 is performed in the predetermined round during the special game in the case where the normal jackpot A, B, C is won, the notification image 129 indicating that it is a probable jackpot is displayed as a result. Not. Therefore, even if the operation guidance effect 123 appears during the special game, the high probability effect is not necessarily performed by the high probability effect control unit 91. Therefore, when the operation guidance effect 123 appears during the special game, the player performs the button operation while pounding, and the effect during the special game becomes more interesting.

◆ First action of production control board ◆
Next, the first operation of the effect control board 33 will be described. As described above, the prior determination unit 71 performs prior determination of the game data acquired by the main control board 30 when the start condition is established, and the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 determines the prior suggestion effect based on the result of the prior determination. I do. This prior suggestion effect may be activated when the notification effect is performed by the notification effect control unit 80. On the other hand, when the game is progressing in any one of the first short-time gaming state ST1, the second short-time gaming state ST2, and the third short-time gaming state ST3 after the special game is over, as described above, the number of fluctuations is the predetermined number of times. Then, a specific suggestion effect suggesting whether or not the time-saving game mode M1 is continued by the effect control board 33 or a specific suggestion effect suggesting that the current probability state is a high probability state is performed. Since the player's interest during the short-time game mode M1 is whether the short-time game mode M1 continues or whether the current probability state is a high-probability state, the specific suggestion effect is This is an effect that exerts the effect of encouraging such a player's interest and further raising the player's expectation. However, if such a specific suggestion effect and a prior suggestion effect are performed at the same time, there is a possibility that the effects of the specific suggestion effect and the prior suggestion effect will be reduced.

  For example, the prior suggestion effect performed in the image display 12 is performed by changing the background of the variable display to the special background 12h as described above, but when the number of times of change becomes the predetermined number in the short-time game mode M1. Since the change display is switched to the small symbol display 105 (see FIG. 26) in the specific suggestion effect, even if the background of the small symbol display 105 is changed to the special background 12h, there is a possibility that the player can recognize the background change. Very low. Therefore, when the specific suggestion effect is performed when the number of fluctuations in the short-time game is the predetermined number of times, even if the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 performs the prior suggestion effect based on the result of the prior determination, an effective effect is performed. I can't. Further, when the specific suggestion effect is performed when the number of changes in the short-time game is the predetermined number of times, if the background of the entire screen of the image display 12 is changed to the special background 12h or the like, the specific suggestion effect is thereby generated. As a result, the production effect may be reduced. Therefore, when the specific suggestion effect is performed in the short-time game mode M1, the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 restricts the execution of the prior suggestion effect based on the result of the prior determination. Hereinafter, a specific operation in such an effect control board 33 will be described.

  FIG. 32 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a predetermination process performed by the predetermination unit 71. This process is a process performed by the CPU 33a of the effect control board 33 being repeatedly executed at regular intervals as a timer interrupt process. When this process is started, the prior determination unit 71 first determines whether or not the game data sent from the main control board 30 has been received (step S1001). If game data has not been received (NO in step S1001), this process ends. On the other hand, when game data is received (YES in step S1001), the prior determination unit 71 stores the game data in the RAM 33c and updates the hold storage state (step S1002), and displays the hold display on the image display 12. Update (step S1003). That is, a new hold display based on the new hold is added and displayed. Subsequently, the predetermination unit 71 performs a predetermination process on the game data acquired from the main control board 30 (step S1004), and determines whether to perform a presuggest effect based on the result of the predetermination (step S1005) ). If the prior suggestion effect is not performed (NO in step S1005), the preliminary determination process ends. Further, when the prior suggestion effect is performed (YES in step S1005), the prior determination unit 71 sets a prior determination flag for a new hold based on the game data acquired from the main control board 30 (step S1006). Execution of the prior suggestion effect for the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 is instructed by the setting of the prior determination flag.

