JP7411251B2 - gaming machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine.

Conventionally, in a pachinko game machine, which is an example of a gaming machine, when a variable game is put on hold due to a winning in a starting slot, the suspended variable game is notified by displaying a specific image on a liquid crystal screen. For example, the specific image may be an icon resembling a weapon, a tool, a character, or the like, or an Arabic numeral. Pachinko gaming machines are configured to suggest or notify the expected jackpot of a variable game shown in the specific image by changing the display mode of the specific image (for example, Patent Document 1).

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-130148

However, in conventional gaming machines, it is expected that the player's interest will be improved by further devising ways to change the display mode of specific images.

A gaming machine that solves the above problems includes a holding means for holding a variable game in response to the establishment of a holding condition, an execution means for executing the variable game in accordance with the establishment of a start condition, and a gaming machine capable of displaying various images. An image display means configured to include a plurality of display units, and a display control means for controlling the image display means, wherein the image display means displays a specific image in response to the suspension of the variable game. When a predetermined special condition is met, a special image that is different from the specific image and that suggests or informs the winning expectation of the fluctuating game that is being executed is displayed, and the special image and the above-mentioned special image are displayed. The display mode of the specific image can be changed through a special effect in which it is fused with a specific image, and the special effect includes a first special effect and a second special effect. , the expectation of winning differs depending on the type of the special image, at least a part of the special image that can be displayed is different between the first special effect and the second special effect, and The gist is that the display mode can be the same when the display mode of the specific image changes via the second special effect .

Regarding the gaming machine , a special image different from the special image and the specific image may be displayed, and in the special effect, the special images may be further fused, and the special image may be different from the specific image. It is preferable that the display form can form a part of the display mode after the change .

A gaming machine that solves the above problems includes a holding means for holding a variable game in response to the establishment of a holding condition, an execution means for executing the variable game in accordance with the establishment of a start condition, and a gaming machine capable of displaying various images. An image display means configured to include a plurality of display units, and a display control means for controlling the image display means, wherein the image display means displays a specific image in response to the suspension of the variable game. When a predetermined special condition is met, a special image that is different from the specific image and that suggests or informs the winning expectation of the fluctuating game that is being executed is displayed, and the special image and the above-mentioned special image are displayed. The display mode of the specific image can be changed through a special effect in which the specific image is fused with the specific image, the special image includes a character as an element, and the specific image is fused with the special effect. The gist is that when changing via the special effect, the display mode changes to include as an element the same character as the special image constituting the special effect.

A gaming machine that solves the above problems includes a holding means for holding a variable game in response to the establishment of a holding condition, an execution means for executing the variable game in accordance with the establishment of a start condition, and a gaming machine capable of displaying various images. An image display means configured to include a plurality of display units, and a display control means for controlling the image display means, wherein the image display means displays a specific image in response to the suspension of the variable game. When a predetermined special condition is met, a special image that is different from the specific image and that suggests or informs the winning expectation of the fluctuating game that is being executed is displayed, and the special image and the above-mentioned special image are displayed. The display mode of the specific image can be changed via a special effect in which it is fused with a specific image, and when the display mode of the specific image is changed via the special effect, the display mode of the specific image is changed via the special effect. The gist is that the image changes after moving to a display position different from the display position of .

According to the present invention, it is possible to improve the interest of players.

It is a diagram showing the appearance of a pachinko game machine. It is a diagram when the game board is viewed from the front. It is a diagram showing the electrical configuration of a pachinko gaming machine. It is a figure showing an example of a fluctuation pattern. It is a diagram showing an example of a performance pattern of step-up performance. (a) to (f) are diagrams showing an example of the flow of the first change effect via the step-up effect. (a) to (f) are diagrams showing an example of the flow of the first change effect via the step-up effect. (a) to (f) are diagrams showing an example of the flow of the second change effect via the chance-up effect. (a) to (f) are diagrams showing an example of the flow of the second change effect via the chance-up effect.

An embodiment of a pachinko gaming machine will be described below.
In this specification, top, bottom, left, right, front (front), and back (back) refer to each direction when viewed from the player.

A pachinko game machine 10, which is an example of a game machine, is configured as a circulating pachinko game machine that circulates game balls inside the machine. The pachinko game machine 10 is not limited to this, and may be configured as a non-circulating pachinko game machine that pays out prize balls and receives game balls from an island facility or the like. The game ball may be made of magnetic material or non-magnetic material. The pachinko gaming machine 10 may be configured to operate independently, or may be configured to operate in cooperation with an external management unit or a management server.

As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a frame 11. As shown in FIG. The frame 11 includes an outer frame 11a for fixing the machine to the island equipment, and a mounting frame 11b for mounting various game components. A game board YB, which will be described later, is assembled into the mounting frame 11b. The mounting frame 11b may include a protection frame that protects the game board YB.

The pachinko game machine 10 includes a speaker SP. The speaker SP can perform a performance (hereinafter referred to as audio performance) that outputs a predetermined sound. For example, the predetermined audio may be a song, a human voice, a sound effect, or the like. The pachinko game machine 10 includes a decorative lamp LA. The decorative lamp LA can perform effects (hereinafter referred to as light emitting effects) by lighting up, blinking, and extinguishing a built-in light emitting body (not shown).

The pachinko game machine 10 includes a firing handle HD that is operated when firing game balls. The pachinko gaming machine 10 may include a performance button BT and a performance lever LV as examples of operation means that can be operated by a player. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the pachinko gaming machine 10 may not include one or both of the performance button BT and the performance lever LV, and may include operating means different from these.

As shown in FIG. 2, on the front surface of the game board YB, a generally circular game area YBa is formed when viewed from the front. A display window YBb is formed approximately in the center of the gaming area YBa. A firing path YBc is formed on the left side of the game area YBa to guide the game ball fired by operating the firing handle HD to the game area YBa.

The pachinko game machine 10 includes a first special symbol display device 19a, a second special symbol display device 19b, a first reservation display device 19c, a second reservation display device 19d, and a normal symbol display device 19e. As an example, each of the display devices 19a to 19e is provided at a position on the game board YB that is visible to the player.

The first special symbol display device 19a is capable of executing a first special symbol variation game (hereinafter referred to as the first special game) in which a predetermined symbol is displayed in a variable manner and finally the first special symbol is stopped and displayed. The second special symbol display device 19b is capable of executing a second special symbol variation game (hereinafter referred to as the second special game) in which a predetermined symbol is displayed in a variable manner and finally a second special symbol is stopped and displayed. Each special symbol is a symbol for announcing the result of an internal lottery (special symbol winning lottery). Hereinafter, the first special game and the second special game will be collectively referred to as a "special game." The special symbols include a jackpot symbol as a jackpot display result and a losing symbol as a loss display result. When a jackpot is won in a special symbol winning lottery, the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed in a special game, and a jackpot game is awarded after the special game ends.

The first suspension display device 19c indicates the number of times the execution of the first special game is suspended (hereinafter referred to as the first suspension number) because the suspension condition has been met but the start condition has not yet been met. Display identifiable information. The second suspension display device 19d indicates the number of times the execution of the second special game is suspended (hereinafter referred to as the second suspension number) because the suspension condition has been satisfied but the start condition has not yet been satisfied. Display identifiable information. As an example, the upper limit of each pending number is 4. However, the upper limit of each pending number may be 1 to 3, or may be 5 or more. Further, the upper limit number may be different between the first number of reservations and the second number of reservations.

The normal symbol display device 19e is capable of executing a normal game in which predetermined symbols are displayed variably and finally the normal symbols are stopped and displayed. The normal symbol is a symbol for informing the result of the internal lottery (normal symbol winning lottery). The normal symbols include at least a normal winning pattern and a normal losing pattern. When a winning lottery of a normal symbol is won, the normal winning symbol is stopped and displayed in the normal game, and a normal winning game is awarded after the end of the normal game.

The pachinko game machine 10 may include a normal hold display device, a right-handed display device, and a round display device. The normal hold display device displays information that can specify the number of times the normal game is held on hold because the hold condition has been met but the start condition has not yet been met. The right-handed hitting display device displays information instructing right-handed hitting. Right-handed hitting is to fire a game ball by setting the firing strength to be strong so that the game ball flows down the area on the right side of the display window YBb in the game area YBa. The round display device notifies the upper limit number of round games, which will be described later.

The pachinko game machine 10 includes an effect display device EH. The effect display device EH has a display area R that can display images. The effect display device EH is an example of an image display means that displays images. The effect display device EH is assembled to the game board YB so that the display area R can be viewed through the display window YBb. As an example, the effect display device EH is a liquid crystal device. The effect display device EH is capable of performing an effect (hereinafter referred to as display effect) that displays a predetermined object as an image. For example, the predetermined objects are performance patterns (decoration patterns), characters, scenery, letters, numbers, symbols, and the like. Hereinafter, when these characters and the like are simply referred to as "displayed", it means that these characters and other objects are displayed as images. The performance display device EH, the speaker SP, and the decorative lamp LA are performance devices that can each perform a performance, and form a performance device group ES consisting of a plurality of performance devices.

As an example, the display performance on the performance display device EH includes a performance symbol variation game (hereinafter referred to as a performance game) using multiple rows of performance symbols. In the production game, a plurality of rows of production symbols are variably displayed, and finally a combination of production symbols (hereinafter referred to as a symbol combination) is displayed in a static manner. The performance design is a design decorated with characters, patterns, etc., and is a design for diversifying the display performance. As an example, the performance game is played by displaying the performance symbols of the left symbol column, middle symbol column, and right symbol column in a predetermined direction, respectively.

The performance game is started together with the special game. The production game ends together with the special game. In the production game, symbol combinations corresponding to the special symbols that are stopped and displayed in the special game are stopped and displayed. When jackpot symbols are stopped and displayed in the special game, jackpot symbol combinations are stopped and displayed in the performance game. When a winning symbol is stopped and displayed in the special game, a winning symbol combination is stopped and displayed in the production game. Hereinafter, the first special game and the performance game executed in response to the first special game will be collectively referred to as the "first variable game." The second special game and the performance game executed in response to the second special game are collectively referred to as a "second variable game." The first variation game and the second variation game are collectively referred to as a "variation game."

The performance game may include a reach performance. The reach effect is an effect that forms a reach and finally stops and displays a predetermined symbol combination. For example, the reach is a state in which the same performance symbols are temporarily stopped and displayed in the left and right symbol rows, and the performance symbols continue to be displayed in a variable manner in the middle symbol row. There are two types of reach performance: normal reach performance (hereinafter referred to as N reach performance) and super reach performance (hereinafter referred to as SP reach performance), which has a higher expectation of jackpot compared to N reach performance. As an example, the SP reach effect may be executed via the N reach effect.

