JP7460175B2 - Gaming Machines - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine that determines whether or not to execute a special game and executes an effect based on the determination result.

In conventional gaming machines, when a gaming ball enters a starting hole and it is determined whether or not a special game will be executed, the special symbol is displayed variably on the special symbol display device, and then a special symbol is displayed stationary in a manner that indicates the result of the determination. In the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, a decorative symbol is displayed variably on a specified image display device as the display of the special symbol begins to variably, and as the special symbol is displayed stationary, the decorative symbol is displayed stationary in a manner that indicates the result of the determination.

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2014-183903

However, conventional gaming machines have room for improvement in terms of making the game more entertaining.

Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can improve the interest of gaming.

The present invention employs the following configuration to solve the above problems.
A gaming machine according to the present invention is a gaming machine capable of launching a game ball in accordance with a launching operation of a game operation means, and the game ball launched by the game operation means is placed between a first game area and a second game area. It is configured to be able to be struck separately into a first winning area, which is located in the first gaming area and where game balls can win, and a second winning area, which is located in the second gaming area, and has an open state and a closed state. a variable member disposed in the second gaming area, the game ball is easy to win when the variable member is in the open state, and the game ball is easy to win when the variable member is in the closed state; a second winning area in which it is difficult to win ; a determining means for determining whether or not to execute a special game due to a game ball winning in the first winning area or the second winning area; and a determination result of the determining means. a determination result notifying means for notifying a determination result based on the determination result; a special game executing means for executing the special game in response to the determination result of the determining means being notified in a manner to execute the special game; and a normal game state. a first gaming state which is a time-saving gaming state and in which a game ball is more likely to win in the second winning area than the first gaming state, and a second gaming state which is a time-saving gaming state and which is easier to win a game ball in the second winning area. a third game state in which a game ball is more likely to win a prize in the second winning area than the second prize winning area; The second gaming state is set such that it is more advantageous for the player to launch a game ball into the first gaming area than to launch a gaming ball into the second gaming area, and The third gaming state is a gaming state that is relatively disadvantageous to the player compared to the third gaming state, and the third gaming state is such that the player is more likely to hit the game ball into the second gaming area than to hit the game ball into the first gaming area. The determination result notifying means can notify the first determination result or the second determination result as the determination result in response to the determination by the determination means not to execute the special game. The gaming state control means is capable of shifting to the third gaming state upon completion of the special game, and the gaming state control means is capable of shifting to the third gaming state upon completion of the special game, and is capable of shifting to the third gaming state upon notification of the first determination result in the first gaming state. It is possible to shift from the gaming state to the third gaming state, and it is possible to shift from the third gaming state to the first gaming state when a first termination condition set in advance is satisfied in the third gaming state. In the first gaming state, when the second determination result is notified, the first gaming state can be shifted to the second gaming state, and in the second gaming state, the first end is possible. It is possible to transition from the second gaming state to the first gaming state in response to the fulfillment of a preset second ending condition that is different from the above conditions, and the second ending condition is The number of notifications of the determination result during the second gaming state becomes a predetermined number of times , and the performance execution means issues an alert to call attention to the player and notifies the player that the third gaming state will be entered . a first launch instruction that instructs over a predetermined time how to launch a game ball that is advantageous depending on the gaming state; and a launch instruction that instructs in a manner different from the first launch instruction, A second launch instruction for instructing how to launch a game ball that is advantageous according to the above for a longer time than the predetermined time, and upon the end of the special game, the third game state is entered. It is possible to issue an alert upon transition, and the alert may be issued upon transition from the first gaming state to the third gaming state in response to the notification of the first determination result in the first gaming state. is not executed, while the notification effect, the first launch instruction, and the second launch instruction can be executed, and the second determination result is notified in the first gaming state, and the second gaming state When transitioning to , the notification effect, the first hitting instruction, and the second hitting instruction are not executed, and the remaining number of determinations by the determining means that can be executed during the second gaming state is not notified; The game result in the special game can be notified when the third game state transitions from the third game state to the first game state in response to the fulfillment of the first end condition in the third game state; When the second gaming state is transitioned from the second gaming state to the first gaming state in response to the fulfillment of the second termination condition in the gaming state, the game result in the special game is not announced .

According to this invention, it is possible to improve the interest of the game.