  Next, FIG. 33 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the prior suggestion effect control process by the prior suggestion effect control unit 72. This process is a process performed by the CPU 33a of the effect control board 33 being repeatedly executed at regular intervals as a timer interrupt process. When the advance suggestion control unit 72 starts this process, it first determines whether or not the advance determination flag is set (step S1101). As a result, when the prior determination flag is set (YES in step S1101), the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 determines whether or not the current effect mode is the time-saving game mode M1 (step S1102). If the current effect mode is the time-saving game mode M1 (YES in step S1102), the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 confirms the current hold state (step S1103). Then, the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 generates a new hold with a pre-determination flag set a predetermined number of times based on the number of changes from the transition to the time-saving game mode M1 after the special game ends and the current hold state. It is determined whether or not the hold is a change (10th, 20th, and 30th) (step S1104). That is, if the hold is a predetermined number of changes, it is found that the specific suggestion effect is performed by the specific suggestion effect control unit 84 when the change display is performed when the hold is digested. For this reason, the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 cancels the prior determination flag set for the hold without performing the prior suggestion effect if the hold is the predetermined number of changes (YES in step S1104). (Step S1105). On the other hand, when it is not the hold which becomes the fluctuation | variation of the predetermined number of times (it is NO at step S1104), the prior suggestion production | generation control part 72 differs from the usual hold display corresponding to the hold as one of the prior suggestion productions. The display mode is changed (step S1106), and it is suggested to the player in advance that the hold may win a jackpot. For example, if the normal display mode of the hold display is blue display, the hold display mode in which the advance determination flag is set is changed to green display or red display, or is changed to a predetermined icon image or the like. To do. At this time, one display mode may be selected and displayed from among a plurality of display modes corresponding to the expected jackpot expectation level for which the prior determination flag is set. Even when the current effect mode is not the time-saving game mode M1 (NO in step S1102), the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 changes the hold display corresponding to the hold to a display mode different from the normal display mode (step S1106). ), Suggesting in advance that the hold may win the jackpot. If the advance determination flag is not set (NO in step S1101), the processes in steps S1102 to S1106 are skipped.

  As described above, when the prior determination flag is set in the time-saving game mode M1, the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 displays the hold display if the hold with the flag set is a hold that changes the predetermined number of times. To prevent advance suggestion effects that change Therefore, when the specific suggestion effect is performed in the short-time game mode M1, it is possible to prevent the effect of the specific suggestion effect from being reduced. In addition, in the above, the case where the prior suggestion effect is regulated so as not to be performed if the hold with the pre-determining flag set is a hold with a predetermined number of fluctuations is illustrated, but the present invention is not limited to this. Instead, a part of the effect performed as the prior suggestion effect may be regulated. For example, the prior suggestion effect changes the holding display mode on the image display 12 as described above, and the prior suggestion effect is also performed on the speaker 8, the frame lamp 7, the movable accessory, etc. in conjunction with the change of the display mode. It is possible. Therefore, the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 restricts only some of the prior suggestion effects performed in the image display 12 and does not restrict the prior suggestion effect performed by the speaker 8, the frame lamp 7, the movable accessory, or the like. Alternatively, it may be executed as it is.

  Subsequently, the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 determines whether or not a change start command has been received from the main control board 30 (step S1107). When the variation start command is received (YES in step S1107), the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 determines whether or not the hold with the prior determination flag set is stored (step S1108). If the hold with the prior determination flag set is stored (YES in step S1108), the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 determines whether or not the current effect mode is the time-saving game mode M1 (step S1109). ). If the current effect mode is the short-time game mode M1 (YES in step S1109), the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 confirms the number of changes due to the current change (step S1110), and the current change is the predetermined number of times (10 It is determined whether or not the fluctuation is the first time, the 20th time, and the 30th time (step S1111). That is, if the fluctuation is the predetermined number of times, it is found that the specific suggestion effect is performed by the specific suggestion effect control unit 84 at the time of the present fluctuation display. Therefore, if the current change is the predetermined number of times (YES in step S1111), the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 restricts the prior suggestion effect that was scheduled to be performed during the current change (step S1113). On the other hand, if the current variation is not the predetermined number of variations (NO in step S1111), the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 executes the prior suggestion effect that was scheduled to be performed during the current variation as it is ( Step S1112) suggests in advance that the currently stored hold for the player may win the jackpot. Even when the current effect mode is not the time-saving game mode M1 (NO in step S1109), the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 executes the prior suggestion effect that was scheduled to be performed during the current change as it is (step S1112). ), Suggesting in advance that the currently stored hold for the player may win the jackpot.

  Thereafter, the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 determines whether or not the hold for which the prior determination flag is set has been digested due to the current fluctuation (step S1114), and if the hold for which the prior determination flag is set has been digested. (YES in step S1114), the prior determination flag is canceled (step S1115). If the hold with the pre-determination flag set is not digested and is still stored (NO in step S1114), the process ends without releasing the flag. If the change start command has not been received (NO in step S1107), or if the advance determination flag has not been set (NO in step S1108), the processing in steps S1109 to S1115 described above is skipped.