In the gaming area YBa, a plurality of winning holes (ball entrance holes) into which game balls can enter are formed. The winning openings include at least a first starting opening 12, a second starting opening 13, and a big winning opening 14. The first starting opening 12 is a winning opening into which a game ball is inserted when the conditions for awarding the prize ball and the starting conditions for the first special game are satisfied. The first starting port 12 is located below the effect display device EH, and is always open so that game balls can enter the ball. The game board YB includes a first starting sensor SE1 that detects a game ball that enters the first starting port 12 (see FIG. 3).

The second starting hole 13 is a winning hole into which a game ball is inserted when the conditions for awarding the prize ball and the conditions for starting the second special game are satisfied. The second starting port 13 is located to the right of the first starting port 12. The second starting port 13 includes a normal opening/closing piece 13a having a door shape, for example. The second starting port 13 is closed so that a game ball does not enter or is difficult to enter when a normal winning game is not provided. The second starting port 13 is opened so that a game ball enters or easily enters when a normal winning game is awarded. The game board YB includes a normal solenoid SL1 as a means for operating the normal opening/closing piece 13a (see FIG. 3). The game board YB includes a second starting sensor SE2 that detects a game ball that has entered the second starting port 13 (see FIG. 3). The second starting port 13 is a so-called "ordinary electric accessory".

The big winning hole 14 is a winning hole into which a game ball is inserted when the conditions for awarding the prize ball are satisfied. The grand prize opening 14 is located at the lower right of the effect display device EH. The big prize opening 14 includes a special opening/closing piece 14a having a door shape, for example. The jackpot opening 14 is closed to prevent game balls from entering when a jackpot game is not awarded. The big prize opening 14 is opened so that a game ball enters or easily enters when a jackpot game is awarded. The game board YB includes a special solenoid SL2 as a means for operating the special opening/closing piece 14a (see FIG. 3). The game board YB includes a count sensor SE3 that detects the game balls that have entered the big prize opening 14 (see FIG. 3).

A gate 17 is provided in the gaming area YBa. The gate 17 is located on the right side of the gaming area YBa and above the second starting opening 13 and the big winning opening 14. The gate 17 has a gate opening 17a that is always open so that game balls can enter the game ball. A gate sensor SE4 is provided at the gate opening 17a to detect game balls entering and passing through (see FIG. 3). The gate 17 is a ball entry opening into which a game ball enters when the starting conditions for the normal game are satisfied. Even if a game ball enters the gate 17, the conditions for awarding a prize ball are not satisfied.

An out port 18 into which a game ball can enter is formed in the game area YBa. The out port 18 is an entry port for collecting game balls that have not entered any of the first starting port 12, the second starting port 13, and the big winning port 14 from the gaming area YBa.

Next, the jackpot game will be explained.
In the jackpot game, first, a predetermined performance is performed over a predetermined time (hereinafter referred to as opening time). As an example, the predetermined performance is an opening performance that allows the start of a jackpot game to be recognized. In the jackpot game, after the opening time has elapsed, a round game in which the jackpot 14 is opened is played up to a predetermined upper limit number of times. One round game ends when a number condition in which a predetermined upper limit number of game balls enter the ball or a time condition in which a predetermined upper limit time passes is satisfied. In the round game, the big prize opening 14 is opened in a predetermined opening manner (opening pattern). In each round game, a round performance is performed. In the jackpot game, when the final round game ends, a predetermined performance is performed for a predetermined time (hereinafter referred to as ending time). As an example, the predetermined performance is an ending performance that makes it possible to recognize the end of the jackpot game. The jackpot game is ended as the ending time elapses.

The functions of the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be explained.
The pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a probability variation function (hereinafter referred to as probability variation function).
The probability variation function is a function for varying the probability of winning a jackpot (hereinafter referred to as jackpot probability) in the special symbol winning lottery. The pachinko game machine 10 includes a low probability state in which the variable probability function does not operate, and a high probability state in which the variable probability function operates, as states in which the jackpot probability may differ. A high probability state has a higher jackpot probability than a low probability state. In a high probability state, the probability of winning a jackpot is higher than in a low probability state, which is an extremely advantageous state for the player. The high probability state is a so-called "probability variable state (probability variable state)."

The pachinko game machine 10 includes a ball entry assist function.
The entry assist function is a function for varying the base by assisting the ball to enter the second starting port 13. The base is the ratio of the number of prize balls to the number of game balls fired. The pachinko game machine 10 has a low base state in which the ball entry assist function does not operate, and a high base state in which the ball entry assist function operates, as states in which the bases may be different. In the high base state, the probability that the game ball enters the second starting port 13 is higher than in the low base state. In the high base state, the probability that the game ball enters the second starting port 13 increases, and it becomes easier for the game ball to enter the second starting port 13, which is an advantageous state for the player (easy ball entry). state). The high base state is a so-called "electric support state", and the low base state is a so-called "non-electric support state".

For example, the high base state can be achieved by performing one control arbitrarily selected from among the three controls described below, or by performing a combination of a plurality of controls. The first control is normal symbol variation time shortening control that shortens the variation time of the normal game compared to the low base state. The second control is normal symbol probability variation control that changes the probability of winning a normal winning lottery (normal winning probability) to a higher probability than in the low base state. The third control is an open time extension control that makes the total open time of the second starting port 13 in one normal winning game longer than in the low base state. The opening time extension control is a control that increases the number of times the second starting port 13 is opened in one normal winning game than in the low base state, and a control that increases the opening time of the second starting port 13 in one normal winning game. It is preferable that at least one of the controls is made longer than in the low base state.

The high base state may be realized by combining the fourth control described below. The fourth control is special symbol variation time shortening control that makes the variation time (for example, average variation time) of the special game shorter than that in the low base state. When performing special symbol fluctuation time shortening control, the high base state becomes a special symbol fluctuation time shortening state (time saving state), and the low base state becomes a special symbol non-fluctuation time shortening state (non-time saving state).

The gaming state in the pachinko gaming machine 10 is defined by a combination of whether the probability change function is activated and whether the ball entry assist function is activated. In the following explanation, a gaming state that is a low probability state and a low base state will be referred to as a "low probability low base state", and a gaming state that is a high probability state and a low base state will be referred to as a "high probability low base state". . Further, a gaming state that is a low probability state and a high base state is referred to as a "low probability high base state", and a gaming state that is a high probability state and a high base state is referred to as a "high probability high base state".

Next, the electrical configuration of the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be explained.
As shown in FIG. 3, the pachinko game machine 10 includes a main board 40 and a subboard 50 on the back side (rear side) of the game board YB. The main board 40 and the sub-board 50 are connected so that a control signal (control command) can be outputted in one direction from the main board 40 to the sub-board 50. The main board 40 executes predetermined processing and outputs a control signal to the sub board 50. The sub-board 50 executes predetermined processing based on the control signal input from the main board 40.

The main board 40 will be explained.
The main board 40 includes a CPU 41, a ROM 42, a RAM 43, and a random number generation circuit 44. The CPU 41 executes processing related to the progress of the game by executing the main control program. The ROM 42 stores a main control program, determination values used for various determinations and lottery selections, tables, and the like.

The ROM 42 stores multiple types of variation patterns. The fluctuation pattern is information that specifies the fluctuation time from the start to the end of the fluctuation game. The variation pattern is information that specifies the variation content (performance content) of the variation game. The fluctuation patterns include a jackpot fluctuation pattern and a loss fluctuation pattern. The jackpot variation pattern specifies the content of variation in which the final jackpot symbol combination is stopped and displayed after reaching the reach effect in the production game. The losing variation pattern specifies a variation content in which a winning symbol combination is finally stopped and displayed after a reach effect or without a reach effect in the effect game. Details of the fluctuation pattern will be described later.

The RAM 43 stores various information that is rewritten according to the processing results of the CPU 41. For example, the information stored in the RAM 43 includes flags, counters, timers, and the like. The random number generation circuit 44 generates hardware random numbers. The main board 40 may be configured to be able to generate software random numbers through random number generation processing by the CPU 41.

The main board 40 is connected to each sensor SE1 to SE4. The CPU 41 can input detection signals output by each of the sensors SE1 to SE4 when the game balls are detected. The main board 40 is connected to each display device 19a to 19e. The CPU 41 can control the display content of each display device 19a to 19e. The main board 40 is connected to each solenoid SL1, SL2. The CPU 41 can control the opening mode of the second starting port 13 and the big winning port 14 by controlling the operations of the solenoids SL1 and SL2.

Next, the sub-board 50 will be explained.
The sub-board 50 includes a CPU 51, a ROM 52, and a RAM 53. The CPU 51 performs processing related to presentation by executing a sub-control program. The ROM 52 stores a sub-control program, determination values used in a predetermined lottery, and the like. The ROM 52 stores display performance data used for display performance, light emission performance data used for light emission performance, and audio performance data used for audio performance. The RAM 53 stores various information that is rewritten during the operation of the pachinko gaming machine 10. For example, the information stored in the RAM 53 includes flags, counters, timers, and the like. The sub-board 50 is configured to be able to generate software random numbers through random number generation processing by the CPU 51. The sub-board 50 may include a random number generation circuit and be capable of generating hardware random numbers.

The sub-board 50 is connected to the effect display device EH. The CPU 51 can control the display content in the display area R of the effect display device EH. The CPU 51 is an example of a display control means that controls an image display means. The sub-board 50 is connected to the speaker SP. The CPU 51 can control the output content of the speaker SP. The sub-board 50 is connected to the decorative lamp LA. The CPU 51 can control the light emission mode of the decorative lamp LA. When providing the effect button BT and the effect lever LV, the effect button BT and the effect lever LV may be connected to the sub-board 50.

Next, various processes performed by the CPU 41 will be explained.
The CPU 41 executes special symbol input processing, special symbol start processing, etc. as timer interrupt processing performed every predetermined control cycle (for example, 4 ms).

The special symbol input process will be explained.
The CPU 41 determines whether or not the game ball has entered the first starting port 12 based on whether or not a detection signal has been input from the first starting sensor SE1. When the game ball enters the first starting port 12, the CPU 41 determines whether the first pending number stored in the RAM 43 is less than the upper limit number. If the first number of reservations is less than the upper limit number, the CPU 41 updates the first number of reservations by adding one. Subsequently, the CPU 41 controls the first reservation display device 19c to display information that allows identification of the updated first reservation number. The CPU 41 outputs to the sub-board 50 a control command (hereinafter referred to as a first reservation number command) that can specify the first reservation number after addition. In this way, the suspension condition for the first special game can be satisfied when the first suspension number is less than the upper limit number and the game ball is detected by the first starting sensor SE1.

