JP7396647B2 - pinball game machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a pinball game machine having a function of shifting to a high probability game state where the probability of winning a jackpot is higher than the normal game state after a jackpot game.

A pinball game machine, typified by a pachinko machine, is equipped with a starting port, a big prize opening, etc. in the gaming area where the game ball flows down, and the game ball that flows down the gaming area enters the starting port. Due to this, a predetermined random number is extracted, and if the result of the determination based on the random number is a jackpot, a jackpot game is executed in which the jackpot is opened. Such a pinball game machine is generally provided with a first starting port into which a game ball can be inserted at any time, and a second starting port provided on an ordinary electric accessory, as the starting port. The second starting port is normally converted into an open state in which a game ball can enter and a closed state in which a ball cannot enter (or a closed state in which it is difficult to enter) by the opening/closing operation of a normal electric accessory. In such a configuration, when a predetermined random number is extracted due to the game ball passing through a normal symbol activation gate provided in the gaming area, and the result of determination based on the random number is a win. Then, the normal electric accessory is opened (the second starting port is opened).

The above-mentioned pinball gaming machine has a function of shifting to a variable probability gaming state (high probability gaming state) which increases the probability of winning the jackpot based on the win/fail judgment compared to the normal gaming state after the end of the jackpot game. something is known. Further, for example, Patent Document 1 discloses a configuration in which the game enters the variable probability game state or the time-saving game state after the end of the jackpot game. Here, in the time saving game state, compared to the normal game state, the variation time of the special symbol and the variation time of the normal symbol are shortened, and the opening time of the normal electric accessory is lengthened. In this time-saving gaming state, it is easier for the ball to enter the second starting port compared to the normal gaming state, so it is an advantageous state for the player.

JP2019-83878A

By the way, in the conventional pinball game machine, in a structure where the transition to the time-saving game state is made after the end of the jackpot game, for example, as in Patent Document 1, the number of fluctuations of the special symbol in the time-saving game state is set to a predetermined number of times (100 In general, when the time saving game state is reached, the time-saving game state is ended and the game mode is shifted to the normal game state. In the conventional configuration, since the transition to the time-saving gaming state is executed only through the jackpot game, when the time-saving gaming state ends and the transition to the normal gaming state occurs, the time-saving gaming state is executed at least until the next jackpot. Unable to move to state. Therefore, when transitioning from the time-saving gaming state to the normal gaming state, the player will continue playing in the normal gaming state, where the probability of winning the jackpot is low and it is difficult for the ball to enter the second starting slot, until the player hits the jackpot next time. Become.
In such a conventional configuration, when the time-saving gaming state shifts to the normal gaming state, the player is likely to feel a sense of loss of a chance to hit the jackpot and a feeling that it will take time until the next chance arrives. As a result, there is a possibility that the player's interest in the game and the desire to continue playing the game decreases, leading to the player stopping the game.

The present invention can increase a player's expectations for a time-saving gaming state in a normal gaming state, and even when transitioning from the time-saving gaming state to a normal gaming state, the game can prevent the occurrence of the next time-saving gaming state. This is to propose a pinball game machine that can be expected by players.

The present invention provides a special symbol display device that variably displays a special symbol, a variable starting port that converts between an open state in which a game ball can be entered and a closed state in which a ball cannot enter or is difficult to enter, and a variable start opening that allows a game ball to enter. a grand prize opening that is converted into an open state in which a ball can be entered and a closed state in which a ball cannot be entered; a random number extraction means that extracts a predetermined random number due to the entry of a game ball into the variable starting port; a propriety determining means for determining propriety based on the random numbers extracted by the random number extracting means; and triggered by the establishment of a predetermined symbol variation condition, the special symbol display device starts varying the special symbols, and after a predetermined variation time has elapsed; , a special symbol control means for stopping and displaying the special symbol in a symbol mode indicating the determination result by the validity determining means; a jackpot game control means that executes a jackpot game that opens a winning opening; and a jackpot game control means that, when a predetermined high probability condition is satisfied, increases the jackpot winning probability used by the win/fail determination means after the jackpot ends compared to the normal game state. In the pinball game machine comprising a game state converting means for shifting to a probability game state, the win/fail determining means sets the random number extracted by the random number extracting means to a probability higher than the jackpot winning probability. A first time-saving game state in which it is easier to enter the variable starting hole compared to the normal game state, and a first time-saving game state in which it is easier to enter the variable starting opening compared to the normal game state, based on the time-saving winning probability. The game state converting means includes a time saving determination processing content for determining a transition to either a second time saving gaming state in which the ball enters the variable starting port more easily than the temporary saving gaming state, and the gaming state converting means When it is determined that the time saving is successful based on the time saving judgment processing content of the winning/failure determining means in the gaming state, the first time saving determined by the time saving judgment processing content is based on the stoppage of fluctuation of the special symbol on the special symbol display device. A time-saving transition processing content for transitioning to a gaming state or a second time-saving gaming state, and a time-saving ending processing content for ending the first time-saving gaming state or a second time-saving gaming state based on the establishment of a predetermined time-saving ending condition. The content of the time-saving determination process is such that the probability of determining the first time-saving gaming state is set higher than the probability of determining the second time-saving gaming state, and the content of the time-saving ending process is , the time-saving termination condition is valid in the first time-saving gaming state such that the period during which the second time-saving gaming state can be continued is longer than the period during which the first time-saving gaming state can be continued; This is a pinball game machine characterized in that the time-saving end condition that is valid in the second time-saving game state is set.

Here, it is preferable that the "symbol variation condition" is set so that the validity determination is executed by the validity determination means. For example, in a configuration in which the random numbers extracted by the random number extracting means are stored as a pending memory, and the winning/failure determining means makes a winning/failure judgment by digesting the pending memory, the digesting of the pending memory is defined as "symbol variation condition". ”. In addition, in a configuration in which the random number extracted by the random number extraction means is not stored as a reserved memory and is immediately judged based on the random number, the judgment of the random number is defined as a "symbol variation condition". be able to. The "high probability condition" is preferably defined as, for example, determining the transition to a high probability gaming state by a predetermined lottery, or that the game ball passes through a specific area inside the jackpot during a jackpot game, etc. It is. "Time-saving determination process content" includes a process of determining whether a random number is a time-saving hit or not, and selectively determining either the first time-saving game state or the second time-saving game state when it is determined that the time-saving game is hit by the process. The configuration may include processing for determining whether or not it is a time-saving game, or a process that simultaneously determines whether or not it is a time-saving game state and determining the first time-saving game state or the second time-saving game state. Also good. ``Easy to enter the variable starting port'' of ``the first time-saving gaming state where the ball enters the variable starting port easily'' and ``the second time-saving gaming state where the ball is easily entering the variable starting port'' are special symbols. The fluctuation time (average fluctuation time) is shorter than the normal gaming state, the fluctuation time of the normal symbols is shorter than the normal gaming state, and the winning probability of the normal symbols is lower than the normal gaming state. The advantageous gain of making it easier for the ball to enter the variable starting hole (advantageous gain on entering the ball) is due to the fact that the opening time when the variable starting hole is in the open state becomes longer than in the normal gaming state, etc. It is preferable that the setting is made by at least one of the following: shortening the fluctuation time of these special symbols, shortening the fluctuation time of normal symbols, high winning probability of normal symbols, and extending the opening of the variable starting port. That is, the configuration of the present invention is such that the advantageous ball entry gain of the variable starting opening is larger in the first time-saving game state than in the normal game state, and that the second time-saving game state is in the first time-saving game state ( and the normal gaming state).
"Time saving end conditions" can set each continuable period of the first time saving gaming state and the second working time saving gaming state (hereinafter referred to as the "continuable period"). Those determined by the number of changes in special symbols, the number of changes in normal symbols, the number of prize balls, the number of shots, and elapsed time in the two-time saving game state are preferably used. As a specific example, the time-saving ending condition for ending the second time-saving game state is set that the number of changes in the special symbol reaches a predetermined number (for example, 100 times), and the time-saving ending condition for ending the first time-saving game state. The end condition is set that the number of variations of the special symbol reaches a predetermined number (for example, 30 times) that is smaller than in the second time-saving game state. According to such time-saving termination conditions, the continuable period of the second time-saving gaming state is usually longer than the continuable period of the first time-saving gaming condition.

In such a configuration, in the normal game state, if you win a time-saving hit with a higher probability than winning a jackpot, you will move to the first time-saving game state or the second time-saving game state. Even in this state, the player can expect a transition to the first and second time-saving game states in which the player can easily play the game by entering the ball into the variable starting port. As a result, even when advantageous conditions such as the time-saving gaming state, high-probability gaming state, and jackpot game end and transition to the normal gaming state, the player's sense of loss that may occur due to the end of the advantageous state is reduced. This can be suppressed, and furthermore, the player's emotions can be stimulated to expect the next time-saving win to occur, so the overall enjoyment of the game in the normal game state can be improved. According to the configuration of the present invention, it is possible to prevent the transition to the normal gaming state from becoming a trigger for stopping the game, as in the conventional configuration described above.

Furthermore, the configuration of the present invention is such that the probability of transitioning to the second time-saving gaming state in which the ball easily enters the variable starting port is lower than the probability of transitioning to the first time-saving gaming state, and the continuation of the second time-saving gaming state. The possible period is longer than the continuable period of the first time-saving game state. That is, in the normal gaming state, there is a high possibility of transitioning to the first time-saving gaming state, but even when shifting to the first time-saving gaming state, the game returns to the normal gaming state in a relatively short period of time. With this configuration, even if it is decided to shift to the first time-saving game state in which it is difficult for the ball to enter the variable starting port compared to the second time-saving game state, the first time-saving game state can be changed in a relatively short period of time. It is determined whether to return from the gaming state to the normal gaming state and move to a second time-saving gaming state that is more advantageous to the player than the first time-saving gaming state. Then, if the transition to the second time-saving game state is determined, a game in which the ball easily enters the variable starting opening can be continued for a relatively long time in the second time-saving game state.
In this way, with this configuration, the transition to the first and second time-saving gaming states, which differ in the ease with which the ball enters the variable starting port, is determined by a lottery in the normal gaming state, which makes it easier for players to The opportunity to shift to the desired second time-saving game state is carried out after the continuation period of the first time-saving game state at the longest, which provides new and unprecedented fun. As a result, it is possible to more effectively improve the interest generated by the gameplay in which the normal gaming state is shifted to the first and second time-saving gaming states.

The above-mentioned pinball game machine of the present invention is provided with a starting port that is provided to allow game balls to enter at all times, and a random number extracted by a random number extraction means due to the ball entering the starting port, A win/fail judgment is made by the win/fail judgment means, and in the case of a jackpot judgment, a jackpot game is executed as the fluctuation of the special symbol stops, and the content of the time-saving judgment processing of the win/fail judgment means is based on the entry into the starting port. The random number extracted by the random number extracting means due to the ball is used to determine whether or not it is a time-saving win according to the time-saving winning probability, and based on the time-saving winning determination, the first time-saving game state is set as compared to the second time-saving game state. The probability of determining the second time-saving game state by the time-saving hit determination caused by the ball entering the variable starting port is determined with high probability by determining the time-saving winning result due to the ball entering the variable starting port. A configuration is proposed in which the probability of determining the second time-saving gaming state is higher than that of the determination.

In such a configuration, in the case of a validity determination performed due to a ball entering the variable starting port, compared to a validity determination performed due to a ball entering the starting port, Since there is a high possibility of transitioning to the second time-saving game state where it is easy to enter the ball, the player executes a game in which the game ball is fired with the aim of entering the variable starting hole in the second time-saving game state. The tendency to do so is extremely high. Therefore, in the configuration where the suspended memory is generated by the ball entering the variable starting port, immediately after the second time saving game state ends, the random number extracted by the ball entering the variable starting port in the second time saving game state is used. , there may be cases where transition to the second time-saving gaming state is determined with high probability. That is, when the second time-saving game state ends, there is a high possibility that the transition to the second time-saving game state can be reversed again, so it is possible to suppress the player's disappointment that occurs when the second time-saving game state ends. At the same time, it is possible to stimulate the emotion of expecting the withdrawal. Therefore, according to this configuration, it is possible to further improve the interest of the game caused by the occurrence of an opportunity to shift to the first and second time-saving game states in the normal game state.

In the above-mentioned pinball game machine of the present invention, when transitioning to the first time-saving game state and the second time-saving game state according to the time-saving transition processing content of the game state conversion means, the transition to each time-saving game state is notified. A time-saving game start effect is executed, and when the first time-saving game state and the second time-saving game state are ended, a time-saving game end effect is executed to notify the end of each time-saving game state. The gaming state converting means, when transitioning to the first time-saving gaming state, selects one of a plurality of time-saving ending conditions in which the period during which the first time-saving gaming state can be continued is mutually different. , the first time-saving game state is selectively made valid based on the content of the time-saving ending process, and the first time-saving game state is ended based on the establishment of the valid time-saving ending condition, and the time-saving effect control means In the first time-saving gaming state, at a predetermined timing before the establishment of the time-saving ending condition validated by the gaming state converting means, executes a pseudo time-saving end effect that notifies the end of the first time-saving gaming state. and a pseudo effect processing content that executes a pseudo time saving start effect that notifies the transition to the first time saving game state based on the stop display of the special symbol that is first variably displayed after the pseudo time saving end effect. A certain configuration is proposed.

Here, it is preferable that the "predetermined timing" be set to a timing at which other time-saving termination conditions other than the valid time-saving termination condition are satisfied. For example, if the number of variations of multiple special symbols that are different from each other is set as a time-saving end condition, other numbers of variations (for example, 10 or 20) other than the valid number of variations (for example, 50) are set. It is possible to set the timing at which the event reaches the "predetermined timing" to execute a pseudo time-saving end effect. Further, the "predetermined timing" may be set only once in the first time-saving game state, or may be set in plural times in the first time-saving game state. Furthermore, one timing and a plurality of timings may be selectively determined. "Time-saving game start performance", "Time-saving game end performance", "Pseudo time-saving end performance", and "Pseudo time-saving start performance" include a performance that displays symbols on a performance symbol display device, a performance that generates sound through a speaker, and a lamp. It may be any effect that generates light, or it may be a plurality of effects among these effects.

In such a configuration, by executing the pseudo time-saving end effect in the first time-saving game state which is disadvantageous to the player compared to the second time-saving game state, the player is given the first time-saving game state. By pretending that the game ends and shifts to the normal gaming state, the player can be made to expect a shift to the second time-saving gaming state based on the time-saving hit determination executed in the normal gaming state. In other words, this configuration deceives the player into thinking that during the first time-saving game state, the game state shifts to the normal game state and a determination is made as to whether or not the time-saving game has been won. Since relatively large ups and downs can be generated, the interest of the game can be further improved.

In the above-mentioned pinball game machine of the present invention, the game state converting means, when transitioning to the first time-saving game state, converts the first time-saving game state into a plurality of different periods in which the first time-saving game state can be continued. One of the time-saving termination conditions is selectively enabled from among the time-saving termination conditions, and the first time-saving gaming state is terminated based on the establishment of the valid time-saving termination condition, according to the time-saving termination processing content; A configuration is proposed which is provided with a time-saving suggestion performance control means for executing a time-saving condition suggestion performance for suggesting each of the time-saving end conditions validated by the time-saving state converting means in the first time-saving game state.

Here, the "time-saving condition suggestion performance" may be any of a performance that displays a pattern on a performance pattern display device, a performance that generates sound from a speaker, a performance that generates light from a lamp, and furthermore, It may be multiple performances within.

In such a configuration, by executing the time-saving condition suggestion performance in the first time-saving game state, it is possible to suggest to the player the period during which the first time-saving game state can be continued, so that the time-saving hit determination is then performed. It is possible to stimulate the emotions of players who look forward to a possible normal game state. Further, by the time-saving condition suggestion performance, the player can estimate the period until the first time-saving game state, which is disadvantageous compared to the second time-saving game state, ends. For this reason, even when the first time-saving game state is reached due to the time-saving hit determination, the player's feeling of disappointment can be suppressed, and the player's intention to continue playing can be stably maintained.

1 is a front view of a pachinko machine 1 according to the present invention. 3 is a front view of a game board 2 of the pachinko machine 1. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of a pachinko machine 1. FIG. It is a chart explaining part of the specifications of the game in the pachinko machine 1. It is a chart explaining the specifications of each game state. (A) It is a chart showing the selection probability of the first time saving per and the second time saving per, and (B) the selection probability of the upper limit value of the number of time saving fluctuations in the first time saving game state. 3 is a flowchart showing an overview of a main routine. It is a flowchart showing starting prize winning processing. It is a flowchart 1 showing the validity determination process. It is a flowchart 2 showing the validity determination process. FIG. 3 is a flowchart 3 showing the validity determination process. FIG. FIG. 4 is a flowchart 4 showing the validity determination process. FIG. 5 is a flowchart 5 showing the validity determination process. FIG. It is a flowchart 1 showing jackpot game processing. It is a flowchart 2 showing jackpot game processing. It is a flowchart 3 showing jackpot game processing. It is a time chart illustrating a mode of transitioning from the normal gaming state to the first time saving gaming state or the second time saving gaming state. It is a flowchart which shows time-saving effect setting processing. It is a flowchart 1 showing time saving effect control processing. It is a flowchart 2 showing time saving effect control processing. FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram 1 showing a presentation mode displayed on the presentation pattern display device 6. FIG. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram 2 showing a presentation mode displayed on the presentation pattern display device 6. FIG. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram 3 showing an effect mode displayed on the effect pattern display device 6. FIG. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing a performance mode displayed on the performance pattern display device 6. FIG. It is an explanatory diagram showing the production mode displayed on production pattern display device 6 in composition of another example.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described using the drawings. Note that the embodiments according to the present invention are not limited to the embodiments described below, and can take various forms as long as they fall within the technical scope of the present invention. It is also possible to combine the following examples and other examples as appropriate.

As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment has a structure in which each component is held by an outer frame 51 that forms a vertically long fixed outer holding frame. An inner frame (not shown) is attached to the outer frame 51 so as to be openable and closable via hinges 53 provided on the upper and lower left sides of the outer frame 51. A frame (glass frame) 52 is attached to the inner frame so as to be openable. A plate glass 61 is removably provided on the front frame 52. Further, on the back side (rear side) of the plate glass 61, a game board 2 (FIG. 2) attached to an inner frame is arranged.