  Even if the prior suggestion effect performed by the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 is performed over a plurality of notification effects by the above-described processing, the execution of the prior suggestion effect is performed when the predetermined number of times of fluctuation occurs in the short-time game mode M1. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the effect of the specific suggestion effect performed in the short-time game mode M1 from being reduced. Note that the restriction in this case may be a part of the effect performed as the prior suggestion effect as described above.

  Next, FIG. 34 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing procedure when a notification effect is performed by the time-short game effect control unit 83 in the time-short game mode M1. This process is also a process performed by the CPU 33a of the effect control board 33 being repeatedly executed at regular intervals as a timer interrupt process. When this process is started, the time-short game effect control unit 83 first determines whether or not the current effect mode is the time-short game mode M1 (step S1201). If the current effect mode is not the short-time game mode M1 (NO in step S1201), this process ends. If the current effect mode is the short-time game mode M1 (YES in step S1201), the short-time game effect control unit 83 determines whether a variation start command has been received from the main control board 30 (step S1202).

  When the change start command is received (YES in step S1202), the short time game effect control unit 83 determines whether or not the current change is a predetermined number of times (10th, 20th and 30th) ( If it is the predetermined number of changes (step S1203) (YES in step S1203), it is determined whether or not the result of the special game determination is a big hit (step S1204). As a result, when it is not a big hit (NO in step S1204), the short time game effect control unit 83 operates the specific suggestion effect control unit 84. Then, the specific suggestion effect control unit 84 selects a specific suggestion effect pattern corresponding to the change time of 10 seconds from the plurality of effect patterns (step S1205). In contrast, if the current variation is not the predetermined number of times (NO in step S1203), or if the result of the special game determination is a big hit (YES in step S1204), the time is shortened. The game effect control unit 83 confirms the change time of the special symbol included in the change start command (step S1206), and selects an effect pattern corresponding to the change time from the plurality of effect patterns (step S1207). Then, the short-time game effect control unit 83 starts executing the notification effect during the short-time game (step S1208). At this time, if the specific suggestion effect pattern is selected in step S1205, the notification effect including the specific suggestion effect by the specific suggestion effect control unit 84 is started. Further, when the notification effect including the specific suggestion effect by the specific suggestion effect control unit 84 is performed, the execution of the prior suggestion effect by the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 is restricted as described above, and therefore the time-saving game mode M1 is continued. It is possible to effectively produce an effect that suggests whether or not the current probability state is a high probability state. However, a prior suggestion effect may be performed for the speaker 8, the frame lamp, the movable accessory, and the like. If no change start command has been received (NO in step S1202), the processing in steps S1203 to S1208 is skipped.

  Subsequently, the short-time game effect control unit 83 determines whether or not a variable stop command has been received (step S1209). If the variable stop command has been received (YES in step S1209), the notification effect currently being executed is displayed. A process of terminating and displaying the result of the special game determination is performed (step S1210), and this process is terminated. If the change stop command has not been received (NO in step S1209), the notification effect currently being executed continues, and thus the process of step S1210 is skipped and the process ends.

  As described above, in this embodiment, when the effect mode shifts to the short-time game mode M1 after the special game ends, the notification effect control unit 80 performs the notification effect for a predetermined number of times that the short-time game mode M1 may end. It is possible to make a notification effect including a specific suggestion effect different from the normal when it is displayed, and the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 makes a prior determination with respect to the hold for which the notification effect including the specific suggestion effect is performed. When the flag is set, the prior suggestion effect based on the prior determination flag is restricted. Therefore, when a predetermined number of notification effects that may end the short-time game are performed, it is possible to make the player pay attention to the notification effects including the specific suggestion effects, and the specific suggestion effects can be effectively performed. Is possible.

  The prior suggestion effect control unit 72 can cause the prior suggestion effect that suggests the result of the prior determination to be performed over a plurality of notification effects, but when the notification effect including the specific suggestion effect is performed, the notification effect The prior suggestion effect to be performed in is regulated. Therefore, when the notification effect of the predetermined number of times that the short-time game mode M1 may end is performed, it is possible to make the player pay attention to the notification effect including the specific suggestion effect, and the specific suggestion effect is effective. Can be done automatically. In particular, since the fluctuation time when the predetermined number of notification effects is performed is longer than the normal fluctuation time when the predetermined number of times is not the predetermined number of times, the player's interest in such a specific suggestion effect that is performed for a relatively long time. Can be attracted effectively.

