JP7396713B2 - gaming machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine (pachinko machine) in which a game is played by firing game balls toward a gaming area formed on a gaming board.

2. Description of the Related Art Gaming machines are known in which games are played by firing game balls toward a gaming area formed on a gaming board. In such a gaming machine, a bonus is awarded to a player when a predetermined awarding condition is met. For example, when a game ball enters a starting hole provided in the gaming area, identification information (such as a special symbol) is displayed in a variable manner, and when the identification information is stopped and displayed in a specific manner (such as a jackpot symbol, etc.), There are gaming machines that play specific games (for example, jackpot games) in which a variable ball entry opening becomes ready for ball entry.

Such gaming machines generally perform various effects. For example, in the game machine that performs the above-mentioned specific game, while the identification information is being displayed in a variable manner, a character is displayed in order to suggest that the identification information may be displayed in a specific manner (Patent Document 1). .

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2008-178756

However, the above-mentioned conventional technology is well known to general players, and has the problem of not being able to sufficiently increase gaming interest.

The present invention has been made in order to solve the above-mentioned problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can perform effects that further enhance gaming interest.

In order to solve at least part of the above-mentioned problems, the gaming machine of the present invention employs the following configuration. That is,
acquisition information storage means for storing acquisition information acquired based on the game ball entering the starting hole;
a hit determination means for determining whether the acquired information is hit information;
Fluctuation display means for displaying the identification information in a variable manner based on the execution of the hit determination, and when it is determined in the hit determination that the acquired information is the hit information, the identification information is stopped and displayed in a specific manner. and,
a specific game execution means for performing a specific game in which the variable ball entry opening becomes ready for ball entry when the identification information is stopped and displayed in the specific manner;
Preliminary effect execution means capable of performing a preliminary judgment as to whether or not the obtained information is predetermined information and a preliminary effect based on the result of the preliminary judgment when the obtained information is stored in the obtained information storage means; ,
Equipped with
The variable display means is configured to stop display the identification information and then display the identification information in a fixed display state for a predetermined fixed display time,
The advance performance execution means is
The preliminary performance includes at least a symbol reduction performance that reduces the identification information, a maintenance performance that leaves the identification information reduced in the symbol reduction performance in a reduced state, and a symbol reduction performance that reduces the identification information that has been reduced in the symbol reduction performance. It is possible to perform a pattern enlargement effect that enlarges the identification information to the original size ,
During execution of the confirmed display, among the symbol reduction performance, the maintenance performance, and the symbol enlargement performance, the maintenance performance is executable, and the symbol reduction performance and the symbol enlargement performance are not executable. Features.

According to the present invention, it is possible to perform a performance that further enhances game interest.

It is a front view of the pachinko machine of a present Example. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing the board configuration of the game board of the present embodiment. It is a block diagram showing the composition of the control circuit in the pachinko machine of a present example. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of a segment display section of this embodiment. It is an explanatory diagram showing the number of round games in the jackpot game of this embodiment. It is an explanatory diagram showing the game state after the end of the jackpot game of this embodiment. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram illustrating display contents of the effect display device 41 of the present embodiment. It is a flowchart showing the game control process executed by the CPU of the main control board of the present embodiment. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram conceptually showing a variation pattern selection table of the present embodiment. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing types of variation pattern selection tables of the present embodiment. It is a flowchart showing the production control process executed by the CPU of the sub-control board of the present embodiment. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing processing corresponding to a received command by the CPU of the sub-control board of the present embodiment. It is an explanatory view showing how the "design reduction effect" of this embodiment is performed. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing how the "character display effect" of this embodiment is performed. It is an explanatory diagram showing the jackpot pending expectation degree related to the "symbol reduction effect" and the "character display effect" of the present embodiment. It is an explanatory diagram showing a problem when a "design reduction effect" is performed. It is an explanatory diagram showing execution timing of "design reduction effect" of a present example. It is a flowchart showing the symbol reduction effect processing executed by the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 of the present embodiment. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing an execution mode of "design reduction effect" of modification example 1. FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the pattern reduction production process of the modification 1. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing an execution mode of “design reduction effect” of modification example 2; It is a flowchart which shows the pattern reduction production process of the modification 2. It is an explanatory diagram showing an execution mode of "design reduction production" of modification 3. It is a flowchart which shows the pattern reduction production process of modification 3.

In order to clarify the content of the present invention described above, an embodiment in which the present invention is applied to a type of pachinko machine (gaming machine) called "Seven Machine" or "DigiPachi" will be described. In the examples, unless otherwise specified, the right side when facing the front of the pachinko machine is expressed as "right", and the left side is expressed as "left".

Further, the following embodiments will be described in the following order.
A. Pachinko machine equipment configuration:
A-1. Configuration of the front side of the device:
A-2. Game board configuration:
A-3. Control circuit configuration:
B. Game contents:
C. Game control processing:
D. Production control processing:
E. Main pre-effects of this example:
E-1. Design reduction:
E-2. Character display effect:
E-3. Expectation level of jackpot pending regarding symbol reduction effect and character display effect:
E-4. Execution timing of symbol reduction:
E-5. Design reduction processing:
F. Variant:
F-1. Variation 1:
F-2. Variation 2:
F-3. Variation 3:

A. Pachinko machine equipment configuration:
A-1. Configuration of the front side of the device:
FIG. 1 is a front view of the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, a front frame 4 is provided on the front side of the pachinko machine 1. One end (the left side in FIG. 1) of the front frame 4 is rotatably supported by the middle frame 3. A game board 20 (see FIG. 2) is detachably attached to the front side of the middle frame 3, and when the front frame 4 is rotated (opened) toward the front side of the pachinko machine 1 with respect to the middle frame 3, The game board 20 is now exposed. One end (the left side in FIG. 1) of the middle frame 3 is rotatably supported by the main body frame 2. The main body frame 2 is a substantially rectangular frame constructed by assembling wooden plate-like members, and forms the outer frame of the pachinko machine 1.

A window portion 4a is formed approximately at the center of the front frame 4, and a transparent plate 4b such as a glass plate is fitted into the window portion 4a. The player can visually recognize the gaming area of the gaming board 20 located on the back side through the window 4a (transparent plate 4b). Further, a small window portion 4c is formed at the lower right side of the window portion 4a in the front frame 4, and a transparent plate 4d such as a synthetic resin plate is fitted into this small window portion 4c. The player can visually recognize the segment display section of the game board 20 arranged on the back side through the small window section 4c (transparent plate 4d). Although details will be described later, the segment display section is a display section that displays information related to the game using a combination of a plurality of LEDs.

An upper lamp 5a is provided above the window 4a in the front frame 4, a right side lamp 5b is provided on the right side of the periphery of the window 4a, and a left side lamp 5b is provided on the left side of the periphery of the window 4a. A lamp 5c is provided. Furthermore, upper speakers 6a are provided on the left and right upper sides of the window portion 4a in the front frame 4, and lower speakers 6b are provided on the lower front surface of the main body frame 2. These upper lamp 5a, right side lamp 5b, left side lamp 5c, upper speaker 6a, and lower speaker 6b are driven to enhance the performance effect on the game.

An upper plate part 7 is provided below the window part 4a in the front frame 4. The upper tray portion 7 stores game balls lent out via the card unit 242 (see FIG. 3) and game balls paid out from the pachinko machine 1. Further, a lower tray portion 8 is provided below the upper tray portion 7, and game balls lent out in excess of the capacity of the upper tray portion 7 and game balls paid out in excess of the capacity of the upper tray portion 7 are stored. The balls are stored.

A firing handle 9 is provided on the right side of the lower plate portion 8 in the front frame 4. The rotation axis of the firing handle 9 is connected to a firing device unit 261 (see FIG. 3) mounted on the back side of the firing handle 9. Game balls stored in the upper tray portion 7 are supplied to this firing device unit 261. When the player rotates the firing handle 9, the rotation is transmitted to the firing device unit 261, the firing motor built in the firing device unit 261 rotates, and the game ball is fired with a force corresponding to the rotation angle. Ru.

Furthermore, an effect button 10a that can be pressed by the player is provided on the edge of the upper tray 7, and on the left side of the lower tray 8, the player can press or rotate (rotate) the button 10a. A jog shuttle 10b is provided that is capable of moving. These performance buttons 10a and jog shuttle 10b are performance operation units (operation units) operated by the player, and when operated by the player when a predetermined condition is satisfied, a predetermined game performance is performed.

A-2. Game board configuration:
FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing the board configuration of the game board 20. As shown in FIG. As mentioned above, the game board 20 is detachably attached to the front side of the middle frame 3. As shown in FIG. 2, a substantially circular game area 21 is formed in the center of the game board 20. A game ball fired from the firing device unit 261 (see FIG. 3) passes between the outer rail 22 and the inner rail 23, is released into the game area 21, and flows downward from above the game area 21. Since the game area 21 is visible to the player through the window 4a of the front frame 4, naturally the state of the game ball flowing down the game area 21 is also visible to the player through the window 4a.

Approximately in the center of the game area 21 is provided an opening 40 for performance, which is an opening with decorations on the periphery, and behind this opening 40 for performance is a performance display constituted by a liquid crystal display. A device 41 is provided. Various images for effects can be displayed on the display screen of the effect display device 41, and the player can visually check the display screen of the effect display device 41 through the effect opening 40.

Below the performance opening 40 (performance display device 41) in the game area 21, there is a first starting port 24 whose size remains unchanged (constant) and into which a game ball can enter at any time. is provided. The game ball entering the first starting port 24 is guided to the back side of the game board 20 through a passage provided inside. A first starting port sensor 24s (see FIG. 3) is provided in the passage inside the first starting port 24, and can detect a game ball that has entered the first starting port 24.

Furthermore, below the first starting port 24 in the gaming area 21, a second starting port 25 is provided which is a ball entry port (starting port) in which the probability of entry of a game ball changes. That is, the second starting port 25 is equipped with an opening/closing door 26 that can be rotated in the front-back direction of the pachinko machine 1, and the opening/closing door 26 is closed so that the opening/closing door 26 is approximately upright, preventing game balls from entering (or making entry difficult). state, and an open state in which the opening/closing door 26 rotates toward the front side of the pachinko machine 1 and game balls can enter (or easily enter). In FIG. 2, the second starting port 25 is shown in an open state. The game ball entering the second starting port 25 is guided to the back side of the game board 20 through a passage provided inside. A second starting port sensor 25s (see FIG. 3) is provided in the passage inside the second starting port 25, and can detect a game ball that has entered the second starting port 25.

Further, in the gaming area 21, a normal symbol activation gate 27 is provided on the right side of the performance opening 40 (performance display device 41), and inside the normal symbol activation gate 27, passage of a game ball is detected. A gate sensor 27s (see FIG. 3) is provided.

Further, on the right side of the first starting opening 24 in the gaming area 21, there is provided a large winning opening 28 (variable ball entry opening) having a large, substantially rectangular shape. The grand prize opening 28 is equipped with an opening/closing door 29 that can be rotated in the front-back direction of the pachinko machine 1. It can be turned to the front side of 1 to change to an open state (ball entry possible state) in which a game ball can enter. In FIG. 2, the big prize opening 28 is shown in an open state. The game ball that enters the big prize opening 28 is guided to the back side of the game board 20 through a passage provided inside. A large winning hole sensor 28s (see FIG. 3) is provided in the passage inside the large winning hole 28, and can detect a game ball that has entered the large winning hole 28.

In addition, around each of the above-mentioned game machines, there is a general ball entrance 30 into which game balls can enter, a windmill-type wheel 31 that affects the falling path of game balls, and a large number of obstacle nails (not shown). It is being In addition, two out ports 33 are provided at the bottom left of the gaming area 21 and at the lower left and lower right of the second starting port 25, and the first starting port 24, the second starting port 25, Game balls that have not entered either the grand prize opening 28 or the general ball entry opening 30 are discharged to the back side of the game board 20 from the out opening 33.

A game ball flowing down the area on the left side of the performance opening 40 (performance display device 41) can enter the first starting port 24 described above. On the other hand, game balls flowing down the area on the right side of the performance opening 40 (performance display device 41) can enter the second starting opening 25, the normal symbol activation gate 27, and the big prize opening 28 ( or passable). Hereinafter, firing the game ball so as to flow down the area to the left of the performance opening 40 (performance display device 41) will also be expressed as "left-handed hitting", and the performance opening 40 (performance display device 41) Shooting the game ball so that it flows down the area to the right of the ball is also expressed as "right-handed hitting." In addition, in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, when a game ball enters any of the first starting port 24, second starting port 25, and general ball entry port 30, three game balls are delivered to the player. When the game balls are paid out and enter the grand prize opening 28, 13 game balls are paid out to the player.

At the lower right of the gaming area 21 on the gaming board 20, there is provided a segment display section 50 that displays information related to gaming using a combination of LEDs. The segment display section 50 is visible to the player through a small window section 4c (see FIG. 1) provided in the front frame 4. Note that detailed display contents of the segment display section 50 will be explained in the "B. Game Contents" section to be described later.

A-3. Control circuit configuration:
Next, the configuration of the control circuit in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment will be explained. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the control circuit in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment. As shown in the figure, the control circuit of the pachinko machine 1 is composed of many control boards, various boards, relay terminal boards, and the like. Specifically, there is a main control board 200 that controls the basic progress of the game, a sub-control board 220 that controls the presentation of the game, and a sub-control board 220 that controls the display of images and output of sounds under the control of the sub-control board 220. An image and audio control board 230 that controls such control, a lamp control board 226 that controls the lighting of the lamp under the control of the sub-control board 220, and a payout control board 240 that controls the lending and payout of game balls. It is composed of a launch control board 260 that controls the launch of game balls. These control boards include CPUs (CPUs 201, 221, 231, etc. in FIG. 3) that execute various logical operations and calculation operations, and ROMs (ROMs 202, 222, etc. in FIG. 3) that store various programs and data executed by the CPUs. , 232, etc.), RAM (203, 223, 233, etc. in FIG. 3) in which the CPU stores temporary data when executing a program, input/output circuits, etc., and various peripheral LSIs are interconnected by a bus. has been done.

The main control board 200 includes a first starting port sensor 24s that detects a game ball that enters the first starting port 24, a second starting port sensor 25s that detects a game ball that enters the second starting port 25, A big winning hole sensor 28s that detects the game ball that enters the big winning hole 28, a gate sensor 27s that detects the game ball that passes through the normal symbol activation gate, etc. are connected. When the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 receives a detection signal of a gaming ball from the first starting opening sensor 24s, the second starting opening sensor 25s, the big winning opening sensor 28s, the gate sensor 27s, etc., the CPU 201 inputs the detection signal. A command corresponding to the sensor where the error occurred is transmitted to the sub control board 220, the payout control board 240, the firing control board 260, etc.

The main control board 200 also includes a starting port solenoid 26m for opening and closing the opening/closing door 26 provided at the second starting port 25 (for opening and closing the second starting port 25). , a big winning opening solenoid 29m for opening/closing the opening/closing door 29 provided in the big winning opening 28 (for opening and closing the big winning opening 28), a segment display section 50, etc. are connected. has been done. The CPU 201 of the main control board 200 controls these operations by transmitting drive signals to the starting opening solenoid 26m, the big winning opening solenoid 29m, and the segment display section 50.