Speakers 66 are disposed on the upper left and right sides of the front frame 52, and game sounds and alarm sounds emitted from the speakers 66 enhance the interest of the game and alert the players. Further, a plurality of frame-side decorative lamps 65 are arranged on the front frame 52 and emit light depending on the gaming state, and the emitted light improves the interest of the game. Furthermore, an upper tray 55 and a lower tray 63 are integrally provided at the lower part of the front frame 52, and a firing handle 64 is disposed on the right side of the lower tray 63. The firing handle 64 is rotated clockwise by the player to move a firing device (not shown) and fire the game ball supplied from the upper tray 55 toward the game area 3 of the game board 2. do.

Prize balls and rental balls are dispensed onto the upper tray 55. Further, the lower tray 63 is configured to receive prize balls overflowing from the upper tray 55, and includes a ball removal lever (not shown) for ejecting game balls from the lower tray 63. By operating this ball removal lever by the player, the game balls accumulated in the lower tray 63 can be transferred to a separate box (dollar box).

The pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment is a so-called CR machine, and is adjacent to a prepaid card unit (CR unit) 56 that performs reading and writing of prepaid cards. The pachinko machine 1 is provided with a payment display device 94 (see FIG. 3) having a lending button 57, a payment button 58, and a balance display device 59. Further, in the center of the upper plate 55, there are provided a performance button 67, a jog dial 68, and a decision switch 69 that can be operated by the player.

FIG. 2 is a front view of the game board 2 of the pachinko machine 1. The game board 2 is provided with a substantially circular game area 3 surrounded by guide rails 2a and 2b, and a large number of game nails (not shown) are planted in the game area 3. A center case 5 is arranged in the center of the gaming area 3, and an LCD screen of a production symbol display device 6 (whole illustration is omitted) is arranged in the center of the center case 5 so as to be visible from the front. ing. This center case 5 is also provided with a warp entrance, a warp passage, a stage, etc. (not shown).

Directly below the center case 5, a first starting port 11 is arranged, and on the right side of the center case 5, a normal symbol activation gate 17 and a second starting port 12 are arranged vertically side by side. . The first starting port 11 is configured to allow game balls to enter at all times, while the second starting port 12 is configured with a normal electric accessory 13. Further, the normal symbol activation gate 17 is configured to allow game balls to pass through it at all times. The normal electric accessory 13 is equipped with a pair of left and right wings (not shown) that open and close the second starting port 12, and the left and right wings make it difficult for the game ball to enter the second starting port 12. and a tilted position in which the game ball can be entered into the second starting port 12 by tilting from the standing position to the left and right, and the wing pieces are in the standing position. By this, the second starting port 12 is brought into an open state, and by being in the tilted position, the second starting port 12 is brought into a closed state. Such a normal electric accessory 13 is equipped with a normal electric solenoid 13a (see FIG. 3) that opens and closes the blades, and when the normal electric solenoid 13a is driven and controlled, the second starting port 12 is opened and closed. It is controlled to convert into an open state and a closed state.

Furthermore, a big prize opening 14 is arranged at the lower right side of the center case 5 (below the normal electric accessory 13). The big prize opening 14 is constituted by a special electric accessory 15, and the special electric accessory 15 is located in an upright position where the big winning opening 14 is closed and a tilted position where it is tilted forward from the upright position to open it. An opening/closing piece that operates to convert is provided, and by setting the opening/closing piece to the upright position, it is in a closed state where it is impossible to enter the game ball into the grand prize opening 14, and by setting it to the tilted position, the game ball can be placed into the grand prize opening 14. The ball is placed in an open state where it can enter the ball. Such a special electric accessory 15 is equipped with a big winning hole solenoid 14b (see FIG. 3) that opens and closes the opening/closing piece, and by driving and controlling the big winning hole solenoid 14b, the big winning hole 14 is brought into the closed state. It is possible to control the conversion between the open state and the open state.

Furthermore, four general winning holes 31 are arranged on the left side of the first starting hole 11. These general winning holes 31 are configured to allow game balls to enter at all times. Furthermore, an out port 16 is arranged at the most downstream part of the gaming area 3, and when the game ball launched into the gaming area 3 does not enter any winning opening or starting opening, the corresponding The ball enters the out port 16.

The gaming area 3 includes a left downstream area 3a where the game ball flows down the left side of the center case 5, and a right downstream area 3b where the game ball flows down the right side of the center case 5. When the game ball is hit to the right, the game ball that has passed above the center case 5 flows down the right flow area 3b, and when the game ball is hit to the left, the game ball flows down the left flow area 3a. The right flow lower area 3b is provided with the above-mentioned normal symbol activation gate 17, second starting opening 12, and big winning opening 14. Therefore, by aiming at the right flow lower area 3b (so-called right-handed hitting), it is possible to enter the normal symbol operation gate 17, the second starting opening 12, and the big winning opening 14. On the other hand, the first starting port 11 disposed directly below the center case 5 allows the game ball that has flown down the left flow downstream area 3a to enter through the game nail implanted in the game board 2. . Therefore, by aiming at the left flow lower area 3a (so-called left-handed hitting), the ball can enter the first starting opening 11 or the four general winning openings 31 described above. By configuring the left flow lower area 3a and the right flow lower area 3b in this way, the player can aim at each starting opening 11, 12 or the big prize opening 14 by properly using right-handed and left-handed hitting. You can play games. In addition, in the first starting port 11 of this embodiment, it is difficult for a game ball that has flown down the right flow area 3b to enter the ball due to the game nail.

At the bottom right of the game board 2, there is a normal symbol display device 7 consisting of a plurality of LEDs, a normal symbol reservation number display device 8, a first special symbol reservation number display device 18, and a second special symbol reservation number display device 19. , a first special symbol display device 9 and a second special symbol display device 10 each consisting of a 7-segment display device are provided.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the electrical wiring of the pachinko machine 1. This block diagram does not show so-called relay boards, power supply boards, etc. that simply relay signals. In addition, although detailed illustrations are omitted, the main control device 80, payout control device 81, production symbol control device 82, and sub-integrated control device 83 are all equipped with a CPU, ROM, RAM, input port, output port, etc. . Then, the CPU of each of these control devices starts the program installed in each ROM using an interrupt signal with a 2 ms cycle, and executes various controls.

The main control device 80 includes a first starting port switch 11a that detects a game ball that has entered the first starting port 11 and a first starting port switch 11a that detects a game ball that has entered the second starting port 12 via a game board relay terminal board 74. A second starting port switch 12a for detection, a normal gate switch 17a for detecting game balls that have passed through the normal symbol activation gate 17, a count switch 14a for counting the game balls that have entered the big winning port 14, and a general winning port 31. Detection signals are input from each general winning a prize opening switch 31a, etc., which respectively detect game balls that have entered the game ball.

The main control device 80 operates according to a program installed in its ROM, generates various commands related to the progress of the game based on the above-mentioned detection signals, etc., and sends the commands to the payout control device 81 and the sub-integrated control device. Output to 83. In addition, the main controller 80 controls the display of the first special symbol display device 9, the second special symbol display device 10, and the normal symbol display device 7 via the symbol display device relay terminal board 75, and also controls the display of the first special symbol display device 9, the second special symbol display device 10, and the normal symbol display device 7. Lighting control of the special symbol reservation number display device 18, the second special symbol reservation number display device 19, and the normal symbol reservation number display device 8 is performed. Further, the main control device 80 is also connected to the big prize opening solenoid 14b and the normal power solenoid 13a via the game board relay terminal board 74. The main control device 80 controls the opening and closing of the big winning hole 14 by driving and controlling the big winning hole solenoid 14b, and controls the opening and closing of the second starting hole 12 by driving and controlling the normal electric solenoid 13a. The main controller 80 also outputs management signals such as symbol fluctuations and jackpots to the hall computer 87 via the external connection terminal board 78.

The payout control device 81 is configured to be able to communicate bidirectionally with the main control device 80, and drives the payout motor 90 in response to commands sent from the main control device 80 to pay out prize balls. In this embodiment, the detection signal of the payout switch 91 for counting the game balls paid out as prize balls is input to the main control device 80 and the payout control device 81, and the configuration is such that both of them count the prize balls. .

Furthermore, signals from a full switch 92 and a ball out switch 93 are input to the dispensing control device 81 . The full switch 92 detects that the lower tray 63 is full, and outputs a signal to the dispensing control device 81 upon this detection. The ball out switch 93 detects that the amount of game balls stored in the ball tank (not shown) is small or that there is no storage amount, and outputs a signal to the payout control device 81 in response to this detection. When the payout control device 81 receives signals from the full switch 92 and the ball out switch 93, it stops driving the payout motor 90 and stops the payout operation of prize balls. The full switch 92 and the bulb out switch 93 are configured to continue outputting signals until the detected state is resolved, and the dispensing control device 81 stops driving the dispensing motor 90 by stopping the input of the signal. resume.

The payout control device 81 can communicate with the CR unit 56 via the CR unit terminal plate 79, and drives the payout motor 90 in response to a lending command to pay out rental balls. The CR unit terminal board 79 is also connected to the payment display device 94 for bidirectional communication, and signals from the ball rental switch and the payment switch provided in the payment display device 94 are input. The ball rental switch detects the operation of the rental button 57 and outputs a signal, and the payment switch detects the operation of the payment button 58 and outputs a signal. Further, the payout control device 81 is also connected to a firing control device 84, and transmits a firing stop command to the firing control device 84 at a predetermined timing.

The launch control device 84 controls the launch motor 97 to launch game balls into the game area 3. In addition to the above-described dispensing control device 81, the firing control device 84 receives a rotation amount signal from the firing handle 64, a touch signal from the touch switch 98, and a firing stop signal from the firing stop switch 99. The rotation amount signal is output when the player rotates the firing handle 64, the touch signal is output when the player touches the firing handle 64, and the firing stop signal is output when the player touches the firing handle 64. It is output by pressing . Note that the firing control device 84 controls the game ball not to be fired unless a touch signal is input, and also controls the game ball not to be fired even when a firing stop signal is input, regardless of the operation of the firing handle 64. It is controlled so that the ball does not fire.

The sub-integrated control device 83 receives data and commands sent from the main control device 80, sorts them into data for effect display control, sound control, and lamp control, and sends commands for effect display control, etc. It is transmitted to the performance symbol control device 82, and data for sound control and lamp control is distributed to each control part (functional parts as a voice control device and a lamp control device) included in itself. The functional unit as the audio control device controls the output of audio from the speaker 66 by operating the sound LSI based on the data for audio control, and the functional unit as the lamp control device controls the output of audio from the speaker 66 based on the data for lamp control. By operating the lamp driver based on this, the various LEDs and lamps 65 are controlled to emit light.

Further, the sub-integrated control device 83 is connected to switches that detect operations of the performance button 67, jog dial 68, decision switch 69, etc., and when each switch detects an operation by a player, the signal is inputted. be done. Incidentally, the jog dial 68 may be configured to be connected to the production symbol control device 82.

The production pattern control device 82 receives data and commands sent from the sub-integrated control device 83 (what is sent from the main control device 80, and inputs from the main control device 80 and inputs from production buttons etc. in the sub-integrated control device 83). (generated based on the above) to display performance images such as special performance patterns on the screen of the performance pattern display device 6. In addition, between the sub-integrated control device 83 and the main control device 80 is configured as a one-way communication circuit from the main control device 80 to the sub-integrated control device 83 via a production relay terminal board, and the sub-integrated control device 83 and A one-way communication circuit between the production symbol control device 82 and the production symbol control device 82 is configured from the sub-integrated control device 83 to the production symbol control device 82.

A power supply board (not shown) is configured as a DC power supply that generates a DC voltage using power supplied from an external AC power supply, and each part constituting the pachinko machine 1 is activated by operating a power switch provided on the power supply board. Supply electricity. This power supply board is equipped with a backup power supply composed of a capacitor or the like, and stores power in the backup power supply while power is being supplied from the AC power supply. As a result, in the event of a power outage, power is supplied to the main controller 80, etc. (for example, the RAM of the main controller 80, etc.), and even after the power supply from the AC power source is stopped, the data in the RAM of the main controller 80 is stored for a certain period of time. is retained. Note that the backup power source may be provided in the main control device 80, or may be provided in a device other than the power supply board. In this case, the power supply board outputs a supply signal to the device equipped with a backup power source while being supplied with power from the AC power supply, and outputs a power outage signal to the device equipped with the backup power source when the power supply is stopped. Output.

Next, the specifications of the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment will be explained. Below, the number of prize balls, the winning probability of the jackpot, the winning probability of the small winning, and the game state related to the main part of the present invention will be explained. The other specifications are the same as before, so their explanations are omitted.

As shown in FIG. 4, when a game ball enters each starting hole 11, 12, big winning hole 14, and general winning hole 31, a set number of prize balls are paid out. Specifically, 3 prize balls are awarded for each ball that enters the first starting port 11, 5 prize balls are awarded for each ball that enters the second starting port 12, and 5 prize balls for each ball that enters the large winning port 14. 13 prize balls are paid out each time, and 5 prize balls are paid out each time a ball enters the general prize hole 31.

In addition, the configuration of this embodiment has a function of increasing the probability of winning a jackpot (jackpot winning probability) in the judgment to determine whether or not to win a jackpot, which will be described later. It is configured. The jackpot winning probability is defined as a low winning probability and a high winning probability that is higher than the low winning probability, and the low winning probability is valid in the low probability mode (high probability flag = 0) described below. The high probability of winning is made valid in the case of a high probability mode (high probability flag = 1), which will be described later, and is used in the winning lottery. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, the low winning probability is set to 1/300, and the high winning probability is set to 1/60. In both cases, the same low winning probability and high winning probability are used.

Further, in this embodiment, the above-mentioned small winning probability is set to a constant value (for example, 1/60). Therefore, the probability of winning a small hit is the same in both the low probability mode and the high probability mode, and is constant throughout the entire game.
In this embodiment, the small winning probability is set to a constant value, but the invention is not limited to this, and similarly to the jackpot winning probability described above, a low winning probability and a high winning probability are set, and in the gaming state Depending on the situation, one may be enabled.

In addition, the configuration of this embodiment is roughly divided into a game that progresses with the big prize opening 14 closed and a jackpot game described below in which the big winning mouth 14 is opened, and a game that progresses with the big prize opening 14 closed. As shown in FIG. 5, the game is set to a normal game state, a variable probability game state, and a first time-saving game state and a second time-saving game state according to the main part of the present invention.

The variable probability gaming state is a gaming state that changes after the end of the jackpot game, and only moves through the jackpot game.

On the other hand, the first time-saving game state and the second time-saving game state are game states that are transferred from the normal game state without going through the jackpot game. , the second time-saving gaming state is selected, and the normal gaming state is shifted to.
In this example, the probability of winning a short time win is set to 24/25, which is higher than the probability of winning a jackpot, the probability of winning a small win, and the probability of losing. The probability is set higher than the expected probability. In addition, in this embodiment, in any case of the normal game state, the first time-saving game state, the second time-saving game state, and the variable probability game state, the judgment of whether or not it is a time-saving win is executed, and normally The time saving hit determination result is valid only in the gaming state. In the first time-saving game state, the second time-saving game state, and the variable probability game state, even if it is determined that the time-saving win is achieved, this determination result (time-saving win determination result) is invalidated and processed as a loss. Therefore, in the first time-saving game state, the second time-saving game state, and the variable probability game state, the probability of winning per time-saving game is substantially 0%.
In addition, the selection probability between the first time-saving game state and the second time-saving game state is set higher in the first time-saving game state than in the second time-saving game state, as shown in FIG. 6(A). has been done. In the present embodiment, there is a case where the correctness is determined based on the ball entering the first starting port 11 (when the first reservation memory is exhausted) and a case where the correctness is determined based on the ball entering the second starting port 12. The selection probabilities are set differently depending on the case (when the second reserved memory is consumed). Specifically, when the ball enters the first starting port 11, the selection probability of the first time-saving gaming state is set to 9/10, and the selection probability of the second time-saving gaming state is set to 1/10; When the ball enters the second starting port 12, the selection probability of the first time-saving game state is 7/10, and the selection probability of the second time-saving game state is 3/10. In addition, as will be described later, the validity of the time-saving hit and the selection of the first and second time-saving game states are based on the random numbers extracted by the ball entering the first starting port 11 and the second starting port 12 (the jackpot described later). It is determined based on the random number for determining and the random number for symbol determining.

The normal gaming state is a gaming state that is a "low probability mode/non-time saving mode", and the variable probability gaming state is a gaming state that is a "high probability mode/second time saving mode". The first time-saving game state is a game state of "low probability mode/first time-saving mode," and the second time-saving game state is a game state of "low probability mode/second time-saving mode." state.

As shown in FIG. 5, the second time-saving mode that is valid in the variable probability game state and the second time-saving game state, and the first time-saving mode that is valid in the first time-saving game state are the first special symbol display described above. Each variation time of the first special symbol that is variably displayed on the device 9 and the second special symbol that is variably displayed on the second special symbol display device 10, and the variation time of the normal symbol that is variably displayed on the above-mentioned normal symbol display device 7. , compared to the non-time saving mode (normal gaming state). Furthermore, compared to the first time saving mode, the second time saving mode shortens each variation time of the first special symbol and the second special symbol, shortens the variation time of the normal symbol, and provides a second start opening. Increase the opening time of 12.

Here, the fluctuation times of the first and second special symbols include multiple fluctuation times that are valid in the non-time saving mode, multiple fluctuation times that are valid in the first time saving mode, and multiple fluctuation times that are valid in the second time saving mode. A plurality of fluctuation times are set, and random numbers (random numbers for first and second jackpot symbol determination, random numbers for symbol determination, random numbers for reach determination, random numbers for determining fluctuation patterns, etc.).
Specifically, the fluctuation time of the first and second special symbols in the non-time-saving mode is set to an average of 12 seconds when the above-mentioned correctness judgment is determined by anything other than a jackpot (time-saving hit, small hit, loss). . On the other hand, the fluctuation time of the first and second special symbols in the first time saving mode is set to an average of 10 seconds when judged by something other than a jackpot, and the first and second special symbols in the second time saving mode are set to an average of 10 seconds. The variation time of the special symbol is set to an average of 2 seconds when it is determined by something other than a jackpot. In this way, in this example, in the case of judgments other than jackpot, the average fluctuation time of the special symbols in the first and second time saving modes is shorter than in the non-time saving mode. In this case, when a jackpot is determined by a win/fail determination, the average fluctuation time (120 seconds) of the special symbols in the non-time saving mode, the first time saving mode, and the second time saving mode is set to be the same. This is because once the jackpot is confirmed, the jackpot game is executed, so priority is given to enlivening the game through reach effects and the like rather than shortening the variation time of the special symbols.