  Further, the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 can cause the prior suggestion effect that suggests the result of the prior determination to be performed over a plurality of notification effects, and when the notification effect including the specific suggestion effect is performed, It is also possible to restrict only a part of the prior suggestion effect to be performed and execute another prior suggestion effect as it is in the notification effect. For example, as described above, the prior suggestion effect performed by the speaker 8, the frame lamp 7, the movable accessory, or the like may be performed as it is in the notification effect of the predetermined number of times. In this case, even when a notification effect including a specific suggestion effect is performed, it is possible to indicate to the player that the prior suggestion effect that is being performed over a plurality of notification effects is ongoing. Can be exhibited continuously.

◆ Second action of production control board ◆
Next, the second operation of the effect control board 33 will be described. When the production mode shifts to the latent game mode M3 after the special game is finished, the latent game production is performed when the number of times of fluctuation is the predetermined number of times (10th time, 20th time, 30th time, 50th time and 70th time) as described above. A high-probability suggesting effect is performed by the control unit 85. Since the player's interest in the latent game mode M3 is whether or not the probability state is a high probability state, the high-probability suggestion directs such a player's interest, and the player's expectation This is an effect that has the effect of further elevating. However, if such a high probability suggestion effect and a prior suggestion effect are performed at the same time, there is a possibility that the effects of the high probability suggestion effect and the prior suggestion effect will be reduced.

  For example, the prior suggestion effect performed in the image display 12 is performed by changing the background of the variable display to the special background 12h as described above, but when the number of times of change becomes the predetermined number in the latent game mode M3. Since the change display is switched to the small symbol display 105 (see FIG. 28) in the specific suggestion effect, even if the background of the small symbol display 105 is changed to the special background 12h, there is a possibility that the player recognizes the switching of the background. Very low. Therefore, when a high-probability suggestion effect is performed when the number of changes in the latent game is the predetermined number of times, an effective effect is provided even if the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 performs the prior suggestion effect based on the result of the prior determination. I can't do it. Further, when the high probability suggestion effect is performed when the number of changes in the latent game mode M3 is the predetermined number of times, if the background of the entire screen of the image display 12 is changed to the special background 12h or the like, the high The production effect as the probability suggestion production may be reduced. Therefore, the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 restricts the execution of the prior suggestion effect based on the result of the prior determination when the high probability suggestion effect is performed in the latent game mode M3. Hereinafter, a specific operation in such an effect control board 33 will be described. The prior determination process by the prior determination unit 71 is the same as that described above.

  FIG. 35 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the prior suggestion effect control process by the prior suggestion effect control unit 72. This process is a process performed by the CPU 33a of the effect control board 33 being repeatedly executed at regular intervals as a timer interrupt process. When the advance suggestion control unit 72 starts this process, it first determines whether or not the advance determination flag is set (step S1301). As a result, when the prior determination flag is set (YES in step S1301), the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 determines whether or not the current effect mode is the latent game mode M3 (step S1302). If the current effect mode is the latent game mode M3 (YES in step S1302), the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 confirms the current hold state (step S1103). Then, after the special game ends, the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 determines that the hold with the pre-determination flag set is a predetermined number of times based on the number of changes from the transition to the latent game mode M3 to the present and the current hold state ( It is determined whether or not the hold is a change of the 10th, 20th, 30th, 50th and 70th times (step S1304). That is, if the hold is a predetermined number of changes, it is found that the high-probability suggestion effect is performed by the high-probability suggestion effect control unit 86 when the change display is performed when the hold is consumed. For this reason, the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 cancels the advance determination flag set for the hold without performing the prior suggestion effect if the hold is a predetermined number of changes (YES in step S1304). (Step S1305). On the other hand, if it is not the hold that becomes the predetermined number of times of change (NO in step S1304), the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 displays the hold display corresponding to the hold different from the normal display mode as described above. (Step S1306), it is suggested beforehand to the player that the hold may win. Even when the current effect mode is not the latent game mode M3 (NO in step S1302), the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 changes the hold display corresponding to the hold to a display mode different from the normal display mode (step S1306). ), Suggesting in advance that the hold may win the jackpot. If the advance determination flag is not set (NO in step S1301), the processes in steps S1302 to S1306 are skipped.