An image and audio control board 230, a lamp control board 226, and a production operation board 228 are connected to the sub-control board 220. When the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 receives various commands from the main control board 200, it analyzes the contents of the commands and performs game effects according to the contents. That is, commands specifying output images and output audio are sent to the image and audio control board 230, and commands are sent to the lamp control board 226 to specify the upper lamp 5a, right side lamp 5b, and left side lamp 5c (hereinafter referred to as The game is produced by transmitting a command specifying the light emitting pattern of the various lamps 5a to 5c. Further, when the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 detects a player's operation on the performance button 10a or the jog shuttle 10b (performance operation units 10a, 10b) via the performance operation board 228, the CPU 221 executes a game performance corresponding to the operation. conduct.

The image and audio control board 230 includes a VDP 234, an image ROM 236, and an audio ROM 237 in addition to a CPU 231, a ROM 232, and a RAM 233. Furthermore, an effect display device 41, an amplifier board 224 for amplifying audio, and the like are connected to the image and audio control board 230.

When the CPU 231 of the image and audio control board 230 receives a command from the sub-control board 220, it instructs the VDP 234 to display an image corresponding to the command. The VDP 234 reads image data (for example, sprite data, video data, etc.) used for displaying the instructed image from the image ROM 236, generates an image, and outputs the image to the display screen of the effect display device 41. Further, when the CPU 231 of the image and audio control board 230 receives a command from the sub-control board 220, it reads audio data corresponding to the command from the audio ROM 237, and outputs audio based on the audio data via the amplifier board 224. It outputs from the upper speaker 6a and the lower speaker 6b (hereinafter also referred to as "various speakers 6a, 6b").

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

Further, a firing control board 260 is connected to the payout control board 240, and the firing control board 260 includes a firing motor 262 for firing the game ball and a controller that detects that the player is touching the firing handle 9. A firing device unit 261 having a touch switch 263 and the like is connected. When the launch control board 260 detects that the player is touching the launch handle 9 via the touch switch 263, the launch control board 260 drives the launch motor 262 to shoot the game ball with a force corresponding to the rotation angle of the launch handle 9. fire.

B. Game contents:
In the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, the game progresses as follows. When the firing handle 9 is rotated with game balls stored in the upper tray part 7, the game balls stored in the upper tray part 7 are supplied one by one to the firing device unit 261, and as shown in FIG. It is fired into the game area 21 mentioned above. Since the strength with which the game ball is launched corresponds to the rotation angle of the shooting handle 9, by changing the rotation angle of the shooting handle 9, the player can cause the game ball to flow down into a desired area. For example, the game ball may be launched so as to flow down the area to the left of the performance opening 40 (performance display device 41), or the game ball may be shot to the left of the performance opening 40 (performance display device 41). You can shoot the game ball so that it flows down the side area (hit the ball right-handed).

<Fluctuating display of special symbols>
As described above with reference to FIG. 2, a game ball hit to the left can enter the first starting port 24. When a game ball hit to the left enters the first starting port 24 and the entered game ball is detected by the first starting port sensor 24s, a predetermined random number for determination (such as a random number for determining a jackpot to be described later) is obtained. Then, a jackpot judgment is performed to judge whether it is a jackpot or a miss based on the judgment random number. Then, based on the result of this jackpot determination, the first special symbol (hereinafter also referred to as "first special symbol") is displayed variably and then stopped. Furthermore, as described above with reference to FIG. 2, a right-handed game ball can enter the second starting port 25. When a game ball hit to the right enters the second starting port 25 and the entered game ball is detected by the second starting port sensor 25s, a predetermined random number for determination (such as a random number for determining a jackpot to be described later) is obtained. Then, a jackpot judgment is performed to judge whether it is a jackpot or a miss based on the judgment random number. Then, based on the result of this jackpot determination, a second special symbol (hereinafter also referred to as "second special symbol") is displayed variably and then stopped. Here, the first special figure and the second special figure will be explained.

FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing the segment display section 50 in an enlarged manner. As mentioned above, the segment display section 50 is provided at the lower right of the gaming area 21 on the game board 20 (see FIG. 2), and the player can view the segment display through the small window 4c of the front frame 4 (see FIG. 1). The portion 50 is visible. As shown in FIG. 4, the segment display section 50 is provided with a first special symbol display section 51 that displays a first special symbol and a second special symbol display section 52 that displays a second special symbol. Eight LEDs are arranged in each of these display sections. The first special design and the second special design (hereinafter collectively referred to as "special design" unless they are specifically distinguished) can be displayed by switching the LED that lights up among the eight LEDs on each display section. The display is displayed in a variable manner, and the display is stopped by lighting a predetermined LED among the eight LEDs. In the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, 101 types of symbols including jackpot symbols 1 to 100 and losing symbols 101 can be displayed in a stopped state as the first special symbols, and as second special symbols, jackpot symbols 201 to 300 and missing symbols can be displayed. 301 kinds of 101 kinds of symbols can be stopped and displayed. Moreover, the types of these symbols can be identified by the different combinations of LEDs that are lit. If the result of the jackpot determination based on the game ball entering the first starting port 24 (hereinafter also referred to as "jackpot determination for the first special symbol") is a jackpot, the first special symbol is the jackpot symbol 1 to 100, and if the result of the jackpot determination for the first special symbol is a miss, the first special symbol is stopped and displayed as a miss symbol 101. In addition, if the result of the jackpot determination based on the game ball entering the second starting port 25 (hereinafter also referred to as "jackpot determination for the second special symbol") is a jackpot, the second special symbol is a jackpot symbol. It is stopped and displayed at any one of 201 to 300, and if the result of the jackpot determination for the second special symbol is a loss, the second special symbol is stopped and displayed as a symbol 301. In this way, when the special symbol (first special symbol or second special symbol) is stopped and displayed as a jackpot symbol or a losing symbol, in order to confirm the symbol that has been stopped and displayed, the state in which the symbol is stopped and displayed is held for a predetermined confirmation display time (e.g. A display (hereinafter also referred to as a "confirmation display") that is maintained until a period of 0.5 seconds has elapsed is performed. In the following, the game from when the special symbol starts to be displayed in a variable manner until the variable display ends after a predetermined variable time has elapsed and the special symbol is confirmed to be displayed as a jackpot symbol or a losing symbol, that is, one game. A game until a variable display result is obtained is also expressed as a "symbol variable game."

<Jackpot game>
When the first special figure or the second special figure is stopped and displayed with any of the jackpot symbols, a jackpot game is started in which a round game in which the jackpot 28 is opened is played a plurality of times. As described above with reference to FIG. 2, since a game ball hit to the right can enter the jackpot 28, the ball will be hit to the right during the jackpot game.

In the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, the number of round games in one jackpot game varies depending on the type of jackpot symbol that is stopped and displayed. That is, as shown in FIG. 5(a), if the first special symbol is stopped and displayed as a jackpot symbol 1 to 50 (if the first special symbol is stopped and displayed as a jackpot symbol, there is a probability of 50%) , If a 4-round jackpot game is played in which 4 rounds are played, and the first special symbol is stopped and displayed at jackpot symbols 51 to 90 (if the first special symbol is stopped and displayed at jackpot symbols, 40 % probability), if a 6-round jackpot game is played in which 6 rounds are played, and the 1st special symbol is stopped and displayed at jackpot symbols 91 to 94, (the 1st special symbol is stopped and displayed at jackpot symbol If a 7-round jackpot game is played, and the first special symbol is stopped at jackpot symbols 95 to 100 (with a probability of 4% if the first special symbol is If the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed (with a probability of 6%), a 16-round jackpot game in which 16 rounds are played is played. Also, as shown in Figure 5(b), if the second special symbol is stopped and displayed at jackpot symbols 201 to 250 (if the second special symbol is stopped and displayed at jackpot symbol, there is a probability of 50%) If a 4-round jackpot game is played and the second special symbol is stopped and displayed at jackpot symbols 251 to 290 (with a 40% probability if the second special symbol is stopped and displayed at a jackpot symbol), a 6-round jackpot game is played. is carried out, and if the second special symbol is stopped and displayed at jackpot symbols 291 to 294 (with a probability of 4% when the second special symbol is stopped and displayed at jackpot symbol), a seven-round jackpot game is played, When the second special symbol is stopped and displayed as a jackpot symbol 295 to 300 (with a probability of 6% when the second special symbol is stopped and displayed as a jackpot symbol), a 16-round jackpot game is played.

In the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, one round game ends when nine game balls enter the ball (9 counts) or when 30 seconds have elapsed, so in most cases one round In the game, 117 game balls (9 counts x number of payouts: 13) are paid out. Therefore, naturally, more game balls are paid out to the player in a jackpot game with a large number of round games than in a jackpot game with a small number of round games. Therefore, the player can expect a jackpot game with a larger number of round games to be played. Incidentally, this can be understood to mean that it is possible to execute a plurality of jackpot games (specific games) that have different degrees of advantage for the player.

While the above-described jackpot game is being executed, the type of jackpot game being executed (the number of round games) is displayed on the round display section 55 of the segment display section 50. That is, as shown in FIG. 4, three LEDs are arranged in the round display section 55, and in this round display section 55, by lighting up the left LED among the three LEDs, a 4-round jackpot game can be played. By lighting up the LED inside, it shows that the 6-round jackpot game is being played, and by lighting the right LED, it shows that the 7-round jackpot game is being played. , all three LEDs are turned on to indicate that the 16 round jackpot game is being executed.

<Special design reservation>
When the game ball enters the first starting port 24, the jackpot determination and variable display regarding the first special symbol are performed as described above. This is not done immediately after the ball enters the ball, but the obtained judgment random number is temporarily stored as the first special figure pending. Then, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, a jackpot determination and a variable display of the first special figure are performed based on the stored first special figure reservation. Such first special symbol reservations are stored with a maximum of four pieces. The stored number of first special figure reservations (first special figure reservation number) is displayed on the first special figure reservation display section 53 of the segment display section 50. That is, as shown in FIG. 4, two LEDs are arranged in the first special figure reservation display section 53, and in this first special figure reservation display section 53, one of the two LEDs is Lighting up indicates that the number of 1st special drawings reserved is 1, lighting up 2 LEDs indicates that the number of 1st special drawings being reserved is 2, and 1 LED is blinking. By doing so, it is shown that the number of first special symbols on hold is three, and by blinking the two LEDs, it is shown that the number of first special symbols on hold is four.

In addition, when the game ball enters the second starting port 25, the jackpot determination and variable display regarding the second special symbol are performed as described above, but these jackpot determination and variable display also occur when the game ball enters the second starting port 25. The judgment is not made immediately after the ball enters the mouth 25, but the obtained judgment random number is temporarily stored as a second special figure pending. Then, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, a jackpot determination and a variable display of the second special symbol are performed based on the stored second special symbol. Such second special symbol reservations are also stored with an upper limit of four. The stored number of second special figure reservations (second special figure reservation number) is displayed on the second special figure reservation display section 54 of the segment display section 50. That is, as shown in FIG. 4, two LEDs are also arranged in the second special symbol reservation display section 54, and in this second special symbol reservation display section 54, one of the two LEDs is By lighting up, it shows that the number of 2nd special drawings on hold is 1, and by lighting up 2 LEDs, it shows that the number of 2nd special drawings on hold is 2, and 1 LED is blinking. By doing so, it is shown that the number of second special symbols on hold is three, and by blinking the two LEDs, it is shown that the number of second special symbols on hold is four.

In addition, in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, the first special symbol pending and the second special symbol pending are stored while any special symbol is being displayed in a variable manner, while any special symbol is being displayed as a fixed symbol, or during a jackpot game. Even if it is, there will be no jackpot determination or fluctuation display related to these reservations. In addition, if only the first special figure reservation is stored among the first special figure reservation and the second special figure reservation, the jackpot judgment related to the first special figure reservation stored first and the first special figure reservation. A variable display is performed, but if the second special figure reservation is stored, regardless of whether the first special figure reservation is stored or not, the jackpot judgment and Performs a variable display of the second special figure. That is, the second special figure is displayed in a variable manner with priority over the first special figure (it has a so-called second special figure priority variation function).

In addition, if the first special figure reservation and the second special figure reservation are not particularly distinguished, they will be simply expressed as "special figure reservation" in the following.

<Fluctuating display of normal symbols, game per normal symbol>
As described above using FIG. 2, a game ball hit right can pass through the normal symbol activation gate 27. When the game ball hit to the right passes through the normal symbol activation gate 27 and is detected by the gate sensor 27s, a predetermined random number for judgment (a random number for normal pattern hit judgment described later) is obtained, and the judgment random number is Based on this, a normal pattern hit determination is performed to determine whether the normal pattern is a hit or a miss. Then, based on the result of this ordinary symbol hit determination, the ordinary symbol is displayed in a variable manner and then stopped and displayed. As shown in FIG. 4, the segment display section 50 is provided with a normal pattern display section 56 that displays normal symbols, and two LEDs are arranged in the normal pattern display section 56. The normal symbol is displayed in a variable manner in the common symbol display section 56 by switching which of the two LEDs is lit, and is stopped and displayed by lighting a predetermined LED among the two LEDs. In the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, two types of symbols are stopped as normal symbols: a normal symbol that lights up the left LED of the two LEDs, and a normal symbol that lights up the right LED. Can be displayed. If the result of the normal pattern hit judgment is a normal pattern, the normal pattern will be stopped and displayed as a normal pattern, and if the result of the normal pattern hit judgment is a normal pattern, the normal pattern will be stopped and displayed as a normal pattern. be done. When the normal symbols are stopped and displayed as winning or losing symbols in this way, a display is performed in which the state in which the symbols are stopped and displayed is maintained until a predetermined time elapses (determined display) in order to confirm the stopped and displayed symbols. When the normal symbol is stopped and displayed as a symbol per common symbol, a game per common symbol is performed in which the second starting port 25 is opened and then closed.

<Reservation of normal symbols>
When the game ball passes through the normal symbol activation gate 27, a normal symbol hit determination and a fluctuation display of the normal symbol are performed, but these ordinary symbol hit determination and fluctuation display are performed immediately after the game ball passes through the normal symbol activation gate 27. Rather than being carried out, the obtained judgment random number is temporarily stored as a general pattern pending. Then, when a predetermined condition is established, the normal pattern hit determination and normal pattern fluctuation display are performed based on the stored normal pattern reservation. Such general drawings are also stored up to a maximum of four. The number of stored ordinary figures on hold (the number of ordinary figures on hold) is displayed on the ordinary figures on hold display section 57 of the segment display section 50. That is, as shown in FIG. 4, two LEDs are arranged in the general figure reservation display section 57, and in this ordinary figure reservation display section 57, one LED out of the two LEDs can be turned on. indicates that the number of reserved Fuzuzu is 1, and by lighting up two LEDs, it indicates that the number of Fuzuzu on hold is 2. By flashing one LED, the number of Fuzuzu on hold is 1. It is shown that there are 3 pieces, and by blinking 2 LEDs, it is shown that the number of reserved ordinary drawings is 4 pieces. In addition, in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, in the case where the normal pattern is stored, if the normal pattern is not being displayed while changing, the normal pattern is being fixed, or the normal pattern is being played, the pachinko machine 1 Judgment of winning of the normal symbols related to the stored normal symbols and fluctuation display of the normal symbols is performed.