Schematic front view of gaming machine 1 Explanatory diagram for explaining normal symbol determination Explanatory diagram for explaining an example of the production button 26 Enlarged view of display 4 in FIG. 1 A block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a control device provided in the gaming machine 1. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram for explaining information displayed on a performance display device 113. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a setting change mode, a setting confirmation mode, and a RAM clear mode. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the display priority of the decorative pattern 55. Explanatory diagram for explaining a specific example of the display mode of the decorative pattern 55 A block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the main RAM 100c and various information stored in the main RAM 100c. Explanatory diagram for explaining the transition of gaming states in the first embodiment Explanatory diagram for explaining the results of special symbol determination in the first embodiment Explanatory diagram for explaining the jackpot type and small win type in the first embodiment Explanatory diagram for explaining types of failure (time saving) in the first embodiment Explanatory diagram for explaining a modified example of the result of the first special symbol determination Explanatory diagram for explaining the variation pattern (variation time group) of the first special symbol in the first embodiment Explanatory diagram for explaining the variation pattern (variation time group) of the second special symbol in the first embodiment Flowchart showing an example of main processing executed in the game control board 100 A flowchart showing an example of a timer interrupt process executed in the game control board 100. Detailed flow chart of the switch process in step S2A of FIG. 19 Detailed flowchart of the first starting port switch process in step S21 of FIG. 20 Detailed flow chart of the second start port switch process in step S22 of FIG. Detailed flow chart of special symbol processing in step S3A of FIG. Detailed flowchart of normal symbol processing in step S4A of FIG. 19 Detailed flowchart of the big win determination process in step S309 of FIG. Detailed flowchart of the fluctuation pattern determination process in step S310 of FIG. 23 Detailed flowchart of the process during stop in step S319 of FIG. 23 An explanatory diagram for explaining an example of production of a low-accuracy non-time-saving state in the first embodiment Explanatory diagram for explaining an example of a performance in which the first special symbol determination is suspended when transitioning from low-accuracy non-time saving to low-accuracy time saving in the first embodiment Explanatory diagram for explaining an example of a performance in which the first special symbol determination is not suspended when transitioning from low-accuracy non-time saving to low-accuracy time saving in the first embodiment An explanatory diagram for explaining an example of a production transitioning from a low-accuracy non-time saving to a low-accuracy slight time saving in the first embodiment FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a performance example in which a low-probability micro-time-saving transition occurs in the first embodiment; FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram for explaining an example of a normal reach effect being executed in a low probability non-time shortening state in the first embodiment; An explanatory diagram for explaining an example of a performance in which the SP reach performance is executed in a low probability non-time saving state in the first embodiment FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram for explaining an example of a performance immediately after a miss is notified in the SP reach performance in the low probability non-time shortening state in the first embodiment. An explanatory diagram for explaining an example of a production of a low-accuracy time-saving state in the first embodiment Detailed flow chart of the small prize opening control process in step S5A of FIG. Detailed flow chart of the big prize opening control process in step S6A of FIG. Flowchart showing an example of timer interrupt processing executed in the production control board 130 Detailed flowchart of command reception processing in step S10 of FIG. 39 Detailed flow chart of fluctuation start command reception processing in step S15 of FIG. 40 FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the transition of a game state in the second embodiment. Explanatory diagram for explaining the results of special symbol determination in the second embodiment Explanatory diagram for explaining the jackpot type and small hit type in the second embodiment Explanatory diagram for explaining types of loss (time saving) in the second embodiment FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the variation pattern (variation time group) of the first special symbol in the second embodiment. Explanatory diagram for explaining the variation pattern (variation time group) of the second special symbol in the second embodiment An explanatory diagram for explaining an example of a performance in which a normal reach performance is executed in a low probability non-time saving state in the second embodiment FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram for explaining an example of a performance in which a SP reach performance is executed in a low probability non-time shortening state in the second embodiment; An explanatory diagram for explaining an example of a performance immediately after being notified of a loss in the SP reach performance in the second embodiment in a low probability non-time saving state An explanatory diagram for explaining an example of a production that shifts from a low-accuracy slight time saving to a low-accuracy time saving in the second embodiment Explanatory diagram for explaining an example of production of a low-accuracy time-saving state in the second embodiment

Below, we will explain the gaming machine 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention, with appropriate reference to the drawings.

[Example of schematic configuration of gaming machine 1]
First, the schematic configuration of the gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 4. Figure 1 is a schematic front view of the gaming machine 1. As illustrated in Figure 1, the gaming machine 1 includes a gaming board 2 on which are provided accessories related to winning and judgment, and a frame member 3 that supports and fixes the gaming board 2. The frame member 3 supports a transparent glass plate that is arranged parallel to the gaming board 2 at a predetermined distance, and the glass plate and the gaming board 2 form a gaming area 10 into which gaming balls can flow down.

When a player grips the handle 20 and rotates the lever 21 clockwise, the game balls stored in the upper tray 28 are guided to a launching device (not shown) and launched into the play area 10 with a force that corresponds to the rotation angle of the handle 20. This play area 10 is provided with game nails, windmills, etc. (not shown), and the launched game balls are guided to an upper position in the play area 10 and fall along the play board 2 while changing their direction of movement as they come into contact with the game nails, windmills, etc. The launch of the game balls can be temporarily stopped by the player operating the stop button 22.

The upper tray 28 stores the game balls and prize balls to be supplied to the launching device. Below this upper tray 28, a lower tray 29 is provided for storing prize balls. When a player operates the ejection button 23 located adjacent to this lower tray 29, a portion of the underside of the lower tray 29 is opened, and the game balls stored in the lower tray 29 fall into a box (not shown) located below the lower tray 29.

When the player performs a so-called "left-handed hit" in which the player maintains the state in which the handle 20 is rotated at a small rotation angle, the game ball is hit with a relatively weak batting force. In this case, the game ball flows down the left side area in the game area 10 as exemplified by the arrow 31. On the other hand, when the player performs a so-called "right-handed hit" in which the player keeps the handle 20 rotated at a large rotation angle, the game ball is hit with a relatively strong hitting force. In this case, the game ball flows down the right side area in the game area 10 as illustrated by the arrow 32.

A first starting opening 11 and three general winning openings 14 are provided in the passage path of the game ball hit to the left as accessories related to winning and determination. In addition, in the passage path of the game ball hit right, there are a second starting opening 12, a large winning opening 13, a general winning opening 14, a gate 16, an electric tulip 17, and a small winning opening 19 as accessories related to winning and judgment. is provided. If the player hits left-handed, the game ball will basically not land in the second starting port 12, and if the player hits right-handed, the game ball will basically not land in the first starting port 11. The ball never wins.

If a game ball enters any of the first start opening 11, second start opening 12, large prize opening 13, general prize opening 14, or small prize opening 19 while flowing down the game board 2 and wins a prize, a predetermined number of prize balls corresponding to the winning location are paid out to the upper tray 28 or lower tray 29. Game balls that do not enter any of the above winning openings are discharged from the game area 10 via the discharge opening 18.