Next, the CPU 41 acquires a random number generated by the random number generation circuit 44 and causes the RAM 43 to store random number information based on the acquired random number. For example, the random numbers include a winning random number used for a special symbol winning lottery, a winning pattern random number used for determining a winning symbol, and a fluctuation pattern random number used for determining a fluctuation pattern. The CPU 41 stores the random number information so that it can be specified that the random number information is for the first special game, and the order in which the random number information is stored. The random number information may be the acquired random number itself, or may be information obtained by processing the random number using a predetermined method. By storing the random number information used for the first special game in the RAM 43, the pachinko gaming machine 10 can suspend the execution of the first special game until the start condition for the first special game is satisfied.

Then, the CPU 41 outputs to the sub-board 50 a control command (hereinafter referred to as a look-ahead command) that can specify the change content of the newly suspended special game based on the value of the random number obtained from the random number generation circuit 44. Performs prefetch processing. The prefetch command is information that can specify whether or not the fluctuating game will be a jackpot. The prefetch command is information that can identify a fluctuation pattern. In the look-ahead process, the CPU 41 determines whether the value of the winning random number obtained from the random number generation circuit 44 is a value that will be won in the jackpot lottery described later, thereby making the newly suspended variable game a jackpot. Specify whether or not. The CPU 41 determines which variation pattern the value of the variation pattern random number obtained from the random number generation circuit 44 is a winning value in each variation process described later, and thereby determines the variation pattern of the newly suspended variation game. Identify. Then, the CPU 41 generates a prefetch command that can specify the specified variation content, and outputs it to the sub-board 50. Therefore, by inputting a prefetch command, the sub-board 50 (CPU 51) can specify the fluctuation content of the fluctuation game whose execution has been suspended based on the ball entering the starting hole.

When the random number information for the first special game is stored in the RAM 43, when the game ball has not entered the first starting port 12, and when the first reserved number is not less than the upper limit number, the CPU 41 stores the random number information for the first special game. Based on whether or not a detection signal is input from the starting sensor SE2, it is determined whether the game ball has entered the second starting port 13 or not. When the game ball has entered the second starting port 13, the CPU 41 determines whether the second pending number stored in the RAM 43 is less than the upper limit number. If the second pending number is less than the upper limit number, the CPU 41 updates the second pending number by adding one. The CPU 41 controls the second reservation display device 19d to display information that allows the second reservation number after addition to be specified. The CPU 41 outputs to the sub-board 50 a control command (hereinafter referred to as a second reservation number command) that can specify the second reservation number after addition. The second special game suspension condition can be satisfied when the second suspension number is less than the upper limit number and the game ball is detected by the second starting sensor SE2.

Next, the CPU 41 acquires a random number generated within the main board 40 and causes the RAM 43 to store random number information based on the acquired random number. The CPU 41 stores the random number information so that the random number information is used for the second special game and the order in which the random number information is stored can be specified. By storing the random number information used for the second special game in the RAM 43, the pachinko gaming machine 10 can suspend its execution until the start conditions for the second special game are satisfied. As described above, the CPU 41 constitutes an example of a suspension means that suspends a variable game in accordance with the establishment of a suspension condition. When the random number information for the second special game is stored in the RAM 43, when the game ball has not entered the second starting port 13, and when the second pending number is not less than the upper limit number, the CPU 41 stores the special symbol Finish input processing.

Next, the special symbol start process will be explained.
The CPU 41 determines whether the special game starting conditions are satisfied. The CPU 41 makes an affirmative determination when a jackpot game is not in progress and a special game is not in progress, while making a negative determination when a jackpot game or a special game is in progress. If the special game start conditions are not met, the CPU 41 ends the special symbol start process. If the special game start condition is satisfied, the CPU 41 determines whether the second pending number is greater than zero. If the second number of reservations is zero, the CPU 41 determines whether the first number of reservations is greater than zero. When the first reservation number is zero, the CPU 41 ends the special symbol start process.

If the first pending number is greater than zero, the CPU 41 performs processing to execute the first special game. Specifically, the CPU 41 subtracts 1 from the first pending number and updates it. The CPU 41 controls the first reservation display device 19c to display information that allows identification of the first reservation number after the subtraction. The CPU 41 outputs to the sub-board 50 a first pending number command that can specify the first pending number after the subtraction. Next, the CPU 41 acquires the first stored random number information from the RAM 43 among the random number information for the first special game. The CPU 41 uses a winning random number specified from the acquired random number information to perform a jackpot lottery (jackpot determination) to determine whether or not the jackpot is won. The CPU 41 performs a jackpot lottery with a jackpot probability according to the current probability state.

If the jackpot is won, the CPU 41 performs jackpot fluctuation processing. In the jackpot variation process, the CPU 41 performs a jackpot symbol lottery using a winning symbol random number that can be specified from the random number information, and determines a jackpot symbol to be stopped and displayed in the first special game. The CPU 41 performs a variation pattern determination lottery using variation pattern random numbers that can be specified from the random number information, and determines a variation pattern from among a plurality of jackpot variation patterns. After that, the CPU 41 ends the special symbol start process.

If the jackpot is not won, the CPU 41 performs a loss variation process. In the losing variation process, the CPU 41 determines losing symbols to be stopped and displayed in the first special game. The CPU 41 performs a variation pattern determination lottery using variation pattern random numbers that can be specified from the random number information, and determines a variation pattern from among a plurality of outlier variation patterns. After that, the CPU 41 ends the special symbol start process.

If the second pending number is greater than zero, the CPU 41 performs processing for executing the second special game. The process for executing the second special game includes changing the "first special game" to "second special game" and changing the "first pending number" to "second pending number". Since these processes have been changed to "number", detailed explanation thereof will be omitted. That is, the CPU 41 completes the special symbol start process after performing any of the fluctuation processes based on the results of the subtraction of the second pending number, the jackpot lottery, and the jackpot lottery. Further, the CPU 41 outputs a second pending number command that can specify the second pending number after subtraction to the sub-board 50.

The CPU 41 outputs a fluctuation start command and a special symbol command to the sub board 50 in the jackpot fluctuation processing and the loss fluctuation processing. The fluctuation start command is a control command that can specify the fluctuation pattern determined in each fluctuation process and the start of the fluctuation game. The special symbol command is a control command that can specify the special symbol (jackpot symbol or losing symbol) determined in each variation process. Note that the fluctuation start command and the special symbol command are different control commands when the fluctuation processing of the first special game is executed and when the fluctuation processing of the second special game is executed.

When the special symbol start process is finished, the CPU 41 executes the first special game or the second special game by a process different from the special symbol start process. When executing the first special game, the CPU 41 controls the first special symbol display device 19a to start displaying a predetermined symbol in a variable manner. The CPU 41 measures the variation time defined in the variation pattern. When the variation time set in the variation pattern has elapsed, the CPU 41 controls the first special symbol display device 19a to stop displaying the special symbol determined in the special symbol start process. When the variation time set in the variation pattern has elapsed, the CPU 41 outputs a control command (hereinafter referred to as a variation end command) that can specify the end of the variation game to the sub-board 50.

When executing the second special game, the CPU 41 controls the second special symbol display device 19b to start variable display of predetermined symbols. The CPU 41 measures the variation time defined in the variation pattern. When the variation time defined in the variation pattern has elapsed, the CPU 41 controls the second special symbol display device 19b to stop displaying the special symbol determined in the special symbol start process. When the variation time set in the variation pattern has elapsed, the CPU 41 outputs a variation end command to the sub-board 50. As described above, the CPU 41 is configured to execute the special symbol input process and the special symbol start process to perform a winning lottery upon entry of the game ball into the starting hole. The CPU 41 constitutes an example of an execution unit that executes a variable game in response to establishment of a start condition.

The jackpot game process will be explained.
The jackpot game process is a process for awarding a jackpot game. When the CPU 41 stops displaying the jackpot symbols in the special game, the CPU 41 executes the jackpot game process after the special jackpot game ends. The CPU 41 specifies the type of jackpot game based on the jackpot symbol (namely, jackpot type) determined in the special symbol start process. The CPU 41 awards the specified type of jackpot game.

First, the CPU 41 outputs a control command (hereinafter referred to as an opening command) that can specify the start of the opening time to the sub-board 50. When the opening time has elapsed, the CPU 41 performs processing for executing the round game. That is, the CPU 41 controls the special solenoid SL2 using the specified opening control data for the jackpot game, and opens the jackpot opening 14. The CPU 41 controls the special solenoid SL2 to close the grand prize opening 14 when the number of game balls detected by the count sensor SE3 reaches the above-mentioned upper limit number or when the above-mentioned upper limit time has elapsed. terminate. The CPU 41 repeatedly performs the process for executing such a round game until the upper limit number of round games determined for the jackpot game is completed. Each time the CPU 41 starts a round game, it outputs a control command (hereinafter referred to as a round command) that can specify the start of the round game to the sub-board 50. When the final round game ends, the CPU 41 outputs a control command (hereinafter referred to as an ending start command) that can specify the start of the ending time to the sub-board 50. When the ending time elapses, the CPU 41 ends the jackpot game. The CPU 41 outputs a control command (hereinafter referred to as an ending end command) that can specify the passage of the ending time to the sub-board 50.

A probability transition process for transitioning a probability state will be explained.
When the CPU 41 finishes the jackpot game based on the first jackpot symbol among the jackpot symbols, the CPU 41 sets a high certainty flag in the RAM 43. In other words, the CPU 41 controls to a high probability state. After the jackpot game based on the first jackpot symbol ends, the CPU 41 does not erase the high probability flag until the next jackpot game is awarded. On the other hand, when the CPU 41 finishes the jackpot game based on the second jackpot symbol different from the first jackpot symbol, the CPU 41 does not set the high certainty flag in the RAM 43. In other words, the CPU 41 controls to a low probability state. When starting a jackpot game and the high probability flag is set, the CPU 41 erases the high probability flag. That is, the CPU 41 controls to a low probability state during the jackpot game.

The process of shifting the ball entry rate state will be explained.
When the jackpot game based on the first jackpot symbol or the second jackpot symbol is completed, the CPU 41 sets an operation flag in the RAM 43. In other words, the CPU 41 controls the high base state. After the end of the jackpot game based on the second jackpot symbol, the CPU 41 updates the value of the execution counter stored in the RAM 43 every time the special game is started, thereby updating the number of executions of the special game after the end of the jackpot game. Count. The CPU 41 erases the activation flag stored in the RAM 43 when the special game in which the number of executions of the special game after the end of the jackpot game reaches the activation number is completed. That is, after the end of the jackpot game based on the second jackpot symbol, the CPU 41 controls to the low base state when the special game for the number of times of activation ends. After the jackpot game based on the first jackpot symbol ends, the CPU 41 does not erase the activation flag until the next jackpot game is awarded. When starting a jackpot game and the activation flag is set, the CPU 41 erases the activation flag. That is, the CPU 41 controls the game to be in a low base state during the jackpot game.