<Game status>
Here, in the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, a gaming state related to the probability of being determined to be a jackpot in jackpot determination and a gaming state related to the frequency of entering the game ball into the second starting port 25 are set as appropriate. . Among these, the gaming state related to the probability of being determined to be a jackpot in the jackpot determination is a "low probability state in which the probability of being determined to be a jackpot in the jackpot determination is low (1/99.9 probability)" or "a low probability state in which the probability of being determined to be a jackpot in the jackpot determination is low (1/99.9 probability)" ``High probability state'' in which the probability of being judged as a jackpot is high (1/11.9 probability). In addition, the gaming state related to the frequency of entering the game ball into the second starting port 25 is "a non-electric support state where the frequency of entering the game ball into the second starting port 25 is low" or "a non-electric support state where the frequency of entering the game ball into the second starting port 25 is low" The game ball is set to "power support state" where the frequency of ball entry is high.

The manner of setting the gaming state described above will be explained using FIG. 6. Incidentally, since these game states are set after the end of the jackpot game, in FIG. 6, the number of round games described above using FIG. 5 is also shown again. In addition, in FIG. 6, the "high probability number" is the number of symbol variation games (variable display of special symbols) that can be executed with the high probability state set, and the "electronic support number" is the number of symbol variation games that can be executed with the high probability state set. This is the number of symbol variation games (variable display of special symbols) that can be executed with the support state set.

In the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, no matter which jackpot game is played, the high probability state and the electric support state are set together after the jackpot game ends, but the number of electric support is higher than that of the jackpot game. It varies depending on the type of jackpot symbol that triggered the start. That is, as shown in FIGS. 6(a) and 6(b), the high probability number of hits is set to 6 no matter which jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed. On the other hand, regarding the number of electric support, as shown in FIG. If the first special symbol is a jackpot symbol 46-50, 51-90, 91-94, the probability is set to 25 times (if the first special symbol is a jackpot symbol) If it is displayed, it is set to 50 times (with a probability of 5% + 40% + 4% = 49%), and if the first special symbol is stopped and displayed at jackpot symbol 95 to 100 (the first special symbol is a jackpot symbol) (If it is stopped and displayed, the probability is 6%) It is set to 100 times. Also, as shown in Figure 6(b), if the second special symbol is stopped and displayed at the jackpot symbols 201 to 245 (if the second special symbol is stopped and displayed at the jackpot symbol, there is a probability of 45%) If set to 25 times and the second special symbol is stopped and displayed at jackpot symbols 246-250, 251-290, 291-294 (if the second special symbol is stopped and displayed at jackpot symbol, 5% + 40% +4% = 49% probability) is set to 50 times, and if the second special symbol is stopped and displayed at the jackpot symbol 295-300 (if the second special symbol is stopped and displayed at the jackpot symbol, the probability is 6%) probability) is set to 100 times.

In addition, if the symbol variation game (variable display of special symbols) is played 6 times after the high accuracy count is set to 6, the high probability state will end and the electric support state will remain set and the low probability state will occur. is set. In addition, if the same number of symbol fluctuation games (variable display of special symbols) as the number of electric support is performed after the electric support number of 25, 50, or 100 times is set, the electric support state ends, A non-electric support state is set. For the player, since the electric support state is more advantageous than the non-electric support state, the player can expect a larger number of electric support to be set.

Here, the segment display section 50 is provided with an electric support display section 58 that indicates that the above-mentioned electric support state is being set. That is, as shown in FIG. 4, three LEDs are arranged in the electric support display section 58, and when the electric support state is being set, by lighting up these three LEDs, the electric support state can be set. Indicates that it is inside. Further, as shown in FIG. 4, the segment display section 50 is provided with a right-handed display section 59 that indicates that the player is hitting right-handed. During the setting of the electric support state, the frequency of entering the game ball into the second starting port 25 is high, and since the second starting port 25 can enter a right-handed game ball, the setting of the electric support state is performed. It is beneficial for the player to hit the ball to the right during the middle. Furthermore, since a game ball hit right can enter the jackpot 28, it is beneficial for the player to hit the ball right-handed even during a jackpot game. Therefore, during the setting of the electric support state and during the jackpot game, the two LEDs arranged in the right-handed display section 59 are turned on to indicate that the player will play right-handed.

<Display contents of the effect display device 41>
The progress of the game as described above is mainly performed by the CPU 201 of the main control board 200. In the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, effects are performed in which various images are displayed in the display area HR (display screen) of the effect display device 41 in accordance with the progress of the game as described above. Such effects are mainly performed by the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220.

For example, in the display area HR (display screen) of the performance display device 41, a performance (hereinafter also referred to as "symbol variation performance") that matches the variable display (symbol variation game) of the first special symbol or the second special symbol is performed. . That is, in synchronization with the start timing of the variable display (symbol variable game) of the special symbols (first special symbol or second special symbol), the variable display of the three decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c is started. Thereafter, effects are performed in various ways until the special symbol variation time has elapsed. For example, an effect is performed that suggests the possibility that the special symbol will be stopped and displayed as a jackpot symbol. Then, the variable display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c is ended in synchronization with the end timing of the variable display of the special symbol (stop display of the special symbol). In the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, it is possible to display a pattern indicating nine numbers from "1" to "9" as each of the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c.

The variable display of the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c will be explained using FIG. 7. As shown in FIG. 7, a frame image 41w is displayed on the display screen of the effect display device 41. This frame image 41w has a shape along the periphery of the display area HR (display screen) of the effect display device 41, and the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, 41c are displayed in a variable manner in the area inside this frame image 41w. will be held. That is, since the area inside the frame image 41w is a display area (hereinafter also referred to as "decorative pattern area SR") that displays the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c, the frame image 41w displays the "decorative pattern area SR". It can also be interpreted as an image that shows

Although not shown, a background image is displayed in the entire display area HR (display screen), and the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c are displayed superimposed in front of the background image (on the player's side). . That is, since the area where the background image is displayed is also the "decorative pattern area SR," the background image can also be considered to be an image indicating the "decorative pattern area SR."

FIG. 7A conceptually shows how three decorative patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c are variably displayed all at once in the area inside the frame image 41w (decorative pattern area SR). When a predetermined period of time has elapsed after the start of the variable display, for example, first the left decorative pattern 41a is stopped and displayed, then the right decorative pattern 41c is stopped and displayed, and finally the middle decorative pattern 41b is stopped and displayed. The combination of these three decorative patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c is a special pattern (first special pattern or second special pattern) that is stopped and displayed in the first special pattern display section 51 or second special pattern display section 52 described above. It is configured to correspond to For example, when the first special pattern or the second special pattern is stopped and displayed as a jackpot pattern, a pattern combination in which the three decorative patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c of the performance display device 41 are the same pattern (hereinafter also referred to as "Zero") ) will be stopped and displayed. In addition, if the first special pattern or the second special pattern is stopped and displayed as a missing pattern, the three decorative patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c are the same pattern and stop in a pattern combination that does not line up (hereinafter also referred to as "balanced pattern"). Is displayed. Note that the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c that have been stopped and displayed remain in a stopped display state (determined display) until the final display time of the special symbol has elapsed.

In this way, the special symbol displayed on the first special symbol display section 51 or the second special symbol display section 52 and the three decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c displayed on the effect display device 41 have different display contents. They correspond to each other, and when the special symbol being displayed in a variable manner is stopped and displayed, the three decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c are also stopped and displayed. Moreover, as shown in FIG. 2, the display area HR (display screen) of the effect display device 41 is more visible than the first special figure display section 51 or the second special figure display section 52 (segment display section 50). Since the display screen is large and the display contents are easy to understand, the player usually plays the game while looking at the display area HR (display screen) of the effect display device 41. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 7(b), the left decorative pattern 41a that is first stopped and displayed in the display area HR (display screen) of the effect display device 41 is the same as the right decorative pattern 41c that is subsequently stopped and displayed. If it is a pattern, the medium decorative pattern 41b that is stopped and displayed at the end also stops with the same pattern, and the player wonders if the jackpot game is about to start. We will be keeping a close eye on the fluctuation performance). In this way, two decorative patterns (decorative patterns excluding one of the plurality of decorative patterns) are stopped at the same pattern (in a manner that can be a double eye) and the last decorative pattern (the first decorative pattern) is made. The effect that causes the variable display to be displayed is called a "reach effect," and by generating this reach effect, it is possible to increase the interest in the game.

In addition, at the bottom of the display area HR (display screen) of the effect display device 41, there is a first reservation display area 41d for indicating the first reserved number of special symbols, and a second reservation display area 41d for indicating the second reserved number of special symbols. A display area 41e is set. In the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, by displaying the same number of "reserved symbols (small circular symbols in the figure)" as the number of reserved special symbols in the first reserved display area 41d, the number of reserved special symbols ( The upper limit number is 4), and the second reserved number of special symbols is indicated by displaying the same number of "reserved symbols" as the second reserved number of special symbols (upper limit is 4) in the second reserved display area 41e. Therefore, in the example shown in FIG. 7, it is shown that the number of first reserved special symbols is four, and the number of second reserved special symbols is four. Of course, the number of reservations indicated by the reservation symbols displayed in the display area HR (display screen) of the production display device 41, the first special symbol reservation display section 53 and the second special symbol reservation display of the segment display section 50, This matches the number of reservations shown in section 54.

C. Game control processing:
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a general flow of game control processing performed by the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 as control related to the progress of the game. The game control process is performed by the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 based on timer interrupts that occur at predetermined intervals (for example, every 4 msec). Hereinafter, the game progress control process performed by the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 will be explained according to the flowchart. Note that, in the following description, descriptions of well-known processes such as initialization processing of the CPU 201, interrupt disabling processing, and interrupt enabling processing are omitted.

<Output processing>
As shown in FIG. 8, when the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 starts the game control process, it first performs an output process (S100). In the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, various commands to be sent to various control boards including the sub-control board 220 are stored in an output buffer secured in the RAM 203 in various processes to be described later. In the output process (S100), various commands thus stored in the output buffer are transmitted to various control boards. By doing this, for example, the sub control board 220 will control the performance according to the progress of the game, and the payout control board 240 will drive the payout motor 243 to pay out game balls. becomes.

<Input processing>
The CPU 201 of the main control board 200 then performs input processing (S200). As described above, in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, when a game ball enters any of the first starting port 24, second starting port 25, and general ball entry port 30, three game balls are paid out. When a game ball enters the big prize opening 28, 13 game balls are paid out. Therefore, in the input processing (S200), the sensors that detect these entering balls (the first starting port sensor 24s, the second starting port sensor 25s, the big prize winning port sensor 28s, etc.) detect the game ball. Determine whether or not. As a result, if game balls are detected, a payout command indicating the number of game balls to be paid out is stored in the above-mentioned output buffer. The payout command thus stored in the output buffer is transmitted to the payout control board 240 in the next output process (S100).

<Random number update processing>
The CPU 201 of the main control board 200 then performs random number update processing (S300). In the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, as described above, the jackpot determination and the normal pattern hit determination are performed based on predetermined random numbers. Specifically, the jackpot determination is performed based on the "jackpot determination random number", and the normal pattern hit determination is performed based on the "normal pattern hit determination random number". Furthermore, the special symbols are displayed in a variable manner in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment based on a variation pattern described later, and this variation pattern is selected based on a "variation pattern selection random number." In addition, in the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, when the jackpot determination result is a jackpot, one of the 100 types of jackpot symbols (jackpot symbols 1 to 100 or jackpot symbols 201 to 300) is stopped and displayed. However, the type of jackpot symbol is selected based on a "symbol selection random number." In the random number update process (S300), these random numbers are updated. Note that these random numbers are updated not only in the random number update process (S300), but also in the period from the end of the game control process until the start of the next game control process (the next timer interrupt). Good too. Alternatively, a dedicated circuit for updating random numbers may be provided and the random numbers may be updated using this dedicated circuit.

<Sensor detection processing for starting ports, etc.>
The CPU 201 of the main control board 200 then performs a sensor detection process (S400) such as a starting port. In this sensor detection process (S400), such as a starting opening, the process which memorize|stores regular figure reservation, 1st special figure reservation, and 2nd special figure reservation is performed. That is, the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 first determines whether the game ball has passed through the normal symbol activation gate 27 based on the detection result of the gate sensor 27s. As a result, if the game ball passes through the normal symbol activation gate 27, it is determined whether the number of reserved symbols has reached the upper limit of four. Then, if the number of reserved ordinary figures does not reach four, a random number for determining whether a common figure has hit is acquired and the random number for determining whether a ordinary figure has been hit is stored as a reserved ordinary figure. The general drawings are stored in a general drawing holding storage area secured in the RAM 203 so that the stored order can be identified. In addition, if the game ball has not passed through the normal symbol actuation gate 27 or if the number of reserved regular symbols has already reached 4, no new reserved symbols are stored.

After performing the processing related to storing the normal figure reservation in this way, it is then determined whether the game ball has entered the first starting port 24 based on the detection result of the first starting port sensor 24s. As a result, if the game ball enters the first starting port 24, it is determined whether the number of reserved first special symbols has reached the upper limit of four. If the number of first reserved special symbols does not reach four, then a jackpot determination random number, a variable pattern selection random number, and a symbol selection random number are acquired and these random numbers are stored as the first reserved special symbols. The first special figure reservation is stored in a first special figure reservation storage area secured in the RAM 203 so that the stored order can be identified.

Here, the variable display of the first special symbol (symbol variable game) is performed based on the jackpot determination random number, the variable pattern selection random number, and the symbol selection random number obtained as the first special symbol is reserved. In addition, the performance (symbol fluctuation performance) performed in accordance with the fluctuating display of the first special symbol is also performed based on the jackpot judgment random number, the fluctuation pattern selection random number, and the symbol selection random number acquired as the first special symbol is reserved. Therefore, if you memorize the first special figure reservation, even if the fluctuation display based on the first special figure reservation has not started yet (even if the fluctuation start condition is not satisfied), the first special figure reservation It is possible to determine the mode of the variable display and performance (symbol variation game and symbol variation performance based on the first special symbol reservation) based on the above. For example, even before the variable display (jackpot determination) based on the first special symbol reservation is performed, if the variable display based on the first special symbol reservation is performed, whether or not the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed? It is possible to determine the type of jackpot game to be played when the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed, whether or not a reach effect is to be performed, etc. Such a determination is called a preliminary determination, and in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, when the first special symbol reservation is stored, a preliminary determination is made regarding the first special symbol reservation, and the preliminary determination result is is stored in association with the first special figure reservation. In this way, when the first special symbol reservation is stored and the preliminary determination result for the first special symbol reservation is stored, a preliminary determination result command indicating this preliminary determination result is stored in the output buffer of the RAM 203. The preliminary determination result command stored in the output buffer in this way is transmitted to the sub control board 220 in the next output process (S100). By doing so, the CPU 221 of the sub control board 220 can execute various effects (preliminary effects) based on the preliminary determination result of the first special symbol reservation. In addition, if the game ball has not entered the first starting port 24 or if the number of reserved first special symbols has already reached four, the new reserved first special symbol will not be stored and the number of reserved first special symbols will not be stored. No judgment is made.