The fluctuation time of the normal symbol is set as a fluctuation time that is valid in the non-time saving mode, a fluctuation time that is valid in the first time saving mode, and a fluctuation time that is valid in the second time saving mode. The fluctuation time of the time saving mode is the longest, the fluctuation time of the first time saving mode is shorter than the non-time saving mode, and the fluctuation time of the second time saving mode is the shortest. Specifically, the variation time of normal symbols in the non-time saving mode is set to 30 seconds, the variation time of normal symbols in the first time saving mode is set to 25 seconds, and the variation time of normal symbols in the second time saving mode is set to 25 seconds. It is set to 1 second.
Further, the opening time of the second starting port 12 is determined by the opening operation pattern of the normal electric accessory 13, and the opening operation pattern includes an opening operation pattern that is valid in the non-time saving mode and a first time saving mode. An opening operation pattern that is valid in the mode and a variable time that is valid in the second time saving mode are set. The opening time of the second starting port 12 is the shortest in the opening operation pattern in the non-time saving mode, longer in the opening operation pattern in the first time saving mode, and longer in the second time saving mode. The opening time according to the opening operation pattern is the longest. Specifically, the opening operation pattern in the non-time-saving mode is set to a pattern in which opening is performed once for 0.5 seconds, and the opening operation pattern in the first time-saving mode is set to perform opening for 0.5 seconds twice. The opening operation pattern of the second time saving mode is set to a pattern in which opening is performed three times for one second.

In this embodiment, the winning probability of the normal symbol is set to a constant value regardless of the gaming state. Therefore, the winning probability of the normal symbol is the same in any of the normal game state, the first time-saving game state, the second time-saving game state, and the variable probability game state, and is constant throughout the game. Specifically, the winning probability of the normal symbol is set to 9/10.

Termination conditions are set for each of these probability variable gaming state, first time saving gaming state, and second time saving gaming state.
The end condition for a variable probability gaming state (hereinafter referred to as the variable probability termination condition) is the total number of the number of variations of the first special symbol and the number of variations of the second special symbol (hereinafter referred to as the number of variable variations) in the variable probability gaming state. It is set that the number reaches a predetermined upper limit value, and that either the first special symbol or the second special symbol is confirmed and displayed in the jackpot symbol mode described below (the jackpot game is started), This is established by satisfying either one of the conditions. Then, when the probability variation frequency reaches the upper limit value in the probability variable gaming state, the game shifts to the normal gaming state. In this embodiment, the upper limit value of the number of probability fluctuations is set to 100 times.

The end condition of the first time-saving game state (hereinafter referred to as the "first time-saving end condition") is the sum of the number of changes of the first special symbol and the number of times of change of the second special symbol in the first time-saving game state. number (hereinafter referred to as the number of time-saving fluctuations) reaches a predetermined upper limit value, and either the first special symbol or the second special symbol is confirmed and displayed in the jackpot symbol mode described below (the jackpot game is started) ) are set, and it is established by satisfying either one of them. Then, when the number of time saving fluctuations reaches the upper limit value in the first time saving game state, a transition is made to the normal game state.
The upper limit numerical value of the number of time-saving changes in the first time-saving game state is set to three, 10 times, 20 times, and 30 times, and the first time-saving game state is selected and determined in accordance with the time-saving hit determination. Based on this, one upper limit value is selectively enabled. As shown in Figure 6(B), these three upper limit values are such that the probability of selecting 10 times is 10%, the probability of selecting 20 times is 20%, and the probability of selecting 30 times is 70%. It is set. In addition, the selection of the first time-saving termination condition is determined based on random numbers (random numbers for symbol determination described later) extracted by entering the ball into the first starting port 11 and the second starting port 12, as described later. be done.

Similarly, as shown in FIG. 5, the end conditions for the second time-saving game state (hereinafter referred to as "second time-saving end conditions") include the number of fluctuations of the first special symbol and the number of changes in the second special symbol in the second time-saving game state. The total number of symbol variations (time-saving variation frequency) reaches a predetermined upper limit value, and either the first special symbol or the second special symbol is confirmed and displayed in the jackpot symbol mode described below (jackpot The game is started), and is established when either one of the conditions is satisfied. Then, when the number of time-saving fluctuations reaches the upper limit value in the second time-saving game state, a transition is made to the normal game state. The upper limit numerical value of the number of times of time saving changes in this second time saving game state is set to 100 times.

In this way, when comparing the first time-saving game state and the second time-saving game state according to the main part of the present invention, the second time-saving game state has a higher average of special symbols than the first time-saving game state. Since the fluctuation time (other than jackpot) and the fluctuation time of normal symbols are short, and the opening time of the second starting port 12 is long, it is easy for the ball to enter the second starting port 12, and the ball enters the second starting port 12. This is an advantageous situation for the player because the frequency of balls is significantly increased. On the other hand, in the first time-saving game state, compared to the normal game state, the average fluctuation time of the special symbols (other than jackpot) and the fluctuation time of the normal symbols are shorter, and the opening time of the second starting port 12 is longer. However, since the respective time differences are small, there is almost no difference in the frequency of balls entering the second starting port 12. For this reason, in the second time-saving game state, the player plays a right-handed game aiming at the second starting port 12, while in the first time-saving gaming state, the player plays a left-handed game aiming at the first starting port 11. They are more likely to play games.

Then, the probability of transitioning to the second time-saving game state (the selection probability) is lower than that of the first time-saving game state (see FIG. 6(A)) when it is determined that the time-saving game is successful. Since the upper limit value of the number of time-saving changes in the gaming state is larger than that in the first time-saving gaming state, the continuable period of the second time-saving gaming state is longer than the continuable period of the first time-saving gaming state. become longer. That is, the second time-saving game state is difficult to transition to compared to the first time-saving game state, but once it transitions, an advantageous period in which it is easy for the ball to enter the second starting port 12 continues for a relatively long time.
Furthermore, in this embodiment, since the probability of winning a time-saving win in the validity determination is extremely high, most of the determination results in the validity determination result in a time-saving win. Then, when it is determined that the time-saving game is successful in the normal game state, the game shifts to the first time-saving game state with high probability. For this reason, except during the jackpot game and the variable probability game state, each time the period of the first time-saving game state elapses (every time the first time-saving number reaches the upper limit value), the first time-saving game state or the A game that provides an opportunity to shift to a two-time saving game state progresses. In addition, in this embodiment, the judgment of whether it is a big hit, a small hit, a time-saving hit, or a loss is performed in any of the normal gaming state, the first and second time-saving gaming states, and the variable probability gaming state. , the time-saving hit determination result is valid only in the normal gaming state (only in the normal gaming state, it is possible to shift to the first time-saving gaming state or the second time-saving gaming state).

Next, the operation of the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment will be explained.
When the game ball launched into the game area 3 flows down the left downstream area 3a and enters the first starting port 11 (the first starting port switch 11a in FIG. 3 detects the game ball), a first special symbol is displayed. At the same time as the first special symbol starts to fluctuate in the device 9, the random number extracted due to the entry of the ball is judged to be correct. Then, when a predetermined variation time (the above-described variation time of the special symbol) has elapsed from the start of variation, the result of this determination is notified by stopping and displaying the first special symbol.
Here, the random number extracted as the ball enters the first starting port 11 is stored as a first reserved memory, as will be described later. Up to four first reserved memories are stored, and the number of first reserved memories (hereinafter referred to as the number of first reserved memories) is represented by the number of lights on the first special symbol reserved number display device 18. By digesting the first pending memory stored in this way, the validity judgment and the variation of the first special symbol are executed. Note that the number of first pending memories indicates the number of unused first pending memories.

On the other hand, when the game ball launched into the game area 3 flows down the right flow lower area 3b and passes through the normal symbol activation gate 17 (the normal gate switch 17a in FIG. 3 detects the game ball), the normal symbol display device 7 At the same time as the normal symbol starts to be displayed in a variable manner, the random number extracted due to the entry of the ball is judged to be correct. Then, when the normal symbol that stops after a predetermined time (the above-mentioned normal symbol variation time) has elapsed from the start of variation is in a predetermined winning mode, the wing pieces of the normal electric accessory 13 are driven, and the second starting port 12 Game balls can enter the ball.

When a game ball enters the second starting port 12 (the second starting port switch 12a in FIG. 3 detects the game ball), the second special symbol starts changing on the second special symbol display device 10, and the second special symbol starts changing. The validity of the random number extracted due to the ball entering the ball is determined. Then, when a predetermined variation time (the above-mentioned special symbol variation time) has elapsed from the start of variation, the second special symbol is stopped and displayed, thereby notifying the result of this validity determination.
Here, the random number extracted as the ball enters the second starting port 12 is stored as a second reserved memory, as will be described later. Up to four second reserved memories are stored, and the number of second reserved memories (hereinafter referred to as the second reserved memory number) is represented by the number of lights on the second special symbol reserved number display device 19. By digesting the second pending memory stored in this way, the validity judgment and the variation of the second special symbol are executed. Note that the number of second pending memories indicates the number of unused second pending memories.

During the fluctuation of the first special symbol and the second special symbol, the special performance symbols 101a to 101c are displayed in a variable manner in conjunction with the fluctuation of each special symbol on the performance symbol display device 6 (see FIG. 21). By displaying the fluctuation of the special performance symbols 101a to 101c on the performance symbol display device 6 and displaying the stop state of the special performance symbols 101a to 101c, the player can see the fluctuation of each special symbol and the result of the judgment (big hit, small You can know the success, time-saving success, loss, etc.).
Here, in this embodiment, the first special symbol and the second special symbol give priority to the variation of the second special symbol, regardless of the order in which the ball enters the first starting hole 11 and the second starting hole 12. and execute it. In other words, if there is an undigested second reserved memory (if the number of second reserved memories is one or more), the second reserved memory is digested and the second retained memory is The special symbol changes will begin. Then, only when there is no unused second pending memory, the first pending memory is consumed and the first special symbol starts to fluctuate.

If the result of the judgment executed by digesting the first reserved memory is a jackpot, the first special symbol display device 9 stops the first special symbol in a predetermined jackpot symbol mode, and the production symbol display device 6 displays a special symbol. Performance symbols 101a to 101c are stopped and displayed depending on the jackpot symbol mode. This confirms the jackpot. On the other hand, if the result of the judgment executed by digesting the second reserved memory is a jackpot, the second special symbol is stopped in a predetermined jackpot symbol mode in the second special symbol display device 10, and the production symbol display device 6 The special effect symbols 101a to 101c are stopped and displayed depending on the jackpot symbol mode. This confirms the jackpot. When the jackpot is confirmed, a jackpot game is executed to open the jackpot 14.
In the jackpot game, an opening round in which the jackpot 14 is opened is repeatedly executed a predetermined number of times at intervals. That is, in the special electric accessory 15, the opening/closing piece is opened and closed by driving the big winning hole solenoid 14b, thereby executing the jackpot game in which opening rounds for opening the big winning hole 14 are repeated at intervals. In the jackpot game, the opening round is repeated 10 times (10R), and one opening round ends when 30 seconds have elapsed or when 10 balls enter the jackpot hole 14.

In addition, if the result of the judgment based on the digestion of the second retention memory is a small hit, the second special symbol is stopped in a predetermined small win symbol mode, and the special effect symbol is displayed in the small win symbol mode on the production symbol display device 6. Stop display. Thereby, a small winning game is executed in which a small winning is determined and a large prize opening 14 is opened. That is, in the special electric accessory 15, the opening/closing piece is opened and closed by driving the big winning opening solenoid 14b, thereby executing the small winning game in which the opening/closing piece opens and closes the big winning opening 14 for 1.5 seconds once. do.
In this embodiment, it is determined whether or not there is a small hit only when the second pending memory is consumed. Therefore, in the processing of the first pending memory, it is determined whether it is a jackpot, a time-saving win, or a loss, and it is not determined whether it is a small win or not.

In addition, if it is determined that the time-saving game is successful in the judgment made by the digestion of the first pending memory, either the transition to the first time-saving game state or the transition to the second time-saving game state is selective. determined. Here, when the transition to the first time-saving gaming state is selected, the first special symbol that has started to fluctuate on the first special symbol display device 9 as the first reserved memory is consumed is displayed in the first time-saving gaming state. The game is stopped in a time-saving winning pattern that indicates a transition to a game state. Then, in the normal game state, the special performance symbols 101a to 101c are stopped and displayed on the performance symbol display device 6 in a time-saving hit symbol mode indicating a transition to the first time-saving game state (see FIG. 21(B)). As a result, the time-saving hit (hereinafter referred to as the first time-saving hit) for transitioning to the first time-saving gaming state is determined. On the other hand, when the transition to the second time-saving gaming state is selected by the time-saving hit determination, the first special symbol that has started to fluctuate on the first special symbol display device 9 as the first pending memory is consumed is displayed. , the game is stopped in a time-saving winning pattern that indicates a transition to a second time-saving game state. Then, in the normal game state, the special performance symbols 101a to 101c are stopped and displayed on the performance symbol display device 6 in a time-saving winning symbol mode indicating a transition to the second time-saving game state (see FIG. 23(E)). As a result, the time saving win (hereinafter referred to as the second time saving win) for transitioning to the second time saving gaming state is determined. In addition, in game states other than the normal gaming state (first time-saving game state, second time-saving game state, and variable probability game state), if a time-saving hit is determined by the judgment, the first special symbol will be stopped in the above-mentioned time-saving winning pattern mode. However, the performance symbol display device 6 stops the special performance symbols 101a to 101c in a losing pattern mode to display confirmation of the loss.
Similarly, in the case where it is determined that the time-saving game has been won by the judgment executed by the digestion of the second pending memory and the transition to the first time-saving gaming state is selected (so-called, when it is determined that the first time-saving game has been won), , the second special symbol is stopped in the second special symbol display device 10 in a time-saving winning symbol mode indicating a first time-saving winning. Then, in the normal game state, the special performance symbols 101a to 101c are stopped and displayed on the performance symbol display device 6 in a time saving winning pattern mode indicating the first time saving winning (see FIG. 21(B)). As a result, the first time saving hit is confirmed. On the other hand, when it is determined that the time-saving game has been won based on the judgment based on the digestion of the second reserved memory, and the transition to the second time-saving gaming state is selected (so-called, when it is determined that the second time-saving game has been won), the second special symbol is displayed. The device 10 stops the second special symbol in a time-saving winning pattern indicating a second time-saving winning. Then, in the normal game state, the special performance symbols 101a to 101c are stopped and displayed on the performance symbol display device 6 in a time saving winning pattern mode indicating the second time saving winning (see FIG. 23(E)). As a result, the second time saving win is confirmed. In addition, as in the case of the first suspension memory, in a game state other than the normal game state, if a time-saving hit is determined in the win/fail judgment, the second special symbol is stopped in the time-saving winning symbol mode, but the performance symbol display device 6 The special effect symbols 101a to 101c are stopped in a losing pattern mode, and a confirmation of the loss is displayed.

When the first time saving win is determined in the normal gaming state, the game shifts to a first time saving game state in which the first time saving mode is enabled. In this first time-saving game state, as described above, compared to the normal game state, the average fluctuation time of the special symbols and the fluctuation time of the normal symbols are shorter, and the opening time of the second starting port 12 is longer. Therefore, it becomes easier for the ball to enter the second starting port 12. However, in the first time-saving gaming state, it is only slightly easier for the ball to enter the second starting port 12 compared to the normal gaming state, and there is almost no difference in the frequency of balls entering the second starting port 12. Therefore, there is a strong tendency for players to play the left-handed game. This first time-saving game state continues until the number of changes in the special symbol (the number of time-saving changes) reaches the upper limit value (10 times, 20 times, or 30 times), and ends when the upper limit value is reached, and the normal Shift to gaming state. In addition, in the first time-saving game state, the low probability mode is maintained.
On the other hand, when the second time saving win is determined in the normal gaming state, the game shifts to a second time saving gaming state in which the second time saving mode is enabled. In this second time-saving gaming state, as mentioned above, compared to the first time-saving gaming state (and the normal gaming state), the average fluctuation time of the special symbols and the fluctuation time of the normal symbols are shorter, and the second start Since the opening time of the opening 12 becomes longer, it becomes easier for the ball to enter the second starting opening 12. In the second time-saving game state, compared to the normal game state and the first time-saving game state, it becomes significantly easier for the ball to enter the second starting port 12, and the frequency of balls entering the second starting port 12 increases significantly. Therefore, the player plays the right-handed game. This second time-saving game state continues until the number of time-saving fluctuations reaches the upper limit value (100 times), and when it reaches the upper limit value, it ends and shifts to the normal game state. In addition, in the second time-saving game state, the low probability mode is maintained.

In addition, if it is determined that the first time saver hit or the second time saver hit in a game state other than the normal game state (first time saver game state, second time saver game state, and variable probability game state), the judgment result The current gaming state is continued by invalidating the transition to the first time-saving gaming state or the second time-saving gaming state. That is, in a gaming state other than the normal gaming state, the time-saving hit determination result essentially becomes a determination result indicating a loss.