Next, various processes executed by the CPU 51 will be explained.
The jackpot production process will be explained.
The jackpot performance process is a process for executing a performance during a jackpot game (hereinafter referred to as jackpot performance). When the opening command is input, the CPU 51 controls the presentation device group ES to execute the opening presentation. When the CPU 51 inputs a round command, it controls the production device group ES to execute a round production. When the CPU 51 inputs the ending start command, it controls the effect device group ES to execute the ending effect. When the CPU 51 inputs the ending end command, it controls the effect device group ES to end the ending effect.

The production game processing will be explained.
The effect game process is a process for executing the effect game as one of the display effects related to the special game while the special game is being executed. When the CPU 51 inputs the variation start command and the special symbol command, it controls the performance device group ES including the performance display device EH to execute the performance game.

The CPU 51 determines a symbol combination to be stopped and displayed in the production game based on the special symbol command. The CPU 51 determines a jackpot symbol combination (for example, 777) when the jackpot symbol can be specified from the special symbol command. The CPU 51 determines a missed symbol combination when it is possible to specify the missed symbol from the special symbol command. The CPU 51 determines a symbol combination (for example, 787) that includes a ready-to-win effect when a condition for executing a ready-to-win effect (hereinafter referred to as a ready-to-win condition) is satisfied. When the reach condition is not satisfied, the CPU 51 determines a symbol combination (for example, 783) that does not include the reach condition.

The CPU 51 determines specific fluctuation contents (performance contents) of the performance game based on the fluctuation pattern. As an example, the CPU 51 determines, based on the variation pattern, an auxiliary variation pattern that can specify the content of variation in the production game. For example, the CPU 51 may select one auxiliary variation pattern associated with the variation pattern. For example, the CPU 51 may select one from a plurality of auxiliary fluctuation patterns associated with the fluctuation pattern. The auxiliary fluctuation pattern may include fluctuation content that can be specified from the fluctuation pattern. As an example, the variation pattern may be determined to cause a predetermined preview effect to be executed. The preview performance is a performance that suggests or informs of the expected level of jackpot in the variable game that is being executed. Hereinafter, the preview performance that is determined to be executed in a variable pattern will be referred to as a "main preview performance." The reach performance can be said to be one of the main preview performances.

As an example, the CPU 51 determines a preview performance to accompany the performance game based on the variation pattern. Hereinafter, the preview performance that the CPU 51 determines whether or not to execute based on the variation pattern will be referred to as a "sub preview performance." The CPU 51 also determines the contents of the presentation when executing the sub-preview presentation. The main preview performance and the sub preview performance each include a specific preview performance. The specific preview effect includes displaying a predetermined object (hereinafter referred to as a preview object) as an image on the effect display device EH. As an example, various performances that suggest or notify the jackpot expectation level can be classified into one of a plurality of expectation levels depending on the jackpot expectation level. As an example, the jackpot expectation level increases in the order of expectation level 0<1<2<3.

Here, "suggesting" the predetermined content means hinting the predetermined content to the player, and not making the predetermined content explicit to the player. Furthermore, "notifying" the predetermined content means clearly indicating the predetermined content to the player, and making the player definitely recognize the predetermined content. As an example, "suggestion" regarding the jackpot expectation level means that it is possible to recognize that the jackpot expectation level is relatively high by displaying characters, effects, etc. As an example, "notifying" the jackpot expectation level means making it possible to recognize a specific jackpot expectation level, such as a jackpot confirmation performance.

The CPU 51 controls the effect display device EH to start variable display of the effect symbols in each symbol row in response to the input of the variation start command. That is, the CPU 51 starts the performance game. The CPU 51 controls the performance device group ES including the performance display device EH to execute the main preview performance. The CPU 51 controls the performance device group ES including the performance display device EH to execute the sub-preview performance.

When a predetermined timing arrives after the start of the production game, the CPU 51 temporarily stops displaying the symbol combination. The CPU 51, triggered by the input of the variation end command, fixes and stops displaying the symbol combination. The CPU 51 may finalize and stop displaying the symbol combination upon passage of a variation time defined in the variation pattern. In this case, the variation end command may be omitted. The CPU 51 constitutes an example of an execution unit that executes a variable game in response to establishment of a start condition.

Below, various display effects executed in connection with the variable game will be explained.
As shown in FIG. 2, icon display sections R0 to R4 are set in the display area R of the effect display device EH. A game icon may be displayed in each of the icon display sections R0 to R4 as an example of information indicating a variable game. The game icons include a variable icon I that indicates a variable game that is being executed, and a pending icon i that indicates a variable game that is on hold. The game icon (icon I, i) is an example of a specific image. As an example, a variable icon I may be displayed on the icon display section R0. In each of the icon display sections R1 to R4, the pending icon i may be displayed in accordance with the pending order of the variable games. A game icon indicating the first variable game or a game icon indicating the second variable game may be displayed in the icon display sections R0 to R4.

The pending icon i is newly displayed on the icon display section Rn when the game ball enters either of the starting ports 12 and 13 and the number of pending games reaches n. That is, the hold icon i is displayed as information indicating the variable game in response to the variable game being put on hold. As an example, the pending variable games are executed (digested) in order according to the pending order, starting with the variable game that was put on hold first. When a pending variable game is started, the pending icon i displayed in the icon display section Rn is displayed so as to be moved to the icon display section Rn-1 (where n is 2 to 4). The pending icon i displayed in the icon display section R1 is displayed as a variable icon I so as to be moved to the icon display section R0.

The player can recognize the number of reservations based on the number of reservation icons i displayed on the effect display device EH. The player can recognize the execution (exhaustion) of the pending variable game from the situation in which the pending icon i is displayed as the variable icon I on the icon display section R0. As will be described later, there are multiple types of display modes for game icons. Based on the display mode of the game icon, the player can recognize the jackpot expectation level of the variable game corresponding to the game icon. The display mode of the game icon can be changed in connection with the execution of a change effect, which will be described later.

A specific example of the fluctuation pattern will be explained.
As shown in FIG. 4, the variation patterns include a variation pattern P10 without reach. The variation patterns include variation patterns P11 to P14 with reach. Variation patterns P11 to P14 are variation patterns that define a reach effect as the main preview effect. The CPU 51 controls the effect display device EH to execute the ready-to-reach effect in the case of the variation patterns P11 to P14. As an example, if the variation pattern is P11, the CPU 51 controls the effect display device EH to execute the N reach effect. If the variation patterns are P12 to P14, the CPU 51 controls the effect display device EH to execute the N reach effect → SP ready effect in this order.

The variation patterns include variation patterns P13 and P14 that define the execution of a chance-up effect (hereinafter referred to as CU effect). The CU performance is an example of a main preview performance. The execution timing of the CU performance is determined at the timing when the reach performance develops from the N reach performance to the SP reach performance. The execution timing of the CU effect is not limited to this, and may be set at any timing during the period from when the reach is formed until the effect game ends. For example, the execution timing of the CU effect is set to the period when the N reach effect is being executed, the period when the SP reach effect is being executed, or the period from the end of the SP reach effect until the end of the effect game. Good too.

If the variation pattern is P13, the CPU 51 controls the effect display device EH to execute the first CU effect when the execution timing arrives. If the variation pattern is P14, the CPU 51 controls the effect display device EH to execute the second CU effect when the execution timing arrives. Note that, if the variation patterns are P10 to P12, the CPU 51 controls the effect display device EH so as not to execute the CU effect.

The CU performance is a performance that suggests or informs the jackpot expectation level of the variable game that is being executed when the CU performance is executed. The CU performance is a performance that makes it possible to recognize the degree of expectation of a jackpot. As an example, the CPU 41 determines the variation patterns in the order of variation patterns P12<P13<P14 so that the selection rate in the case of a jackpot increases in proportion to the total selection rate in the case of a jackpot and the case of a loss. . In this case, the jackpot expectation level is higher in the order of no CU performance < 1st CU performance < 2nd CU performance.

As an example, the second CU effect is executed in such a manner that the character A1 is displayed as a preview object on the effect display device EH. As an example, the first CU effect is executed in such a manner that a character B1, which is different from the character A1, is displayed as a preview object on the effect display device EH. As an example, character A1 is a dog, and character B1 is a cat. In this case, in the CU performance, the expected degree of jackpot can be recognized according to the type of character. The characters that make up the CU effect can be said to be information or elements that make it possible to recognize the degree of jackpot expectation. The first CU performance (character B1) is classified as expectation level 2, and the second CU performance (character A1) is classified as expectation level 3.

The sub preview performance will be explained.
As shown in FIG. 5, as an example, the sub preview effect includes a step-up effect (hereinafter referred to as SU effect). The SU performance is a performance that suggests or informs the jackpot expectation level of the variable game that is being executed when the SU performance is executed. The SU performance is a performance in which characters corresponding to steps are displayed in stages on the performance display device EH as an example of information or elements that allow the jackpot expectation level to be recognized. SU effects may be executed in effect games including CU effects. SU effects may be executed in effect games that do not include CU effects.

As an example, the maximum number of steps in the SU effect is three. As an example, a character C2 is defined as a preview object in the first step, a character B2 is defined as a preview object in the second step, and a character A2 is defined as a preview object in the third step. The present invention is not limited to this, and the maximum number of steps for the SU effect may be 2, or may be 4 or more. As an example, character A2 is a dog, character B2 is a cat, and character C2 is a mouse. The first step (character C2) is classified as expectation level 1, the second step (character B2) is classified as expectation level 2, and the third step (character A2) is classified as expectation level 3. Ru. The execution timing of the SU performance is determined in the period from the start of the performance game to the timing at which a reach can be formed (hereinafter referred to as reach timing).

As an example, the CPU 51 determines the performance content of the SU performance by determining a performance pattern for the SU performance. As an example, the SU performance includes performance patterns EP11 to EP13. The performance pattern EP11 specifies the performance content that ends up to the first step (character C2). The performance pattern EP12 specifies the performance content that ends up to the second step (character B2). The performance pattern EP13 specifies the performance content that ends up to the third step (character A2).

As an example, the CPU 51 determines performance patterns in the order of performance patterns P11<P12<P13 so that the selection rate in the case of a jackpot increases in proportion to the total selection rate in the case of a jackpot and the case of a loss. . In this case, the jackpot expectation level increases as the number of steps increases in the order of 1<2<3.