After performing the process related to storing the first special symbol reservation in this way, it is then determined whether the game ball has entered the second starting port 25 based on the detection result of the second starting port sensor 25s. As a result, when the game ball enters the second starting port 25, it is determined whether or not the number of reserved second special symbols has reached the upper limit of four. If the second special figure reservation number does not reach four, the jackpot determination random number, the fluctuation pattern selection random number, and the symbol selection random number are acquired and these random numbers are stored as the second special figure reservation. The second special figure reservation is stored in a second special figure reservation storage area secured in the RAM 203 so that the stored order can be identified. After storing the second special figure reservation in this way, perform the same preliminary determination as described above (first special figure reservation) for the second special figure reservation, and store the preliminary determination result in association with the second special figure reservation. do. In this way, when the second special symbol reservation is stored and the preliminary determination result for the second special symbol reservation is stored, a preliminary determination result command indicating this preliminary determination result is stored in the output buffer of the RAM 203. The preliminary determination result command stored in the output buffer in this way is also transmitted to the sub control board 220 in the next output process (S100). By doing so, the sub-control board 220 can execute various effects based on the preliminary determination result of second special symbol reservation. In addition, if the game ball has not entered the second starting port 25 or if the number of reserved second special symbols has already reached four, the new reserved second special symbol will not be stored and the number of reserved second special symbols will not be stored. No judgment is made.

<Normal operation processing>
The CPU 201 of the main control board 200 then performs normal operation processing (S500). In this normal operation process (S500), a process of displaying the normal symbols in a variable manner and executing a game per common symbol is performed. That is, the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 first determines whether the game is in the middle of a normal symbol game, the normal symbol is being displayed in a variable manner, or the normal symbol is being displayed as a fixed symbol. As a result, if the normal symbol is not being played during a game, the normal symbol is fluctuating, or the normal symbol is being fixed, it is determined whether or not the common symbol is stored in the above-mentioned common symbol holding storage area. . As a result, if the general pattern reservation is stored in the general pattern reservation storage area, the first stored general pattern reservation among the stored general pattern reservations is read out. Then, based on the read out normal pattern reservation, that is, the normal pattern hit determination random number, the normal pattern hit determination is performed.

After performing the hit determination, it is determined whether the result of the hit determination is a hit. As a result, if the result of the normal pattern hit determination is a normal pattern hit, the normal pattern hit pattern is stored as a pattern to be stopped and displayed (stopped pattern) in the current normal pattern fluctuation display. That is, it is memorized that the left LED (see FIG. 4) of the normal pattern display section 56 is to be turned on as a result of the current variable display of the normal pattern. On the other hand, if the result of the normal pattern hit determination is that the normal pattern is out, the normal pattern out is stored as a symbol to be stopped and displayed (stopped pattern) in the current variable display of the normal pattern. That is, it is memorized that the right LED (see FIG. 4) of the normal pattern display section 56 is to be lit as a result of the current variable display of the normal pattern.

In this way, once you have memorized that the left LED of the normal symbol display section 56 should be lit as a result of the normal symbol fluctuation display this time, or that the right LED of the common symbol display section 56 should be lit, the normal symbol variation time Set , and start the fluctuating display of normal symbols. Then, the general pattern reservation that is the object of the current general pattern hit determination is deleted from the general pattern reservation storage area.

The above has explained the processing in the case that the normal symbol is not being played during the normal symbol winning game, the normal symbol is fluctuatingly displayed, and the normal symbol is being determined and displayed. On the other hand, when the normal symbols are being displayed in a variable manner, it is determined whether or not the variation time of the normal symbols being displayed in a variable manner has elapsed. As a result, if it is determined that the variable time has elapsed, the normal symbols being displayed in a variable manner are stopped and displayed in a pre-stored manner. In other words, if the result of the hit determination is a hit, the left LED of the hit pattern display section 56 is turned on (stop displaying the hit pattern), and the result of the hit determination is OFF. If this is the case, the right LED of the common symbol display section 56 is kept lit (the missed symbol is stopped and displayed). When the normal symbols are stopped and displayed in this way, the fixed display of the normal symbols starts, so the fixed display time of the normal symbols is set.

The above has explained the processing when the normal symbols are being displayed in a variable manner. On the other hand, if the normal symbol is being displayed in a fixed manner, it is determined whether or not the fixed display time has elapsed. As a result, if the confirmed display time has elapsed, it is determined whether the normal symbol stopped and displayed (determined display) this time is a symbol per common symbol (lighting of the left LED of the common symbol display section 56). As a result, if the stopped and displayed normal symbol is a per-regular symbol, after setting the opening pattern (number of openings, opening time, closing time, etc.) of the second starting port 25 in the per-regular game, Start the game by winning the figure.

The above has described the processing when the normal symbol is being displayed in a fixed manner. On the other hand, when playing a game with a normal figure, the opening/closing door 26 is operated by controlling the starting port solenoid 26m so that the second starting port 25 is in the open state and closed state in the opening pattern described above. . Then, when the control according to this opening pattern is completed, the game for winning a common figure ends.

Here, as described above with reference to FIG. It is set to a "non-electric support state in which the frequency of ball entry is low" or "an electrical support state in which the frequency of ball entry into the second starting port 25 is high". Setting of such a non-electric support state and an electric support state is realized as follows.

In other words, in the electric support state, compared to the non-electric support state, the probability that the result of the normal pattern hit judgment will be a normal pattern hit (probability of normal pattern hit) is higher, and the fluctuation time of the normal pattern (normal pattern fluctuation time) is shorter. , the opening time of the second starting port 25 in the normal figure winning game is set to be long. Therefore, in the electrically supported state, the second starting port 25 becomes open more frequently and remains in the open state for a longer period of time than in the non-electrically supported state, so that the game ball does not enter the second starting port 25. The frequency of ball entry increases (high frequency state). For example, if the non-electronic support state is set, the probability of hitting a regular map is set to 1/100 (the random number of 1/100 of the random numbers for determining hitting a regular map that can be obtained as a reservation for a regular map is set to 1/100). The normal figure variation time is set to 20 seconds, and the opening time of the second starting port 25 in the normal figure game is set to 0.3 seconds (0.1 seconds x 3 openings). On the other hand, if the electric support state is set, the probability of hitting a regular map is set to 99/100 (99/100 of the random numbers for determining hitting a regular map that can be obtained as a reservation for a regular map). Set the random number per normal figure), set the normal figure fluctuation time to 1 second, and set the opening time of the second starting port 25 in the normal figure game to 4.5 seconds (1.5 seconds x 3 openings). .

<Special operation processing>
The CPU 201 of the main control board 200 then performs special operation processing (S600). In this special operation process (S600), a process of variably displaying a special symbol (first special symbol or second special symbol) or executing a jackpot game is performed. That is, the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 first operates during a jackpot game, during a variable display of a special symbol (first special symbol or second special symbol), and during fixed display of a special symbol (first special symbol or second special symbol). It is determined whether either of the following is true. As a result, if the jackpot game is not in progress, the special symbol is not being displayed in a variable manner, or the special symbol is not being displayed as a fixed symbol, it is determined whether or not the second special symbol is stored in the second special symbol retention storage area. . As a result, if the second special figure reservation is stored in the second special figure reservation storage area, the second special figure reservation (jackpot judgment random number , variable pattern selection random number, symbol selection random number). Then, a jackpot judgment is performed based on the jackpot judgment random number included in the read second special figure reservation.

On the other hand, if the second special figure reservation is not stored in the second special figure reservation storage area, then check whether or not the first special figure reservation is stored in the first special figure reservation storage area. to decide. As a result, if the first special figure reservation is stored in the first special figure reservation storage area, the first special figure reservation (jackpot judgment random number , symbol selection random number, fluctuation pattern selection random number). Then, a jackpot judgment is performed based on the jackpot judgment random number included in the read first special figure reservation.

Here, as described above using FIG. 6, in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, the gaming state related to the probability of being determined to be a jackpot in the jackpot determination is ``the probability of being determined to be a jackpot in the jackpot determination is low (99 The state is set to ``a low probability state (with a probability of 1 in 9)'' or a ``high probability state in which the probability of being judged as a jackpot in jackpot determination is high (with a probability of 1 in 11.9)''. Setting of such a low probability state or a high probability state is realized as follows. In other words, when a low probability state is set, a random number of 1/99.9 of the jackpot judgment random numbers that can be obtained as the first special figure pending or the second special figure pending is considered a jackpot, and a high probability state is set. If so, a random number of 1/11.9 of the jackpot determination random numbers that can be obtained as the first special figure reservation or the second special figure reservation is determined as a jackpot.

After making the jackpot determination for the first special figure reservation or the second special figure reservation in this way, it is determined whether or not the result of the jackpot determination is a jackpot. As a result, if the result of the jackpot determination is a jackpot, a variable display of the current special symbol (symbol variation game) is performed based on the symbol selection random number included in the first special symbol reservation or the second special symbol reservation read this time. Select the type of jackpot symbol to be stopped and displayed. That is, as described above with reference to FIG. 5, in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, the jackpot symbols 1 to 100 can be stopped and displayed as the first special symbol, and the jackpot symbols 201 to 300 can be displayed as the second special symbol. can be stopped and displayed. Therefore, when the first special symbol reservation is read out, refer to the symbol selection table (not shown) in which symbol selection random numbers are assigned to jackpot symbols 1 to 100, and use the symbol selection random number read out as the first special symbol reservation. The corresponding jackpot symbol is selected as the symbol to be stopped and displayed. In addition, when the second special figure reservation is read out, the jackpot symbol corresponding to the symbol selection random number read out as the second special figure reservation is determined by referring to the symbol selection table in which the symbol selection random numbers are assigned to the jackpot symbols 201 to 300. is selected as the symbol to be stopped and displayed. Note that the symbol selection table is stored in advance in the ROM 202 of the main control board 200.

On the other hand, when the result of the jackpot determination is a win, if the first special figure reservation is read out, the loser symbol 101 is selected as the symbol to be stopped and displayed, and if the second special figure reservation is read out, the loser symbol 301 is selected as the symbol to be stopped and displayed. Select as the symbol to be displayed in a stopped state. Incidentally, the jackpot symbol and the losing symbol selected as the symbols to be stopped and displayed are stored in a stop symbol storage area secured in the RAM 203.

After selecting the symbols to be stopped and displayed in this way, a variation pattern of the special symbol variation display (symbol variation game) is selected. A fluctuating pattern is the time (fluctuation time) from when a special symbol (first special symbol or second special symbol) starts fluctuating display until it stops displaying, and each fluctuating pattern is distinguished from other fluctuating patterns. Information (variation pattern ID) for changing the pattern is attached. In the process of selecting a variation pattern, the variation pattern selection table is referred to. As shown in FIG. 9, the variation pattern selection table is a table in which variation pattern selection random numbers are assigned to a plurality of variation patterns (variation pattern ID, variation time). In the process of selecting a variation pattern, in such a variation pattern selection table, the variation pattern corresponding to the variation pattern selection random number read out as the first special figure pending or the second special figure pending is determined as the current variation pattern. . Therefore, the probability that each variation pattern is selected is determined by the proportion of random numbers allocated to each variation pattern among the obtainable variation pattern selection random numbers.

The variation pattern selected in this way is transmitted to the sub-control board 220 as a variation pattern designation command to be described later. When the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 receives the fluctuation pattern designation command, it recognizes the fluctuation pattern of the current symbol fluctuation game based on the fluctuation pattern designation command, and executes the symbol fluctuation performance with the performance pattern based on the fluctuation pattern. .

In the process of selecting a variation pattern described above, instead of always referring to the same variation pattern selection table, as shown in FIG. A variable pattern selection table corresponding to various game progress conditions such as the current game state, the result of jackpot determination, and the number of stored first and second special symbols reserved is referred to. By doing this, it becomes possible to select a variation pattern corresponding to various game progress conditions, and as a result, the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 can execute a symbol variation performance with a performance pattern corresponding to various game progress conditions. For example, if the result of the jackpot determination is a jackpot, the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 executes a symbol variation effect in which the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c are stopped and displayed on a zero after the reach effect, and the result of the jackpot determination is If it is a miss, a symbol variation effect is executed in which the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c are stopped and displayed in random order. Further, when the result of the jackpot determination is a loss and a predetermined variation pattern is selected, a reach effect is performed. Note that each variation pattern selection table is stored in advance in the ROM 202 of the main control board 200.

In this way, after selecting a symbol to be stopped and displayed in the current variable display of special symbols and selecting a variation pattern for the current variable display of special symbols, the variable display of the special symbols is started. Then, a variation pattern designation command indicating the currently selected variation pattern is stored in the output buffer of the RAM 203. The variation pattern designation command stored in the output buffer in this way is transmitted to the sub-control board 220 in the next output process (S100). In addition, the first special figure reservation or the second special figure reservation, which was the subject of the current jackpot determination, is deleted from the first special figure reservation storage area or the second special figure reservation storage area.

The above has explained the processing when the game is not in the middle of a jackpot game, while a special symbol (first special symbol or second special symbol) is being displayed in a variable manner, or during a fixed display of a special symbol. On the other hand, when the special symbol is being displayed in a variable manner, it is determined whether or not the variable time of the special symbol being displayed in a variable manner has elapsed. As a result, if it is determined that the variable time has elapsed, the special symbol being displayed in a variable manner is stopped and displayed as a symbol previously stored in the stop symbol storage area (determined display is started). When the special symbol is stopped and displayed in this way, the final display of the special symbol starts, so the final display time of the special symbol is set. Then, a fluctuation stop command indicating that the special symbol has been stopped and displayed is stored in the output buffer of the RAM 203. The fluctuation stop command stored in the output buffer in this way is transmitted to the sub control board 220 in the next output process (S100).

If the special symbol is currently being displayed, it is determined whether or not the final display time has elapsed. As a result, if the confirmed display time has elapsed, it is determined whether the special symbol stopped and displayed (confirmed display) this time is a jackpot symbol. As a result, if the special symbol that is stopped and displayed is a missed symbol, it is determined whether a high probability state is set, and if a high probability state is set, the high probability number is subtracted by one. do. As a result, when the high probability count becomes 0, a low probability state is set in place of the high probability state. It is also determined whether the power support state is set, and if the power support state is set, the number of power support times is subtracted by one. As a result, when the number of times of electric support reaches 0, a non-electric support state is set in place of the electric support state. When the gaming state is set in this way, a gaming state designation command indicating the set gaming state is stored in the output buffer of the RAM 203. The game state designation command stored in the output buffer in this way is transmitted to the sub control board 220 in the next output process (S100).

On the other hand, when the stopped and displayed special symbol is a jackpot symbol, the opening pattern (number of openings, opening time, closing time, etc.) of the jackpot 28 in the jackpot game is set. As described above with reference to FIG. 5, in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, the number of round games during the jackpot game varies depending on the type of jackpot symbol that is stopped and displayed. Therefore, the opening pattern of the big winning hole 28 is set corresponding to the type of the stopped and displayed jackpot symbol. Once the opening pattern of the jackpot opening 28 is set in this way, the jackpot game is started. Then, a jackpot game start command indicating the start of the jackpot game is stored in the output buffer of the RAM 203. This jackpot game start command also includes information indicating the number of round games in the jackpot game to be started this time. The jackpot game start command stored in the output buffer is transmitted to the sub control board 220 in the next output process (S100).

On the other hand, when a jackpot game is being played, the opening/closing door 29 is operated by controlling the jackpot solenoid 29m so that the jackpot 28 is opened and closed in the opening pattern described above. At the start of the round game, a round game start command indicating the start of the round game is stored in the output buffer of the RAM 203, and at the end of the round game, a round game end command indicating the end of the round game is stored in the output buffer of the RAM 203. be done. The round game start command and round game end command stored in the output buffer in this way are transmitted to the sub control board 220 in the next output process (S100).