In the gaming machine 1, when a gaming ball passes through the first start port 11 and wins, or when a gaming ball passes through the second start port 12 and wins, it is determined whether or not to execute a jackpot game (special game) that is advantageous to the player. In a jackpot game, a gaming ball can easily win a prize in the big prize port 13, so the player can obtain a large number of gaming balls according to the prize of the gaming ball in the big prize port 13.

In the following description, the judgment executed on the condition that the game ball enters the first starting hole 11 is called the "first special pattern judgment", and the judgment executed on the condition that the game ball enters the second starting hole 12 is called the "second special pattern judgment". In addition, these judgments are collectively called "special pattern judgment". When the first special pattern judgment is performed, the first special pattern is displayed variably on the first special pattern display 41 (see FIG. 4), and then the first special pattern indicating the judgment result is displayed stationary. When the second special pattern judgment is performed, the second special pattern is displayed variably on the second special pattern display 42 (see FIG. 4), and then the second special pattern indicating the judgment result is displayed stationary. The jackpot game executed on the condition of the second special pattern judgment has more prize balls than the jackpot game executed on the condition of the first special pattern judgment. In addition, the second special pattern judgment is more likely to result in a jackpot game than the first special pattern judgment. This makes it possible to increase the player's desire to have the game ball land in the second starting hole 12 rather than the first starting hole 11.

The first starting hole 11 is a starting hole that is always open. The second starting hole 12 is a starting hole that is only open when an electric tulip 17, which is a normal electric device, is operating. The electric tulip 17 is disposed close to the second starting hole 12 and has a pair of blade members. This electric tulip 17 is configured to be able to change its position between a closed position (see the solid line in FIG. 1) in which the pair of blade members closes the second starting hole 12, and an open position (see the dashed line in FIG. 1) in which the second starting hole 12 is opened. When the electric tulip 17 is in the open position, it gathers game balls hit to the right toward the second starting hole 12.

The second starting hole 12 is normally blocked by the electric tulip 17 in a closed position. When the game ball passes through the gate 16, a prize ball is not paid out, but it is determined whether or not to open the second starting hole 12. In the following description, the determination of whether or not to open the second starting hole 12 is called "normal pattern determination". When the normal pattern determination is performed, the normal pattern is displayed variably on the normal pattern display 45 (see FIG. 4), and then the normal pattern indicating the determination result of the normal pattern determination is displayed stationary. The normal patterns indicating the determination result of the normal pattern determination include a winning pattern indicating that the second starting hole 12 is to be opened, and a losing pattern indicating that the second starting hole 12 is not to be opened. The winning patterns include a short opening pattern and a long opening pattern. The short opening pattern is a pattern in which the total opening time of the electric tulip 17 is short and basically the game ball cannot enter the second starting hole 12 (for example, the total opening time is 0.2 seconds). The long-open symbol is a symbol that allows the total open time of the electric tulip to be long, and as long as the player hits to the right, it is easy for the game ball to enter the second starting hole 12 (for example, a total open time of 5 seconds). When any winning symbol is displayed, the pair of wing members of the electric tulip 17 maintains the open position for a specified time and then returns to the closed position a specified number of times in a manner that is predetermined according to the type of normal symbol. When a losing symbol is displayed, the electric tulip 17 does not open, but remains in the closed position, so the game ball cannot enter the second starting hole 12.

FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram for explaining normal symbol determination. FIG. 2(A) is an explanatory diagram for explaining the probability that it is determined that the second starting port 12 is opened in the normal symbol determination in the gaming machine 1. The probability of opening the second starting port 12 in normal symbol judgment includes a time-saving state (for example, 1/1), a slight time-saving state (for example, 10/65536), which has a lower probability than the time-saving state, and a slight time-saving state (for example, 10/65536). There is a non-time saving state (for example, 1/65536) that has a lower probability than the time saving state (FIG. 2(A)). In addition, the probability of determining that the second starting port 12 is opened in the normal symbol determination may be the same regardless of whether it is a slight time saving state or a non-time saving state (for example, 1/65536).

2(B) is an explanatory diagram for explaining the opening time group of the second start hole 12 in the gaming machine 1. The opening time of the second start hole 12 (i.e., the time during which the electric tulip 17 is controlled to the open position) is relatively longer in the time-saving state than in the minute time-saving state and the non-time-saving state (FIG. 2(B)). Specifically, in the time-saving state, the long opening symbol is displayed as a static display, whereas the short opening symbol is not displayed as a static display. Also, in the non-time-saving state and the minute time-saving state, the short opening symbol is displayed as a static display, whereas the long opening symbol is not displayed as a static display. In the non-time-saving state and the minute time-saving state, in order to provide a gameplay that encourages the player to aim at the first start hole 11 with the aim of transitioning to the time-saving state in which the game ball is most likely to enter the second start hole 12, the game is basically configured in advance so that the game ball cannot enter the second start hole 12.

In gaming machine 1, no gate 16 is provided in the path of a gaming ball hit from the left. Therefore, in gaming machine 1, when a gaming ball enters general winning port 14 in the micro-time-saving state, the prize ball is paid out and a general symbol determination is performed. Note that gaming machine 1 may have a gate 16 provided in the path of a gaming ball hit from the left.