Explain the change performance.
As an example, the change effect includes a fused display of a material object and a specific object. In the following description, a fused display of a material object and a specific object may be referred to as a "fusion effect." The material object in the change performance is a preview object that constitutes a specific preview performance. As an example, the material object is one of the characters A2, B2, and C2 displayed as an SU effect, and the characters A1 and B1 displayed as a CU effect. The specific object in the change effect is a change icon I indicating a change game being executed, or a hold icon i indicating a change game being put on hold. That is, the change performance can be executed via a CU performance that progresses to the first step, a CU performance that progresses to the second step, or a CU performance that progresses to the third step. The change performance may be executed via the first CU performance or the second CU performance. The display mode of the game icon as a specific object can be changed through fusion display with the material object.

Here, the fused display of the material object and the specific object is not limited to a display state in which the material object and the specific object are arranged so as to overlap. The fused display of the material object and the specific object may be a display state in which the material object and the specific object are arranged so as to be in contact with each other. The fused display of the material object and the specific object may include a predetermined effect display. In this case, the fused display of the material object and the specific object may be a display state in which the material object and the specific object are connected via an object as an effect.

Hereinafter, the change performance executed via the SU performance will be referred to as a first change performance. Further, a change performance executed via the CU performance is referred to as a second change performance. Specific preview effects such as SU effects and CU effects are examples of first effects, and a fused display of a material object and a specific object (fusion effect) is an example of a second effect that can be started after the start of the first effect. Configure. In other words, the change performance includes a first performance and a second performance. The preview object that appears in the SU effect or the CU effect becomes a material object, and can constitute a fused display with a specific object. In other words, the first performance can be said to be a performance that suggests or informs the content of the second performance. Furthermore, both the SU performance and the CU performance are examples of the first performance. In other words, it can be said that there are multiple types of first effects.

As described above, the execution timing of the SU effect is determined in the period from the start of the effect game to the reach timing. Moreover, the execution timing of the CU effect is determined in the period after the reach timing. In other words, the appearance timing of a preview object that can be a material object is different between the SU effect and the CU effect. Therefore, it can be said that the timing at which the content of the second performance is suggested or announced differs depending on the type of the first performance.

According to another point of view, when the execution condition is met, the effect display device EH displays a preview object that is an image different from the game icon and that suggests or informs the expected jackpot of the variable game that is being executed. can be done. The conditions for executing the SU effect and the CU effect are an example of predetermined special conditions. A preview object that constitutes an SU effect or a CU effect is an example of a special image. As described above, the game icon is an example of a specific image. In other words, it can be said that in the effect display device EH, the special image and the specific image are fused, and the display mode of the specific image can be changed.

The preview object may be combined with a game icon to form a change effect in which the display mode of the game icon is changed. Furthermore, the preview object may not be fused with the game icon and may constitute an SU effect or a CU effect that is different from the change effect. The change performance is an example of the first specific performance. The SU effect and the CU effect are examples of a second specific effect different from the first specific effect.

Icon presentation will be explained.
The display mode of the game icon includes a normal mode, a specific mode, and a special mode. As an example, there is one type of normal mode. The normal mode is a mode in which a white sphere is displayed as the game icon. As an example, there are three types of specific aspects. As an example, the first specific mode displays a blue sphere, the second specific mode displays a green sphere, and the third specific mode displays a red sphere. As an example, there are three types of special aspects. As an example, the first special mode is a mode in which a character C3 is displayed, the second special mode is a mode in which a character B3 is displayed, and the third special mode is a mode in which a character A3 is displayed. As an example, character A3 is a dog, character B3 is a cat, and character C3 is a mouse. The specific mode and the special mode are modes different from the normal mode, and can be said to be display modes of different systems.

The first specific aspect (blue sphere) and the first special aspect (character C3) are classified into expectation level 1. The second specific aspect (green sphere) and the second special aspect (character B3) are classified into expectation level 2. The third specific aspect (red sphere) and the third special aspect (character C3) are classified into expectation level 3. The normal mode is classified as expectation level 0. The icon presentation is a presentation in which the game icon is displayed in a specific manner or in a special manner.

The display mode of the game icon can become a special mode via a change effect. The display mode of the game icon does not become a special mode unless it goes through a change effect. The display mode of the game icon can be a specific mode without going through a change effect. The display mode of the game icon does not change to a specific mode via the change effect. In addition, in the icon display parts R1 to R4, a pending icon i indicating the first variable game is displayed when the base state is low, and a pending icon i indicating the second variable game is displayed when the base state is high. Ru.

An example of the flow of the first change effect is shown in FIGS. 6 and 7. FIGS. 6(a) to 6(f) show a situation in which the first change effect is executed for the hold icon i. FIGS. 7(a) to (f) show a situation in which the first change effect is executed with the variable icon I as the target.

As shown in FIG. 6(a), in the effect display device EH, each icon display section R0 to R3 is Each game icon is displayed in a normal manner. As shown in FIG. 6(b), in the effect display device EH, the SU effect is executed and progresses to the third step. That is, in the effect display device EH, the character A2 is displayed as a preview object after the characters B2 and C2 are displayed. If the change effect is not executed, the preview objects forming the SU effect are hidden, and the SU effect ends.

As shown in FIG. 6(c), when performing the change effect, the effect display device EH continues to display the character A2 displayed as the third step of the SU effect. In other words, the character A2 as a preview object becomes a material object of expectation level 3 in the change performance. Among the one or more pending icons i, the pending icon it whose display mode can be changed through a change effect is moved to a predetermined position in the display area R. The predetermined position is away from the icon display sections R0 to R4 and also away from the character A2. The hold icon it becomes a specific object in the change effect. The special object Ef can be displayed on the effect display device EH. The special object Ef is an example of information that suggests or informs that the character A2 and the game icon are fused.

As shown in FIG. 6(d), the display mode of the hold icon it may not change after the change effect. In this case, in the effect display device EH, the character A2 and the pending icon it do not move toward the center of the display area R and remain unfused. In other words, the fused display of the character A2 and the game icon is not performed. In this case, the display mode of the pending icon it does not change from the normal mode with expectation level 0, and returns to the icon display section R2. In this way, in FIG. 6, the flow of the effect that progresses in the order of (a) → (b) → (c) → (d) is a failure route in which the display mode of the pending icon i does not change. In other words, the icon presentation is not performed after the change presentation. After that, the production game continues to be executed.

As shown in FIG. 6(e), in the effect display device EH, the character A2 and the hold icon it may move toward the center of the display area R, and a fused display may be performed. In this example, the fused display of the character A2 and the game icon is performed in a display state in which these objects (images) are arranged so as to overlap. At this time, the special object Ef may also be displayed fused with the character A2 and the game icon.

As shown in FIG. 6(f), in the effect display device EH, the character A2 and the hold icon it are displayed fused, and then the hold icon it changes to the character A3. That is, the display mode of the game icon changes from the normal mode at expectation level 0 to the third special mode at expectation level 3. The pending icon it returns to the icon display section R2. In this way, in FIG. 6, the flow of the effect that progresses in the order of (a) → (b) → (c) → (e) → (f) is such that the display mode of the game icon indicating the pending variable game changes. This is a successful route. That is, the icon presentation is executed after the change presentation. After that, the production game continues to be executed.

In FIG. 7, the flow of the effect progressing in the order of (a)→(b)→(c)→(d) is a failure route in which the display mode of the game icon indicating the variable game being executed does not change. On the other hand, in FIG. 7, the flow of the effect progresses in the order of (a) → (b) → (c) → (e) → (f). It becomes the root. Regarding the explanation of the specific execution mode, please refer to the explanation of FIG. "Game" should be read as "Fluctuating game in progress."

An example of the flow of the second change effect is shown in FIGS. 8 and 9. FIGS. 8(a) to 8(f) show a situation in which the second change effect is executed for the pending icon i. FIGS. 9(a) to 9(f) show a situation in which the second change effect is executed with the variable icon I as the target.

As shown in FIG. 8(a), in the effect display device EH, each icon display section R0 to R3 is Each game icon is displayed in a normal manner. In the effect display device EH, a reach is formed and an N reach effect is executed. As shown in FIG. 8(b), the effect display device EH displays the character B1 as a preview object constituting the second CU effect. If the change effect is not executed, the preview objects constituting the CU effect are hidden, and the CU effect ends. After that, the SP ready-to-win performance is executed on the performance display device EH.

As shown in FIG. 8(c), when performing the change effect, the effect display device EH continues to display the character B1 displayed as the CU effect. In other words, the character B1 as a preview object becomes a material object of expectation level 2 in the change production. Among the one or more pending icons i, the pending icon it whose display mode can be changed through a change effect is moved to a predetermined position in the display area R. The predetermined position is away from the icon display sections R0 to R4 and also away from the character B1. The hold icon it becomes a specific object of the change effect. The special object Ef can be displayed on the effect display device EH. The special object Ef is an example of information that suggests or informs that the character B1 and the pending icon it are fused.

As shown in FIG. 8(d), the display mode of the hold icon it may not change through the change effect. In this case, in the effect display device EH, the character B1 and the pending icon it do not move toward the center of the display area R and remain unfused. In other words, the fused display of the character B1 and the game icon is not performed. In this case, the display mode of the pending icon it does not change from the normal mode with expectation level 0, and returns to the icon display section R2. In this way, in FIG. 8, the flow of the effect that progresses in the order of (a) → (b) → (c) → (d) is a failure route in which the display mode of the pending icon i does not change. In other words, the icon presentation is not performed after the change presentation. After that, the SP ready-to-win performance is executed on the performance display device EH.

As shown in FIG. 8(e), in the effect display device EH, the character B1 and the hold icon it may move toward the center of the display area R, and a fused display may be performed. In this example, the fused display of the character B1 and the game icon is performed in a display state in which these objects (images) are arranged so as to overlap. At this time, the special object Ef may be displayed in fusion with the character B1 and the game icon.

As shown in FIG. 8(f), in the effect display device EH, the character B1 and the reservation icon it are displayed fused, and then the reservation icon it changes to the character B3. That is, the display mode changes from the normal mode at expectation level 0 to the second special mode at expectation level 2. The pending icon it returns to the icon display section R2. In this way, in FIG. 8, the flow of the effect that progresses in the order of (a) → (b) → (c) → (e) → (f) is a successful route in which the display mode of the pending icon i changes. That is, the icon presentation is executed after the change presentation. After that, the SP ready-to-win performance is executed on the performance display device EH.