Further, when the control of the jackpot solenoid 29m (operation of the opening/closing door 29) according to the above-mentioned opening pattern is finished, the jackpot game ends. Then, a jackpot game end command indicating the end of the jackpot game is stored in the output buffer of the RAM 203. The jackpot game end command stored in the output buffer in this way is transmitted to the sub control board 220 in the next output process (S100). When the jackpot game is finished, the game state is set to the high probability state and the electric support state, as described above with reference to FIG. At this time, the high accuracy number is set to 6 no matter which jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed, but the electric support number is set to 25, 50, or 50 depending on the type of jackpot symbol that is stopped and displayed. It is set to one of 100 times. When the gaming state is set in this way, a gaming state designation command indicating the set gaming state (including the high accuracy number and the electric support number) is stored in the output buffer of the RAM 203. The game state designation command stored in the output buffer in this way is transmitted to the sub control board 220 in the next output process (S100).

In addition, the first special figure reservation and the second special figure reservation can also be regarded as "acquisition information", and the RAM 203 that stores the first special figure reservation and the second special figure reservation can also be regarded as "acquisition information storage means". can. In addition, the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 that performs a jackpot judgment (hit judgment) as to whether or not the first special figure reservation or the second special figure reservation is a jackpot judgment random number (hit information) that becomes a jackpot is a "hit judgment means". It can also be regarded as In addition, the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 that makes a preliminary determination regarding the first special symbol reservation and the second special symbol reservation, and the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 that performs a preliminary production based on the result of the preliminary determination, are referred to as "prior production execution means. ” can also be interpreted as In addition, a special symbol (identification information) is displayed variably based on the jackpot determination (hit determination), and if it is determined to be a jackpot in the jackpot determination (hit determination), the special symbol (identification information) is displayed as a jackpot symbol. The CPU 201 of the main control board 200 that stops displaying in (specific mode) can be regarded as a "variable display means". In addition, the big winning hole 28 can be regarded as a "variable ball opening", and the jackpot game can also be regarded as a "specific game", and when the special symbol is stopped and displayed as a jackpot symbol (when a predetermined granting condition is met) , the CPU 201 of the main control board 200, which executes the jackpot game in which the big prize opening 28 (variable ball entry opening) is in an open state (ball entry possible state) (grants a privilege to the player), is a "specific game execution means". , it can also be viewed as a "privilege granting means." In addition, the "electrical support state" and "high probability state" can also be considered as "advantageous states", and the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 that can set the "electrical support state" and "high probability state" as the gaming state is " It can also be regarded as "advantageous state setting means".

<Pending number processing>
The CPU 201 of the main control board 200 then performs pending number processing (S700). In this reservation number processing (S700), the number of first special figure reservations stored in the first special figure reservation storage area and the number of second special figure reservations stored in the second special figure reservation storage area are calculated. are read out, and a pending number transmission command indicating these numbers is stored in the output buffer of the RAM 203. The pending number transmission command thus stored in the output buffer is also transmitted to the sub control board 220 in the next output process (S100). By doing this, the sub-control board 220 displays various effects based on these numbers, such as displaying on the effect display device 41 the reserved symbols corresponding to the number of first reserved special symbols and the number of second reserved special symbols. It becomes possible to execute.

D. Production control processing:
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the general flow of the production control process performed by the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 as control related to production. The production control process is performed by the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 based on a timer interrupt that occurs at predetermined intervals (for example, every 10 msec). Hereinafter, the production control processing performed by the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 will be explained according to the flowchart. Note that, in the following description, descriptions of well-known processes such as initialization processing of the CPU 221, interrupt prohibition processing, and interrupt permission processing are omitted.

When the production control process is started, the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 first performs a command analysis process (S800). Here, each time the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 receives a command from the main control board 200, it stores this command in the received command storage area of the RAM 223 as an external interrupt process. In the command analysis process (S800), an effect corresponding to the command stored in the received command storage area, that is, a command received from the main control board 200 is determined, and the image and audio control board 230 and the lamp are used to perform this effect. Commands to be sent to the control board 226 and the like are stored in an output buffer secured in the RAM 223.

The CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 then performs output processing (S900). In this process, commands stored in the output buffer of the RAM 223 are transmitted to the image and audio control board 230, the lamp control board 226, and the like. Upon receiving a command from the sub-control board 220, the image and audio control board 230 displays an image corresponding to the received command on the effect display device 41, and outputs sound corresponding to the received command from various speakers 6a, 6b, etc. do. Further, the lamp control board 226 causes the various lamps 5a to 5c to emit light in a light emission pattern corresponding to the received command.

As described above, the sub control board 220 cooperates with the image and audio control board 230, the lamp control board 226, etc. to execute various effects, but in this specification, for convenience of explanation, the sub control board 220 controls the image and audio. Executing various effects in cooperation with the board 230, lamp control board 226, etc. is also simply expressed as "the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 executes various effects."

FIG. 12 shows processing performed by the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 in response to commands received from the main control board 200. As shown in FIG. 12, when the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 receives a preliminary determination result command, it may perform a preliminary performance that is a performance based on the preliminary determination result. For example, an image of a character or the like corresponding to the preliminary determination result may be displayed on the effect display device 41, or the manner of a pending symbol to be displayed in the first pending display area 41d or the second pending display area 41f of the presentation display device 41 may be determined in advance. The form may be adapted to correspond to the result. Note that the pre-judgment performance does not need to be performed all the time when the pre-judgment result command is received, and may be performed when a predetermined condition is met (for example, when a predetermined lottery is won).

Further, upon receiving the reservation number transmission command, the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 transmits the same number of reservation symbols as the first special symbol reservation number and the second special symbol reservation number indicated by this command to the first reservation symbol of the effect display device 41. It is displayed in the hold display area 41d and the second hold display area 41f. It is not necessary to always display both the first special figure pending number and the second special figure pending number, for example, a non-electronic support state in which left-handed play is performed, that is, a state in which a game based on the first special figure is played. In this case, the number of reserved 1st special symbols is displayed, and in the non-electronic support state where the right hand is played, that is, the state where the game mainly focuses on the 2nd special symbol, the number of reserved 2nd special symbols is displayed. Good too.

Further, upon receiving the variation pattern designation command, the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 displays the symbol corresponding to the variation pattern indicated by the variation pattern designation command in accordance with the variation display of the special symbol (first special symbol or second special symbol). A variable performance (including a variable display of decorative patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c) is started. The symbol variation performance is a performance that suggests the possibility that the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c will be stopped and displayed as a zero. Such a symbol variation effect is performed in response to a variation pattern, so the reach effect (see FIG. 7(b)) that is performed as part of the symbol variation effect is also performed when the corresponding variation pattern is selected. . Specifically, when the result of the jackpot determination is a jackpot and a variation pattern corresponding to the reach effect is selected, after the reach effect is performed, the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c are stopped and displayed on the double. A performance will be held. In addition, if the fluctuation pattern corresponding to the reach effect is selected when the result of the jackpot determination is a miss, the symbol fluctuation effect in which the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c are stopped and displayed in the winning position after the reach effect is performed. will be held. When a variation stop command is received during the execution of the symbol variation effect, the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 stops displaying the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c in the form of a double or double.

Further, as shown in FIG. 12, upon receiving the jackpot game start command, the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 starts a jackpot game performance indicating that a jackpot game is in progress. For example, at the timing when the jackpot game is started, a fanfare effect indicating the start of the jackpot game is executed, and a moving image (so-called movie) indicating that the jackpot game is in progress is started to be displayed. In addition, there are effects that suggest the number of rounds of the started jackpot game (any of the 4-round jackpot game, 6-round jackpot game, 7-round jackpot game, 16-round jackpot game), and the effects that are set after the started jackpot game ends. A performance is performed that suggests a gaming state, a high probability number of times (6 times), and a number of electric support times (any of 25 times, 50 times, or 100 times).

Further, when the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 receives a round game start command during a jackpot game, it starts a round game performance indicating that a round game is being played (for example, overlapping the jackpot game performance). For example, an effect indicating the number of round games in the jackpot game being executed (for example, an effect displaying 1R, 2R, 3R, etc.) is started. When the round game end command is received, the round game performance is ended, and when the jackpot game end command is received, the jackpot game performance is ended.

Further, upon receiving the gaming state designation command, the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 starts an effect corresponding to the set gaming state. For example, the decoration patterns 41a, 41b, 41c and their background images are displayed in a manner (color, shape, etc.) that corresponds to the game state, or when a high probability state is set, the remaining high probability number is displayed. When the power support state is set, the display starts displaying the remaining number of power support times.

E. Main pre-production of this example:
E-1. Design reduction:
Here, in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, as part of the above-mentioned preliminary performance, the display area (decorative pattern area SR) in which the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c are displayed is reduced (hereinafter also referred to as "symbol reduction performance"). ) can be executed. When the "design reduction performance" is performed, not only the "decorative design 41a" is reduced, but also the decorative designs 41a, 41b, 41c are reduced. It can also be seen as a performance that reduces the size.

FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing how the "design reduction effect" of this embodiment is performed. As shown in FIG. 13, the "design reduction effect" reduces the "decorative design area SR" by reducing the frame image 41w, and accordingly, the decorative design displayed in the "decorative design area SR" 41a, 41b, 41c and the background image are also reduced. In addition, even when performing the "symbol reduction effect", the "pending symbols" displayed in the first pending display area 41d and the second pending display area 41e are not reduced and are displayed in their original size. It is said that

In this embodiment, the effect from the time when the reduction of the "decorative pattern area SR (decorative patterns 41a, 41b, 41c)" starts until it ends (until the state shown in FIG. 13(b) is reached) is called "design reduction effect". Therefore, a performance performed in a state where the "decorative pattern area SR (decorative patterns 41a, 41b, 41c)" is reduced is not expressed as a "design reduction performance." That is, the "design reduction performance" is a performance that shows the process in which the "decorative design area SR (decorative design areas 41a, 41b, 41c)" is reduced. The time required for such "design reduction effect" is from the start of the reduction of the "decorative design area SR (decorative designs 41a, 41b, 41c)" to the end (from the start of the size change to the end) ) is 1 second.

E-2. Character display effect:
When the “decorative pattern area SR (decorative patterns 41a, 41b, 41c)” is reduced by performing the “design reduction effect”, naturally the “decorative pattern area SR” is It becomes smaller than the display area HR (display screen) (the "decorative pattern area SR" no longer matches the display area HR of the effect display device 41). As a result, a region different from the "decorative symbol region SR" (hereinafter also referred to as "non-decorative symbol region nSR") is formed (generated) in the display region HR of the performance display device 41. In the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, an effect (hereinafter also referred to as a "character display effect") may be performed in which the characters "chance" are displayed in the thus formed "non-decorative symbol area nSR". This character display performance is also performed as part of the preliminary performance.

FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram showing how the "character display effect" of this embodiment is performed. As the "character display effect", as shown in FIG. 14, an effect is performed in which the characters "chance" are displayed in the "non-decorative symbol area nSR" formed by performing the "symbol reduction effect". Specifically, two strip-shaped images are displayed in the "non-decorative pattern area nSR", and the character image "Chance" is displayed so as to scroll along each strip-shaped image.

E-3. Jackpot pending expectations regarding symbol reduction and text display effects:
In the preliminary judgment, it is also determined whether the stored special figure reservation is "a special figure reservation that will be determined as a jackpot if a jackpot determination is made (hereinafter referred to as "jackpot reservation")," and "character display effect" are effects that suggest the possibility that such a "jackpot pending" is stored. In the following, this possibility will also be expressed as the "jackpot pending expectation level." In addition, a special figure reservation different from the "jackpot reservation", that is, a "special figure reservation that is determined to be a loss when a jackpot determination is made" is also expressed as a "missing reservation."

FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram showing the jackpot pending expectation level related to the "symbol reduction effect" and the "character display effect." As shown in FIG. 15(a), the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment is set so that the expected jackpot pending is higher when the "symbol reduction effect" is performed than when it is not performed. There is. This kind of setting is set so that if the special symbol pending that is subject to advance judgment (preliminary performance) is "jackpot pending", the probability of performing "symbol reduction performance" is higher than the probability of not performing it. However, if the special symbol reservation that is subject to advance judgment (preliminary performance) is "missing reservation", this is achieved by setting the probability of not performing "design reduction performance" to be higher than the probability of performing it. It is possible.

Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 15(b), the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment is set so that the expected jackpot pending is higher when the "character display effect" is performed than when it is not performed. has been done. Such a setting is such that when the target of the preliminary judgment (preliminary performance) is ``jacket pending'', the probability of performing the ``symbol reduction effect'' is higher than the probability of not performing it, and If the target of the preliminary performance is "missing pending", this can be achieved by setting the probability of not performing the "symbol reduction performance" to be higher than the probability of performing it.

Furthermore, in the "Text Display Effect", it is possible to display the word "Chance" in blue, green, and red colors, and when the word "Chance" is displayed, the expectation level of pending jackpot depends on the color. The setting is such that the highest value is when it is red, the next highest when it is green, and the lowest when it is blue. With this kind of setting, if the special map pending that is subject to advance judgment (pre-performance) is "Jackpot pending", the probability of displaying the red "Chance" text is highest, and the green "Chance" text is the highest. Set so that the probability of displaying the text is the next highest, and the probability of displaying the blue "chance" text is the lowest, and the special map reservation that is subject to advance judgment (preliminary performance) is "missing reservation". In this case, the probability of displaying the word "Chance" in blue is the highest, the probability of displaying the word "Chance" in green is the next highest, and the probability of displaying the word "Chance" in red is the lowest. This can be achieved by setting

As described above, in the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, the "symbol reduction effect" and the "character display effect" are performed, so before the jackpot determination is made regarding the special pattern reservation (changes in the special symbol based on the special symbol reservation). (before the display is performed), it is possible to suggest to the player the possibility that the special figure pending is a "jackpot pending" (jackpot pending expectation level), making it possible to increase interest in the game. .

In addition, in the "design reduction effect", the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c are also reduced in size as the "decorative symbol area SR" is reduced. , 41b, 41c, and can increase interest in the game. Furthermore, since the "text display effect" is performed following the "symbol reduction effect," when the "symbol reduction effect" is performed, it is difficult to make the player expect that the "text display effect" will be performed. This makes it possible to increase interest in the game.

E-4. Execution timing of symbol reduction effect:
The above-mentioned "symbol reduction performance" is executed at the timing when the special symbol reservation that is the subject of advance determination is stored (timing when the game ball enters the first starting port 24 or the second starting port 25). For example, as shown in FIG. 16(a), even if the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c are being displayed in a variable manner, if the special symbol reservation that is subject to preliminary determination is stored, the "design reduction effect" is performed. (The "decorative pattern area SR" and the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, 41c may be reduced). In this way, it is possible to give the player an impression that the "symbol reduction performance" has been started for the special symbol that has just been stored, and it is possible to increase the player's interest in the game.

However, if the "design reduction effect" is performed at such a timing, the following problems may occur. That is, since the confirmed display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c is a display indicating the result of jackpot determination, it is necessary to make the player recognize it without fail. For this reason, it is preferable not to move the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c during final display. Despite this, if the "design reduction effect" is performed while the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, 41c are being displayed, the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, 41c that are being displayed will also be reduced (they will move). . For example, as shown in FIG. 16(b), even if the "design reduction effect" is started during the variable display of the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c, the decorative pattern 41a , 41b, 41c, the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c being displayed are reduced (moved). Further, as shown in FIG. 16(c), when the "design reduction effect" is started while the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, 41c are being displayed, it is natural that the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, 41c, 41c is reduced (moved). For this reason, it becomes difficult for the player to recognize the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c that are currently being displayed.