Figure 2 (C) is an explanatory diagram for explaining the change time group of the normal symbols in the gaming machine 1. The change time of the normal symbols is relatively longer in the slight time-saving state than in the time-saving state, and is relatively longer in the non-time-saving state than in the slight time-saving state (Figure 2 (C)). For example, the change time of the normal symbols in the time-saving state is 0.5 seconds, the change time of the normal symbols in the slight time-saving state is 59 seconds, and the change time of the normal symbols in the non-time-saving state is 60 seconds. The change time of the normal symbols in the non-time-saving state is not very different from the change time of the normal symbols in the slight time-saving state, and the opening time of the electric tulip 17 is the same in the non-time-saving state and the slight time-saving state. This makes it difficult to distinguish between the non-time-saving state and the slight time-saving state. The change time of the normal symbols may be the same regardless of whether it is the slight time-saving state or the non-time-saving state (for example, 60 seconds).

In addition, a state that corresponds to at least one of the following three conditions may be considered to be a slight time-saving state.
- The probability that the second starting hole 12 will be determined to be opened in the normal pattern determination is higher than in the non-time-saving state.
- The probability of the long opening pattern stopping is higher than in the non-time-saving state.
- The time it takes for the normal patterns to change is shorter than in non-time-saving mode.

[Example of configuration of presentation means of gaming machine 1]
As illustrated in FIG. 1, the gaming machine 1 is provided with a liquid crystal display device 5, a performance device 7, a speaker 24, a board lighting device 74, a performance button 26, and a frame lighting device 10 to provide various performances.

The display screen (hereinafter referred to as "LCD screen 5") of the LCD device 5 (which may be an EL display device, etc.) is an image display device that displays various performance images. The LCD device 5 is provided on the rear side (i.e., the rear side) of the gaming machine 1 relative to the gaming board 2, and can be viewed through an opening formed in the gaming board 2. As shown in FIG. 1, the LCD screen 5 is provided in a position that is easily visible to the player. The LCD screen 5 displays decorative patterns 55, small patterns 56, fourth patterns 57 and 59, CG or animated characters, etc.

The decorative pattern 55, small pattern 56, and fourth patterns 57 and 59 are images that are displayed in a variable manner in synchronization with the variable display of the special pattern. The decorative pattern 55 is a pattern that represents any of the numbers 1 to 9. As the variable display of the special pattern begins, the three decorative patterns 55 (and the three small patterns 56) begin to be displayed in a horizontal line, and as the stopped display of the special pattern begins, the three decorative patterns 55 (and the three small patterns 56) are displayed in a horizontal line (called the "main stop"). The result of the special pattern determination is announced by the combination of the three numbers. The combination of the decorative patterns 55 that are displayed in a stopped state is the same as the combination of the small patterns 56.

The fourth patterns 57 and 59 are expressed by colors, and are displayed in a variable manner in synchronization with the decorative pattern 55 (and the special pattern), and then are displayed stationary at the same time as the decorative pattern 55 (and the special pattern). The fourth pattern 57 is synchronized with the first special pattern, and the fourth pattern 59 is synchronized with the second special pattern. The fourth patterns 57 and 59 are displayed in a variable manner by repeatedly displaying the fourth patterns "red", "blue", "green", "yellow", and "white" in that order at the same position for a certain period of time (for example, 0.2 seconds). The variable display of the fourth patterns 57 and 59 may be realized by flashing the fourth pattern of a predetermined color (for example, blue) between display and non-display at regular intervals (for example, every 0.2 seconds).

The color combination of the decorative pattern 55 (and small pattern 56) that is stopped and displayed and the color of the fourth pattern 57 that is stopped and displayed is predetermined to be different for each special pattern (see FIG. 13). By the combination of the decorative pattern 55 (and the small pattern 56) and the fourth pattern 57, the same content as that shown by the stopped and displayed special pattern can be notified.

The fourth symbols 57 and 59 are small images displayed at the edge of the LCD screen 5, and are less noticeable than the decorative symbol 55 (and the small symbol 56). For this reason, even if the type of special symbol is indicated by the combination of the decorative symbol 55 and the fourth symbols 57 and 59, it is difficult for the player to notice. The fourth symbols 57 and 59 may be realized by a light-emitting element (e.g. a full-color LED) provided near the right side of the LCD screen 5. This light-emitting element may be used as the fourth symbols 57 and 59 by lighting up in a predetermined color simultaneously with the display of the stopped decorative symbol 55, to unambiguously indicate the result of the special symbol determination.

The small symbol 56 and the fourth symbols 57 and 59 are always displayed in front of the other images in a position that is not hidden by the special device 7, except during a jackpot game. Therefore, they never become invisible or their visibility is reduced. In contrast, the decorative symbol 55 may become invisible by being superimposed behind the other images, or may be hidden by the special device 7. Also, the decorative symbol 55 may be partially or completely hidden regardless of whether the special symbol is being displayed in a variable manner.

The performance accessory 7 is provided between the front surface of the game board 2 and the glass plate, and is arranged in the upper center of the liquid crystal screen 5. The performance accessory 7 is arranged at an initial position above the liquid crystal screen 5 when it is not in operation. When the timing to operate the performance accessory 7 is reached, the performance accessory 7 rotates downward from the initial position toward the center of the liquid crystal screen 5 by the driving force of the performance accessory motor 71, and placed in front of the The performance accessories 7 are used for various performances by being operated between an initial position and an advancing position.

The performance element 7 is made of a translucent synthetic resin material. The performance element 7 is used for various effects by illuminating multiple built-in light-emitting elements (a type of board lighting device 74) in multiple colors or a single color. For example, the light-emitting elements built into the performance element 7 can be illuminated simultaneously in seven colors (specifically, red, orange, yellow, green, light blue, blue, and purple) to produce a rainbow of colors as a whole. The performance element 7 is visible to the player regardless of its position. Therefore, the decorations applied to the performance element 7 and the illumination of the performance element 7 can enhance the performance effect regardless of whether or not the element is moving.