In FIG. 9, the flow of the effect that progresses in the order of (a) → (b) → (c) → (d) is a failure route in which the display mode of the variable icon I does not change. On the other hand, in FIG. 9, the flow of the effect that progresses in the order of (a) → (b) → (c) → (e) → (f) is a successful route in which the display mode of the variable icon I changes. In addition, regarding the explanation of the specific execution mode, regarding the explanation of FIG. "Game" should be read as "Fluctuating game in progress."

As described above, the fused presentation, which is an example of the second presentation, may include moving display of any game icon. The player can understand from the situation in which the game icon is displayed moving that the display mode of the game icon may change. Therefore, it can be said that the second effect suggests or informs which game icon will change when a plurality of game icons are displayed on the effect display device EH. The first effect is not limited to this, but instead of or in addition to the second effect, when a plurality of game icons are displayed on the effect display device EH, the first effect suggests or informs which game icon will change. It may be configured as a performance. For example, a character appearing as a first effect may be displayed pointing at a game icon serving as a specific object.

In the CU performance, the characters A1 and B1 that can appear as preview objects have the same character type as the characters A3 and B3 that constitute the special mode having the same expectation level. In the SU performance, the characters A2, B2, and C2 that can appear as preview objects have the same character type as the characters A3, B3, and C3 that constitute the special mode having the same expectation level. Furthermore, the type of character used as the material object and the type of character constituting the special aspect after changing through fused display are common. Therefore, a player who visually recognizes a preview object that appears in an SU performance or CU performance will recognize that the game icon will change to a special mode corresponding to the preview object if the fusion display is developed in a successful route. can. Therefore, the first performance can be said to be a performance that suggests or informs the display mode of the game icon after the change related to the execution of the change performance including the first performance. Note that some of the elements that make up the material object (for example, the character, posture, size, color tone, character string, etc.) are the same as the elements that make up the specific object after changing via the change effect. They may all be the same. One or both of the material object and the specific object after the change may be configured to include elements that the specific object before the change does not have.

The display mode of the game icon includes a character as an example of a predetermined element. Before and after the characters constituting the SU effect or the CU effect are fused with the game icon, at least the type of character among the elements constituting the display mode of the changed game icon is the same. In the SU performance or the CU performance, characters that can appear as preview objects include a plurality of characters with different jackpot expectations that are suggested or announced. The preview object is an example of a special image, and the special image can be said to include a first special image and a second special image. It can be said that the jackpot expectation level suggested or notified by the first special image is different from the jackpot expectation level suggested or notified by the second special image.

In a variable game, when the timing for forming a reach arrives, a reach is formed and can develop into a reach effect. In addition, in a variable game, when the N reach effect ends, the SP reach effect may develop. In other words, the content of the variable game can be developed at a predetermined timing. Here, the first change performance via the SU performance is executed during the period from the start of the variable game to the reach formation timing. That is, the first performance and the second performance can be started before the predetermined timing. The second change performance via the CU performance is executed in a period after the reach formation timing. In other words, it can be said that the first performance and the second performance can be started even after the predetermined timing.

In the SU performance, the expectation level can be any one of 1 to 3, but in the CU performance, the expectation level can be either 2 or 3. In other words, the SU effect and the CU effect have different jackpot expectations that can be suggested or reported. Therefore, the jackpot expectation level suggested or announced by the first performance is different when the first performance and the second performance are started before the predetermined timing, and when the first performance and the second performance are started after the predetermined timing. It can be said that it differs depending on when it starts. The SU effect can be executed even when no reach is formed, when the N reach effect is not executed, and when the SP reach effect is not executed. Therefore, it can be said that the first performance and the second performance can be performed even when the content of the variable game is not developed into a specific content.

The flow of processing for executing a change effect will be explained.
First, the first effect processing will be explained. The first performance process is executed when execution of a new variable game is put on hold. As described above, when a game ball enters the first starting port 12 and execution of the first variable game is suspended, the CPU 51 inputs the first pending number command and the pre-read command.

In the first performance process, the CPU 51 causes the RAM 53 to store information (hereinafter referred to as game information) indicating the variation content of the first variation game specified based on the prefetch command. The game information can specify whether or not there will be a jackpot and the variation pattern as the variation content of the first variation game corresponding to the game information. After storing the game information, the CPU 51 stores the game information in the RAM 53 until the first variable game corresponding to the game information ends. By referring to the game information stored in the RAM 53, the CPU 51 can specify the variation contents of all the first variation games that are on hold. The game information may be the value of the prefetch command itself, or may be information generated based on the prefetch command.

The CPU 51 determines whether the first number of reservations that can be specified from the first reservation number command input together with the prefetch command is two or more. The CPU 51 determines whether or not a plurality of first fluctuation games are on hold, including the newly put on hold first fluctuation game. If the first pending number is not 2 or more, the CPU 51 determines the expectation level 0 as the upper limit level (hereinafter referred to as upper limit level) for changing the display mode of the game icon. In other words, it can be said that the CPU 51 has determined the normal mode as the final mode. It can also be said that the CPU 51 has decided not to perform the icon presentation.

When the first reservation number is 2 or more, the CPU 51 determines one of the expectation levels 0 to 3 as the upper limit level by a level lottery using a predetermined random number. When the CPU 51 determines one of the expectation levels 1 to 3 as the upper limit level, it can be said that the CPU 51 has decided to execute the icon presentation. It can be said that the CPU 51 determines the upper limit display mode when changing the display mode of the game icon. When the CPU 51 determines the expectation level 0 as the upper limit level, it can be said that the CPU 51 has determined not to perform the icon presentation.

In the level lottery, the CPU 51 determines that expectation level 0 (normal mode) < level 1 (first special mode or first specific mode) < level 2 (second special mode or second specific mode) < level 3 (third special mode) The expectation level is determined so that the jackpot expectation level increases in the order of (aspect or third specific aspect). In order to increase the expectation of a jackpot for a certain expectation level or display mode, the ratio of the determination ratio when a jackpot is identified based on the look-ahead command and the determination ratio when a loss is identified to the total total. The level lottery may be performed so that the probability of winning the jackpot is high.

The CPU 51 causes the RAM 53 to store various types of information that can specify the decision result in the first performance process. As an example, the CPU 51 causes the RAM 53 to store information indicating the upper limit level (hereinafter referred to as a level flag) in association with the game information. By referring to the level flag, the CPU 51 can specify the upper limit level (display mode) for changing the display mode for each variable game on hold or in progress, that is, for each game icon.

The CPU 51 causes the RAM 53 to store information (hereinafter referred to as a current flag) indicating the current expectation level (hereinafter referred to as a current level) of the game icon in association with the game information. The CPU 51 sets the current flag to a value indicating expectation level 0 as an initial value. The CPU 51 causes the RAM 53 to store information indicating the current display mode of the game icon (hereinafter referred to as a mode flag) in association with the game information. The CPU 51 sets a value indicating the normal mode in the mode flag as an initial value. Then, the CPU 51 controls the effect display device EH to display the pending icon i in the icon display area corresponding to the first pending number indicated by the first pending number command in the display mode indicated by the mode flag. do. That is, the hold icon i is displayed in the normal manner.

The second effect processing will be explained.
The second effect processing is executed in response to input of the fluctuation start command. In the second effect processing, the CPU 51 controls the effect display device EH based on various types of information that can be specified from the upper limit flag, current flag, and mode flag, and controls the display mode of the game icon.

The flow of processing for moving and displaying game icons (shift display) will be explained.
When the CPU 51 inputs the fluctuation start command, it controls the effect display device EH so that the pending icon i displayed on the icon display section Rn moves to the icon display section Rn-1. The CPU 51 controls the effect display device EH so that the pending icon i displayed on the icon display section R1 moves as a variable icon I to the icon display section R0. At this time, the CPU 51 controls the effect display device EH to display the game icon in the manner indicated by the manner flag.

The flow of processing for executing the first change effect will be explained.
The CPU 51 determines whether or not the sub preview performance in the current variable game includes the SU performance. The CPU 51 determines not to execute the first change performance when the current sub preview performance does not include the SU performance.

When the current sub preview performance includes an SU performance, the CPU 51 specifies the expectation level of the SU performance. Further, the CPU 51 searches for a variable game whose upper limit level is higher than or equal to the expectation level of the current SU effect based on the upper limit flag corresponding to the variable game that is on hold or in progress. If there is no variable game whose upper limit level is equal to or higher than the SU effect expectation level, the CPU 51 determines not to execute the first variation effect of the successful route.

When there is a variable game whose upper limit level is equal to or higher than the expected level of SU effect, the CPU 51 determines whether the current level is lower than the expected level of SU effect based on the current flag corresponding to the variable game. judge. Note that the CPU 51 grasps the current level at the execution timing of the SU effect (for example, after the start of the effect game and before formation of the reach). The CPU 51 determines not to perform the first change effect when the current level is not lower than the expectation level of the SU effect. The CPU 51 determines to execute the first change effect of the successful route when the current level is less than the expectation level of the SU effect. The first change presentation of the successful route is an example of an icon presentation that goes through the first change presentation.

In this way, the CPU 51 targets a fluctuating game (hereinafter referred to as the first specific game) in which the upper limit level is equal to or higher than the expected level of SU effect, and the current level is less than the expected level of SU effect. , it is decided to execute the first change effect of the successful route. In this case, the material object in the first change performance is the final step character among the characters A2 to C2 that can appear in the SU performance. The specific object in the first variation effect is a game icon corresponding to the first specific game. The first specific game may be a variable game that is currently being executed or a variable game that is on hold. When there are a plurality of first specific games, the CPU 51 may determine one variable game by a predetermined lottery, and may decide to execute the first variation effect of the successful route for the variable game.

When the CPU 51 determines not to execute the first variation performance of the successful route, the CPU 51 searches for a variable game whose current level is less than the expectation level of the current SU performance. If there is no variable game whose current level is less than the expected level of the SU effect, the CPU 51 determines not to execute the first variation effect of the failure route. If there is a variable game whose current level is less than the expectation level of the SU effect, the CPU 51 determines whether or not to execute the first variation effect of the failure route by a predetermined lottery. When it is decided to execute the first change performance of the failure route, the material object in the first change performance is the final step character among the characters A2 to C2 that can appear in the SU performance. The specific object in the first variation performance is a game icon corresponding to any one of the fluctuation games whose current level is less than the expected level of the SU performance. When there are a plurality of variable games whose current level is less than the expected level of SU performance, the CPU 51 determines one variable game by a predetermined lottery, and executes the first change performance of the failure route for the variable game. You may decide to do so.