As mentioned above, since the winning probability of winning the time-saving test is set to an extremely high probability (24/25), most of the results of the winning/falsifying test will be a time-saving win. Then, only when it is determined that the time saving game is successful in the normal gaming state, the game shifts to the first time saving gaming state or the second time saving gaming state. The first time-saving gaming state and the second time-saving gaming state that are shifted to due to this time-saving hit determination end when the number of time-saving fluctuations reaches the upper limit value, and the state shifts to the normal gaming state. Then, when the normal gaming state is reached, the result of the time-saving hit determination with high probability becomes valid (it becomes possible to shift to the first time-saving gaming state or the second time-saving gaming state). In this way, in this embodiment, apart from the variable probability game state and the jackpot game, there is a normal game state in which the result of time-saving hit determination with high probability is valid, and a first time-saving game state or a second time-saving game state. is repeated (see FIG. 17). That is, most of the game except for the variable probability game state and the jackpot game is in the first time saving game state or the second time saving game state, and in between the first time saving game state or the second time saving game state, A normal game state is entered in which the time-saving hit determination is valid (see FIG. 17).
Furthermore, since the probability of selecting the first time-saving gaming state when determining whether the time-saving game is successful or not is higher than the selection probability of the second time-saving gaming state, the first time-saving gaming state is There is a high possibility of transitioning to a short play state. In the first time-saving gaming state, the upper limit values (10 times, 20 times, 30 times) that define the continuable period of the first time-saving gaming state are different from the upper limit values (10 times, 20 times, 30 times) that define the continuable period of the second time-saving gaming state. 100 times), it can be completed in a relatively short period of time. For this reason, during games other than variable probability game states and jackpot games, the first time-saving game state that ends in a relatively short period and the normal game state in which the time-saving hit determination is effective are likely to be repeated, and the normal game In some cases, the transition to the second time-saving gaming state is determined only in this state. In other words, the configuration of this embodiment is a game in which an opportunity to enable the second time-saving hit determination (an opportunity to transition to the second time-saving game state) occurs every time the first time-saving game state can continue. is provided during the game except during the variable probability game state and during the jackpot game.

Next, the processing of various programs executed by the main controller 80 will be explained.
FIG. 7 shows a flowchart of the main routine. The main routine consists of the main processing from S10 to S80 and the remaining processing of S85, which is repeated as much as time allows within the time left after executing the main processing, and is periodically executed by a hard interrupt every 2 ms. be done. When a hardware interrupt is executed by the microcomputer, it is first determined whether or not it is a normal interrupt (S10). This judgment process is performed by determining whether the value of a predetermined area of RAM as a memory is a predetermined value, and when the process executed by the microcomputer shifts to this process, normal processing is executed. This is to determine whether or not it is acceptable.

If a negative determination is made in S10 (that is, it is determined that the interrupt is not a normal interrupt) (S10: No), initial settings (S15) are executed, and the process proceeds to residual processing (S85). In this initial setting, for example, writing of a predetermined value to a predetermined area of the RAM, writing of each initial value to a work area of the RAM such as setting the first and second special symbols as initial symbols, etc. are executed. On the other hand, if an affirmative determination is made in S10 (that is, it is determined that it is a normal interrupt) (S10: Yes), the process of updating the initial value random number (S20), the process of updating the random number for jackpot determination (S25), and the first jackpot symbol Update process of random number for determining (S30), update process of random number for second jackpot symbol determination (S35), update process of random number for symbol determination (S40), update process of random number for hit determination (S45), random number for reach determination update process (S50), random number update process for determining a variation pattern (S55), winning confirmation process (S60), win/fail determination process (S65), special game process (S70), fraud monitoring process (S75), image output process etc. are performed (S80), and the initial value random number update process (S85) is looped within the remaining time until the next interrupt signal is input.

Next, the start winning process executed by the main controller 80 will be explained using the flowchart of FIG. 8. This starting winning process is one of the subroutines called in the winning confirmation process (S60) of the main routine described above.
In the starting winning process, in S100, it is determined whether the first starting port switch 11a has detected a game ball. In the case of a negative determination (S100: No), the process proceeds to S120, and in the case of an affirmative determination (S100: Yes), the process proceeds to S105. In S105, it is determined whether the number of first pending memories has reached an upper limit value (for example, 4). In the case of an affirmative determination (S105: Yes), the process proceeds to S120, and in the case of a negative determination (S105: No), the process proceeds to S110. In S110, a first extracted random number retention storage process is executed. In this first extracted random number retention storage process, random numbers for jackpot determination, first jackpot symbol determination random numbers, symbol determination random numbers, reach determination random numbers, fluctuation pattern determination random numbers, etc. are extracted and stored as first retention memory. At the same time, add 1 to the first pending number counter indicating the number of first pending memories, and perform the necessary processing to light up the first special symbol pending number display device 18 according to the information of the first pending number counter. .

In S120, it is determined whether the second starting port switch 12a has detected a game ball. In the case of a negative determination (S120: No), the start winning process is ended, and in the case of an affirmative determination (S120: Yes), the process proceeds to S125. In S125, it is determined whether the number of second pending memories has reached an upper limit value (for example, four). In the case of an affirmative determination (S125: Yes), the starting winning process is ended, and in the case of a negative determination (S125: No), the process proceeds to S130. In S130, a second extracted random number retention storage process is executed. In this second extracted random number retention storage process, random numbers for jackpot determination, second jackpot symbol determination random numbers, symbol determination random numbers, reach determination random numbers, fluctuation pattern determination random numbers, etc. are extracted and stored as second retention memory. At the same time, 1 is added to the second reservation number counter indicating the number of second reservation memories, and the necessary processing is performed to light up the second special symbol reservation number display device 19 according to the information of the second reservation number counter. .

Next, the validity determination process executed by the main controller 80 will be explained using the flowcharts of FIGS. 9 to 13. The validity determination process is a process executed from the main routine.

In the win/fail determination process, as shown in FIG. 9, it is determined whether the special electric accessory 15 is in operation (that is, a jackpot game or a small win game is being executed) (S150). Then, in the case of an affirmative determination (S150: Yes), the validity determination process is ended, and in the case of a negative determination (S150: No), the process proceeds to S155. In S155, it is determined whether or not the first and second special symbols are being displayed in a variable manner. Then, in the case of an affirmative determination (S155: Yes), the process proceeds to S290 in FIG. 11, and in the case of a negative determination (S155: No), the process proceeds to S160. In S160, it is determined whether or not the first and second special symbols are being displayed. Then, in the case of an affirmative determination (S160: Yes), the process proceeds to S300 in FIG. 12, and in the case of a negative determination (S160: No), the process proceeds to S165.

In S165, it is determined whether or not there is an unused second pending memory, and if the determination is affirmative (S165: Yes), the process proceeds to S170, and if the determination is negative (S165: No), the process proceeds to S175. . In S170, the number of second pending memories is decremented, the oldest unused second pending memory is selected, and the information (numerical data such as random numbers) stored in the second pending memory is used for jackpot determination. to the specified buffer. After that, the process advances to S185.

In S175, it is determined whether or not there is an unused first pending memory, and in the case of an affirmative determination (S175: Yes), the process proceeds to S180, and in the case of a negative determination (S175: No), the validity determination process is performed. end. In S180, the number of first pending memories is decremented, the oldest unused first pending memory is selected, and the information stored in the first pending memory is used as a predetermined value for jackpot determination, similar to S170 above. After that, the process proceeds to S185. In addition, in the propriety determination process of this embodiment, the second pending memory is given priority over the first pending memory and is subjected to the propriety determination. Therefore, the first pending memory is subject to validity determination only when there is no second pending memory.

In S185, it is determined whether the high probability flag indicating that the high probability mode (probability fluctuation state) is set is 1, and in the case of an affirmative determination (S185: Yes), the process proceeds to S190, and in the case of a negative determination, (S185: No), the process advances to S195.

In S190, a table for determining the success or failure (probability variable table) corresponding to the jackpot winning probability in the high probability mode is selected, and based on the selected probability variable table, the random number for jackpot determination that has been moved to the buffer for jackpot determination is determined whether it is a jackpot or not. It is determined whether or not, and the reserved memory related to the jackpot determination random number is consumed. Here, in this embodiment, based on the selected probability variation table, the random number for jackpot determination also determines whether or not it is a small hit or not and whether it is a time-saving hit or not. Here, in the probability variable table, since the probability of winning a time-saving hit is set to a high probability, a time-saving hit is determined in most cases where a negative determination of a jackpot is made. Furthermore, in S190, the remaining number of correctness judgments that can be executed in the variable probability gaming state (high probability flag = 1) (the remaining number until reaching the upper limit value of the number of variable probability fluctuations) is decremented. This remaining number of times (hereinafter referred to as the remaining number of probability variable fluctuation times) is decremented both when the first pending memory is used up and when the second pending memory is used up.
After processing S190, the process advances to S200 in FIG.

On the other hand, in S195, a jackpot judgment table (normal table) corresponding to the jackpot winning probability in the low probability mode is selected, and based on the selected normal table, the jackpot judgment random number moved to the jackpot judgment buffer is It is determined whether or not, and the reserved memory related to the jackpot determination random number is consumed. Furthermore, by determining the jackpot determination random number based on the selected normal table, it is also determined whether it is a small hit or not and whether it is a time saving hit or not. Here, in the normal table, since the probability of winning a time-saving win is set to an extremely high probability (24/25) as described above, a time-saving win is determined in most cases. Furthermore, in S195, in the case of the first and second time-saving game states (first time-saving flag = 1 or second time-saving flag = 1), the remaining number of validity judgments that can be executed in the time-saving game state (the time-saving change Decrement the remaining number until the upper limit value is reached. This remaining number of times (hereinafter referred to as the remaining number of time-saving fluctuation times) is decremented, similarly to the remaining number of probability-variable fluctuation times, both when the first reserved memory is used up and when the second reserved memory is used up.
After processing S195, the process advances to S200 in FIG.

In S200 of FIG. 10, it is determined whether the determination result of S190 or S195 is a jackpot, and in the case of an affirmative determination (S200: Yes), the process proceeds to S205, and in the case of a negative determination (S200: No). , proceed to S220.
In S205, the jackpot pattern mode is determined based on the random number for jackpot pattern determination related to the digested pending memory. Then, the process advances to S210.

In the fluctuation pattern determination process of S210, the special symbol is determined based on the fluctuation pattern determination random number and reach determination random number, etc. (the fluctuation pattern determination random number and reach determination random number in the jackpot determination buffer, etc.) related to the digested pending memory. A fluctuation time is determined, and a fluctuation pattern of the special symbol is determined according to the fluctuation time.

To be more specific, the fluctuation time of selectable special symbols is determined in advance according to the high probability flag, the first time saving flag, and the second time saving flag, and the above-mentioned random numbers for determining the fluctuation pattern, random numbers for reach determination, etc. Accordingly, the variation time of the special symbol is determined. Here, the first time saving flag = 0 and the second time saving flag = 0 (and high probability flag = 0) indicate the normal gaming state ("low probability mode/non-time saving mode"), and the high probability The flag = 0 and the first time saving flag = 1 (and the second time saving flag = 0) indicate the first time saving gaming state ("low probability mode/first time saving mode"), and the high probability The flag = 0 and the second time saving flag = 1 (and the first time saving flag = 0) indicate the second time saving gaming state ("low probability mode/second time saving mode"), and the high probability flag = 1 (and the second time saving flag = 1 and the first time saving flag = 0) indicates that the probability variable gaming state ("high probability mode/second time saving mode").
When the first time saving flag = 0 and the second time saving flag = 0 (normal gaming state), since it is the non-time saving mode, it is possible to select the variable time of the special symbol corresponding to the non-time saving mode, and the The fluctuation time of the special symbol is determined by the random number for determining the fluctuation pattern, the random number for reaching determination, etc. stored in the reserved memory. In addition, when the high probability flag = 0 and the first time saving flag = 1 (first time saving game state), since it is the first time saving mode, special symbols corresponding to the first time saving mode are displayed. The fluctuation time of the special symbol can be selected, and the fluctuation time of the special symbol is determined by the random number for determining the fluctuation pattern of the reserved memory that has been used, the random number for determining the reach, etc. In addition, when the second time saving flag = 1 (second time saving gaming state or variable probability gaming state), since it is the second time saving mode, it is possible to select the variable time of the special symbol corresponding to the second time saving mode. Then, the fluctuation time is determined using a random number for determining a fluctuation pattern, a random number for determining reach, etc. The random number for reach determination is used to determine whether or not to execute various predetermined reach performances (normal reach performance, long reach performance, super reach performance, etc.). Then, when it is decided to execute any of the ready-to-reach effects, the special symbol variation time is determined according to the determined ready-to-win effect.

In the subsequent S215, the number of rounds of the jackpot game, the opening pattern of the jackpot game, the performance time related to the jackpot game, the interval time, the performance mode of the jackpot game, etc. are set, and the process proceeds to S270.

On the other hand, in S220 following the negative determination in S200, it is determined whether or not there is a small hit based on the determination result in S190 or S195. Here, in the case of an affirmative determination (S220: Yes), the process proceeds to S225, and in the case of a negative determination (S220: No), the process proceeds to S240. In this embodiment, if the first pending memory is used up, no determination is made as to whether or not there is a small hit, so a negative determination is made in S220 and the process proceeds to S240.

In S225, a small winning symbol is determined based on the random number for symbol determination related to the second reserved memory that has been consumed, and the process proceeds to S230. In S230, the fluctuation time of the second special symbol is determined based on the random number for reach determination, the random number for fluctuation pattern determination, etc. related to the digested second pending memory, the high probability flag, and the first and second time saving flags. , determines a variation pattern of the second special symbol according to the variation time. That is, similarly to S210 described above, when the first time saving flag = 0 and the second time saving flag = 0 (normal gaming state), it is possible to select the variation time of the special symbol corresponding to the non-time saving mode, The fluctuation time of the special symbol is determined by the random number for determining the fluctuation pattern of the reserved memory that has been consumed, the random number for determining the reach, etc. In addition, when the high probability flag = 0 and the first time saving flag = 1 (first time saving gaming state), it is possible to select the variation time of the special symbol corresponding to the first time saving mode, and the The fluctuation time of the special symbol is determined by the random number for determining the fluctuation pattern in memory, the random number for determining the reach, etc. Furthermore, when the second time saving flag = 1 (second time saving gaming state or variable probability gaming state), the variation time of the special symbol corresponding to the second time saving mode can be selected, and the variation pattern of the expired pending memory The fluctuation time of the special symbol is determined by a random number for determination, a random number for reach judgment, etc. Note that the reach determination random number is used to determine whether to execute various predetermined reach effects, similarly to S210.

In S235 following this S230, the opening pattern of the big winning opening in the small winning game, the performance time related to the small winning game, the performance mode of the small winning game, etc. are set, and the process proceeds to S270.

In S240, which follows from the negative determination in S220, it is determined whether or not the time is saved based on the determination result in S190 or S195. Then, in the case of an affirmative determination (S240: Yes), the process proceeds to S245, and in the case of a negative determination (S240: No), the process proceeds to S260.

In S245, the time saving per symbol mode is determined based on the random number for symbol determination related to the expired pending memory. Based on the time-saving winning symbol mode determined in S245, it is determined whether to shift to the first time-saving gaming state or to the second time-saving gaming state after the special symbol is fixed and stopped.
Here, the symbol mode per time saving game includes a symbol mode indicating a transition to the first time saving game state (hereinafter referred to as the first time saving pattern mode) and a symbol mode indicating a transition to the second time saving game state ( Hereinafter, the second time saving per symbol mode) is set in advance, and one of the symbol modes is determined based on the random number for symbol determination. In this embodiment, different selection probabilities are set in advance for the case where the first reserved memory is consumed and the case where the second reserved memory is consumed (see FIG. 6(A)), and the selection probabilities are set in advance. Accordingly, one of the first time saving per symbol mode and the second time saving per symbol mode is selected and determined. Specifically, as the selection probability that will be effective when the first retention memory is digested, the first time saving pattern will be selected with a 90% probability, and the second time saving pattern will be selected with a 10% probability. At the same time, the selection probability is set to be effective when the second reserved memory is used, and the first time saving pattern is selected with a probability of 70%, and the second time saving pattern is selected with a probability of 30%. The selection probability is set to be selected with a probability of %. Based on these selection probabilities, when the second reserved memory is used up, the second time-saving winning pattern that determines the transition to the second time-saving gaming state, which is more advantageous to the player, is selected compared to the first reserved memory. It's getting easier.

In S250, which follows from S245, the fluctuation time of the special symbol is determined based on the reach determination random number and fluctuation pattern determination random number related to the digested pending memory, and the high probability flag and the first and second time saving flags. , determines the variation pattern of the special symbol according to the variation time. In the fluctuation pattern determination process of S250, similarly to S210 and S230 described above, the fluctuation time of the special symbol that can be selected in the non-time saving mode, the first time saving mode, and the second time saving mode determined according to each of the flags. From among these, the fluctuation time of the special symbol is determined by the random number for determining the fluctuation pattern of the reserved memory that has been consumed, the random number for determining the reach, etc.

In the following S255, based on the time saving symbol mode determined in the above S245, it is determined to set the first time saving flag = 1 or the second time saving flag = 1 with the confirmation display of the special symbol. Furthermore, the upper limit numerical value of the number of variations of the special symbol (the number of time-saving variations) in the first time-saving gaming state and the second time-saving gaming state is determined.
Here, the upper limit numerical value of the number of time saving fluctuations is determined based on the time saving symbol mode selected in S245. That is, when the second time-saving symbol mode indicating the transition to the second time-saving gaming state is selected and determined in S245 (when the second time-saving flag = 1), the upper limit value of the number of time-saving changes is set to 100 times. do. On the other hand, when the first time-saving symbol mode indicating the transition to the first time-saving gaming state is selected and decided in S245 (when the first time-saving flag = 1), the selected first time The upper limit value of the number of time saving fluctuations is determined according to the short symbol mode. That is, in this embodiment, as described above, a plurality of upper limit numerical values (10 times, 20 times, 30 times) are set for the number of time saving fluctuations in the first time saving gaming state, and each upper limit numerical value is They are respectively assigned to a plurality of first time saving symbol modes that can be selected in S245. Thereby, one upper limit numerical value is determined according to the first time saving symbol mode selected and determined in S245. Here, the selection probability of each upper limit numerical value becomes the selection probability of each first time saving symbol mode in S245. In this embodiment, in S245, the selection probability of the first time-saving symbol mode assigned to the upper limit number of 10 times is 10%, the selection probability of the first time-saving symbol mode assigned to the 20th time is 30%, The selection probability of the first time-saving symbol mode assigned to 30 times is set to 70%, and each upper limit value (10 times, 20 times, 30 times) is selected according to each of these selection probabilities (Fig. 6 ( See B).
After this S255, the process advances to S270.

Furthermore, in S260 following the negative determination in S240, similarly to S250 and the like, the reach determination random number and fluctuation pattern determination random number, etc. related to the expired pending memory are combined with the high probability flag and the first and second time saving flags. Based on this, the fluctuation time and fluctuation pattern of the special symbols are determined, and prior to this, processing is performed to determine the losing symbols. After this S260, the process proceeds to SS265, and processing related to the loss is performed. Then, the process advances to S270. In addition, in this embodiment, the process of determining losing symbols is performed in S260, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the configuration may include a process of determining losing symbols before S260.