The performance device 7 may be provided, for example, between the game board 2 and the LCD screen 5, and may be difficult for the player to see in its initial position. The performance device 7 may also be movable up and down and left and right, and may also be capable of vibrating.

The speaker 24 outputs music, voice, sound effects, etc., either synchronously or asynchronously with the image display on the LCD screen 5, to create a sound-based presentation.

The board lighting device 74 is a collective term for multiple light-emitting elements (e.g., full-color LEDs) provided on the game board 2. The frame lighting device 10 is a collective term for multiple light-emitting elements (e.g., full-color LEDs) provided on the frame member 3. The frame lighting device 10 is composed of, for example, a left side lamp provided on the left side of the frame member 3, a right side lamp provided on the right side of the frame member 3, a center lamp provided between the two speakers 24, and a button lamp built into the performance button 26 (see Figure 2) that can be operated by the player.

Figure 3 is an explanatory diagram for explaining an example of the effect button 26. The effect button 26 is provided on the frame member 3, and the player can input operation information by operating (e.g., pressing) it. In the gaming machine 1, an effect may be performed in response to the operation of the effect button 26. The effect button 26 is configured so that its height can be controlled to change between a normal state in which its top surface is at approximately the same height as the top surface of the frame member 3, and a protruding state in which its top surface protrudes a predetermined height (e.g., 10 cm) above the top surface of the frame member 3. Note that the effect button 26 can be operated regardless of the height it is controlled to between the normal state and the protruding state.

Furthermore, the frame member 3 is provided with an effect key 27 for the player to perform a selection operation or move a cursor (see FIG. 3). The production key 27 is a so-called cross key, and includes an up key, a down key, a left key, and a right key. The production key 27 is used to adjust the light amount of the liquid crystal screen 5, the board lighting device 74, and the frame lighting device 10, and is used to adjust the volume of the speaker 24.

[Example of configuration of display unit 4]
FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of the display 4 in FIG. 1. The display 4 mainly displays information regarding special symbol determination and normal symbol determination, and as illustrated in FIG. Special symbol pending display 43, second special symbol pending display 44, normal symbol display 45, normal symbol pending display 46, game status indicator 47, round indicator 48, right side that lights up to prompt the player to hit right. It has a striking lamp 49. The right-handed lamp 49 is continuously turned off in the low-accuracy non-time-saving state and the low-accuracy slight time-saving state (that is, in a non-notification mode), and is during a jackpot game and a small win game in which the small prize opening 19 is opened. In the low-accuracy time-saving state, the light is continuously lit (that is, in the notification mode). In addition, instead of the right-handed lamp 49 (or in addition to the right-handed lamp 49), it becomes a white circle in the low probability non-time saving state and the low probability slight time saving state (that is, it is a non-notification mode), and it becomes a white circle during the jackpot game and the small time saving state. During a small winning game in which the prize opening 19 is opened and during a low probability time saving state, an image that becomes a black circle (that is, a notification mode) may continue to be displayed at the edge of the liquid crystal screen 5. Also, instead of (or in addition to) the right-handed hitting lamp 49, it is tilted down so that it is difficult for the player to visually recognize it in the low-accuracy non-time-saving state and the low-accuracy slight time-saving state (i.e., in the non-notification mode). (Yes), during a jackpot game, during a small win game where the small prize opening 19 is opened, and during a low probability time saving state, the player stands continuously so that the player can see it (that is, in the notification mode). A movable accessory (for example, a movable accessory imitating a flag) may be provided.

When a first special pattern determination is made, the first special pattern display 41 notifies the result of the first special pattern determination by displaying a variable special pattern and then a static special pattern indicating the result of the first special pattern determination. When a second special pattern determination is made, the second special pattern display 42 notifies the result of the second special pattern determination by displaying a variable special pattern and then a static special pattern indicating the result of the second special pattern determination.

The first special pattern reserved display 43 displays the number of reserved balls for the first special pattern judgment (hereinafter referred to as the "special 1 reserved number"). The second special pattern reserved display 44 displays the number of reserved balls for the second special pattern judgment (hereinafter referred to as the "special 2 reserved number"). The LCD screen 5 displays reserved icons 51 and reserved numbers 52 that notify the player of the same contents as those displayed by the first special pattern reserved display 43 and the second special pattern reserved display 44, making it easy for the player to understand the number of reserved balls. The reserved icons 51 are displayed in the order in which they are reserved, up to the number of reserved balls (for example, a maximum of four).

Here, blue, green, red, and rainbow colors are used as colors that indicate the likelihood of a big win or a small win (hereinafter referred to as "reliability"). Each color is more likely to be used in the case of a big win and less likely to be used in the case of a miss, in the order mentioned above. Rainbow colors have a reliability of 100%, and are only used in the case of a big win, and are not used in the case of a miss. In the case of a big win or a miss in which the change time of the special pattern is relatively long, the reserve icon 51 is likely to be displayed in one of the colors that indicate the high or low reliability. In the following explanation, a white reserve icon 51 is referred to as a normal mode reserve icon 51, and a reserve icon 51 of the above colors other than white is referred to as a special mode reserve icon 51.