When the CPU 51 determines to execute the first change effect, the CPU 51 controls the effect display device EH so as to execute the first change effect subsequent to the SU effect. When determining the successful route, the CPU 51 controls the effect display device EH so that the first change effect is developed on the successful route. The CPU 51 changes the display mode of the game icon as a specific object. The CPU 51 updates the mode flag to specify the changed display mode. As an example, the CPU 51 changes the display mode of the game icon as a specific object in the first change effect to a special mode corresponding to the expectation level of the SU effect. As an example, when the material object of the SU effect is the character B1, the CPU 51 changes the display mode of the game icon to the character B3. As an example, when the material object of the SU effect is the character A1, the CPU 51 changes the display mode of the game icon to the character A3.

On the other hand, when the failure route is determined, the CPU 51 controls the effect display device EH so that the first change effect is developed on the failure route. In this case, the CPU 51 controls the effect display device EH to execute the SU effect and not to execute the change effect. Then, the CPU 51 does not change the display mode of the game icon that is the specific object. The CPU 51 does not change the value of the mode flag.

The flow of processing for executing the second change effect will be explained.
Based on the variation pattern, the CPU 51 determines whether or not the main preview production in the current variation game includes a CU production. The CPU 51 determines not to perform the second change performance when the current main preview performance does not include the CU performance.

When the current main notice performance includes a CU performance, the CPU 51 specifies the expectation level of the CU performance. Further, the CPU 51 searches for a variable game whose upper limit level is equal to or higher than the expectation level of the current CU performance, based on the upper limit flag corresponding to the variable game that is on hold or in progress. If there is no variable game whose upper limit level is equal to or higher than the expectation level of the CU effect, the CPU 51 determines not to execute the second variation effect of the successful route.

When there is a variable game whose upper limit level is equal to or higher than the expected level of CU effect, the CPU 51 determines whether the current level is less than the expected level of CU effect based on the current flag corresponding to the variable game. judge. Note that the CPU 51 grasps the current level at the execution timing of the CU effect (after formation of a reach as an example). The CPU 51 determines not to perform the second change effect when the current level is not lower than the expectation level of the CU effect. The CPU 51 determines to execute the second change effect of the successful route when the current level is less than the expectation level of the CU effect. The second change presentation of the successful route is an example of an icon presentation that goes through the second change presentation.

In this way, the CPU 51 targets a fluctuating game (hereinafter referred to as the second specific game) whose upper limit level is equal to or higher than the expected level of CU effect, and whose current level is less than the expected level of CU effect. , it is decided to execute the second variation effect of the successful route. In this case, the material object in the second variation effect is either character A1 or B1 appearing in the CU effect. The specific object in the second variation effect is a game icon corresponding to the second specific game. The second specific game may be a variable game that is currently being executed or a variable game that is on hold. When there are a plurality of second specific games, the CPU 51 may determine one variable game by a predetermined lottery, and may decide to execute the second variation effect of the successful route for the variable game.

When the CPU 51 determines not to perform the second variation performance of the successful route, the CPU 51 searches for a variable game whose current level is less than the expectation level of the current CU performance. If there is no variable game whose current level is less than the expectation level of the CU effect, the CPU 51 determines not to execute the second variation effect of the failure route. When there is a variable game whose current level is less than the expectation level of the CU effect, the CPU 51 determines whether or not to execute the second variation effect of the failure route by a predetermined lottery. When it is decided to execute the second variation production of the failure route, the material object in the second variation production is either character A1 or B1 that can appear in the CU production. The specific object in the second change effect is a game icon corresponding to any of the change games whose current level is less than the expected level of the CU effect. When there are a plurality of variable games whose current level is less than the expected level of CU performance, the CPU 51 determines one variable game by a predetermined lottery, and executes a second change performance of the failure route for the variable game. You may decide to do so.

When the CPU 51 determines to execute the second change effect, it controls the effect display device EH so as to execute the second change effect subsequent to the CU effect. When the successful route is determined, the CPU 51 controls the effect display device EH so that the second change effect is developed on the successful route. The CPU 51 changes the display mode of the game icon as a specific object. The CPU 51 updates the mode flag to specify the changed display mode.

As an example, the CPU 51 changes the display mode of the game icon as a specific object in the second variation effect to a special mode corresponding to the expectation level of the CU effect. As an example, when the material object of the CU effect is the character B1, the CPU 51 changes the display mode of the game icon to the character B3. As an example, when the material object of the CU effect is the character A1, the CPU 51 changes the display mode of the game icon to the character A3.

On the other hand, when the failure route is determined, the CPU 51 controls the effect display device EH so that the second change effect is developed on the failure route. In this case, the CPU 51 controls the effect display device EH to execute the CU effect and not to execute the change effect. Then, the CPU 51 does not change the display mode of the game icon that is the specific object. The CPU 51 does not change the value of the mode flag.

The flow of processing for executing other icon effects will be explained.
When the CPU 51 determines not to execute the first change effect and the second change effect, the CPU 51 determines whether the current level is below the upper limit level and the current level of the game icon is below the upper limit level in the pending or running variable game. It is determined whether there is a variable game (hereinafter referred to as a third specific game) whose display mode is not a special mode. If there is no third specific game, the CPU 51 determines not to perform the icon presentation without going through the change presentation.

If there is a third specific game, the CPU 51 executes a predetermined lottery and determines whether or not to execute an icon effect that does not go through a change effect. In addition, when there are a plurality of third specific games, the CPU 51 determines one variable game by a predetermined lottery, and executes an icon effect that does not go through a change effect, targeting a game icon indicating the variable game. may be determined.

The CPU 51 controls the effect display device EH so that the display mode of the game icon determined as the target of the icon effect without going through the change effect changes at the timing when the effect game is started. As an example, the CPU 51 changes the display mode of the game icon to a specific mode in which the expectation level is one step higher. The CPU 51 updates the mode flag to specify the changed display mode.

The effects of this embodiment will be explained.
(1) Specific preview performances such as SU performance and CU performance are performances that suggest or notify the expected level of jackpot in the variable game that is being executed. The content of the fusion performance is also suggested or announced by the preview performance having such characteristics. The display mode of the game icon can be changed in connection with the execution of changing effects including these preview effects and fusion effects. That is, the display mode of the game icon is changed in response to the flow of the preview performance and the fusion performance, in association with expectations for the variable game being executed. Therefore, the player's interest is improved compared to a configuration in which the display mode of the game icon is changed regardless of the variable game being executed.

(2) The timing at which the content of the fusion performance is suggested or announced differs depending on the type of specific preview performance. Therefore, it is possible to provide diversity in the development of change performance. Therefore, the player's interest is improved.

(3) A game icon whose display mode can be changed is suggested or announced by at least one of the preview performance and the fusion performance. Therefore, in a situation where a plurality of game icons are displayed, the user can expect whether the display mode of the desired game icon will be changed.

(4) The display mode of the game icon after the change is suggested or announced by the preview effect. Therefore, it is possible to make the player understand the series of flows from the execution of the change effect to the change in the display mode of the game icon, and to draw the attention of the player as to whether the effect is developed according to the grasped flow.

(5) Since the preview performance and the fusion performance can be executed before a predetermined timing, it is possible to enliven the game at a stage before the content of the variable game develops.
(6) In particular, since the predetermined timing is the timing when a reach is formed, it is possible to improve the player's interest over the period until the reach is formed.

(7) Among the preview performances, the CU performance can be executed after a predetermined timing, and in that case, the CU performance will result in a different jackpot expectation level than in a situation where the SU performance is executed before the predetermined timing. may be suggested or announced. Therefore, it is possible to change the weight of the preview performance before and after the development of the content of the variable game, and to change the expectations for the change performance including the preview performance.

(8) Since the preview performance and the fusion performance can be executed even when the content of the variable game is not developed into a specific content, the player's sense of anticipation can be maintained.
(9) The display mode of the game icon changes by merging the game icon with the preview object that suggests or informs the expected jackpot of the variable game that is being executed. Therefore, it is possible to increase the player's interest by creating a sense of expectation for the change in the display mode of the game icon while also creating a sense of expectation for the variable game that is being executed.

(10) The display of the preview object is a combination of the case where it functions as an element constituting the SU effect or CU effect that suggests or informs the jackpot expectation level of the fluctuating game that is being executed, and the case where the display mode of the game icon changes. Sometimes it becomes an element that makes up the performance. Therefore, it is possible to provide diversity in the development of effects starting from the display of the preview object.

(11) In the SU effect and the CU effect, the expectation that the variable game being executed will be a jackpot can be changed depending on which preview object (for example, a character) is displayed. Therefore, when the preview object is displayed, it is possible to increase the player's interest by changing the expectation of winning the jackpot and linking it with the expectation of changing the display mode of the game icon.

The above embodiment can be modified and implemented as follows. The above embodiment and the following modification examples can be implemented in combination with each other within a technically consistent range.
- The probability that the display mode of the game icon changes in relation to the execution of the change effect may be different between the first change effect and the second change effect. The probability that the display mode of the game icon will change is the degree of expectation that the display mode of the game icon will change through the fusion effect (hereinafter referred to as the fusion expectation degree). In this modification example, the fusion expectation level is determined depending on when the first performance and the second performance start before the predetermined timing, and when the first performance and the second performance start after the predetermined timing. different. In this modification example, the probability that the display mode of the game icon changes in relation to the execution of the change effect differs before and after the predetermined timing. Therefore, depending on the progress of the variable game, it is possible to change the expectations when the change effect is executed, thereby increasing the player's interest.

- The fusion expectation level may differ depending on the type of character configuring the SU effect or the CU effect. In other words, the special image includes a first special image and a second special image, and when the first special image is displayed, the difference between the special image and the specific image is greater than when the second special image is displayed. It would be good if the fusion expectations were different. Characters A1 and A2 are examples of the first special image. Characters B1 and B2 are an example of the second special image. In this modification example, depending on which of the first special image and the second special image is displayed, the expected degree of fusion with the specific image, that is, the degree of possibility that the display mode of the specific image will be changed, is recognized. obtain. Therefore, when the special image is displayed, it is possible to increase the player's interest by creating a feeling of expectation of winning the jackpot and a feeling of expectation of changing the display mode of the specific image. However, the first special image may have a higher or lower fusion expectation than the second special image.

- The display mode of the game icon is configured to include predetermined elements, and at least the predetermined elements among the elements configuring the display mode of the game icon are the same before and after the preview object and the game icon are fused. Good too. As an example, assume that a predetermined item is set as a preview object and a predetermined character is set as a game icon. For example, it is preferable that the expectation level of a jackpot in a fluctuating game being executed varies depending on the type of item displayed as a preview object. In this case, the display mode of the game icon may change from a character who does not have a predetermined item to a character who has a predetermined item through a fusion effect. In this modified example, the predetermined character is an example of a predetermined element. In other words, at least a predetermined element among the elements constituting the display mode of the game icon may be the same before and after being merged with the preview object. According to this modification example, it is possible to create a visual relationship between the changed game icon that has been fused with the preview object and the game icon before the change. In other words, changes in the game icon can be perceived by the player as a series of changes. Therefore, the player's interest can be improved.