In S270, a pending number command indicating the number of pending memories decremented in S170 and S180 is transmitted to the sub-integrated control device 83. Furthermore, a command including information on the lottery result (big hit, small hit, short-time win, or loss) in S190 or S195, and fluctuations including the stopping mode of the special symbol, the variation time of the special symbol, etc. determined in the aforementioned S205, etc. The start command is sent to the sub-integrated control device 83. This fluctuation start command includes information indicating whether the digested pending memory is the first pending memory or the second pending memory, information indicating whether to execute the reach effect, and each of the flags (high probability flag, first This information includes information on the time saving flag (the time saving flag and the second time saving flag), information on the upper limit numerical value of the number of time saving changes, and the like. Furthermore, according to the digested pending memory, the first special symbol display device 9 or the second special symbol display device 10 is driven and controlled to start changing the first special symbol or the second special symbol, and the validity judgment process is ended. do.
In addition, when the sub-integrated control device 83 receives such a command, the sub-integrated control device 83 receives the information indicated in the command (the number of first pending memories, the number of second pending memories, the fluctuation time of special symbols, the presence or absence of various reach effects, and the result of judgment. , special symbol stopping mode, jackpot game contents, etc.) are stored in a predetermined buffer. Then, the sub-integrated control device 83 transmits a command to the production symbol control device 82 along with the fluctuation start command, and the production symbol control device 82 drives and controls the production symbol display device 6 according to the received command. , starts displaying special effect symbols corresponding to the information on the stop symbol mode and fluctuation pattern of the special symbol.

In S290 of FIG. 11, which follows from the affirmative determination of S155 described above, it is determined whether the special symbol variation time has elapsed, and in the case of an affirmative determination (S290: Yes), the process proceeds to S295, and in the case of a negative determination, (S290: No), the validity determination process ends. In S295, the variable display of the special symbols is finished, and the fixed symbols of the special symbols (that is, the jackpot symbol determined in S205, the small win symbol determined in S225, the first and second time-saving winning symbols determined in S245, or the losing symbol determined in S260), and transmits a symbol confirmation command to the sub-integrated control device 83 to execute the final display of the special effect symbol, and ends the success/failure determination process.

Further, in S300 of FIG. 12 following the affirmative determination of S160 described above, it is determined whether the duration of the final display of the special symbol has ended, and in the case of an affirmative determination (S300: Yes), the process proceeds to S305, In the case of a negative determination (S300: No), the validity determination process is ended. In S305, the confirmation display of the special symbol is ended, and the process proceeds to S310. In S310, it is determined whether the confirmed and displayed special symbol is a symbol that will result in a jackpot, and if the determination is positive (S310: Yes), the process proceeds to S315, and if the determination is negative (S310: No), the The process proceeds to S380 of No. 13.

In S315, it is determined whether or not the high probability flag=1 with reference to the high probability flag indicating the variable probability gaming state. Then, in the case of an affirmative determination (S315: Yes), the process proceeds to S320, and in the case of a negative determination (S315: No), the process proceeds to S340.

In S320, the high probability flag is set to 0, and in the subsequent S325, the second time saving flag is set to 0, and the process proceeds to S330. In S330, the remaining number of probability fluctuations is cleared, and the process proceeds to S360.

In S340 and S345 following the negative determination in S315, the first time saving flag is set to 0 and the second time saving flag is set to 0, and the process proceeds to S350. In S350, the remaining number of time saving fluctuations is cleared, and the process proceeds to S360.

After that, by sequentially executing the state designation command transmission process (S360), the condition device operation start process (S365), the accessory continuous actuation device operation start process (S370), and the jackpot start performance process (S375), the jackpot game mode The jackpot game is started by transmitting a command indicating this, a command instructing the start of the jackpot game, etc. to the sub-integrated control device 83, and the success/failure determination process is ended.

On the other hand, in S380 of FIG. 13 following the negative determination of S310, the high probability flag is referred to and it is determined whether the high probability flag=1. Then, in the case of an affirmative determination (S380: Yes), the process proceeds to S385, and in the case of a negative determination (S380: No), the process proceeds to S420.

In S385, it is determined whether or not the remaining number of probability variable fluctuations=0 by referring to the remaining number of correctness determinations that can be executed in the variable probability gaming state (remaining number of probability variable fluctuations). Then, in the case of an affirmative determination (S385: Yes), the process proceeds to S390, and in the case of a negative determination (S385: No), the process proceeds to S400.
In S390, the high probability flag is set to 0, and in the subsequent S395, the second time saving flag is set to 0. Then, the process advances to S400.

In S400, it is determined whether the special symbol that has been confirmed and displayed is a symbol that will result in a small hit. Then, in the case of an affirmative determination (S400: Yes), the process proceeds to S405, and in the case of a negative determination (S400: No), the process proceeds to S480.
In S405, a special electric accessory operation start process is executed, and in the next S410, a small hit start effect process is executed. By sequentially executing these processes, a command indicating the mode of the small winning game, a command instructing the start of the small winning game, etc. is transmitted to the sub-integrated control device 83, and the small winning game is started. After this S410, the process advances to S480.

In addition, in S420 following the negative determination in S380, it is determined whether the first time saving flag = 1, and in the case of a positive determination (S420: Yes), the process proceeds to S460, and in the case of a negative determination (S420 :No), proceed to S425.
In S425, it is determined whether or not the second time saving flag=1, and in the case of an affirmative determination (S425: Yes), the process proceeds to S460, and in the case of a negative determination (S425: No), the process proceeds to S430.

In S430, it is determined whether or not the confirmed and displayed special symbol is a symbol that will result in a time-saving hit, and in the case of an affirmative determination (S430: Yes), the process proceeds to S435, and in the case of a negative determination (S430: No), The process advances to S400.

In S435, it is determined whether the confirmed and displayed special symbol is a symbol mode indicating a first time saving hit (first time saving winning symbol mode) (second time saving winning symbol mode), and in the case of an affirmative determination, ( S435: Yes), the process proceeds to S440, and in the case of a negative determination (S435: No), the process proceeds to S445.

In S440, the first time saving flag is set to 1 and the process proceeds to S450. On the other hand, in S445, the second time saving flag is set to 1, and the process proceeds to S450. In S450, a time-saving variation number setting process is executed to set the number of validity judgments (the upper limit value of the number of time-saving variations) that can be performed during the first and second time-saving gaming states. In this time-saving variation number setting process, by setting the upper limit value of the time-saving variation number determined in the above S255 to the number of validity judgments that can be performed in the first and second time-saving gaming states, the upper limit value is set to the number of time-saving variation times. Set to the remaining number. Here, if the first time saving flag = 1, the 10, 20, or 30 times determined in S255 described above is set as the remaining number of the time saving fluctuations, and if the second time saving flag = 1. In this case, 100 times determined in S255 is set as the remaining number of times of time saving fluctuation.
After this S450, the process advances to S480.

In S460, which follows from the affirmative determination of S420 or S425, the remaining number of validity determinations that can be made in the first time-saving gaming state or the second time-saving gaming state (remaining number of times of time-saving fluctuations) is referred to, and the remaining number of times is determined. Determine whether the number = 0 or not. Then, in the case of an affirmative determination (S460: Yes), the process proceeds to S465, and in the case of a negative determination (S460: No), the process proceeds to S400.

In S465, the first time saving flag is set to 0 and the process proceeds to S470. In S470, the second time saving flag is set to 0 and the process proceeds to S400.

In S480, a status designation command transmission process is executed. In this state designation command transmission process (S390), when the high probability flag, the first time saving flag, and the second time saving flag change, the information is sent to the sub-integrated control device. After S480, the validity determination process ends.

Next, the jackpot game process executed by the main control device 80 will be explained using the flowcharts of FIGS. 14 to 16. This jackpot game process is a process that is executed from the above-described special game process (S70) of the main routine when a jackpot is achieved by the above-described success/failure determination process.

In the jackpot game process, as shown in FIG. 14, it is determined whether the accessory continuous operation device is in operation (that is, the jackpot game is being executed) (S500). Here, in the case of an affirmative determination (S500: Yes), the process proceeds to S505, and in the case of a negative determination (S500: No), the jackpot game process is ended.

In S505, it is determined whether or not the big prize opening 14 is open, and in the case of an affirmative determination (S505: Yes), the process proceeds to S550 of FIG. 15, and in the case of a negative determination (S505: No), Proceed to S510.

In S510, it is determined whether or not it is during the interval between open rounds in the jackpot game. In the case of an affirmative determination (S510: Yes), the process proceeds to S570 in FIG. 15, and in the case of a negative determination (S510: No), the process proceeds to S515. In S515, it is determined whether or not the end performance of the jackpot game is in progress. In the case of an affirmative determination (S515: Yes), the process advances to S600 in FIG. 16, and in the case of a negative determination (S515: No), the process advances to S520.

In S520, it is determined whether the start performance time in the jackpot game has elapsed. In the case of an affirmative determination (S520: Yes), the process proceeds to S525, and in the case of a negative determination (S520: No), the jackpot game process is ended.

In S525, a big winning hole opening process is executed to open the big winning hole 14. In this big winning hole opening process, in synchronization with the start of opening of the big winning hole 14, the opening time (for example, 30 seconds) that is preset as the maximum opening time of the big winning hole 14 in the opening round is started. . After this jackpot opening processing, the jackpot game processing ends. Here, the open time is calculated by subtracting the open timer. Specifically, the opening timer has a counter value corresponding to the opening time (30 seconds) set in advance, and performs a process of subtracting the counter value every time a jackpot game process is executed (every timer interrupt process). It is assumed that the opening time has elapsed when the counter value becomes 0. Naturally, the means for measuring the open time is not limited to such a subtraction process of the open timer, and other means may also be used.

In S550 of FIG. 15, which follows from the affirmative determination of S505, it is determined whether the number of game balls that have entered the big prize opening 14 has reached 10. In the case of an affirmative determination (S550: Yes), the process proceeds to S560, and in the case of a negative determination (S550: No), the process proceeds to S555. In S555, it is determined whether the open time (30 seconds) has elapsed due to the time expiry of the above-described open timer. Here, in the case of an affirmative determination (S555: Yes), the process proceeds to S560, and in the case of a negative determination (S555: No), the jackpot game process is ended. In S560, a big winning hole closing process is executed to close the big winning hole 14 (end the open round). In the subsequent S565, a jackpot interval process is executed to set an interval between each open round of the jackpot game, and the jackpot game process is ended.

In S570 of FIG. 15, which follows from the affirmative determination of S510, it is determined whether or not the interval time of the jackpot game has elapsed. Here, in the case of an affirmative determination (S570: Yes), the process proceeds to S575, and in the case of a negative determination (S570: No), the jackpot game process is ended. In S575, it is determined whether or not the final round has ended, and in the case of an affirmative determination (S575: Yes), the process proceeds to S580, and in the case of a negative determination (S575: No), the process proceeds to S585.
In S580, a jackpot end performance process is executed to perform a performance when ending the jackpot game. After this S580, the jackpot game process ends.
In S585, a big prize opening opening process is executed. In this process, the same process as S525 described above is performed, and the big winning hole 14 is opened, and the opening time (30 seconds) is started.

Further, in S600 of FIG. 16 following the affirmative determination of S515, it is determined whether or not the time for the jackpot end performance has ended. In the case of an affirmative determination (S600: Yes), the process proceeds to S605, and S605 and S610 are sequentially executed, while in the case of a negative determination (S600: No), the jackpot game process is ended. In S605 and S610, the accessory continuous operation device and the condition device are stopped, and the process proceeds to S615. In S615, it is determined whether or not to shift to the variable probability gaming state after the jackpot game. Here, in the case of an affirmative determination (S615: Yes), the number of correctness determinations (the upper limit value of the number of probability variations) that can be executed during the variable probability gaming state is set (S620), and the high probability flag = 1 (S625). In addition, the second time saving flag is set to 1 (S630).
Here, when transitioning to the variable probability gaming state, the high probability mode and the second time saving mode are selected. Set the upper limit value to the remaining number of definite fluctuations.

In S640 and S645, a process of transmitting a jackpot end command to end the performance related to the jackpot game and a status designation command sending process are executed to the sub-integrated control device 83, and the jackpot game process is ended. Here, in this embodiment, in S645, information on the gaming state (normal gaming state or variable probability gaming state) to which the game will be transferred after the jackpot game is transmitted to the sub-integrated control device 83.

Next, the performance display displayed on the performance symbol display device 6 when starting and ending the first and second time-saving game states will be explained.
As mentioned above, the configuration of this embodiment is such that, as shown in FIG. 17, when a time-saving hit is determined by the win/fail judgment process in the normal gaming state, the first time-saving gaming state or the first Two time-saving game states are started, and when the number of variations of special symbols (number of time-saving variations) executed in the time-saving game state reaches the upper limit value, the time-saving game state is ended and a transition is made to a normal game state. Here, when moving to the first time-saving game state, the first time-saving effect pattern 121 is started to be displayed on the effect pattern display device 6 with the start of the first time-saving game state (see FIG. 21). ), with the end of the first time-saving game state, the display of the first time-saving effect pattern 121 is ended. This first time-saving effect pattern 121 is continuously displayed in the first time-saving game state. Similarly, when moving to the second time-saving game state, with the start of the second time-saving game state, the performance symbol display device 6 starts displaying the second time-saving performance symbol 122 (see FIG. 24), and With the end of the second time-saving game state, the display of the second time-saving effect pattern 122 is ended. Then, this second time saving effect pattern 122 is continuously displayed in the second time saving game state. In this way, in this embodiment, by starting to display the first and second time-saving effect patterns 121 and 122, it is notified that the first and second time-saving effect patterns have been entered, and the first and second time-saving effect patterns 121 and 122 are displayed. , 122, it is notified that the first and second time-saving game states have ended.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, in the first and second time-saving game states, by displaying a countdown pattern 130 indicating the remaining number of time-saving fluctuations on the effect pattern display device 6, the remaining time until the end of the time-saving game state is displayed. The period is notified to the player (see FIGS. 23 and 24). The countdown pattern 130 is displayed when the remaining number of time saving fluctuations is 5 or less, and is not displayed when the remaining number exceeds 5. Therefore, in the first time saving game state, the countdown symbol 130 starts to be displayed from the time when the remaining number of time saving fluctuations reaches 5 times. In addition, in the second time-saving game state, since the upper limit value of the number of time-saving changes is 100, the display of the countdown symbol 130 starts when the remaining number of times of the time-saving changes reaches 5. Incidentally, the display of the countdown symbol 130 is terminated upon completion of the first and second time-saving game states.

In addition, in this embodiment, in the first time-saving game state, before the number of time-saving changes reaches the upper limit value (before the remaining number of times of time-saving changes becomes 0), the first time-saving game state The system performs a performance (hereinafter referred to as a "fake performance") to pretend that the first time-saving game state has started again, as well as to pretend that the first time-saving game state has ended.
Here, the timing at which the first time-saving game state appears to end (hereinafter referred to as pseudo-end timing) is determined according to the upper limit value of the number of time-saving fluctuations set in the first time-saving game state. Specifically, when the upper limit value of the number of time saving changes is set to 20, the timing when the number of time saving changes reaches 10 (timing when the remaining number becomes 10) is set as the pseudo end timing. In addition, if the upper limit value of the number of time saving changes is set to 30, the timing when the number of time saving changes reaches 10 or 20 (the timing when the remaining number becomes 20 or 10) is set as the pseudo end timing. (See Figure 17). Incidentally, when the upper limit value of the number of times of time saving fluctuations is set to 10 times, the above-mentioned fake performance is not performed.

Then, as the fake performance in the first time-saving game state, the display end of the first time-saving effect pattern 121 and the display of the pseudo countdown pattern 128 are executed on the effect pattern display device 6 (see FIG. 22). This pseudo countdown pattern 128 is for displaying a fake remaining number in accordance with the pseudo end timing. For example, when the upper limit value of the number of time saving changes in the first time saving game state is set to 30, the pseudo countdown symbol 128 is displayed at the pseudo end timing when the remaining number of time saving changes reaches 20. With the start of the first time-saving game state, display of the pseudo countdown symbol 128 is started so that there are "0 times left". After that, when the remaining number of time saving fluctuations reaches 20 and the pseudo end timing is reached, the pseudo countdown pattern 128 is displayed as "0 times remaining", and the pseudo countdown pattern 128 and the first time saving effect pattern 121 are displayed. Finish (see Figure 22).
Furthermore, the above-mentioned sham effect causes the first time-saving effect pattern 121 to be displayed again as the special pattern that first starts changing after the display of the first time-saving effect pattern 121 ends (after the pseudo-end timing). Display starts (see FIGS. 23(A) and 23(B)). Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first time-saving game state and A performance pattern 131 is displayed to encourage the transition to the second time saving game state (see FIG. 22(F)).

By executing the above-mentioned fake performance in the first time-saving game state in this way, there is a chance to shift to the second time-saving game state that is more advantageous to the player compared to the first time-saving game state (due to the time-saving hit, the first time-saving game state is Pretending to the player that a lottery opportunity to select either the time-saving gaming state or the second time-saving gaming state has arrived, and expecting the occurrence of a second time-saving winning (transition to the second time-saving gaming state). Players' emotions can be heightened.
To be more specific, the second time-saving gaming state is a state that is significantly more advantageous than the normal gaming state as described above, while the first time-saving gaming state is more advantageous than the normal gaming state. , its advantage is only slightly higher than that of the second time-saving gaming state. That is, the second time-saving game state can be said to be a great chance to enter the second starting port 12, but the first time-saving game state has almost no difference from the normal game state and can hardly be called a chance. The probability of winning a time-saving win in the win/fail judgment process is set extremely high, and furthermore, since only in the normal gaming state, the transition to the first and second time-saving gaming states is made according to the judgment result of the time-saving winning. In the state, most of the changing special symbols stop in the time saving per symbol mode, and with the confirmation of the time saving per being valid, it moves to the first or second time saving gaming state, while in the first and second time saving gaming states, the special Even if the symbols stop in the time-saving winning pattern mode, the time-saving winning is invalidated and the game state continues. Therefore, when the first time-saving game state is determined in the normal gaming state and the game moves to the first time-saving game state, there is no opportunity to move to the second time-saving game state until at least the first time-saving game state ends. . That is, even if the player enters the first time-saving game state due to a time-saving win in the normal game state, the player does not think of it as an opportunity, and his feelings of desiring the second time-saving game state become stronger. For this reason, in the configuration of this embodiment, by executing the above-mentioned sham effect in the first time-saving game state, it is made to appear that a propriety judgment that can determine the time-saving hit after transitioning to the normal game state is performed, To stimulate players' expectations for a second time-saving game state. Thereby, even in the middle of the first time-saving game state which is hardly advantageous to the player, it is possible to cause ups and downs in the player's emotions, thereby improving the interest of the game.