Therefore, in the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment, as shown in FIG. '' from the time back to the end of the final display, that is, ``the period in which when the symbol reduction effect is started, the symbol reduction effect is executed overlapping the final display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c.'' '' is set as a ``prohibition period'' in which the ``design reduction effect'' does not start even if the special pattern reservation is memorized. Then, when performing the "symbol reduction effect" for the special symbol reservation stored in the "prohibited period", as shown in FIG. 17(b), it does not start at the timing when the special symbol reserved is stored, It was decided to start after the end of ``. In this way, when the player recognizes the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c that are being displayed as confirmed, it is possible to prevent the "symbol reduction effect" from becoming an hindrance (the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c that are being displayed as confirmed are This will prevent it from being reduced).

In addition, as described above, when performing the "design reduction effect" after the end of the "prohibition period", as shown in FIG. The "design reduction effect" is to be started at the timing when it is started. Here, if the special pattern reservation is stored outside the "prohibition period", the "design reduction effect" is started at the timing when the special pattern reservation is stored, so the fluctuating display of the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, 41c is It is rare that the "design reduction effect" is started at the timing when it is started. On the other hand, if the special pattern reservation is stored during the "prohibition period", the "design reduction effect" will start at the timing when the variable display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c starts after the "prohibition period" ends. Begins. In other words, for the player, the "symbol reduction effect" which normally does not start with the start of the fluctuating display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c, but when the special symbol suspension is stored during the "prohibited period" is started in conjunction with the start of the variable display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c. For this reason, it is possible to prevent the "symbol reduction effect" from interfering with the recognition of the final display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c, while giving the player a sense of surprise and increasing the interest in the game. Become.

Here, after the "decorative pattern area SR (decorative pattern 41a, 41b, 41c)" is reduced by performing the "decorative pattern reduction effect", at a predetermined timing, the "decorative pattern area SR ( An effect is performed in which the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, 41c) are enlarged (hereinafter also referred to as a pattern enlargement effect), and the decorative pattern areas SR (decorative patterns 41a, 41b, 41c) are returned to their original size ( (See FIG. 13(a)). Such "design enlarging effect" also hinders the recognition of the final display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c, so it is not started in the next period. That is, ``the period from the time when the final display of the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c starts by the time required for the pattern enlargement effect (1 second) to the time when the final display ends'', that is, The ``symbol enlargement effect'' is not started during ``a period in which when the symbol enlargement effect is started, the pattern enlargement effect is executed overlapping the final display of the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c''. For example, after the end of this period, the "design enlargement effect" is started at the timing when the variable display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c starts. In this way, when the player recognizes the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c that are being displayed as confirmed, it is possible to prevent the "symbol enlargement effect" from becoming a hindrance (the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c that are currently displayed (prevents it from being expanded).

E-5. Design reduction processing:
FIG. 18 shows a flowchart of "symbol reduction effect processing" executed by the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220. This process is a process performed as a part of the effect control process described above using FIG. 11, and is a process for starting the "symbol reduction effect".

When the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 starts the symbol reduction effect processing, it first determines whether or not a preliminary determination result command has been received (S1000). The preliminary determination result command is a command sent from the main control board 200 when a special symbol reservation is newly stored, and includes the result of preliminary determination regarding the newly stored special symbol reservation. For example, this command also includes information indicating whether the newly stored special figure reservation is "jackpot reservation" or "missing reservation".

If the preliminary determination result command has been received (S1000: yes), it is determined (judged) whether or not to perform the "symbol reduction effect" for the newly stored special symbol reservation (S1002). For example, it is determined whether or not to execute the "symbol reduction performance" for the newly stored special symbol reservation so that the execution probability described above with reference to FIG. 15 is achieved. As a result, if it is decided to execute the "symbol reduction effect" for the newly stored special symbol reservation (S1002: yes), it is determined whether or not the "prohibition period (see FIG. 17)" is in progress. , it is determined whether the timing at which the new special map reservation is stored is during the "prohibition period" (S1004). As a result, if the timing at which the special symbol reservation is newly stored is not during the "prohibited period" (S1004: no), the "symbol reduction effect" is started (S1006). In other words, if the "prohibition period" is not in progress, the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c that are currently being displayed will not be reduced even if the "design reduction effect" is started, so the "design reduction effect" should be started immediately. Start.

On the other hand, if the timing at which the special map reservation is newly stored is during the "prohibition period" (S1004: yes), the standby flag is set to ON (S1008). In other words, if the "prohibition period" is in progress, if the "design reduction effect" is started, the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c that are currently being displayed will be reduced in size, so do not start the "design reduction effect" immediately. (In order to wait for the start of the "design reduction effect"), the standby flag is set to ON. The standby flag indicates that although it has been decided that a "symbol reduction effect" will be performed for the newly stored special symbol hold, since the "prohibition period" is currently in progress, the "symbol reduction effect" is waiting for the start of the "symbol reduction effect". This is a flag indicating that Note that a storage area for the standby flag is secured in the RAM 223 of the sub-control board 220.

In the symbol reduction production process, a process of determining whether or not the standby flag as described above is set to ON is also performed (S1010). If the standby flag is set to ON (S1010: yes), it is determined whether or not it is time to start variable display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c (S1012). As a result, if it is the start timing of the variable display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c (S1012: yes), the standby flag is set to OFF (S1014), and the "design reduction effect" is started (S1016). In other words, although it has been decided to perform a "symbol reduction effect" for the newly stored special symbol reservation, since the "prohibition period" is currently in progress, if you are waiting for the start of the "symbol reduction effect", Next, the "design reduction effect" is started at the timing when the variable display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c (special symbols) is started. In this way, when the player recognizes the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c that are being displayed as confirmed, it is possible to prevent the "symbol reduction effect" from becoming an hindrance (the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c that are being displayed as confirmed are This will prevent it from being reduced).

Note that the execution mode of the "character display effect" is also determined based on the preliminary judgment result included in the preliminary judgment result command, but of course, when performing the "character display effect", the "character display effect" is It starts after the "design reduction effect". Also, when the "design reduction effect" is being executed, or when the "decorative symbol area SR (decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c)" is in a reduced state due to the "design reduction effect" being performed. will not perform a new "design reduction effect". For example, in the determination process of S1002, it is determined that the "symbol reduction effect" is not performed.

F. Variant example:
Next, a modification will be explained.
F-1. Modification example 1:
In the above-described embodiment, even before the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c are displayed, the "design reduction effect" is not started during the "prohibition period." However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the "design reduction effect" may be started before the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c are displayed. In this way, the final display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c may be started during the "symbol reduction effect", but in this case, the "symbol reduction effect" is temporarily stopped.

That is, as shown in FIG. 19, when the final display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c is started during the "design reduction performance", the "design reduction performance" is temporarily stopped. Specifically, it is assumed that the reduction of the "decorative pattern area SR (decorative patterns 41a, 41b, 41c)" is stopped (a state in the middle of reduction, a state between FIG. 13(a) and FIG. 13(b)). . Then, after the fixed display of the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, 41c is finished, at the timing of starting the variable display of the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, 41c, the remaining effects of the "design reduction effect", that is, the "decorative pattern area SR ( The decorative patterns 41a, 41b, 41c) are further reduced in size. Even in the case of the configuration of Modification 1, it is possible to prevent the "symbol reduction effect" from becoming a hindrance when the player recognizes the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c that are being displayed in the final display. This can prevent the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, 41c inside from being reduced).

In addition, it is natural that the "symbol reduction effect" is not stopped midway, but if the "symbol reduction effect" is temporarily stopped as in Modification 1, it will give a surprise to the player. This makes it possible to increase interest in the game.

In addition, in modification example 1, when the "design reduction effect" is once stopped, the "design reduction effect" is not restarted just by the completion of the final display of the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, 41c, and the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, 41c, It is restarted when the variable display of 41c starts. That is, depending on the timing at which the variable display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c is started, the state in which the "design reduction effect" is temporarily stopped may continue for a long time. Therefore, it is possible to increase the surprise given to the player, and it is possible to increase the interest in the game. In addition, if we simply continue the state in which the "design reduction effect" has been stopped for a long time, the "fluctuating display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c based on the special pattern reservation related to the symbol reduction effect" will change. There is a risk that the "reduction effect" ends before it is restarted, and the "reduction effect" has no meaning as a preliminary effect (it is no longer a preliminary effect). In this regard, in Modification 1, since the "design reduction effect" is restarted when the variable display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c starts, the "design reduction effect" has no meaning as a preliminary effect. can be suppressed.

Here, after the "decorative design area SR (decorative design area 41a, 41b, 41c)" is reduced by performing the "decorative design area SR", at a predetermined timing, the "decorative design area SR (Decorative patterns 41a, 41b, 41c)'' is enlarged (design enlargement effect), and the ``Decorative pattern area SR (decorative patterns 41a, 41b, 41c)'' returns to its original size (Fig. 13(a) )reference). Such "design enlargement effect" also obstructs the recognition of the final display of the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, 41c, so while the "design enlargement effect" is being executed, the final display of the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, 41c If the "design enlargement effect" is started, the "design enlargement effect" is temporarily stopped. In this way, when the player recognizes the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c that are being displayed as confirmed, it is possible to prevent the "symbol enlargement effect" from becoming a hindrance (the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c that are currently displayed (prevents it from being expanded).

FIG. 20 shows a flowchart of the “symbol reduction effect processing” of the first modification executed by the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220. This process is a process performed as part of the effect control process described above using FIG. 11, and is a process for starting the "symbol reduction effect" of the first modification. Note that descriptions of processes similar to those in the embodiment will be omitted.

When the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 starts the symbol reduction effect processing, it first determines whether or not a preliminary determination result command has been received (S1100). As a result, if the preliminary determination result command has been received (S1100: yes), it is determined (judged) whether or not to execute the "symbol reduction effect" for the newly stored special symbol reservation (S1102). As a result, if it is decided to execute the "symbol reduction effect" for the newly stored special symbol reservation (S1102: yes), whether or not the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c are being displayed as confirmed; That is, it is determined whether the timing at which the new special figure reservation is stored is during the final display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c (S1104). As a result, if the timing at which the new special symbol reservation is stored is not during the final display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c (S1104: no), the "design reduction effect" is started (S1106). On the other hand, if the timing at which the new special symbol reservation is stored is during the final display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c (S1104: yes), the "design reduction effect" is not started. In this case, similarly to the above embodiment, the "design reduction effect" may be started at the timing when the variable display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c (special symbols) is started next.

In the pattern reduction effect processing of the first modification, a judgment process is also performed to determine whether or not it is the start timing of the final display of the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c (S1108). If it is the start timing of the final display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c (S1108: yes), it is determined whether or not the "design reduction effect" is being executed (S1110). As a result, if the "design reduction effect" is being executed, that is, if the final display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c is started while the "design reduction effect" is being executed (S1110: yes), The symbol reduction effect is temporarily stopped (S1112), and the stop flag is temporarily set to ON (S1114). The temporary stop flag is a flag indicating that the "symbol reduction effect" has been temporarily stopped, and its storage area is secured in the RAM 223 of the sub-control board 220.

In the symbol reduction production process of the first modification, a process of determining whether or not the stop flag is set to ON is also performed (S1116). Then, if the stop flag is once set to ON (S1116: yes), it is determined whether or not it is the start timing of the variable display of the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c (S1118). As a result, if it is the start timing of the variable display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c (S1118: yes), the stop flag is temporarily set to OFF (S1120), and the "design reduction effect" is restarted (S1122). That is, if the final display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c is started during the "symbol reduction performance", the "symbol reduction performance" is temporarily stopped. In this case, the "design reduction effect" is restarted at the next timing when the variable display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c (special symbols) is started. In such a case, it is possible to prevent the "design reduction effect" from becoming a hindrance for the player to recognize the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c that are currently being displayed (the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c that are being displayed can be prevented from being reduced).

Note that the execution mode of the "character display effect" in Modification 1 is also determined based on the preliminary judgment result included in the preliminary judgment result command, but of course, when performing the "character display effect," The "production" is started after the "design reduction production". Also, when the "design reduction effect" is being executed, or when the "decorative symbol area SR (decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c)" is in a reduced state due to the "design reduction effect" being performed. will not perform a new "design reduction effect". For example, in the determination process of S1102, it is determined that the "symbol reduction effect" is not performed.

F-2. Modification 2:
Modified example 2 has a configuration in which multiple types of "symbol reduction effects" with different required times can be executed as the "symbol reduction effects". For example, as shown in FIG. 21, it is possible to execute three types of "design reduction effects" whose required times are 1 second, 1.5 seconds, and 2 seconds. Then, when performing the "design reduction effect" due to the newly memorized special symbol reservation, the time until the final display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c starts (hereinafter also referred to as "pre-confirmation time"), In FIG. 21, 1.8 seconds) is detected. Then, from among the three types of "design reduction effects", the "design reduction effects" whose required time is less than or equal to the "pre-confirmation time", that is, before the confirmation display of the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c starts. Start by selecting the "design reduction effect" that can be completed. In this way, the "design reduction effect" ends before the final display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c starts, so when the player recognizes the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c that are currently being displayed, It is possible to prevent the "design reduction effect" from becoming a hindrance (it is possible to prevent the decorative designs 41a, 41b, and 41c being displayed as confirmed from being reduced).

Here, in the example shown in FIG. 21, there are two types of "symbol reduction effects" (1 second and 1.5 seconds) whose required time is less than the "pre-confirmation time", but in such a case, the required time is less. Select and execute the long "design reduction effect". In this way, while preventing the "symbol reduction effect" from interfering with the recognition of the final display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c, it is possible to make the player recognize the "symbol reduction effect" which requires a longer time. This makes it possible to increase interest in the game.

Furthermore, if there is no "symbol reduction performance" whose required time is less than or equal to the "pre-confirmation time", the "symbol reduction performance" is not executed. Even in such a case, it is possible to prevent the "design reduction effect" from interfering with the recognition of the final display of the decorative designs 41a, 41b, and 41c.

In addition, after the "decorative pattern area SR (decorative patterns 41a, 41b, 41c)" is reduced by performing the "decorative pattern reduction effect", at a predetermined timing, the "decorative pattern area SR ( An effect (design enlargement effect) is performed in which the ``decorative patterns 41a, 41b, 41c)'' are enlarged, and the ``decorative pattern area SR (decorative patterns 41a, 41b, 41c)'' returns to its original size (Fig. 13(a) reference). Such "design enlargement effect" is performed in the same manner as in the above-described embodiment or modification example 1.

FIG. 22 shows a flowchart of the “symbol reduction effect processing” of the second modification executed by the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220. This process is a process performed as a part of the effect control process described above using FIG. 11, and is a process for starting the "symbol reduction effect" of the second modification. Note that descriptions of processes similar to those in the embodiment will be omitted.