- When executing the fusion effect, the CPU 51 may determine by lottery whether or not to display the special object Ef. In this case, it may be configured such that when the special object Ef is displayed, the degree of fusion expectation is higher than when the special object Ef is not displayed. When changing the display mode of the game icon through the fusion effect, the CPU 51 may decide by lottery whether or not to add an element constituting the special object Ef to the game icon. In this case, the configuration may be such that when an element constituting the special object Ef is added, the expectation level of a jackpot in the variable game indicated by the game icon is higher than when the element is not added. According to this modification example, when the preview object and the game icon constituting the SU effect or the CU effect are fused, a special object Ef different from the preview object and the game icon may be displayed. The special object Ef may constitute a part of the display mode of the game icon after the change. The special object Ef is an example of a special image. According to this modification example, a special object can be displayed in addition to the preview object and the game icon, and the display mode of the changed game icon may be configured by the special object. Therefore, it is possible to provide diversity in the development of the presentation in which the display mode of the game icon changes.

・The type of main preview performance can be changed arbitrarily. The main preview performance may include a pseudo continuous performance. The pseudo-continuous performance is a performance in which unit fluctuations separated by re-fluctuations of performance symbols are performed multiple times during execution of one fluctuation game. In the pseudo-continuous performance, it is preferable that the greater the number of unit fluctuations, the higher the expectation of a jackpot. In this case, it is preferable to perform a change effect (fusion effect) using a preview object displayed during one or more unit changes as a material object.

・The type of sub-preview performance can be changed arbitrarily. The sub preview performance may include a cut-in performance that temporarily displays a cut-in image in part or all of the display area R of the performance display device EH. The cut-in image may include a preview object such as a character or text. In this case, it is preferable to perform a change effect (fusion effect) using one or more preview objects included in the cut-in image as material objects. Further, the sub preview performance may include a dialogue (conversation) preview that displays predetermined characters and dialogue in stages. A character or a line included in a line preview is a preview object. In this case, it is preferable to perform a change effect (fusion effect) using the preview object that constitutes the dialogue preview as a material object.

- All of the first performances that make up the change performance may be sub-preview performances, or all of them may be main preview performances. The main preview performance as the first performance may be executed before a predetermined timing when the content of the variable game develops. The sub preview performance as the first performance may be executed after a predetermined timing when the content of the variable game develops. The changing effect may be executed multiple times before the predetermined timing when the content of the variable game develops, or may be executed multiple times after the predetermined timing. Each of the change performances executed a plurality of times before or after a predetermined timing may include only the main preview performance as the first performance, only the sub preview performance, or both. That is, in one variable game, a change effect via a main preview effect is executed, and then a change effect via a sub preview effect is executed, and the display mode of the game icon may change in each case.

- In one performance game, only one of the sub preview performance (SU performance as an example) and the main preview performance (CU performance as an example) as the first performance may be executed.
- In one performance game, the changing performance may be configured to be executed only once, or may be configured to be executed multiple times. The change performance may be configured to be able to be executed multiple times after the start of the performance game until a predetermined timing arrives. The change performance may be configured to be able to be executed multiple times after a predetermined timing until the performance game ends.

- There may be multiple types of change effects. It is preferable that the plurality of types of change effects have mutually different execution modes.
- The change performance may be performed as a performance in a jackpot game in addition to or in place of the execution of the variation game.

- The effect display device EH is not limited to being configured to include one display unit that can display various images, but may be configured to include a plurality of display units. The effect display device EH may be configured in combination with a movable body that is configured to perform predetermined operations. A part or all of the one or more display sections constituting the effect display device EH may be provided on the game board YB, or may be provided on the mounting frame 11b.

- The game icon may be hidden during a period when a predetermined effect is being performed. As an example, the specific performance may be an SP reach performance.
- A configuration may be adopted in which a change pattern that defines the execution timing of the change effect and the display mode of the change destination via the change effect is determined, and the effect display device EH is controlled based on the determined change pattern. .

- In addition to or instead of executing the change production and icon production for the first variation game in the low base state, the change production and icon production may be performed for the second variation game in the high base state, and the first variation Both the game and the second variable game may be executed.

- The first variable game and the second variable game may be executed in the order in which the suspension condition is satisfied.
- The pachinko gaming machine 10 has a specification that provides a high probability state until the next jackpot game, a specification that provides a high probability state until winning a falling lottery (so-called falling machine), or until a specified number of variable games are completed. A specification that provides a high probability state (so-called ST machine) can be adopted. The pachinko game machine 10 can adopt a specification (so-called V-probability changing machine) that provides a high probability state on the condition that the game ball passes through a specific area. The pachinko game machine 10 may have a specification that is a mixture of the specifications of a falling machine and the specifications of a V-probability changing machine.

- The special symbol winning lottery may include a small winning lottery in addition to the jackpot lottery. If a small win is won in the winning lottery, a small win game (win game) will be awarded after the special game ends. In this embodiment, compared to a normal gaming state (for example, a low probability low base state), the number of times (frequency) of winning a small win per unit time or a small winning game is awarded per unit time. It may be configured to be controllable to a state where the number of times (frequency) increases (so-called small hit RUSH).

- The pachinko game machine 10 may adopt specifications classified into the second type, which is also called a "feather type" or "plane type." In this type of pachinko game machine, when a game ball enters the starting hole, the opening/closing blade (opening/closing member) of the ball entering device (big prize hole) opens, and the game ball that enters the ball entering device wins a special prize. A jackpot game occurs when the ball enters the mouth.

- The CPU 41, ROM 42, RAM 43, and random number generation circuit 44 may be configured on one chip.
- The specific configuration of the game board YB may be changed arbitrarily.

- The pachinko gaming machine 10 uses the sub-board 50 as a sub-integration control board, and separately from the sub-board 50, there are a display control board that exclusively controls the effect display device EH, a light emission control board that exclusively controls the decorative lamp LA, and a speaker SP. A sound control board may be provided to specifically control the sound. The sub-board may include such a sub-integration control board and a board for controlling other effects. Further, in the embodiment, the CPU 41 and the CPU 51 may be mounted on a single board. Further, the display control board, the light emission control board, and the sound control board may be arbitrarily combined to form a single board or a plurality of boards.

The technical ideas that can be understood from the above embodiment and modifications will be described.
(Additional Note 1) A holding means for holding the variable game in response to the satisfaction of the holding condition, an execution means for executing the variable game in response to the establishment of the start condition, and one or more display units capable of displaying various images. and display control means for controlling the image display means, wherein the image display means displays a specific image in response to the suspension of the variable game, and displays the specific image in response to the suspension of the variable game. The display mode of can be changed in relation to the execution of a change effect, and the change effect includes a first effect and a second effect that can be started after the start of the first effect, and the change effect includes a first effect and a second effect that can be started after the start of the first effect, The first performance is a performance that suggests or informs the content of the second performance, and is a performance that suggests or notifies the expected jackpot of the variable game that is being executed when the first performance is executed. be.

(Additional note 2) A holding means for holding the variable game in response to the satisfaction of the holding condition, an execution means for executing the variable game in response to the establishment of the start condition, and one or more display units capable of displaying various images. and display control means for controlling the image display means, the image display means displays a specific image in response to the suspension of the variable game, and displays a predetermined image. When the special condition is met, a special image that is different from the specific image and that suggests or informs the jackpot expectation of the fluctuating game that is being executed is displayed, and the special image and the specific image are fused. The display mode of the specific image can be changed.

(Additional Note 3) The special image includes a first special image and a second special image, and when the first special image is displayed, the second special image is displayed. , the expected degree of fusion with the specific image may be different.

(Additional note 4) The special image includes a first special image and a second special image, and the jackpot expectation level suggested or notified by the first special image is suggested or notified by the second special image. It is better if it is different from the expected jackpot expected level.

A1, A2, A3, B1, B2, B3, C2, C3...Character Ef...Special object EH...Effect display device I...Fluctuating icon i...Holding icon R...Display area 10...Pachinko game machine 40...Main board 41...CPU 50...Subboard 51...CPU

Claims (4)

a suspension means for suspending the variable game in accordance with the establishment of a suspension condition;
Execution means for executing a variable game in response to establishment of a starting condition;
An image display means including one or more display units capable of displaying various images;
Display control means for controlling the image display means,
The image display means displays a specific image in response to the variable game being put on hold;
When a predetermined special condition is met, a special image that is different from the specific image and that suggests or informs the winning expectation of the fluctuating game that is being executed is displayed, and the special image and the specific image are displayed. The display mode of the specific image can be changed through a special effect that combines the
The special effects include a first special effect and a second special effect, and the expected degree of winning differs depending on the type of the special image, and the first special effect and the second special effect are displayed. At least a portion of the possible special images are different, and the display mode of the specific image changes via the first special effect, and the display mode of the specific image changes via the second special effect. A game machine characterized in that the display mode can be the same depending on when the game is played . A special image different from the special image and the specific image may be displayed, and in the special effect, the special images may be further fused, and the special image is a display after the specific image has been changed. The gaming machine according to claim 1 , which can constitute a part of the aspect . a suspension means for suspending the variable game in accordance with the establishment of a suspension condition;
Execution means for executing a variable game in response to establishment of a starting condition;
An image display means including one or more display units capable of displaying various images;
Display control means for controlling the image display means,
The image display means displays a specific image in response to the variable game being put on hold;
When a predetermined special condition is met, a special image that is different from the specific image and that suggests or informs the winning expectation of the fluctuating game that is being executed is displayed, and the special image and the specific image are displayed. The display mode of the specific image can be changed through a special effect that combines the
The special image includes a character as an element, and when the specific image changes via the special effect, the display mode changes to a display mode including the same character as the special image forming the special effect. A gaming machine with special features. a suspension means for suspending the variable game in accordance with the establishment of a suspension condition;
Execution means for executing a variable game in response to establishment of a starting condition;
An image display means including one or more display units capable of displaying various images;
Display control means for controlling the image display means,
The image display means displays a specific image in response to the variable game being put on hold;
When a predetermined special condition is met, a special image that is different from the specific image and that suggests or informs the winning expectation of the fluctuating game that is being executed is displayed, and the special image and the specific image are displayed. The display mode of the specific image can be changed through a special effect that combines the
A gaming machine characterized in that, when the display mode of the specific image changes via the special effect, the display mode changes after moving to a display position different from a predetermined display position.

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