The reserved numbers 52 are numbers from 0 to 4 that are displayed small on the left edge of the liquid crystal screen 5 in the same manner regardless of whether or not a jackpot has been won, in synchronization with the reserved number of the first special pattern judgment and the reserved number of the second special pattern judgment. The reserved numbers 52 include a first reserved number that indicates the reserved number with numbers from 0 to 4 in synchronization with the display of the first special pattern reserved indicator 43, and a second reserved number that indicates the reserved number with numbers from 0 to 4 in synchronization with the display of the second special pattern reserved indicator 44. For example, when the reserved number of the first special pattern judgment is increased by one, the first reserved number is displayed with a number incremented by one, and when the reserved number of the second special pattern judgment is increased by one, the second reserved number is displayed with a number incremented by one. Here, the reserved icon 51 is hidden, or hidden by other images, or not displayed, like the decorative pattern 55. In contrast, the reserved numbers 52 are always displayed in front of other images, like the small pattern 56, so they are not hidden by other images or their visibility is not reduced.

When the normal symbol determination is performed, the normal symbol display device 45 notifies the determination result of the ordinary symbol determination by variably displaying the regular symbol and then stop displaying the normal symbol indicating the determination result of the ordinary symbol determination. The normal symbol pending display 46 displays the number of pending normal symbol determinations. The gaming status display 47 displays the gaming status at the time when the gaming machine 1 is powered on. The round display 48 is basically off, and displays the number of rounds of the jackpot game in response to the jackpot symbol being stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 41 or the second special symbol display 42. do. The round display 48 does not light up and remains off in response to the stop display of a losing symbol or a small winning symbol.

[Configuration of the control device of the gaming machine 1 and overview of various determinations made in the gaming machine 1]
An example of the configuration of a control device included in the gaming machine 1 and an overview of various determinations performed in the gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG. 5. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a control device included in the gaming machine 1. As shown in FIG.

On the back side of the game board 2, in addition to a ball tank that stores game balls to be sent to the upper tray 28 or the lower tray 29, a control device that controls the operation of the game machine 1 is provided. As illustrated in FIG. 5, the control device of the game machine 1 is composed of a game control board 100 that controls the progress of the game, such as various judgments and command transmissions, a performance control board 130 that controls the overall performance based on commands received from the game control board 100, an image and sound control board 140 that controls the performance using images and sounds, a lamp control board 150 that controls the performance using various lamps and performance props 7, and the like. Note that the configuration of the control device is not limited to this, and for example, the performance control board 130, the image and sound control board 140, and the lamp control board 150 may be composed of a single board.

The communication between the gaming control board 100 and the payout control board 120 is configured to enable bidirectional transmission and reception of commands, while the communication between the gaming control board 100 and the presentation control device 130A (presentation control board 130) is configured to enable unidirectional transmission of commands from the gaming control board 100 to the presentation control device 130A (presentation control board 130).

The gaming control board 100 includes a main CPU 100a that performs arithmetic processing, a main ROM 100b that stores gaming control programs, etc., a main RAM 100c that serves as a work area during arithmetic processing, and input/output ports.

The input/output ports of the game control board 100 include a general winning opening detection switch 43a, a gate detection switch 44a, a first starting opening detection switch 45a, a second starting opening detection switch 47a, a second starting opening/closing solenoid 48b, and a big winning opening. Detection switch 50a, large winning opening/closing solenoid 51b, small winning opening detection switch 50c, small winning opening/closing solenoid 51c, specific area detection switch 52a, magnetic detection sensor 57a, radio wave detection sensor 58a, out ball detection switch 39a, display 4 , a performance display 113, an RWM clear switch 111a, and a setting key switch 112a are connected. The specific area detection switch 52a inputs a signal when a game ball passes through a specific area provided inside the small winning opening 19 (hereinafter referred to as "V winning"). The RWM clear switch 111a inputs a signal for initializing the control state of the game other than the set value stored in the main RAM 100c (that is, initializing the gaming machine 1 to a low-reliability, non-time-saving state). Initialization by operating the RWM clear switch 111a is called "RWM clear."

The setting key switch 112a inputs a signal to change the setting value or transition to a state where it can be confirmed by operating the setting key. The performance display 113 displays performance information and setting values that indicate the performance of the gaming machine 1. In addition, the gaming information output terminal board 90, the payout control board 120, and the performance control board 130 are connected to the input/output ports of the gaming control board 100.

The main CPU 100a reads the game control program stored in the main ROM 100b, and performs arithmetic processing related to the game while utilizing the main RAM 100c as a work area. This enables control processing according to detection signals from various input devices (detection switches, detection sensors, etc.), control processing for controlling various output devices (solenoids, indicators, etc.), and control processing for sending and receiving various control commands. Control processing and control processing for transmitting gaming information to the outside of the gaming machine (such as a hall computer) via the gaming information output terminal board 90 are performed.

The "game information" includes a start port winning signal output each time a game ball wins the first start port 11 or the second start port 12, a pattern determination signal output each time the variable display of the first special pattern or the second special pattern ends, a big win signal output throughout big win play, a small win signal output throughout small win play, an open signal output throughout round play (opening of the big win port), a signal output throughout the time-saving state, and a security signal output when a situation occurs that poses a problem (threat) to the security of the gaming machine 1 (RWM clear, error, etc.).

The memory area of the main ROM 100b is arranged in order of a game ROM area in which programs and data related to the progress of the game are stored, and an information ROM area in which programs and data related to the performance display of the gaming machine are stored.

The game ROM area contains a game program area in which programs related to the progress of the game are stored, and a game data area in which data related to the progress of the game are stored. The information ROM area contains an information program area in which programs related to the performance display of the gaming machine are stored, and an information data area in which data related to the performance display of the gaming machine are stored.

The memory area of the main RAM 100c contains a game RWM area used as a work area when executing a game program, and an information RWM area used as a work area when executing an information program. The game RWM area contains a game work area used by the game program as work, and a game stack area for temporarily saving data being processed by the game program.