Furthermore, in the configuration of the present embodiment, it is determined by lottery whether or not to execute the fake performance in the first time-saving game state. This lottery is held at the start of the first time-saving game state, and when it is decided to execute the pseudo-effect, the first time-saving effect symbol 121 is displayed in accordance with the pseudo end timing, as described above. While executing the end and display start, etc., if it is decided not to execute the fake production, the first time saving production pattern 121 is displayed according to the upper limit value of the number of time saving fluctuations set in the first time saving game state. A start display, an end display, and a countdown pattern 130 are displayed. In this embodiment, in the lottery for the sham effect, the probability of deciding to execute the effect is set to 70%, and the probability of deciding not to execute the effect is set to 30%.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, in the second time-saving game state, no performance is performed that pretends to be the end and start of the second time-saving game state. Furthermore, when starting the second time-saving game state, in addition to displaying the second time-saving effect pattern, a performance pattern 126 that strongly informs the player of the start of the second time-saving game state that is advantageous to the player is displayed (FIG. 24(C) )reference). This emphatically notifies the player that the second time-saving game state has been entered, which is advantageous to the player, and effectively stimulates the emotions of the player who expects to win a jackpot. In addition, this effect pattern 126 is designed to end displaying when a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) has elapsed from the start of the second time-saving game state.

Next, a time-saving performance setting process and a time-saving performance control process for controlling the performance in the first and second time-saving game states will be explained. These time-saving effect setting processing and time-saving effect control processing are processes that are executed periodically (for example, timer interrupt processing at a 2 ms cycle) by the sub-integrated control device 83, respectively.

FIG. 18 shows a flowchart of the time saving effect setting process. Here, in this embodiment, the sub-integrated control device 83 uses a random number extraction process (not shown) to extract a random number for pseudo effect upon reception of the fluctuation start command, and sets the extracted random number for pseudo effect to a predetermined value. stored in the buffer. The pseudo effect random numbers each take a predetermined number of integer values, and are created periodically (for each timer interrupt process) in ascending order.

In the time saving effect setting process, it is determined in S1000 whether a fluctuation start command has been received. Then, in the case of an affirmative determination (S1000: Yes), the process proceeds to S1005, and in the case of a negative determination (S1000: No), the pseudo effect setting process is ended. Here, as described above, the variation start command is sent to the sub-integrated control device 83 from the main control device 80 in S270 of the validity determination process.

In S1005, it is determined whether or not the game is in a normal gaming state. Then, in the case of an affirmative determination (S1005: Yes), the process proceeds to S1010, and in the case of a negative determination (S1005: No), the pseudo effect setting process is ended. Here, whether or not the game is in the normal gaming state is determined by referring to the fluctuation start command and based on the information of the high probability flag and the first and second time saving flags included in the fluctuation start command.

In S1010, it is determined whether or not it has been determined that the first time saving has been achieved. Then, in the case of an affirmative determination (S1010: Yes), the process advances to S1015, and in the case of a negative determination (S1010: No), the process advances to S1050. Here, whether or not the first time saving hit determination is made is determined based on the information of the validity determination result included in the above-described fluctuation start command.

In S1015, a pseudo effect lottery process is executed. In this pseudo-effect lottery process, it is determined whether or not to execute the above-mentioned pseudo-effect based on the upper limit value of the number of time-saving variations included in the variation start command and the random number for pseudo-effect. Furthermore, when it is decided to execute this ostentatious effect, the above-described pseudo-end timing is determined. Specifically, when the upper limit value of the number of time-saving changes is 20 and it is decided to perform the sham effect, the timing when the number of time-saving changes reaches 10 is determined as the pseudo-end timing. On the other hand, when the upper limit value of the number of time-saving fluctuations is 30, when it is decided to perform the sham performance, either the timing when the number of time-saving fluctuations reaches 10 or 20 is determined as the pseudo-end timing. Here, whether it is 10 times or 20 times is randomly determined. Incidentally, when the upper limit value of the number of time-saving changes is 10 times, it is determined not to perform the sham effect.

In the following S1020, it is determined whether or not execution of the sham effect has been decided in the above-mentioned S1015. Then, in the case of an affirmative determination (S1020: Yes), the process proceeds to S1025, and in the case of a negative determination (S1020: No), the process proceeds to S1030.
In S1025, the pseudo effect flag is set to 1, and the process proceeds to S1030. In S1030, the first time-saving effect flag is set to 1, and the time-saving effect setting process is ended.

In S1050, which follows from the negative determination in S1010, it is determined whether or not a second time saving hit determination has been made. Then, in the case of an affirmative determination (S1050: Yes), the process proceeds to S1055, and in the case of a negative determination (S1010: No), the time-saving effect setting process is ended. Here, whether or not the second time saving hit determination is made is determined based on the information of the validity determination result included in the above-described fluctuation start command.
In S1055, the second time-saving effect flag is set to 1, and the time-saving effect setting process is ended.

Further, the above-mentioned time saving effect control process will be explained using the flowcharts of FIGS. 19 and 20. This time-saving performance control process is executed based on the variation start command transmitted from the main control device 80, the symbol confirmation command etc. transmitted from the main control device 80 in S295 of the validity judgment process. Here, the symbol confirmation command includes information on the confirmation and stop of the special symbol, and information on the pattern mode (jackpot pattern, small hit pattern, time-saving pattern, or loss pattern) in which the special symbol was confirmed and stopped. .

In the time saving performance control process, it is determined in S1100 whether or not the probability variable gaming state is established. Then, in the case of an affirmative determination (S1100: Yes), the process proceeds to S1102, and in the case of a negative determination (S1100: No), the time saving effect control process is ended. Here, whether or not it is a variable probability gaming state is determined based on the information of the high probability flag included in the above-mentioned variable start command.
In S1102, it is determined whether the game is in the normal gaming state. Then, in the case of an affirmative determination (S1102: Yes), the process advances to S1105, and in the case of a negative determination (S1102: No), the process advances to S1150. Here, whether or not the game is in the normal gaming state is determined based on the information of the high probability flag included in the above-mentioned fluctuation start command.

In S1105, it is determined whether the special symbol has been confirmed and displayed in the time-saving winning symbol mode. Then, in the case of an affirmative determination (S1105: Yes), the process advances to S1110, and in the case of a negative determination (S1105: No), the process advances to S1150. Here, whether or not the symbol has been confirmed and displayed in the time-saving winning symbol mode is determined based on the information included in the above-described symbol confirmation command.

In S1110, it is determined whether the second time saving effect flag=1. Then, in the case of an affirmative determination (S1110: Yes), the process advances to S1115, and in the case of a negative determination (S1110: No), the process advances to S1120.

In S1115, a second time saving effect start process is executed. In this second time-saving effect start process, a process is performed in which a command for displaying the second time-saving effect pattern 122 described above on the effect pattern display device 6 is transmitted to the effect pattern control device 82. The effect pattern control device 82 that has received this command generates video data for displaying the second time-saving effect pattern according to the command, drives and controls the effect pattern display device 6, and reproduces this video data. The second time saving effect pattern 122 is displayed. In this embodiment, the effect pattern control device 82 controls the effect pattern display device to continuously display the second time saving effect pattern until it receives a command indicating the end of the display of the second time saving effect pattern 122. Control 6. In this manner, the second time-saving performance start process controls the start of display of the second time-saving performance pattern 122 via the performance pattern control device 82 by sending the command.
After this S1115, the time saving effect control process is ended.

In S1120 following the negative determination in S1110, a first time saving effect start process is executed. In this first time-saving effect start process, similarly to S1115, a process of transmitting a command for displaying the first time-saving effect pattern 121 on the effect pattern display device 6 to the effect pattern control device 82 is carried out. conduct. When the production pattern control device 82 receives this command, it generates video data for displaying the first time-saving production pattern 121 according to the command, drives and controls the performance pattern display device 6, and displays this video data. By playing, the first time saving effect pattern 121 is displayed. Then, as in the case of controlling the display of the second time-saving effect pattern 122, the effect pattern control device 82 controls the display of the first time-saving effect pattern until it receives a command indicating the end of the display of the first time-saving effect pattern 121. The effect pattern display device 6 is controlled to continuously display 121. In this way, the first time-saving performance start process controls the display start of the first time-saving performance pattern 121 via the performance pattern control device 82 by sending the command.
After this S1120, the process advances to S1125.

In S1125, it is determined whether the pseudo effect flag=1. Then, in the case of an affirmative determination (S1125: Yes), the process advances to S1210 in FIG. 20, and in the case of a negative determination (S1125: No), the process advances to S1130.
In S1130, it is determined whether the remaining number of time saving fluctuations is 5 or less. Then, in the case of an affirmative determination (S1130: Yes), the process proceeds to S1135, and in the case of a negative determination (S1130: No), the time saving effect control process is ended. Here, the remaining number of time saving fluctuations is information included in the above-mentioned fluctuation start command.

In S1135, countdown effect update processing is executed. In this countdown performance update process, information indicating the remaining number of time saving fluctuations and a command to display the countdown symbol 130 indicating the remaining number are transmitted to the performance symbol control device 82. The production pattern control device 82 that has received the information and the command generates video data for displaying the countdown pattern 130 indicating the remaining number of time saving fluctuations according to the information and the command, and generates video data on the production pattern display device 6. The countdown pattern 130 is displayed by driving and controlling and reproducing this moving image data. Here, if the countdown pattern is already displayed, the display of the countdown pattern 130 is changed and updated by converting the video data being reproduced into video data newly generated upon reception of the command.
After this S1135, the time saving effect control process is ended.

In S1150, which follows from the negative determination in S1102 or the negative determination in S1105, it is determined whether the special symbol has been confirmed and displayed in a jackpot symbol manner. Then, in the case of an affirmative determination (S1150: Yes), the process advances to S1155, and in the case of a negative determination (S1150: No), the process advances to S1200 in FIG. Here, whether or not the jackpot symbol has been confirmed and displayed is determined based on the information included in the above-described symbol confirmation command.

In S1155, it is determined whether the second time saving effect flag=1. Then, in the case of an affirmative determination (S1155: Yes), the process advances to S1160, and in the case of a negative determination (S1155: No), the process advances to S1170.

In S1160, time saving effect end processing is executed. In this time-saving effect termination process, a process of transmitting a command to the effect pattern control device 82 to terminate the display of the first and second time-saving effects patterns 121, 122 and the countdown pattern 130 being displayed on the effect pattern display device 6. I do. The effect pattern control device 82 which received this command drives and controls the effect pattern display device 6 to end the display of the first and second time saving effect patterns 121, 122 and the countdown pattern 130.
In the following S1165, the first time saving effect flag=0 and the second time saving effect flag=0, and the time saving effect control process is ended.

In S1170 following the negative determination in S1155, it is determined whether the first time saving effect flag=1. Then, in the case of an affirmative determination (S1170: Yes), the process proceeds to S1175, and in the case of a negative determination (S1170: No), the time saving effect control process is ended.
In S1175, it is determined whether the pseudo effect flag=1. Then, in the case of an affirmative determination (S1175: Yes), the process proceeds to S1180, and in the case of a negative determination (S1175: No), the process proceeds to S1160.

In S1180, a pseudo effect end process is executed. In this pseudo performance termination process, a process is performed in which a command for terminating the display of the first time saving performance pattern 121 and the pseudo countdown pattern 128 being displayed on the performance pattern display device 6 is sent to the performance pattern control device 82. The effect pattern control device 82 which received this command drives and controls the effect pattern display device 6 to end the display of the first time saving effect pattern 121 and the pseudo countdown pattern 128.
In the following S1165, the first time saving effect flag=0 and the pseudo effect flag=0, and the time saving effect control process is ended.

In S1200, which follows from the negative determination in S1150, it is determined whether the special symbol has stopped fluctuating and has been definitively displayed. That is, in the normal game state, it is determined whether or not the special symbol is displayed in the small winning symbol mode or in the losing symbol mode, while in the first and second time saving game states, the special symbol is displayed in the small winning symbol mode or in the time saving mode. It is determined whether the winning symbol mode or the losing symbol mode is confirmed and displayed. If this determination result is an affirmative determination (S1200: Yes), the process proceeds to S1205, and if the determination result is a negative determination (S1200: No), the time saving effect control process is ended. Here, whether or not the special symbol has been confirmed and displayed is determined based on the information included in the symbol confirmation command described above.

In S1205, it is determined whether the pseudo effect flag=1. Then, in the case of an affirmative determination (S1205: Yes), the process advances to S1210, and in the case of a negative determination (S1205: No), the process advances to S1250.

In S1210, which follows from the affirmative determination in S1205 and the affirmative determination in S1125, a pseudo remaining number counting process is executed. In this pseudo remaining number counting process, processing is performed to count the pseudo remaining number until the pseudo end timing set in S1015 of the time saving effect setting process. For example, if the upper limit value of the number of time-saving fluctuations is set to 30 and the pseudo end timing is set to 20 of the number of time-saving fluctuations, the 20 times are set to the pseudo remaining number of times when transitioning to the first time-saving gaming state. The pseudo remaining number is decremented each time a small hit or loss is confirmed in the first time-saving game state.

In the following S1215, it is determined whether the pseudo remaining number is 5 times or less. Then, in the case of an affirmative determination (S1215: Yes), the process proceeds to S1220, and in the case of a negative determination (S1215: No), the time saving effect control process is ended.

In S1220, a pseudo countdown effect update process is executed. In this pseudo countdown effect update process, a process is performed in which information indicating the pseudo remaining number and a command to display the pseudo countdown symbol 128 indicating the pseudo remaining number are transmitted to the effect symbol control device 82. The effect pattern control device 82 that has received the information and the command generates video data for displaying the pseudo countdown pattern 128 indicating the pseudo remaining number, and displays the effect pattern display device 6 according to the information and the command. The pseudo countdown pattern 128 is displayed by controlling the drive and reproducing this moving image data. Here, if the pseudo countdown pattern 128 is already displayed, the display of the pseudo countdown pattern 128 is changed by converting the video data being played into video data newly generated by receiving the command. Let it update.

In the following S1225, it is determined whether the pseudo remaining number=0. Then, in the case of an affirmative determination (S1225: Yes), the process proceeds to S1230, and in the case of a negative determination (S1225: No), the time saving effect control process is ended.

In S1230, pseudo-end effect processing is executed. In this pseudo-termination effect processing, a process is performed in which a command for terminating the display of the first time-saving effect pattern 121 and the pseudo countdown pattern 128 being displayed on the effect pattern display device 6 is transmitted to the effect pattern control device 82. When receiving this command, the effect pattern control device 82 drives and controls the effect pattern display device 6 to end the display of the first time saving effect pattern 121 and the pseudo countdown pattern 128.
Furthermore, in this embodiment, the pseudo-end performance process includes a performance pattern 131 (see FIG. 22) that prompts whether to shift to the first time-saving game state or the second time-saving game state. It also performs a process of transmitting a command for display to the effect pattern control device 82. Upon receiving this command, the effect pattern control device 82 generates video data for displaying the inciting effect pattern 131 according to the command, drives and controls the effect pattern display device 6, and plays this video data. By doing so, the inciting effect pattern 131 is displayed.

In the following S1235, the pseudo effect flag is set to 0, and the process proceeds to S1240. In S1240, the pseudo start flag is set to 1, and the time saving effect control process is ended.

In S1250, which follows from the negative determination in S1205, it is determined whether the pseudo start flag=1. Then, in the case of an affirmative determination (S1250: Yes), the process advances to S1255, and in the case of a negative determination (S1250: No), the process advances to S1265.

In S1255, pseudo-start effect processing is executed. In this pseudo-start performance processing, a process is performed in which a command instructing the display of the first time-saving performance pattern 121 and the end of the display of the inciting performance pattern 131 is transmitted to the performance pattern control device 82. Upon receiving this command, the effect pattern control device 82 generates video data for displaying the first time-saving effect pattern 121, and displays the stimulating effect pattern 131 by driving and controlling the effect pattern display device 6. At the same time, the video data is played back and the first time saving effect pattern 121 is displayed.
In the following S1260, the pseudo start flag is set to 0, and the process advances to S1265.

In S1265, it is determined whether the remaining number of time saving fluctuations is 5 or less. Then, in the case of an affirmative determination (S1265: Yes), the process proceeds to S1270, and in the case of a negative determination (S1265: No), the time saving effect control process is ended. Here, the remaining number of time saving fluctuations is information included in the above-mentioned fluctuation start command.

In S1270, countdown effect update processing is executed. This countdown effect update process is a process for driving and controlling the effect pattern display device 6 to display or update the display of the countdown pattern 130, and is the same process as S1135, so the details will be omitted.

In the following S1275, it is determined whether the remaining number of time saving fluctuations is 0 or not. Then, in the case of an affirmative determination (S1275: Yes), the process proceeds to S1280, and in the case of a negative determination (S1275: No), the time saving effect control process is ended.
In S1280, time saving effect end processing is executed. This time-saving effect end process is a process to drive and control the effect pattern display device 6 to finish displaying the first and second time-saving effects patterns 121, 122 and the countdown pattern 130, and is the same process as S1160. , details will be omitted.
In the following S1285, the first time-saving effect flag is set to 0, and the process proceeds to S1290. In S1290, the second time-saving effect flag is set to 0, and the time-saving effect control process is ended.

Next, the display mode of the first and second time saving effect symbols mentioned above will be explained according to the progress of the game.

For example, when a game ball enters the first starting port 11 in the normal gaming state, a first pending memory is generated, and as the first pending memory is digested, the first special symbol changes on the first special symbol display device 9. Start. As the first special symbol changes, the special performance symbols 101a to 101c are displayed in a variable manner on the performance symbol display device 6, as shown in FIG. 21(A).
In the normal gaming state, since it is a low probability mode (high probability flag = 0) and a non-time saving mode (first time saving flag = 0 and second time saving flag = 0), the validity judgment is made by digesting the first suspended memory. In the process, the normal table is used to determine the validity, and at the same time, the variation time of the special symbol corresponding to the non-time saving mode is selected and determined.