  As described above, when the prior determination flag is set in the latent game mode M3, the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 determines that the prior suggestion effect is a hold that is a predetermined number of changes. Regulate not to be done. Therefore, when a high probability suggestion effect is performed in the latent game mode M3, it is possible to prevent the effect of the high probability suggestion effect from being reduced. In addition, in the above, the case where the prior suggestion effect that changes the display mode of the hold display is not performed is illustrated if the hold in which the pre-determination flag is set is a hold that changes the predetermined number of times. However, the prior suggestion effect performed at a place other than the image display 12 may not be regulated. For example, the prior suggestion effect is performed by the image display 12 as described above, and can also be performed by the speaker 8, the frame lamp 7, or a movable accessory. Therefore, only the prior suggestion effect performed on the image display 12 may be restricted, and the prior suggestion effect performed on the speaker 8, the frame lamp 7, the movable accessory, or the like may be executed as it is without restriction.

  Subsequently, the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 determines whether or not a change start command has been received from the main control board 30 (step S1307). When the change start command is received (YES in step S1307), the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 determines whether or not the hold with the predetermination flag set is stored (step S1308). If the hold with the prior determination flag set is stored (YES in step S1308), the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 determines whether or not the current effect mode is the latent game mode M3 (step S1309). ). If the current effect mode is the latent game mode M3 (YES in step S1309), the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 confirms the number of changes due to the current change (step S1310), and the current change is the predetermined number of times (10 It is determined whether or not the fluctuations are the 20th, the 20th, the 30th, the 50th and the 70th (step S1311). In other words, if the fluctuation is the predetermined number of times, it is found that the high probability suggestion effect is performed by the high probability suggestion effect control unit 86 at the time of the present fluctuation display. Therefore, if the current change is the predetermined number of times (YES in step S1311), the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 regulates the prior suggestion effect that was scheduled to be performed during the current change (step S1313). On the other hand, if the current variation is not the predetermined number of variations (NO in step S1311), the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 executes the prior suggestion effect that was scheduled to be performed during the current variation as it is ( Step S1312) suggests in advance that the hold currently stored for the player may win the jackpot. Even when the current effect mode is not the latent game mode M3 (NO in step S1309), the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 executes the prior suggestion effect that was scheduled to be performed during the current change as it is (step S1312). ), Suggesting in advance that the currently stored hold for the player may win the jackpot.

  Thereafter, the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 determines whether or not the hold for which the prior determination flag is set has been digested due to the current fluctuation (step S1314), and if the hold for which the prior determination flag is set has been digested. (YES in step S1314), the advance determination flag is canceled (step S1315). Further, if the hold in which the pre-determination flag is set has not been digested and is still stored (NO in step S1314), the process is terminated without releasing the flag. If the change start command has not been received (NO in step S1307), or if the advance determination flag has not been set (NO in step S1308), the processing in steps S1309 to S1315 described above is skipped.

  Even if the prior suggestion effect performed by the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 is performed over a plurality of notification effects by the processing as described above, the execution of the prior suggestion effect is performed when the predetermined variation occurs in the latent game mode M3. Is regulated. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the effect of the high-probability suggestion effect performed in the latent game mode M3 from being reduced. Note that the restriction in this case may be a part of the effect performed as the prior suggestion effect as described above.

  As described above, in this embodiment, when the effect mode after the end of the special game is shifted to the latent game mode M3, when the notification effect is performed a predetermined number of times while the latent game mode M3 continues, the notification is performed. It is possible for the effect control unit 80 to perform a notification effect including a high probability suggestion effect different from the normal notification effect. And the prior suggestion production | generation control part 72 regulates the prior suggestion production based on the prior decision flag, when the prior decision flag is set with respect to the hold | maintenance which will perform the notification production | presentation including a high probability suggestion production | generation. . Therefore, when the notification effect is performed a predetermined number of times in the latent game mode M3, it is possible to make the player pay attention to the notification effect including the high probability suggestion effect, and to effectively perform the high probability suggestion effect. Is possible.

  Further, the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 can cause the prior suggestion effect suggesting the result of the prior determination to be performed over a plurality of notification effects, but when the notification effect including the high probability suggestion effect is performed, the notification The prior suggestion production performed in the production is regulated. Therefore, when the notification effect is performed a predetermined number of times in the latent game mode M3, it is possible to make the player pay attention to the notification effect including the high probability suggestion effect, and to effectively perform the high probability suggestion effect. Is possible. In particular, since the fluctuation time when the predetermined number of notification effects is performed is longer than the normal fluctuation time when the predetermined number of times is not the predetermined number of times, the player's It can attract interest effectively.