The game work area includes a setting value area for storing setting values, a judgment information area for storing judgment information (checksum) for determining abnormalities in the RWM area, and a game data area for storing game data that changes as the game progresses.

The information RWM area contains an information work area that information programs use as work, and an information stack area for temporarily saving data being processed by information programs.

A performance information area for storing information related to the performance of the gaming machine 1 and an error information area for storing information related to various error determinations are arranged in the information work area.

The payout control board 120 drives the payout device 95 to control the payout of game balls. The payout control board 120 also drives the launch device 26 to control the launch of game balls.

The payout control board 120 includes a payout CPU 121a that performs arithmetic processing, a payout ROM 121b that stores a payout program, etc., a payout RAM 121c that serves as a work area during arithmetic processing, an input/output port, and the like.

The input/output ports of the payout control board 120 are connected to an open detection switch, a full detection switch, a payout ball detection switch for detecting game balls paid out from the payout device 95, and a payout motor for paying out game balls from the payout device 95.

The payout CPU 121a reads out the payout control program stored in the payout ROM 121b, and performs calculation processing related to the payout of game balls while utilizing the payout RAM 121c as a work area. This allows it to perform control processing for paying out game balls from the payout device 95 in response to a payout control command from the game control board 100, control processing for sending a command based on the result of the calculation processing to the game control board 100, etc.

The presentation control device 130A includes a presentation control board 130 that performs overall control of the progress of the presentation based on the presentation control commands received from the game control board 100, an image and sound control board 140 that performs control processing of image display and audio output based on the presentation control commands received from the presentation control board 130, and a lamp control board 150 that performs control processing of various light-emitting elements (LEDs, etc.) and various driving sources (motors, etc.) based on the presentation control commands received from the presentation control board 130.

The performance control board 130 is equipped with a sub-CPU 130a that performs calculation processing, a sub-ROM 130b that stores the performance control program, a sub-RAM 130c that serves as a work area during calculation processing, an RTC 130d that keeps track of the date and time, and an input/output port. The input/output port of the performance control board 130 is connected to a performance button detection switch 17a and a cross key detection switch 19a.

The sub-CPU 130a reads out the performance control program stored in the sub-ROM 130b, and performs calculation processing related to the performance while utilizing the sub-RAM 130c as a work area. This allows it to perform control processing for determining the mode of performance associated with the variable display of special symbols, control processing for sending performance control commands based on the determination results to the image and sound control board 140, control processing in response to detection signals from various input devices (detection switches, etc.), control processing for controlling various output devices (lighting devices, motors, etc.), etc.

The image and sound control board 140 receives commands from the performance control board 130 and controls the display of a specified image on the LCD screen 5 and the output of sounds from the speaker 24.

The image and sound control board 140 includes a central CPU 141a that centrally controls image display and audio output based on reception of performance control commands from the performance control board 130, a central ROM 141b that stores a general control program, and a central ROM 141b that stores a general control program. A control RAM 141c that serves as a work area, a VDP 145 that generates images to be output to the liquid crystal screen 5 based on reception of display control commands (display list) from the control CPU 141a, a CGROM 146 that stores image data, etc.; It includes an audio control unit 148 (audio LSI) that controls the speaker 24 based on reception of audio control commands, and an audio ROM in which audio data and the like are stored. Note that a configuration may be adopted in which the VDP 145 is responsible for both drawing management and sound management. In this case, there is no need to separately provide the audio control section 148.

The general CPU 141a reads the general control program stored in the general ROM 141b, and performs calculation processing related to the performance while using the general RAM 141c as a work area. This allows it to perform control processing for generating display control commands (display list) that specify the performance images to be displayed on the liquid crystal screen 5 and sending them to the VDP 145, and control processing for generating audio control commands that specify the performance sounds to be output from the speaker 24 and sending them to the audio control unit 148 (audio LSI).

The image and sound control board 140 is also connected to the liquid crystal screen 5 and the speaker 24. The image and sound control board 140 (VDP 145) generates images at a predetermined frame time interval (e.g., 1/30 seconds) and outputs the generated images to the liquid crystal screen 5. As a result, an image including, for example, a decorative pattern 55 is displayed on the liquid crystal screen 5. Furthermore, sound signals generated by the image and sound control board 140 (audio control unit 148) are output to the speaker 24, thereby outputting sound.

Further, a changeover switch 22 is connected to the production control device 130A. The changeover switch 22 is a switch for setting the volume value of the sound (produced sound such as BGM and sound effects) output from the speaker 24. For example, depending on the operation of the changeover switch 22, the volume value is set in five levels from "1" to "5". Further, the changeover switch 22 is also used as a switch for setting the light amount values of the liquid crystal screen 5, the frame lighting device 10, and the board lighting device 74. Depending on the operation of the selector switch 22, the light amount value is set in five levels from "1" to "5".

Further, a production button detection switch 17a and a cross key detection switch 19a are connected to the production control device 130A.

The lamp control board 150 includes a lamp CPU 150a that performs arithmetic processing, a lamp ROM 150b that stores a lamp control program, a lamp RAM 150c that serves as a work area during arithmetic processing, and input/output ports.

The input/output ports of the lamp control board 150 include a frame lighting device 10 (performance button light emitting LED, etc.), a performance accessory 7, a board lighting device 74, a performance button drive device 17b (performance button drive motor, performance button vibration motor). ) are connected.

The lamp CPU 150a reads the lamp control program stored in the lamp ROM 150b, and performs arithmetic processing related to the effect while utilizing the lamp RAM 150c as a work area. Thereby, control processing of the frame lighting device 10, the performance button driving device 17b, the performance accessory 7, and the board lighting device 74 is performed.