In addition, in the normal game state, when a game ball passes through the normal symbol operating gate 17, a normal symbol retention memory is generated, and as the normal symbol retention memory is digested, the normal symbols begin to fluctuate on the ordinary symbol display device 7. In the normal gaming state, since it is the non-time saving mode, the normal symbol fluctuation time is long and the opening time of the second starting port 12 is short (see FIG. 5). As a result, in the normal gaming state, as described above, it is difficult for the ball to enter the second starting hole, so the player mainly plays the game by hitting left-handed.

In the normal gaming state, when a predetermined variable time has elapsed from the start of variation of the first special symbol, the first special symbol is fixed and stopped, and depending on the stopping pattern of the first special symbol, a jackpot, a small win, a short-time win, Or the loss is confirmed. Further, as the first special symbol is fixed and stopped, the special performance symbols 101a to 101c are stopped and displayed on the performance symbol display device 6. Here, as shown in FIG. 21(B), when the special effect symbols 101a to 101c are stopped and displayed in the first time saving winning pattern mode, the first time saving winning is confirmed. In this embodiment, the combination of displaying the special effect pattern 101a as "1", the special effect pattern 101b as "2", and the special effect pattern 101c as "3" is set as the first time saving winning pattern mode. ing.

Then, as shown in FIG. 21(C), the effect pattern display device 6 displays a message pattern 125 indicating a time-saving win, and also displays a first time-saving effect pattern 121 indicating that the first time-saving game state is in effect. indicate. By displaying this first time-saving effect pattern 121, the player is notified that the first time-saving game state has been entered. Furthermore, a message pattern 127 indicating the upper limit value (remaining number) of the number of time-saving changes in the first time-saving game state is displayed, and the message pattern 127 notifies the player of the period during which the first time-saving game state can be continued. do.
Here, the message pattern 127 is such that when it is determined in S1015 of the time-saving effect setting process not to perform the fake effect, the upper limit value set in S255 of the validity judgment process is applied; When it is decided to perform the dummy effect, a numerical value indicating the pseudo end timing is applied. For example, if the upper limit of the number of time-saving changes is set to 30 in the validity judgment process, and the execution of a fake performance is determined in the time-saving performance setting process, the time-saving performance setting is set as shown in FIG. 21(C). The message pattern 127 indicating the 20th (or 10th) pseudo end timing set by the process is displayed.

In the first time-saving gaming state, as mentioned above, since it is a low probability mode (high probability flag = 0) and a first time-saving mode (first time-saving flag = 1), compared to the normal gaming state, The average fluctuation time of special symbols and the fluctuation time of normal symbols are shortened, and the opening time of a second starting port 12 is lengthened. However, as mentioned above, the shortening of the variable time and the extension of the opening time are small compared to the normal gaming state, so in the first time saving gaming state, the reduction in the opening time is slightly smaller than that of the normal gaming state. This only makes it easier for the ball to enter the second starting port 12. Therefore, players tend to play left-handed games as in the normal gaming state.
Although the first time-saving game state is more advantageous than the normal game state, its advantage is slight and significantly lower than the second time-saving game state. As a result, in the normal gaming state, the player has a stronger tendency to desire the second time saving win that moves to the second time saving gaming state, compared to the first time saving winning that moves to the first time saving gaming state. When the first time-saving game state is reached (when the first time-saving win is confirmed), the player has the emotion of wanting to win the second time-saving win in the next normal game state and the feeling of wanting to win the second time-saving game in the first time-saving game state. It is easy to recall feelings of wishing for an early termination.

In this first time-saving game state, the first time-saving effect symbol 121 is continuously displayed as shown in FIGS. 21(D) to (F). Further, in a state where the pseudo remaining number of time saving fluctuations is more than 5, the pseudo countdown pattern 128 indicating the pseudo remaining number is not displayed.
Here, in the first time-saving gaming state, as described above, the time-saving winning determination is determined with high probability by the success/failure determination process, but the time-saving winning determination is invalidated and the first time-saving gaming state continues. . For example, in the first time-saving game state, if it is determined that the second time-saving game has been won by the correctness determination process, the transition to the second time-saving game state due to the second time-saving game is invalidated, and the first time-saving game is Continue the state. In this case, the special symbols on the special symbol display devices 9 and 10 are fixed and stopped in the short-time winning symbol mode, but on the production symbol display device 6, the special production symbols 101a to 101c are fixed and stopped in the losing symbol mode. Display confirmation of loss. In addition, even in the second time-saving gaming state or the variable-probability gaming state, the time-saving winning determination is similarly determined with high probability by the correctness determination process, but the time-saving winning determination is invalidated and the gaming state continues. .

Thereafter, when the special symbols stop changing in the first time-saving game state, and the 15th special symbol change starts in the first time-saving game state, as shown in FIG. 22 ( As shown in A), the special performance symbols 101a to 101c are displayed in a fluctuating manner on the performance symbol display device 6, and as the special symbols stop, the special performance symbols 101a to 101c stop as shown in FIG. 22(B). Is displayed. Then, when the special effect symbols 101a to 101c are confirmed and displayed in the losing pattern mode, the pseudo remaining number of the time saving variation number becomes 5, so the effect pattern display device 6 displays a pseudo-remaining number indicating "5 remaining". A countdown pattern 128 is displayed. Here, this pseudo remaining number is a numerical value indicating the above-mentioned pseudo end timing, and the correct remaining number of time saving fluctuations is 15 times.

As shown in FIGS. 22(C) to (E), this pseudo countdown symbol 128 is continuously displayed until the pseudo remaining number = 0, and the special symbol fluctuation stop is executed in the first time saving game state. Each time, the display is decremented by 1. Then, when the number of variations of the special symbol executed since the start of the first time-saving gaming state reaches 20, as shown in FIG. 22(D), a pseudo countdown symbol 130 indicating the pseudo remaining number of the number of time-saving variations will be displayed as “1 session remaining”. Next, when the special effect patterns 101a to 101c stop in a losing pattern due to the stoppage of fluctuation of the special symbols, the pseudo countdown symbol 130 displays "0 times remaining" as shown in FIG. 22(E).
Then, in the effect pattern display device 6, as shown in FIG. 22(F), the display of the first time saving effect pattern 121 is finished, and which of the first time saving effect and the second time saving effect is determined. A stimulating effect pattern 131 is displayed. Here, the performance symbol display device 6 notifies the transition from the first time-saving game state to the normal game state by the end of the display of the first time-saving performance symbol 121, but in reality (as an internal process), The first time-saving game state continues. In addition, in the normal gaming state, as mentioned above, the average fluctuation time of special symbols and the fluctuation time of normal symbols are longer than in the first time-saving gaming state, so there is a possibility that the player will notice. Since the time difference between the fluctuating time between the normal gaming state and the first time-saving gaming state is small, there is a low possibility that the player will notice the fluctuating time.

When the first time-saving effect pattern 121 and the pseudo countdown pattern 130 are displayed and the special pattern that first started to fluctuate stops, the effect pattern display device 6 displays the special effect as shown in FIG. 23(A). The symbols 101a to 101c are stopped and displayed in the first time saving per symbol mode, and the display of the production symbol 131 is ended. Then, as shown in FIG. 23(B), a message pattern 125 indicating a time-saving win is displayed, and a first time-saving effect pattern 121 indicating a first time-saving game state is displayed. As a result, the player is notified as if the state had shifted to the first time-saving gaming state again. Furthermore, a message pattern 127 indicating the remaining number of correct time saving fluctuations in the first time saving game state is displayed.
In this way, the end of the display of the pseudo countdown pattern 130 and the first time-saving effect pattern 121, the confirmation of the first time-saving effect by the special effect patterns 101a to 101c that were then displayed in a variable manner, and the first time-saving effect associated with the confirmation. By displaying a series of false performances in which the symbols 121 are redisplayed and the symbols 121 are sequentially executed, it is possible to make it appear as if the first time-saving game state, which is actually continuing, is once ended and shifted again. This allows the player to pretend that the special symbols have changed in the normal gaming state due to the end of the first time-saving gaming state, leading to a second time-saving gaming state that is more advantageous than the first time-saving gaming state. It is possible to provide a game that makes the player expect the occurrence of the second time saving hit determined by the transition. Such games can make the player's emotions fluctuate even in the middle of the first time-saving game state, and can effectively increase the interest of the game.

After the end of such a fake performance, as shown in FIG. 23(C), the first time-saving performance symbol 121 is continuously displayed, and the variable display and stop display of the special performance symbols 101a to 101c are repeated. Then, when the remaining number of time saving fluctuations reaches 5, a countdown symbol 130 is displayed as shown in FIG. is decremented by 1. When the remaining number of time saving fluctuations reaches 1, the countdown symbol 130 displays "1 remaining" as shown in FIG. 23(E), and when the fluctuation of the special symbol executed in this state stops, As shown in FIG. 23(F), the countdown pattern 130 displays "0 times remaining". After the countdown pattern 130 is displayed, the display of the first time saving effect pattern 121 and the countdown pattern 130 is finished (see FIG. 24(A)). This notifies the player that the first time-saving gaming state has ended and the state has shifted to the normal gaming state.

In the normal gaming state, when the first pending memory (or second pending memory) is used up as described above, the special symbols start to fluctuate, and as shown in FIG. The production patterns 101a to 101c are displayed in a variable manner. After this, as the special symbols stop changing, the special effect symbols 101a to 101c are stopped and displayed as shown in FIG. 24(B). Here, when the special effect symbols 101a to 101c are stopped and displayed in the second time saving winning pattern mode, the second time saving winning is confirmed. In this embodiment, the combination of displaying the special effect pattern 101a as "7", the special effect pattern 101b as "8", and the special effect pattern 101c as "9" is set as the second time saving winning pattern mode. are doing.
When the second time saving win is confirmed in the normal gaming state, the effect symbol display device 6 displays a message pattern 125 indicating the time saving win and the fact that the second time saving game state is in effect, as shown in FIG. 24(C). A second time-saving effect pattern 122 and a message pattern 127 indicating the upper limit value (remaining number) of the number of time-saving fluctuations in the second time-saving game state are displayed. Furthermore, as described above, the second time-saving game state is a state where the ball enters the second starting opening 12 more easily than the normal game state and the first time-saving game state, and is a state with a great chance of hitting the jackpot. Therefore, a performance pattern 126 is displayed to notify this.

As mentioned above, the second time-saving game state is the second time-saving mode (second time-saving flag = 1), so compared to the normal game state and the first time-saving game state, the average fluctuation time of the special symbols is The variation time of normal symbols is significantly shortened, and the opening time of the second starting port 12 is significantly extended. In this second time-saving game state, it is much easier for the ball to enter the second starting port 12 than in the normal game state and the first time-saving game state, so it is advantageous for the player to play the game by hitting right-handed. . Therefore, in the second time-saving game state, the second pending memory is easily accumulated, and the second special symbol is easily changed by the consumption of the second pending memory.

In the second time-saving game state, as shown in FIG. 24(D), the second time-saving effect pattern 122 is continuously displayed on the effect pattern display device 6. Then, each time the special symbol changes, the remaining number of time saving fluctuations decreases, and when the remaining number of time saving fluctuations becomes 5 or less, a countdown indicating the remaining number appears as shown in FIG. 24(E). A pattern 130 is displayed. This countdown symbol 130 is displayed decreasing every time the special symbol changes, similarly to the first time saving game state. Then, when the number of time saving fluctuations remains is 1, the countdown symbol 130 displays "1 time remaining" as shown in FIG. 24(F), and when the special symbol stops fluctuating in this state, the corresponding The countdown pattern 130 displays "0 times remaining" (see FIG. 23(F)), and the display of the second time-saving effect pattern 122 and the countdown pattern 130 ends. As a result, the second time-saving game state ends and the game shifts to the normal game state.
Incidentally, when the second time-saving game state shifts to the normal game state, the player often has a second pending memory due to the right hit in the second time-saving game state. Then, in the win/fail determination process by digesting the second retention memory, there is a higher probability that the second time saver winning symbol pattern will be selected in conjunction with the time saver hit determination than in the case of the first retention memory (i.e., the second time saver winning pattern will be selected). likely to be a hit). Therefore, with the second special symbol that changes first when the second time-saving game state shifts to the normal game state, there is a relatively high possibility of determining the second time-saving win, and it is possible to expect a return to the second time-saving game state. In this way, the end of the second time-saving game state is a loss of the chance to easily enter the second starting port 12, but it is also a chance to pull back the second time-saving game state, and the withdrawal can be done by confirming the second time-saving game. If it can be obtained, the player will be transferred again to the second time-saving gaming state which is advantageous to him.

In addition, when the special symbols stop in the jackpot pattern mode in the first time-saving game state described above, the jackpot is confirmed. As a result, the first time saving game state is ended and the jackpot game described above is started. Then, the effect pattern display device 6 finishes displaying the first time saving effect pattern 121, the countdown pattern 130, and the pseudo countdown pattern 128 displayed in the first time saving game state, and starts the jackpot start effect (not shown). is displayed. Similarly, when a jackpot is confirmed in the second time-saving game state, the second time-saving game state ends and the jackpot game starts. Then, the performance symbol display device 6 finishes displaying the second time-saving performance symbol 122 and the countdown symbol 130 displayed in the second time-saving game state, and displays the jackpot start performance.

Next, features of the embodiment will be explained.
The pachinko machine 1 of the embodiment is configured such that when a time-saving hit is determined by the win/fail judgment process in the normal gaming state, the normal gaming state shifts to the first time-saving gaming state or the second time-saving gaming state as the special symbol stops. This is what I did. The probability of winning per time saving in the win/fail judgment process is set extremely high, the selection probability per first time saving is set higher than the selection probability per second time saving, and the first time saving game The upper limit numerical value of the number of time saving fluctuations in the state is set lower than the upper limit numerical value in the second time saving game state.
In such a configuration, as the special symbols stop changing in the normal gaming state, the transition to the first time-saving gaming state or the second time-saving gaming state occurs with extremely high probability, compared to the normal gaming state. A game in which the ball can easily enter the second starting port 12 can be provided to the player without going through a jackpot game. Even if the normal gaming state is entered by the end of the first time saving game state or the second time saving gaming state, in the normal gaming state, the time saving winning is determined with an extremely high probability by the win/fail judgment process, so the normal gaming state ends in a relatively short time and shifts to the first time-saving game state or the second time-saving game state. In this way, according to the configuration of the present embodiment, the first time-saving game state or the second time-saving game state is repeated through the normal game state of a relatively short time, so that the normal game state is repeated as in the conventional configuration described above. It is possible to prevent the transition to the gaming state from becoming a trigger for stopping the game.

Furthermore, in the configuration of the embodiment, it is easier to win in the first time saving win than in the second time saving win by the win/fail judgment process in the normal gaming state, and the upper limit value of the number of time saving fluctuations in the first time saving gaming state is set. It is set smaller than in the second time-saving game state. As a result, the game that repeats the normal gaming state via the first time-saving gaming state is easier to progress, and in the normal gaming state between the first time-saving gaming states, the player is There is a possibility of securing an advantageous second time saving win. That is, even if the first time-saving game state, which is slightly more advantageous than the normal game state, is repeated through the normal game state and the game progresses, at least the first time-saving game state can be continued. For every possible period (until the number of time-saving changes reaches the upper limit value), an opportunity (normal gaming state) to shift to a second time-saving gaming state that is significantly more advantageous than the first time-saving gaming state occurs. , it is possible to effectively stimulate the emotions of the player who is looking forward to the arrival of the opportunity, and also to stimulate the player's excitement about determining whether the first time reduction or the second time reduction is achieved in the opportunity that occurs periodically. As described above, according to the configuration of the present embodiment, it is possible to provide a new and interesting game that has not been seen before during a jackpot game and a game other than a variable probability game state, and it is possible to dramatically improve the interest of the game.

In addition, in the configuration of this embodiment, the performance symbol display device 6 displays the first time-saving performance symbol 121 indicating the first time-saving game state, and also displays the second time-saving performance symbol 121 indicating the second time-saving game state. It has a function of notifying the player of the first time-saving game state and the second time-saving game state by displaying the symbol 122. Furthermore, in the first time-saving game state, the display of the first time-saving effect pattern 121 is finished at the pseudo-end timing before the number of time-saving fluctuations reaches the upper limit value, and the first time-saving effect symbol 121 is stopped after the display ends. At the same time, a sham effect is executed in which the first time-saving effect pattern 121 is displayed again. This false performance makes it appear to the player that in the middle of the first time saving game state, the player has transitioned to the normal gaming state where the second time saving win can be determined by the win/fail judgment process. It can stimulate the emotions of players who want to win. Therefore, according to the configuration of this embodiment, even in the first time-saving gaming state, which has only a slight advantage compared to the normal gaming state, it is possible to cause ups and downs in the player's emotions, It can improve the interest of playing games.

In addition, in the second time-saving game state, it is much easier for the ball to enter the second starting port 12 than in the normal game state and the first time-saving game state, so the game progresses when the player hits to the right. Second retention memory is easy to accumulate. Therefore, in the win/fail determination process that is executed after the second time-saving gaming state ends, the second pending memory, which determines the second time-saving win, has a higher probability than the first pending memory, and the second This is an opportunity to reverse the transition to the time-saving gaming state. As described above, the configuration of this embodiment has the advantage that it is possible to provide an interesting game in which a new chance arises upon completion of the second time-saving game state.