  Furthermore, the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 can cause the prior suggestion effect that suggests the result of the prior determination to be performed over a plurality of notification effects, and when the notification effect including the high-probability suggestion effect is performed, the notification effect It is also possible to restrict only a part of the prior suggestion effect performed in the step and to execute another prior suggestion effect as it is in the notification effect. For example, as described above, the prior suggestion effect performed by the speaker 8, the frame lamp 7, the movable accessory, or the like may be performed as it is in the notification effect of the predetermined number of times. In this case, even when a notification effect including a high-probability suggestion effect is performed, it is possible to suggest to the player that the prior suggestion effect that is being performed over a plurality of times of the notification effect is ongoing. The effect can be exhibited continuously.

  In the above description, the second operation of the effect control board 33 is exemplified as a case where the prior suggestion effect is restricted when the notification effect is performed a predetermined number of times in the latent game mode M3. You may make it combine with operation | movement. That is, the prior suggestion effect control unit 72 regulates the prior suggestion effect when a predetermined number of times (10th, 20th and 30th) notification effects are performed in the short-time game mode M1, and also in the latent game mode M3. The prior suggestion effect may be restricted when the notification effect is performed a predetermined number of times (10th, 20th, 30th, 50th and 70th).

◇ Third operation of production control board ◇
Next, the third operation of the effect control board 33 will be described. As described above, when the notification effect is performed a predetermined number of times in the latent game mode M3, the variation time becomes longer than usual, and the high probability suggestion effect is performed using the long variation time. This high probability suggesting effect suggests the possibility that the current probability state is a high probability state in the latent game mode M3. In the present embodiment, the high-probability suggesting effects are performed a plurality of times in the latent game mode M3, and it is suggested whether or not there is a high probability of being in a high-probability state by accumulating these high-probability suggesting effects.

  On the other hand, even if the probability variation jackpot F is won in the special game determination, it may be notified that the probability variation jackpot has been won before shifting to the latent game mode M3. For example, during execution of a special game that is won by winning the probability variation jackpot F, the high-probability effect control unit 91 may be activated to notify that the probability state after the end of the special game is a high-probability state. In addition, even during the execution of the notification effect that is performed when the probability variation jackpot F is won in the special game determination, the high-probability effect control unit 87 is informed in advance that the probability state after the special game ends is a high-probability state. May end up. In such a case, since the high probability state is already informed at the time of transition to the latent game mode M3, the high probability suggestion effect is performed when a predetermined number of notification effects are performed in the latent game mode M3. However, since the content that has already been notified will be divided into a plurality of times and notified, the new effect will not be exhibited, but rather the interest of the game may be reduced.

  In addition, even if it is not notified that the promising jackpot has been won before the transition to the latent game mode M3, up to five high-probability suggestion effects are performed after the transition to the latent game mode M3. If it is informed that the current probability state is a high probability state after successfully storing a predetermined number of items, there is a possibility that it will not be possible to perform an effective effect in the high probability suggestion effect that is performed after that is there.

  Therefore, when the latent game effect control unit 85 in the present embodiment performs the notification effect for the predetermined number of times (10th time, 20th time, 30th time, 50th time and 70th time) in the latent game mode M3, the high probability state is set before that. The high-probability suggestion effect is displayed only when the high-probability suggestion effect control unit 86 is operated on the condition that the effect indicating that the effect is not already performed, and an effective effect can be performed as the high-probability suggestion effect. Do. Hereinafter, a specific operation in such an effect control board 33 will be described.

  FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing an example of the latent game effect control process by the latent game effect control unit 85. This process is a process performed by the CPU 33a of the effect control board 33 being repeatedly executed at regular intervals as a timer interrupt process. When the process starts, the latent game effect control unit 85 first determines whether or not the current effect mode is the latent game mode M3 (step S1401). As a result, if it is not the latent game mode M3 (NO in step S1401), this process ends. On the other hand, in the latent game mode M3 (YES in step S1401), the latent game effect control unit 85 determines whether or not a variation start command has been received from the main control board 30 (step S1402). When the change start command is received (YES in step S1402), the latent game effect control unit 85 confirms the number of changes due to the current change, and the current change is the predetermined number of times (10th, 20th, 30th, 50th). It is determined whether or not the first and 70th fluctuations (step S1403). That is, if the fluctuation is a predetermined number of times, it is found that the high-probability suggesting effect control unit 86 intends to perform the high-probability suggesting effect at the time of the present fluctuation display. If the current variation is the predetermined number of times (YES in step S1403), the latent game effect control unit 85 determines whether or not the result of the special game determination is a big hit (step S1405). (NO in step S1405), it is determined whether or not a high-probability effect that notifies that the current probability state is a high-probability state has already been executed (step S1406). Here, it is determined whether or not a high-probability effect has been performed in one or both of the notification effect and the special game effect after the special game determination is made. As a result, if the high probability effect has not been executed from the special game determination that triggered the transition to the current latent game mode M3 until the current time (NO in step S1406), the latent game effect control unit 85 The probability suggestion effect control unit 86 is operated. And the high probability suggestion effect | action control part 86 selects the high probability suggestion effect pattern for performing a high probability suggestion effect from several effect patterns (step S1407). On the other hand, if a high-probability effect has already been executed from the special game determination that triggered the transition to the current latent game mode M3 to the current time (YES in step S1406), the latent game effect control unit 85 Then, the predetermined effect pattern corresponding to the variation time of 20 seconds is selected from the plurality of effect patterns without operating the high probability suggestion effect control unit 86 (step S1408). The effect pattern selected at this time is not a high-probability suggestion effect, but is an effect pattern such as a moving image effect prepared in advance corresponding to a change time of 20 seconds, for example. Therefore, if the high-probability effect has already been executed, the notification effect including the high-probability suggestion effect is not performed even when the predetermined number of changes are performed in the latent game mode M3.

  On the other hand, if the current variation is not the predetermined number of variations (NO in step S1403), or if the result of the special game determination is a big hit (YES in step S1405), the latent game effect control unit 85 varies. The change time included in the start command is confirmed (step S1409), and an effect pattern corresponding to the change time is selected from a plurality of effect patterns (step S1410).

  Then, the latent game effect control unit 85 starts executing the notification effect in the latent game mode M3 (step S1411). If no change start command has been received (NO in step S1402), the processes in steps S1403 to S1411 are skipped. Thereafter, the latent game effect control unit 85 determines whether or not a variation stop command has been received from the main control board 30 (step S1412), and if received (YES in step S1412), the notification effect is terminated ( Step S1413). If the change stop command has not been received, the process of step S1413 is skipped.

  As described above, when the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment is shifted to either the high-probability state or the low-probability state after the special game is finished, the high-probability is displayed before the change display for the predetermined number of times. If there is no high-probability effect that informs that it is in a state, it is possible to cause a notification effect that includes a high-probability suggestion effect that suggests the possibility of transition to a high-probability state, and a predetermined condition If a high-probability effect is already performed when is established, the notification effect including the high-probability suggestion effect is restricted. That is, when the high-probability suggestion effect does not exhibit a new effect, it is possible to prevent the interest of the game from being lowered by restricting the execution of the high-probability suggestion effect. In addition, when the high-probability suggestion effect does not exhibit a new effect, there is an advantage that the entertainment can be improved by performing another effect different from the high-probability suggestion effect.

◇ Modifications ◇
As mentioned above, although one Embodiment of this invention was described, this invention is not limited to the thing of the content mentioned above, A various modification is applicable.

  For example, in the above-described embodiment, the case where each of the first, second, and third short-time game states ST1, ST2, and ST3 is continued until the number of times of variation is 10, 20, and 30 is illustrated. The number of times that the state continues can be set as appropriate, and is not limited to the number described above. Moreover, although the case where it has three time-short game states ST1, ST2, and ST3 with different continuation times is illustrated in the above embodiment, it may have two short-time game states with different continuation times.

  Further, it may have only one short-time gaming state in which the short-time gaming state ends when the number of times of fluctuation exceeds a predetermined number after the special game ends. In this case, the short-time game state is a game that ends the state in which the start condition is easily established when the number of fluctuations after the end of the special game exceeds a predetermined number. On the other hand, the probability variation game state is a game in which the start condition is easily established even if the number of fluctuations after the end of the special game exceeds a predetermined number.

  Moreover, in the said embodiment, the case where the specific suggestion effect and the high probability suggestion effect were performed when the frequency | count of change after completion | finish of a special game turns into a predetermined number was illustrated. However, the specific suggestion effect and the high probability suggestion effect do not necessarily have to be performed according to the number of changes after the special game ends. For example, when a special game determination or a special symbol change display is performed after the special game ends, a specific suggestion effect or a high probability suggestion effect may be performed by lottery. That is, the specific suggestion effect only needs to be performed when a predetermined condition is satisfied in the short-time gaming state ST1, ST2, ST3. Further, the high-probability suggesting effect may be performed as long as a predetermined condition is satisfied in the latent game mode M3.