When the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 starts the symbol reduction effect processing, it first determines whether or not a preliminary determination result command has been received (S1200). As a result, if the preliminary determination result command has been received (S1200: yes), it is determined (judged) whether or not to perform the "symbol reduction effect" for the newly stored special symbol reservation (S1202). As a result, if it is decided to execute the "symbol reduction effect" for the newly stored special symbol reservation (S1202: yes), whether or not the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c are currently being displayed, That is, it is determined whether the timing at which the new special figure reservation is stored is during the final display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c (S1204). As a result, if the timing at which the special symbol reservation is newly stored is during the final display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c (S1204: yes), the "design reduction effect" is not started. In this case, similarly to the above embodiment, the "design reduction effect" may be started at the timing when the variable display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c (special symbols) is started next.

On the other hand, if the timing at which the new special pattern reservation is stored is not during the final display of the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c (S1204: no), the final display of the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c is started. The time until (pre-confirmation time) is detected (S1206). Among the multiple types of "design reduction effects," there are "design reduction effects" whose required time is less than or equal to the "pre-confirmation time," that is, before the final display of the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, and 41c starts. It is determined whether there is a "symbol reduction effect" that can be terminated (S1208). As a result, if there is no "symbol reduction effect" whose required time is less than or equal to the "pre-confirmation time" (S1208: no), the "symbol reduction effect" is not executed. In this case, as in the above-described embodiment, the "design reduction effect" may be started at the timing when the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c next start variable display.

On the other hand, if there is a "symbol reduction effect" whose required time is less than or equal to the "pre-confirmation time" (S1208: no), the "symbol reduction effect" with the longest required time is selected and started. (S1210). Naturally, if there is only one "symbol reduction performance" whose required time is less than or equal to the "time before confirmation", that one "symbol reduction performance" is selected and started. In such a case, it is possible to prevent the "design reduction effect" from becoming a hindrance for the player to recognize the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c that are currently being displayed (the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c that are being displayed can be prevented from being reduced).

Note that the execution mode of the "character display effect" in the second modification is also determined based on the preliminary judgment result included in the preliminary judgment result command, but of course, when performing the "character display effect," The "production" is started after the "design reduction production". Also, when the "design reduction effect" is being executed, or when the "decorative symbol area SR (decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c)" is in a reduced state due to the "design reduction effect" being performed. will not perform a new "design reduction effect". For example, in the determination process of S1202, it is determined that the "symbol reduction effect" is not performed.

F-3. Variation 3:
In the above-described embodiment, even before the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c are displayed, the "design reduction effect" is not started during the "prohibition period." However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the "design reduction effect" may be started before the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c are displayed. In this way, the final display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c may be started during the "symbol reduction effect", but in this case, the "symbol reduction effect" is ended.

That is, as shown in FIG. 23, when the final display of decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c is started during the "design reduction performance", the "design reduction performance" is ended. Specifically, it is assumed that the reduction of the "decorative pattern area SR (decorative patterns 41a, 41b, 41c)" is stopped (a state in the middle of reduction, a state between FIG. 13(a) and FIG. 13(b)). . Alternatively, the "decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c (decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c)" are not reduced (the state before the "design reduction effect" is performed, the state shown in FIG. 13(a)). Even in the case of the configuration of Modification 3, it is possible to prevent the "symbol reduction effect" from becoming a hindrance when the player recognizes the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c that are being displayed in the final display. This can prevent the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, 41c inside from being reduced).

In addition, after the "decorative pattern area SR (decorative patterns 41a, 41b, 41c)" is reduced by performing the "decorative pattern reduction effect", at a predetermined timing, the "decorative pattern area SR ( An effect is performed in which the decorative patterns 41a, 41b, 41c) are enlarged (hereinafter also referred to as a pattern enlargement effect), and the decorative pattern areas SR (decorative patterns 41a, 41b, 41c) are returned to their original size ( (See FIG. 13(a)). Such "design enlargement effect" is performed in the same manner as in the above-described embodiment or modification example 1.

FIG. 24 shows a flowchart of the “symbol reduction effect processing” of the third modification executed by the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220. This process is a process performed as a part of the effect control process described above using FIG. 11, and is a process for starting the "symbol reduction effect" of the third modification. Note that descriptions of processes similar to those in the embodiment will be omitted.

When the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 starts the symbol reduction effect processing, it first determines whether or not a preliminary determination result command has been received (S1300). As a result, if the preliminary determination result command has been received (S1300: yes), it is determined (judged) whether or not to perform the "symbol reduction effect" for the newly stored special symbol reservation (S1302). As a result, if it is decided to execute the "symbol reduction effect" for the newly stored special symbol reservation (S1302: yes), whether or not the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c are being displayed in a fixed manner, That is, it is determined whether the timing at which the new special figure reservation is stored is during the final display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c (S1304). As a result, if the timing at which the new special symbol reservation is stored is not during the final display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c (S1304: no), the "design reduction effect" is started (S1306). On the other hand, if the timing at which the new special symbol reservation is stored is during the final display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c (S1304: yes), the "design reduction effect" is not started. In this case, similarly to the above embodiment, the "design reduction effect" may be started at the timing when the variable display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c (special symbols) is started next.

In the symbol reduction effect processing of modification 3, a determination process is also performed to determine whether or not it is the start timing of the final display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c (S1308). If it is the start timing of the final display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, and 41c (S1308: yes), it is determined whether or not the "design reduction effect" is being executed (S1310). As a result, if the "design reduction effect" is being executed, that is, if the final display of the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c is started while the "design reduction effect" is being executed (S1310: yes), "Symbol reduction effect" is ended (S1312). In such a case, it is possible to prevent the "design reduction effect" from becoming a hindrance for the player to recognize the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c that are currently being displayed (the decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c that are being displayed can be prevented from being reduced).

Incidentally, the execution mode of the "character display effect" in Modification 3 is also determined based on the preliminary judgment result included in the preliminary judgment result command, but of course, when performing the "character display effect," The "production" is started after the "design reduction production". Also, when the "design reduction effect" is being executed, or when the "decorative symbol area SR (decorative symbols 41a, 41b, 41c)" is in a reduced state due to the "design reduction effect" being performed. will not perform a new "design reduction effect". For example, in the determination process of S1302, it is determined that the "design reduction effect" is not performed.

Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited thereto, and is not limited to the wording of each claim as long as it does not deviate from the scope stated in each claim. The present invention extends to a range that can be easily replaced from those, and improvements can be added as appropriate based on the knowledge commonly possessed by those skilled in the art.

For example, in the above-described embodiment, "symbol reduction effect" and "character display effect" are performed as preliminary effects, but the present invention is not limited to this, and various preliminary effects may be performed.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, the present invention is applied to a pachinko machine 1 that gives a player a profit (gaming value) as a result of a game by paying out game balls supplied from an island facility in a game hall. An example was explained. The present invention is not limited to this, but can also be applied to a type of gaming machine that provides gaming profits in a form different from "paying out game balls". For example, by storing data that indicates the amount of profit (size of gaming value) corresponding to the entry of game balls into various ball entrances, it is possible to The present invention can also be applied to a type of pachinko machine that gives a player a value (value), and in this case, the same effects as the above-mentioned embodiment can be obtained. In addition, a type of pachinko machine that converts gaming profits (gaming value) into data and gives it to the player is a gaming machine that circulates and uses multiple gaming balls built into the pachinko machine, specifically, An example of this is a pachinko machine (so-called enclosed game machine) configured to return game balls ejected to the back side of a game board through various ball entrances or exit ports to a firing position and fire them.

<Game machines A1 to A5 that can be extracted from the above embodiments>
The pachinko machines of the above-described embodiments can be regarded as the following gaming machines A1 to A5.

<Game machine A1>
acquisition information storage means for storing acquisition information acquired based on the game ball entering the starting hole;
a hit determination means for determining whether the acquired information is hit information;
Fluctuation display means for displaying the identification information in a variable manner based on the execution of the hit determination, and when it is determined in the hit determination that the acquired information is the hit information, the identification information is stopped and displayed in a specific manner. and,
a specific game execution means for performing a specific game in which the variable ball entry opening becomes ready for ball entry when the identification information is stopped and displayed in the specific manner;
Preliminary effect execution means capable of performing a preliminary judgment as to whether or not the obtained information is predetermined information and a preliminary effect based on the result of the preliminary judgment when the obtained information is stored in the obtained information storage means; ,
A gaming machine characterized by comprising:

In such gaming machines, when a hit determination is made on the acquired information, a variable display of the identification information (a variable display of the identification information based on the acquired information) is performed, but before that, a preliminary effect on the acquired information is performed. Sometimes. When such a preliminary effect is performed, it is possible to suggest to the player whether or not the obtained information is predetermined information before the fluctuation display of the identification information based on the obtained information is performed. Therefore, it is possible to increase the interest in the game.

<Game machine A2>
In gaming machine A1,
When the acquired information is stored in a predetermined period, the preliminary performance execution means executes the preliminary performance for the acquired information, and the pre-effect execution means executes the previous performance for the acquired information after the predetermined period ends. A gaming machine characterized by starting a pre-effect.

Here, in general gaming machines including this gaming machine, the above-mentioned preliminary effect may be started at the timing when the acquired information is stored. In this case, it is possible to give the player an impression (make him/her aware) that a preliminary effect has been started regarding the acquired information that has just been stored, and it is possible to increase the player's interest in the game. However, depending on the situation, advance production may become a hindrance. For example, if it is possible to execute a specific performance that is different from the preliminary performance, and you want to draw the player's attention to the specific performance rather than the preliminary performance, performing the preliminary performance on top of the specific performance will make the specific performance sufficiently noticeable. I can't do it. Therefore, in this gaming machine, a predetermined period, for example, "a period from (at least including) the time from the time required for the advance performance before the time when the specific performance starts until the time when the specific performance ends" is Even if the acquired information is stored, the preliminary performance for the acquired information is not started immediately, but after the end of a predetermined period. In this way, it is possible to prevent the advance performance from becoming a hindrance (for example, hindering a specific performance).

<Game machine A3>
In gaming machine A2,
The variable display means is configured to stop display the identification information and then display the identification information in a fixed display state for a predetermined fixed display time,
The gaming machine is characterized in that the predetermined period includes at least a period from a time when the predetermined display is started by a time period required for the preliminary performance to a time when the final display ends.

In such a gaming machine, after the identification information is stopped and displayed, a final display (a final display of the identification information) is performed. Since such a confirmation display (confirmation display of identification information) is a display indicating the result of winning determination, it is necessary to make the player recognize it without fail. Despite this, if a preliminary effect is performed during the confirmed display (while the identification information is confirmed), the preliminary effect becomes a hindrance, making it difficult for the player to recognize the confirmed display (the confirmed display of the identification information). Become. Therefore, in this gaming machine, "the period from the time before the time when the final display starts by the time required for the pre-production to the time when the final display ends", that is, "When the pre-display starts, During the period in which "is executed over the final display", even if the acquired information is stored, the preliminary performance for the acquired information does not start immediately, but starts after this period ends. In this way, it is possible to prevent the preliminary performance from becoming an obstacle when the player recognizes the final display (the final display of the identification information).

<Game machine A4>
In gaming machine A2,
The pre-effect execution means is capable of executing, as the pre-effect, an effect that reduces the display area in which the identification information is displayed;
The variable display means is configured to stop display the identification information and then display the identification information in a fixed display state for a predetermined fixed display time,
The gaming machine is characterized in that the predetermined period includes at least a period from a time when the predetermined display is started by a time period required for the preliminary performance to a time when the final display ends.

In such a gaming machine, after the identification information is stopped and displayed, a final display (a final display of the identification information) is performed. Further, as a preliminary performance, it is possible to perform a performance that reduces the display area in which the identification information is displayed, so that the player's attention can be drawn to the identification information, and it is possible to increase the interest in the game. However, if such a "preliminary effect of reducing the display area in which identification information is displayed" is performed, the following problems may occur. That is, since the confirmed display (confirmed display of identification information) is a display indicating the result of winning determination, it is necessary for the player to surely recognize it. Despite this, if you perform a "preliminary effect to reduce the display area where identification information is displayed" while the identification information is being displayed (while the identification information is being displayed), the identification information that is being displayed will also be reduced. This makes it difficult for the player to recognize the final display (the final display of the identification information). Therefore, in this gaming machine, "the period from the time before the time when the final display starts by the time required for the pre-production to the time when the final display ends", that is, "When the pre-display starts, During the period in which "is executed over the final display", even if the acquired information is stored, the preliminary performance for the acquired information does not start immediately, but starts after this period ends. In this way, when the player recognizes the final display (the final display of the identification information), it is possible to prevent the preliminary performance from becoming an obstacle (it is possible to prevent the identification information during the final display from being reduced).

<Game machine A5>
In gaming machine A3 or gaming machine A4,
When the acquired information is stored in a predetermined period, the preliminary performance execution means executes the preliminary performance for the acquired information, and the predetermined performance execution means is configured to display a variable display of the identification information after the predetermined period ends. A game machine characterized in that, when the gaming machine starts, the preliminary performance regarding the acquired information is started.

In such a gaming machine, if the acquired information is stored outside the predetermined period, the preliminary performance is started at the timing when the acquired information is stored, so the preliminary performance is started when the fluctuating display of the identification information starts. is rarely started. On the other hand, if the acquired information is stored in a predetermined period, the preliminary effect is started when the variable display of the identification information is started after the predetermined period ends. In other words, for the player, if the acquired information is stored within a predetermined period, the advance performance that normally would not start with the start of the fluctuating display of the identification information will start at the start of the fluctuating display of the identification information. It will be started accordingly. For this reason, it is possible to prevent the advance performance from interfering with the recognition of the confirmed display, while giving the player a sense of surprise, thereby making it possible to increase the interest in the game.

<Game machines B1 to B4 that can be extracted from the above embodiments>
The pachinko machines of the above-described embodiments can be regarded as the following gaming machines B1 to B4.

<Game machine B1>
acquisition information storage means for storing acquisition information acquired based on the game ball entering the starting hole;
a hit determination means for determining whether the acquired information is hit information;
Fluctuation display means for displaying the identification information in a variable manner based on the execution of the hit determination, and when it is determined in the hit determination that the acquired information is the hit information, the identification information is stopped and displayed in a specific manner. and,
a specific game execution means for performing a specific game in which the variable ball entry opening becomes ready for ball entry when the identification information is stopped and displayed in the specific manner;
Preliminary effect execution means capable of performing a preliminary judgment as to whether or not the obtained information is predetermined information and a preliminary effect based on the result of the preliminary judgment when the obtained information is stored in the obtained information storage means; ,
Equipped with
The preliminary performance execution means is characterized in that when a predetermined period starts during execution of the preliminary performance, the preliminary performance is temporarily stopped, and the preliminary performance is resumed after the predetermined period ends. A gaming machine that does.

In such gaming machines, when a hit determination is made on the acquired information, a variable display of the identification information (a variable display of the identification information based on the acquired information) is performed, but before that, a preliminary effect on the acquired information is performed. Sometimes. When such a preliminary effect is performed, it is possible to suggest to the player whether or not the obtained information is predetermined information before the fluctuation display of the identification information based on the obtained information is performed. Therefore, it is possible to increase the interest in the game. However, depending on the situation, advance production may become a hindrance. For example, if it is possible to execute a specific performance that is different from the preliminary performance, and you want to draw the player's attention to the specific performance rather than the preliminary performance, performing the preliminary performance on top of the specific performance will make the specific performance sufficiently noticeable. I can't do it. Therefore, in this gaming machine, during a predetermined period, for example, "a period in which a specific performance is being executed (a period that includes at least)," the preliminary performance is temporarily stopped even if the preliminary performance has been started before that period. However, it was decided that the pre-production performance would be resumed after the end of the predetermined period. In this way, it is possible to prevent the advance performance from becoming a hindrance (for example, hindering a specific performance). Furthermore, although it is natural that the pre-presentation is not stopped midway through, if the pre-presentation is temporarily stopped as in this gaming machine, it can give the player a sense of surprise and increase the enjoyment of the game. It becomes possible to increase the

<Game machine B2>
In gaming machine B1,
The variable display means is configured to stop display the identification information and then display the identification information in a fixed display state for a predetermined fixed display time,
A gaming machine characterized in that the predetermined period includes at least a period during which the confirmation display is performed.