The following describes the correspondence between the terms used in the embodiments described above and the terms described in the claims. The pachinko machine 1 corresponds to an example of a pinball game machine according to the present invention. The second starting port 12 corresponds to an example of a variable starting port according to the present invention. The first starting port 11 corresponds to an example of the starting port according to the present invention. The first special symbol and the second special symbol correspond to an example of the special symbol according to the present invention. The first special symbol display device 9 and the second special symbol display device 10 correspond to an example of the special symbol display device according to the present invention. The starting winning process corresponds to an example of the random number extraction means according to the present invention. The validity determination process corresponds to an example of the validity determination means according to the present invention. S200 to S295 of the validity determination process correspond to an example of the special symbol control means according to the present invention. And, digesting the first retention memory or the second retention memory corresponds to an example of the symbol variation condition according to the present invention. The jackpot game process corresponds to an example of the jackpot game control means according to the present invention. Determining the jackpot symbol mode to which the shift to the variable probability gaming state is assigned in S205 of the success/failure determination process corresponds to an example of the high probability condition according to the present invention. The variable probability gaming state corresponds to an example of the high probability gaming state according to the present invention. S315 to S350, S385 to S395, S435 to S450, and S460 to S470 of the success/failure determination process and S615 to S630 of the jackpot game process correspond to an example of the game state conversion means according to the present invention. S190 to S195 and S240 to S245 of the validity determination process correspond to an example of the content of the time saving determination process according to the present invention. S435 to S450 of the propriety determination process correspond to an example of the content of the time-saving transition process according to the present invention. The number of time-saving fluctuations reaching the upper limit value (the remaining number of time-saving fluctuations becoming "0") and the special symbols stopping in the jackpot pattern correspond to an example of the time-saving termination condition according to the present invention. . The period from the start of the first time-saving gaming state until the number of time-saving fluctuations reaches the upper limit value (10, 20, or 30 times) is an example of the period in which the first time-saving gaming state according to the present invention can be continued. The period from the start of the second time-saving gaming state until the number of time-saving fluctuations reaches the upper limit value (100 times) corresponds to an example of the period during which the second time-saving gaming state according to the present invention can be continued. S315 to S350 and S460 to S470 of the propriety determination process correspond to an example of the content of the time saving termination process according to the present invention. The start of the display of the first time-saving effect pattern 121 and the start of the display of the second time-saving effect pattern 122 correspond to an example of the time-saving game start effect according to the present invention, and the end of the display of the first time-saving effect pattern 121 and the start of the display of the second time-saving effect pattern 122 correspond to an example of the time-saving game start effect according to the present invention. The end of the display of the second time-saving effect symbol 122 corresponds to an example of the time-saving game end effect according to the present invention. The time-saving performance setting process and the time-saving performance control process correspond to an example of the time-saving performance control means according to the present invention. The pseudo-end timing set in the first time-saving game state corresponds to an example of the predetermined timing before the time-saving end condition is satisfied according to the present invention. The end of the display of the first time-saving effect pattern 121 at the pseudo-end timing corresponds to an example of the pseudo-time-saving end effect according to the present invention, and is executed in conjunction with the stop of the special symbol that changes first after the pseudo-end timing. The start of displaying the first time saving effect pattern 121 corresponds to an example of the pseudo time saving start effect according to the present invention. S1010 to S1025 of the time saving effect setting process, S1170 to S1185 and S1215 to S1260 of the time saving effect control process correspond to an example of the content of the pseudo effect process according to the present invention.

Another example of the embodiment described above will be described below.

In the embodiment, in the win/fail judgment process, it is determined whether or not it is a time-saving hit based on the random number for jackpot determination, and when it is determined that the time-saving hit is determined, the first time-saving hit and the second time-saving hit are determined based on the random number for determining the symbol. Although the configuration is not limited to this, for example, it is also possible to have a configuration in which the first time saving hit and the second time saving hit are determined based on the random number for jackpot determination. In this configuration, a jackpot, a small win, a first time saver win, a second time saver win, or a loss is determined based on the random number for jackpot determination. Or, based on the random number for jackpot determination, multiple time saving wins (per 10 time saving, per 20 time saving, per 30 time saving, per 100 time saving) with respective upper limit values of the number of time saving fluctuations determined respectively. ), a jackpot, a small hit, or a loss may be determined. In this configuration, selectable time-saving winning symbol modes are assigned in advance for each of the plurality of time-saving winnings, and when it is determined that any of the time-saving winnings has occurred, one time-saving winning is made according to the judgment result. It can be used to determine the pattern mode.
In addition, in the embodiment, when the first time saving hit is determined in S245 of the validity judgment process, the upper limit numerical value of the number of time saving changes is determined according to the first time saving per symbol pattern determined in S245. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the upper limit numerical value may be determined by lottery. Alternatively, the upper limit numerical value may be determined based on a predetermined order or condition. Here, as the condition, for example, one of the upper limit numerical values can be selected depending on the number of prize balls, the number of balls entered, and the like.

In the embodiment, the probability of winning per short time is set to 24/25, but the setting is not limited to this, and the setting of the winning probability per short time can be changed as appropriate. For example, it may be set to 9/10, 49/50, etc. Alternatively, the winning probability per time saving may be set lower than that of the above embodiment. Similarly, the selection probability between the first time reduction and the second time reduction can be changed as appropriate.
Further, the selection probability per second time reduction when the second reserved memory is consumed can also be changed as appropriate. For example, the selection probability per second time saving may be set to be the same probability for the first suspension storage and the second suspension storage.

In the embodiment, it is determined whether or not there is a time-saving hit in all gaming states (normal gaming state, first and second time-saving gaming states, and variable probability gaming state), and the time-saving winning is performed only in the normal gaming state. Accordingly, the configuration is such that the transition to the first and second time-saving gaming states is enabled, but the configuration is not limited to this, and it is also possible to determine whether or not it is a time-saving win by a win/fail determination process only in the normal gaming state. . In this case, since the special symbols are decided and stopped in the time-saving winning pattern only in the normal game state, the special production symbols 101a to 101a to 101c can be stopped and displayed in the form of a time-saving winning symbol to confirm the time-saving winning.

In the embodiment, the upper limit numerical value of the number of time-saving fluctuations that defines the period during which the first time-saving gaming state can be continued, and the upper limit numerical value of the number of time-saving fluctuations that defines the period during which the second time-saving gaming state can be continued, are as follows. It is possible to change the settings as appropriate. For example, the upper limit numerical value of the first time saving game state can be set to 5 times, 10 times, 15 times, or 30 times, 50 times, 80 times. Similarly, it is also possible to set the upper limit numerical value of the second time saving game state to 50 times, 200 times, etc.
Further, in the embodiment, the upper limit numerical value of the first time saving game state is selected from three preset types, but this selectable number can be changed as appropriate. For example, it is possible to select from two different types or to select from five different types. Further, even at the upper limit value in the second time saving game state, the upper limit value may be selected and determined from a plurality of preset upper limit values.

The embodiment has a configuration in which the continuable period of each time-saving gaming state is defined by the upper limit value of the number of time-saving changes in the first and second time-saving gaming states, but the continuable period is not limited to this. The conditions for this can be set as appropriate. For example, the continuation period may be defined by the time elapsed from the start of each time-saving game state, or the continuable period may be defined by the number of prize balls or the number of balls fired in each time-saving game state. You can also do that. As a specific example, in a configuration in which the continuable period is defined by the elapsed time, timing starts from the start of the first and second time-saving gaming states, and when a predetermined upper limit time elapses, the state shifts to the normal gaming state. This can be achieved by having a configuration that does this. By setting the upper limit time of the first time-saving game state to a shorter time than the upper limit time of the second time-saving game state, the same effects as in the embodiment can be achieved. In addition, in a configuration that defines the continuation period based on the number of prize balls or the number of shots fired, the upper limit of the number of prize balls or the number of shots fired is set, and the number of prize balls or the number of shots fired is set at the upper limit in each time-saving game state. This can be realized by configuring the system to shift to a normal gaming state when the number reaches the number.

In the embodiment, the average fluctuation time of the special symbol, the fluctuation time of the normal symbol, and the opening time of the second starting port 12 in the first time-saving game state and the second time-saving game state are changed and set as appropriate. It is possible. For example, in the second time-saving gaming state of the embodiment, the average fluctuation time of special symbols, the fluctuation time of normal symbols, and the opening time of the second starting port 12 are controlled according to a time-saving mode different from the second time-saving mode of the variable probability gaming state. It can be configured to That is, in the time saving mode that is valid in the second time saving gaming state, compared to the second time saving mode in the variable probability gaming state, the fluctuation time of the normal symbols is set longer, and the average fluctuation time of the special symbols and the second start are set longer. The opening time of the mouth 12 can be set in the same manner as in the second time saving mode. Further, the settings can be changed in the same manner for the first time saving mode that is enabled in the first time saving gaming state.
In addition, the first time-saving game state and the second time-saving game state are three elements: shortening the average fluctuation time of special symbols, shortening the fluctuation time of normal symbols, and extending the opening time of the second starting port 12. It is also possible to set different elements to be valid among them. For example, in the second time-saving game state, all three elements are enabled, while in the first time-saving game state, the shortening of the average fluctuation time of special symbols and the shortening of the fluctuation time of normal symbols are enabled. can.

In the embodiment, the winning probability of the normal symbols is set to a constant value throughout the game, but the invention is not limited to this, and it is also possible to use a structure in which different winning probabilities of the normal symbols are used depending on the game state. For example, in a special game state, the probability of winning a normal symbol is 9/10, and in other game states, it is 1/10.
Further, it may be configured to use different winning probabilities of normal symbols depending on the time saving mode (non-time saving mode, first time saving mode, and second time saving mode). For example, in the non-time saving mode and the first time saving mode, the winning probability of the normal symbol is 1/10, and in the second time saving mode, the winning probability of the normal symbol is 9/10. Alternatively, a configuration may be adopted in which different winning probabilities of normal symbols are set in each time saving mode. By setting the winning probability of the normal symbol according to the time-saving mode in this way, the advantage in the second time-saving gaming state (making it easier for the ball to enter the second starting port 12) is increased, so the above-mentioned implementation The effects of the example can be further improved.

In the embodiment, the pseudo-end timing for performing the above-mentioned fake performance (end of display of the first time-saving performance symbol 121) during the first time-saving game state can be changed and set as appropriate. For example, in the embodiment, when the upper limit value of the number of time saving fluctuations is selected and determined to be 20 or 30 times, the pseudo end timing is set using another upper limit value smaller than the upper limit value, but the present invention is not limited to this. It is also possible to set the pseudo-end timing using an appropriate value that is less than or equal to the selected upper limit value. Alternatively, in a configuration in which an upper limit value of the number of time-saving fluctuations is set as the period during which the first time-saving gaming state can be continued, a pseudo-end timing is set based on the elapsed time in the first time-saving gaming state, the number of prize balls, etc. It is also possible to do so.
Further, in the embodiment, the pseudo end timing is set only once in the first time saving game state, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the pseudo end timing is set a plurality of times, and the above-mentioned fake performance is performed at each timing. It is also possible to execute Furthermore, it is also possible to adopt a configuration in which the number of pseudo-end timings is selectively determined in accordance with the determination of transition to the first time-saving gaming state.

Although the embodiment has a configuration in which the above-mentioned fake performance is performed during the first time-saving game state, the present invention is not limited to this, and a configuration may be adopted in which such a fake performance is not performed. Also, even in the second time-saving game state, the second time-saving game state is ended by setting the pseudo end timing and sequentially completing and re-displaying the second time-saving effect symbol 122. It is also possible to perform a fake performance. In this case, the feeling of the player who is depressed by the end of the display of the second time-saving effect pattern 122 can be raised by re-displaying the second time-saving effect pattern 122. In this way, by causing the player's emotions to fluctuate in the second time-saving game state, the interest in the game can be improved.

In the embodiment, in the first time-saving game state, the performance display device 6 may perform a performance display suggesting the upper limit numerical value of the number of time-saving fluctuations. For example, mutually different background images are set as effect displays suggesting each upper limit value, and in the first time saving game state, the background image assigned to the selected upper limit value is displayed on the effect pattern display device 6. Is displayed.
To be more specific, a clear sky background image 141 is assigned to the 10th upper limit number selected when the first time saving hit is determined, a cloudy background image 142 is assigned to the 20th upper limit number, and the upper limit is A night background image 143 is assigned to the numerical value 30 times, and in the first time saving game state, background images 141 to 143 according to the selected upper limit numerical value are displayed on the effect pattern display device 6. That is, when the upper limit value of 10 times is selected and determined, the background image 141 is displayed in the first time saving game state as shown in FIG. 25(A). Further, when the upper limit value of 20 times is selected and determined, the background image 142 is displayed in the first time saving game state as shown in FIG. 25(B). Further, when the upper limit value of 30 times is selected and determined, the background image 143 is displayed in the first time saving game state as shown in FIG. 25(C). By displaying each of these background images 141 to 143 on the effect pattern display device 6, it is possible to suggest to the player the period during which the first time-saving game state can be continued, so that the next time-saving game state can be determined as a normal game state. It is possible to effectively stimulate the emotions of players who are looking forward to the game. The process of selecting and displaying the background images 141 to 143 in accordance with the upper limit numerical value can be realized by the time saving effect control process of the embodiment. That is, in S1120 of the time-saving production control process, with reference to the upper limit numerical value of the number of time-saving fluctuations transmitted from the main control device 80, a command for displaying the background images 141 to 143 assigned to the upper limit numerical value is issued. It is transmitted to the production pattern control device 82 together with a command for displaying the first time-saving production pattern 121. The effect pattern control device 82 which received this command generates moving image data for displaying the first time saving effect pattern 121 and the background images 141 to 143, and drives and controls the effect pattern display device 6. Thereby, the background images 141 to 143 can be displayed in the first time saving game state. Furthermore, in S1160 or S1280 of the time-saving production control process, by transmitting a command to the production pattern control device 82 to end the display of the background images 141 to 143, the background images are displayed as the first time-saving game state ends. 141 to 143 are displayed.
Further, in the embodiment, in a configuration in which an effect is performed to make it appear that the first time-saving game state ends in the middle of the first time-saving game state, the display of the background images 141 to 143 is similarly controlled. It is preferable that For example, if the upper limit value of the number of time-saving fluctuations is set to 30 times and the pseudo end timing is set to 20 times, the upper limit value of 20 times will be assigned with the start of the first time-saving game state. A cloudy background image 142 is displayed, and when the pseudo end timing is reached, the display of the background image 142 is ended. Then, as the next special symbol stops changing, the background image 141 of fine weather assigned to the upper limit value of 10 times is displayed together with the first time-saving effect symbol 121. In this way, by performing the above-mentioned fake effect on the background images 141 to 143 as well, it is possible to improve the effect of making it appear as if the game state has shifted to the normal game state in the middle of the first time-saving game state.
In addition, in the configuration in which the display of the background images 141 to 143 is selectively controlled according to the upper limit value of the number of times of time saving fluctuations, the display of each of the background images 141 to 143 is controlled according to the time saving condition suggestion effect according to the present invention. This corresponds to an example, and S1120, S1160, and S1280 (S1180, S1230, S1255) of the time-saving production control process correspond to an example of the time-saving suggestion production control process according to the present invention. Furthermore, the effect that suggests an upper limit value for the number of times of time saving fluctuations is not limited to the background images 141 to 143, and can be performed by various effects.

In the configuration of the embodiment, the start of the first and second time-saving game states is notified by displaying the first and second time-saving effects symbols 121 and 122, and the end of the display of the first and second time-saving effects symbols 121 and 122 informs the user of the start of the first and second time-saving effects patterns. The configuration is such that the end of the first and second time-saving game states is notified, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the configuration is such that the start and end of the first and second time-saving game states are notified by lighting or blinking of a lamp. You can also. Alternatively, a configuration may be adopted in which the start and end of the first and second time-saving game states are notified by sound from a speaker. Furthermore, the display on the effect pattern display device 6, the light emission from the lamp, and the sound generation from the speaker may be combined as appropriate.

1 Pachinko machine (pinball game machine)
6 Production symbol display device 9 First special symbol display device (special symbol display device)
10 Second special symbol display device (special symbol display device)
11 First starting port (starting port)
12 Second starting port (variable starting port)

Claims (1)

a special symbol display device that variably displays a special symbol;
A starting port is provided to allow the launched game ball to enter at any time,
a variable starting port that is converted into an open state in which a fired game ball can enter the ball and a closed state in which the ball cannot enter or is difficult to enter;
a grand prize opening that is converted into an open state where the fired game ball can enter and a closed state where the ball cannot enter;
Random number extraction means for extracting a predetermined random number due to entry of a game ball into the starting port or the variable starting port;
validity determining means for determining validity based on the random numbers extracted by the random number extraction means;
Taking the establishment of a predetermined symbol variation condition as a trigger, the special symbol display device starts varying the special symbol, and after a predetermined variation time has elapsed, the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a symbol manner indicating the determination result by the validity determining means. special symbol control means;
a jackpot game control means for executing a jackpot game in which the jackpot is opened when the special symbol stops changing when a jackpot is judged by the jackpot judging means;
and a game state converting means for shifting to a high probability game state in which the jackpot winning probability used by the win/fail determining means is higher than the normal game state after the end of the jackpot when a predetermined high probability condition is satisfied. In gaming machines,
It is possible to separately aim the starting hole and the variable starting hole by firing the game ball,
The validity determining means includes:
The random number extracted by the random number extracting means due to the entry of the ball into the starting hole is determined as to whether or not it is a time-saving win according to a time-saving winning probability that is set to a higher probability than the jackpot winning probability;
The time-saving hit determination results in a first time-saving game state in which it is easier to enter the variable starting port compared to the normal gaming state , but it is more advantageous to play a game that aims at the starting port rather than the variable starting port; Time-saving judgment for determining transition to either a second time-saving gaming state in which it is easier to enter the variable starting port compared to the time-saving gaming state, and a game aiming at the variable starting port is more advantageous than the starting port. Equipped with processing contents,
The gaming state converting means is
In the normal gaming state, when a time-saving determination is made based on the time-saving determination process content of the win/fail determining means, the first game determined by the time-saving determination process content is based on the stoppage of fluctuation of the special symbol on the special symbol display device. Time-saving transition processing content for transitioning to a time-saving gaming state or a second time-saving gaming state, and time-saving ending processing content for ending the first time-saving gaming state or second time-saving gaming state based on the establishment of a predetermined time-saving ending condition. and
The content of the time-saving determination process is such that the probability of determining the first time-saving gaming state is set higher than the probability of determining the second time-saving gaming state,
The time-saving termination processing content is effective in the first time-saving game state so that the period during which the second time-saving game state can be continued is longer than the period during which the first time-saving game state can be continued. The time-saving ending condition is set as follows, and the time-saving ending condition is valid in the second time-saving gaming state.
This pinball game machine is characterized by comprising a countdown display means that starts displaying a countdown of the remaining period when the remaining period in which the time-saving gaming state can be continued according to set time-saving termination conditions reaches a predetermined period.

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