1 gaming machine 30 main control board 33 production control board (production control means)
52 Special game determination unit (special game determination means)
53 Special symbol control unit (design control means)
54 Special Game Control Unit 55 Game State Control Unit (Game State Control Means)
56 Auxiliary game control unit 71 Pre-determination unit (pre-determination means)
72 Prior suggestion effect control unit (preliminary suggestion effect control means)
80 Notification effect control unit (notification effect control means)
84 specific suggestion effect control unit 86 high probability suggestion effect control unit 91 high probability effect control unit (high probability effect control means)

Claims (3)

Special game determination means for performing a special game determination as to whether or not to shift to a special game state advantageous to the player by establishment of the start condition;
If it is determined in the special game determination that a transition to the special game state is made, a first game that is determined to transition to the special game state with a first probability in the special game determination after the special game state. A game state control means for shifting to a state or a second gaming state determined to shift to the special gaming state with a second probability higher than the first probability in the special gaming determination;
Effect control means for causing a predetermined effect means to produce an effect;
With
The production control means includes
Based on the result of the special game determination, notification effect control means for performing a notification effect to notify the result of the special game determination;
In the notification effect, a high probability effect control means capable of causing a high probability effect to notify the transition to the second gaming state,
Have
The notification effect control means sets the time for performing the notification effect to a predetermined time when the predetermined condition is satisfied when the state is shifted to the second gaming state, and the high probability effect is performed. If not, let the notification effect including the specific effect suggesting that the transition to the second gaming state is performed as the notification effect corresponding to the predetermined time, and if the high probability effect is performed, A gaming machine characterized in that a notification effect not including the specific effect is performed as a notification effect corresponding to a predetermined time. Special game determination means for performing a special game determination as to whether or not to shift to a special game state advantageous to the player by establishment of the start condition;
If it is determined in the special game determination that a transition to the special game state is made, a first game that is determined to transition to the special game state with a first probability in the special game determination after the special game state. A game state control means for shifting to a state or a second gaming state determined to shift to the special gaming state with a second probability higher than the first probability in the special gaming determination;
Effect control means for causing a predetermined effect means to produce an effect;
With
The production control means includes
Based on the result of the special game determination, notification effect control means for performing a notification effect to notify the result of the special game determination;
A high-probability effect control means capable of performing a high-probability effect informing the transition to the second game state in the special game state;
Have
The notification effect control means sets the time for performing the notification effect to a predetermined time when the predetermined condition is satisfied when the state is shifted to the second gaming state, and the high probability effect is performed. If not, let the notification effect including the specific effect suggesting that the transition to the second gaming state is performed as the notification effect corresponding to the predetermined time, and if the high probability effect is performed, A gaming machine characterized in that a notification effect not including the specific effect is performed as a notification effect corresponding to a predetermined time. Special game determination means for performing a special game determination as to whether or not to shift to a special game state advantageous to the player by establishment of the start condition;
If it is determined in the special game determination that a transition to the special game state is made, a first game that is determined to transition to the special game state with a first probability in the special game determination after the special game state. A game state control means for shifting to a state or a second gaming state determined to shift to the special gaming state with a second probability higher than the first probability in the special gaming determination;
Effect control means for causing a predetermined effect means to produce an effect;
With
The production control means includes
Based on the result of the special game determination, a notification effect control means for performing a notification effect to notify the result of the special game determination;
Have
The notification effect control means includes:
When a transition is made to the first gaming state or the second gaming state, the time for performing the notification effect is set to a predetermined time in a plurality of predetermined special notification effects, and corresponds to the predetermined time. As the notification effect to be performed, it is possible to perform a notification effect including a specific effect that suggests the possibility of transition to the second gaming state, and in the notification effect including the specific effect, the second game It is possible to perform an effect to notify that the state has been transferred,
When an effect for notifying that the transition to the second gaming state has been performed before all of the plurality of special notification effects is completed, the specific effect is not included in the subsequent special notification effects. Make a notification effect,
A gaming machine, wherein when a notification effect including the specific effect is performed, an effect indicating a history that the specific effect has been performed is performed.

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