In such a gaming machine, after the identification information is stopped and displayed, a final display (a final display of the identification information) is performed. Since such a confirmation display (confirmation display of identification information) is a display indicating the result of winning determination, it is necessary to make the player recognize it without fail. Nevertheless, if a preliminary effect is performed during the confirmed display (during the confirmed display of the identification information), the preliminary effect will become a hindrance, making it difficult for the player to recognize the confirmed display (the confirmed display of the identification information). . Therefore, in this gaming machine, during the period when the confirmation display (confirmation display of identification information) is being performed (during confirmation display), even if the preliminary presentation has started before that, the preliminary presentation is temporarily stopped. It was decided that the preliminary performance will be restarted after the final display (the final display of the identification information) ends. In this way, it is possible to prevent the preliminary performance from becoming an obstacle when the player recognizes the final display (the final display of the identification information).

<Game machine B3>
In gaming machine B1,
The pre-effect execution means is capable of executing, as the pre-effect, an effect that reduces the display area in which the identification information is displayed;
The variable display means is configured to stop display the identification information and then display the identification information in a fixed display state for a predetermined fixed display time,
A gaming machine characterized in that the predetermined period includes at least a period during which the confirmation display is performed.

In such a gaming machine, after the identification information is stopped and displayed, a final display (a final display of the identification information) is performed. Further, as a preliminary performance, it is possible to perform a performance that reduces the display area in which the identification information is displayed, so that the player's attention can be drawn to the identification information, and it is possible to increase the interest in the game. However, if such a "preliminary effect of reducing the display area in which identification information is displayed" is performed, the following problems may occur. That is, since the confirmed display (confirmed display of identification information) is a display indicating the result of winning determination, it is necessary for the player to surely recognize it. Despite this, if you perform a "preliminary effect to reduce the display area where identification information is displayed" while the identification information is being displayed (while the identification information is being displayed), the identification information that is being displayed will also be reduced. This makes it difficult for the player to recognize the final display (the final display of the identification information). Therefore, in this gaming machine, during the period when the confirmation display (confirmation display of identification information) is being performed (during confirmation display), even if the preliminary presentation has started before that, the preliminary presentation is temporarily stopped. It was decided that the preliminary performance will be restarted after the final display (the final display of the identification information) ends. In this way, when the player recognizes the final display (the final display of the identification information), it is possible to prevent the preliminary performance from becoming an obstacle (it is possible to prevent the identification information during the final display from being reduced).

<Game machine B4>
In gaming machine B2 or gaming machine B3,
If the pre-presentation execution means temporarily stops the pre-presentation when a predetermined period starts during the execution of the pre-presentation, the variable display of the identification information is started after the predetermined period ends. A game machine characterized in that the above-mentioned preliminary performance regarding the acquired information is restarted when the game machine receives the acquired information.

In such a gaming machine, when the preliminary performance is once stopped, the preliminary performance is not restarted only when a predetermined period ends, but is restarted when the variable display of the identification information is started. That is, depending on the timing at which the variable display of the identification information is started, the state in which the preliminary performance is once stopped may continue for a long time. Therefore, it is possible to increase the surprise given to the player, and it is possible to increase the interest in the game. Furthermore, if the pre-production is simply allowed to continue for a long period of time once stopped, the "fluctuating display of identification information based on the obtained information related to the pre-production" will end before the pre-production is resumed. , there is a risk that the prior performance will lose its meaning (it will no longer be a preliminary performance). In this regard, in this gaming machine, since the preliminary performance is restarted when the variable display of the identification information is started, it is possible to prevent the preliminary performance from losing its meaning.

<Game machines C1 to C4 that can be extracted from the above embodiments>
The pachinko machines of the above-described embodiments can be regarded as the following gaming machines C1 to C4.

<Game machine C1>
acquisition information storage means for storing acquisition information acquired based on the game ball entering the starting hole;
a hit determination means for determining whether the acquired information is hit information;
Fluctuation display means for displaying the identification information in a variable manner based on the execution of the hit determination, and when it is determined in the hit determination that the acquired information is the hit information, the identification information is stopped and displayed in a specific manner. and,
a specific game execution means for performing a specific game in which the variable ball entry opening becomes ready for ball entry when the identification information is stopped and displayed in the specific manner;
Preliminary effect execution means capable of performing a preliminary judgment as to whether or not the obtained information is predetermined information and a preliminary effect based on the result of the preliminary judgment when the obtained information is stored in the obtained information storage means; ,
Equipped with
The advance performance execution means is
It is possible to perform multiple types of pre-production with different required times,
When starting the preliminary performance, select the preliminary performance with a required time that can be finished before a predetermined time from among the plurality of types of preliminary performances, and execute the selected preliminary performance. A gaming machine characterized by:

In such gaming machines, when a hit determination is made on the acquired information, a variable display of the identification information (a variable display of the identification information based on the acquired information) is performed, but before that, a preliminary effect on the acquired information is performed. Sometimes. When such a preliminary effect is performed, it is possible to suggest to the player whether or not the obtained information is predetermined information before the fluctuation display of the identification information based on the obtained information is performed. Therefore, it is possible to increase the interest in the game. However, depending on the situation, advance production may become a hindrance. For example, if it is possible to execute a specific performance that is different from the preliminary performance, and you want to draw the player's attention to the specific performance rather than the preliminary performance, performing the preliminary performance on top of the specific performance will make the specific performance sufficiently noticeable. I can't do it. Therefore, in this gaming machine, when starting a pre-production, from among multiple types of pre-production, "a pre-production with a required time that can be completed before a predetermined time (for example, the start time of a specific production)" is selected. was selected, and the selected pre-production was executed. In this way, it is possible to prevent the advance performance from becoming a hindrance (for example, hindering a specific performance).

<Game machine C2>
In the gaming machine C1,
When starting the preliminary performance, if there is no preliminary performance with a required time that can be completed before the predetermined time among the plurality of types of preliminary performances, the preliminary performance is not performed. A gaming machine characterized by:

In such a gaming machine, if there is no "preliminary presentation with a required time that can be completed before a predetermined time", the preliminary presentation is not executed in the first place. Even in such a case, it is possible to prevent the advance performance from becoming a hindrance (for example, a hindrance to a specific performance).

<Game machine C3>
In gaming machine C1 or gaming machine C2,
The variable display means is configured to stop display the identification information and then display the identification information in a fixed display state for a predetermined fixed display time,
The gaming machine characterized in that the predetermined time is a time when the confirmation display is started.

In such a gaming machine, after the identification information is stopped and displayed, a final display (a final display of the identification information) is performed. Since such a confirmation display (confirmation display of identification information) is a display indicating the result of winning determination, it is necessary to make the player recognize it without fail. Nevertheless, if a preliminary effect is performed during the confirmed display (during the confirmed display of the identification information), the preliminary effect will become a hindrance, making it difficult for the player to recognize the confirmed display (the confirmed display of the identification information). . Therefore, in this gaming machine, when starting a pre-effect, from among multiple types of pre-effects, "pre-effect of the required time that can be finished before the time when the final display starts" is selected. We decided to carry out a preliminary performance. In this way, it is possible to prevent the preliminary performance from becoming an obstacle when the player recognizes the final display (the final display of the identification information).

<Game machine C4>
In gaming machine C1 or gaming machine C2,
The pre-effect execution means is capable of executing, as the pre-effect, an effect that reduces the display area in which the identification information is displayed;
The variable display means is configured to stop display the identification information and then display the identification information in a fixed display state for a predetermined fixed display time,
The gaming machine characterized in that the predetermined time is a time when the confirmation display is started.

In such a gaming machine, after the identification information is stopped and displayed, a final display (a final display of the identification information) is performed. Further, as a preliminary performance, it is possible to perform a performance that reduces the display area in which the identification information is displayed, so that the player's attention can be drawn to the identification information, and it is possible to increase the interest in the game. However, if such a "preliminary effect of reducing the display area in which identification information is displayed" is performed, the following problems may occur. That is, since the confirmed display (confirmed display of identification information) is a display indicating the result of winning determination, it is necessary for the player to surely recognize it. Despite this, if you perform a "preliminary effect to reduce the display area where identification information is displayed" while the identification information is being displayed (while the identification information is being displayed), the identification information that is being displayed will also be reduced. This makes it difficult for the player to recognize the final display (the final display of the identification information). Therefore, in this gaming machine, when starting a pre-effect, from among multiple types of pre-effects, "pre-effect of the required time that can be finished before the time when the final display starts" is selected. We decided to carry out a preliminary performance. In this way, when the player recognizes the final display (the final display of the identification information), it is possible to prevent the preliminary performance from becoming an obstacle (it is possible to prevent the identification information during the final display from being reduced).

<Game machines D1 to D3 that can be extracted from the above-mentioned embodiments>
The pachinko machines of the above-described embodiments can be regarded as the following gaming machines D1 to D3.

<Game machine D1>
acquisition information storage means for storing acquisition information acquired based on the game ball entering the starting hole;
a hit determination means for determining whether the acquired information is hit information;
Fluctuation display means for displaying the identification information in a variable manner based on the execution of the hit determination, and when it is determined in the hit determination that the acquired information is the hit information, the identification information is stopped and displayed in a specific manner. and,
a specific game execution means for performing a specific game in which the variable ball entry opening becomes ready for ball entry when the identification information is stopped and displayed in the specific manner;
Preliminary effect execution means capable of performing a preliminary judgment as to whether or not the obtained information is predetermined information and a preliminary effect based on the result of the preliminary judgment when the obtained information is stored in the obtained information storage means; ,
Equipped with
The gaming machine is characterized in that the preliminary performance execution means terminates the preliminary performance if a predetermined condition is satisfied during execution of the preliminary performance.

In such gaming machines, when a hit determination is made on the acquired information, a variable display of the identification information (a variable display of the identification information based on the acquired information) is performed, but before that, a preliminary effect on the acquired information is performed. Sometimes. When such a preliminary effect is performed, it is possible to suggest to the player whether or not the obtained information is predetermined information before the fluctuation display of the identification information based on the obtained information is performed. Therefore, it is possible to increase the interest in the game. However, depending on the situation, advance production may become a hindrance. For example, if it is possible to execute a specific performance that is different from the preliminary performance, and you want to draw the player's attention to the specific performance rather than the preliminary performance, performing the preliminary performance on top of the specific performance will make the specific performance sufficiently noticeable. I can't do it. Therefore, in this gaming machine, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, for example, when a specific performance is started, the preliminary performance is ended even if the preliminary performance has been started before that. In this way, it is possible to prevent the advance performance from becoming a hindrance (for example, hindering a specific performance).

<Game machine D2>
In the gaming machine D1,
The variable display means is configured to stop display the identification information and then display the identification information in a fixed display state for a predetermined fixed display time,
The gaming machine characterized in that the predetermined condition is that the confirmation display is started.

In such a gaming machine, after the identification information is stopped and displayed, a final display (a final display of the identification information) is performed. Since such a confirmation display (confirmation display of identification information) is a display indicating the result of winning determination, it is necessary to make the player recognize it without fail. Nevertheless, if a preliminary effect is performed during the confirmed display (during the confirmed display of the identification information), the preliminary effect will become a hindrance, making it difficult for the player to recognize the confirmed display (the confirmed display of the identification information). . Therefore, in this gaming machine, when the confirmation display (confirmation display of identification information) is started, the preliminary presentation is ended even if the preliminary presentation has been started before that. In this way, it is possible to prevent the preliminary performance from becoming an obstacle when the player recognizes the final display (the final display of the identification information).

<Game machine D3>
In the gaming machine D1,
The pre-effect execution means is capable of executing, as the pre-effect, an effect that reduces the display area in which the identification information is displayed;
The variable display means is configured to stop display the identification information and then display the identification information in a fixed display state for a predetermined fixed display time,
The gaming machine characterized in that the predetermined condition is that the confirmation display is started.

In such a gaming machine, after the identification information is stopped and displayed, a final display (a final display of the identification information) is performed. Further, as a preliminary performance, it is possible to perform a performance that reduces the display area in which the identification information is displayed, so that the player's attention can be drawn to the identification information, and it is possible to increase the interest in the game. However, if such a "preliminary effect of reducing the display area in which identification information is displayed" is performed, the following problems may occur. That is, since the confirmed display (confirmed display of identification information) is a display indicating the result of winning determination, it is necessary for the player to surely recognize it. Despite this, if you perform a "pre-effect to reduce the display area in which identification information is displayed" while the identification information is being displayed (while the identification information is being displayed), the identification information that is being displayed will also be reduced. , it becomes difficult for the player to recognize the confirmed display (confirmed display of identification information). Therefore, in this gaming machine, when the confirmation display (confirmation display of identification information) is started, the preliminary presentation is ended even if the preliminary presentation has been started before that. In this way, when the player recognizes the final display (the final display of the identification information), it is possible to prevent the preliminary performance from becoming an obstacle (it is possible to prevent the identification information during the final display from being reduced).

INDUSTRIAL APPLICATION This invention can be utilized for the gaming machine used in the gaming hall.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1... Pachinko machine (gaming machine), 20... Game board, 28... Big prize opening (variable ball entrance), 40... Performance opening, 41... Performance display device, 200... Main control board, 201... CPU (winning (judgment means, variable display means, specific game execution means, advance effect execution means), 203...RAM (obtained information storage means), 220...sub control board, 221...CPU (pre-effect execution means).

Claims (1)

acquisition information storage means for storing acquisition information acquired based on the game ball entering the starting hole;
a hit determination means for determining whether the acquired information is hit information;
Fluctuation display means for displaying the identification information in a variable manner based on the execution of the hit determination, and when it is determined in the hit determination that the acquired information is the hit information, the identification information is stopped and displayed in a specific manner. and,
a specific game execution means for performing a specific game in which the variable ball entry opening becomes ready for ball entry when the identification information is stopped and displayed in the specific manner;
Preliminary effect execution means capable of performing a preliminary judgment as to whether or not the obtained information is predetermined information and a preliminary effect based on the result of the preliminary judgment when the obtained information is stored in the obtained information storage means; ,
Equipped with
The variable display means is configured to stop display the identification information and then display the identification information in a fixed display state for a predetermined fixed display time,
The advance performance execution means is
The preliminary performance includes at least a symbol reduction performance that reduces the identification information, a maintenance performance that leaves the identification information reduced in the symbol reduction performance in a reduced state, and a symbol reduction performance that reduces the identification information that has been reduced in the symbol reduction performance. It is possible to perform a pattern enlargement effect that enlarges the identification information to the original size ,
During execution of the confirmed display, among the symbol reduction performance, the maintenance performance, and the symbol enlargement performance, the maintenance performance is executable, and the symbol reduction performance and the symbol enlargement performance are not executable. A gaming machine with special features.

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