The power supply board 160 generates the main power (operating power) necessary for the operation of the gaming machine from the power supplied from the outside of the gaming machine, and supplies the main power to the gaming machine 1 (game control board 100, payout control board 120, (equivalent to power supply means).

The power supply board 160 also has a power switch that can be operated by an amusement store employee to switch between an ON state that supplies main power to the gaming machine 1 (the gaming control board 100, the payout control board 120, the presentation control device 130A, and various electronic components) and an OFF state that stops the supply. When the power switch is turned ON, the supply of main power begins and the gaming machine 1 starts operating. In addition, in the event of a power outage (blackout), the supply of backup power to the gaming control board 100 is maintained. This means that the memory contents of the main RAM 100c are retained even in the event of a power outage (blackout), and the game control state can be restored to the state before the power outage (blackout) after recovery from the power outage (blackout).

The gaming machine 1 has a "low probability state" as a jackpot winning probability of the special symbol determination, and has a "non-time-saving state", a "slight time-saving state", and a "time-saving state" as a winning probability of the normal symbol determination. The gaming machine 1 is controlled in the following three game states when the game progresses.
- "Low probability non-time-saving state" which is both a "low probability state" and a "non-time-saving state"
- "Low probability state" and "slight time-saving state" - "Low probability state"
・"Low probability state" and "time-saving state" - "Low probability state"

The gaming machine 1 is initially controlled to a low-probability, non-time-saving state. There are six setting values, from "1" to "6", and the probability of winning a jackpot when the special symbol is determined is approximately 1/300 when the setting value is "1", approximately 1/280 when the setting value is "2", approximately 1/260 when the setting value is "3", approximately 1/240 when the setting value is "4", approximately 1/220 when the setting value is "5", and approximately 1/200 when the setting value is "6". The probability of winning a jackpot is the same when in the non-time-saving state, the slight time-saving state, and the time-saving state.

In the gaming machine 1, the larger the set value, the higher the probability of winning a jackpot in special symbol determination (that is, the more advantageous it is to the player). In addition, in the gaming machine 1, the smaller the set value, the higher the probability of winning the jackpot in special symbol determination (that is, the smaller the set value is, the more advantageous it may be to the player).

In addition to the "low probability state," there may be a "high probability state" as the probability of winning a jackpot determined by a special symbol. The "high probability state" is a predetermined arbitrary probability in which the probability of winning a jackpot determined by a special symbol is 10 times or less than the low probability state. The transition from the low probability state to the high probability state occurs after the jackpot game ends.

Although backup power is not supplied to the payout control board 120 and the production control board 130, the payout control board 120 and the performance control board 130 are provided so that the stored contents of the payout RAM 121c and the sub-RAM 130c are retained even in the event of a power outage (power outage). Backup power may be supplied to the production control board 130. Further, backup power may be supplied only to either one of the payout control board 120 and the production control board 130.

Next, information displayed on the performance display 113 will be explained with reference to FIG. 6. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram for explaining information displayed on the performance display 113. The performance indicator 113 includes four segment indicators 113a to 113d (see FIG. 6(A)). The performance display 113 displays a "base value" in a low-probability, non-time-saving state. The "base value" is the value obtained by dividing the total number of paid out balls by the total number of game balls launched by the player in a specific section in a low probability non-time saving state (specifically, (base calculation value of prize ball counter/value of out counter for base calculation) x 100).

A prize ball counter for base calculation, an out counter for base calculation, and a total out counter are used to control the performance display 113. Each counter is provided in the main RAM 113, for example. The base calculation prize ball counter counts (for example, adds or subtracts) the total number of payouts that are paid out according to the winning of game balls in a specific section in a low probability non-time saving state. For example, when a game ball enters the first starting slot 11, "4" is added to the prize ball counter for base calculation. Furthermore, when a game ball enters the second starting slot 12, "1" is added to the prize ball counter for base calculation. Furthermore, when a game ball enters the grand prize opening 13, "15" is added to the prize ball counter for base calculation.

The base calculation out counter counts (for example, adds or subtracts) the total number of game balls hit by the player in a specific section in the low-accuracy, non-time-saving state. In the gaming machine 1, when a game ball is detected by the out ball detection switch 39a, "1" is added to the base calculation out counter.

The out counter for base calculation and the prize ball counter for base calculation are counted in a low probability non-time saving state, but are not counted in a state other than a low probability non time saving state. During the jackpot game, although the gaming state is in a low probability non-time saving state, counting by the out counter for base calculation and the prize ball counter for base calculation is stopped (note that counting may be continued). When the game is in a gaming state other than the low-accuracy, non-time-saving state (that is, when the counting by the out counter for base calculation and the prize ball counter for base calculation is stopped), calculation of the base value may be stopped. However, the base value may continue to be calculated periodically (for example, every time the process of step S9A in FIG. 19 is performed (for example, every 4 milliseconds)).

The total out counter counts (e.g., adds or subtracts) the total number of game balls (called "total outs") shot by the player regardless of the game state. The total out counter counts regardless of whether the game is in a low-probability non-time-saving state or not. For this reason, for example, even when counting is stopped by the base calculation out counter and base calculation prize ball counter due to a transition from low-probability non-time-saving state to low-probability micro-time-saving state (or low-probability time-saving state), counting by the total out counter continues.

The main CPU 100a calculates the real-time base value bL before the total number of outs reaches 60,000. Then, the main CPU 100a calculates and saves a base value from the current values of the base calculation prize ball counter and the base calculation out counter every time the total number of outs reaches 60,000. Initialize the counter and out counter for base calculation.

When one section ends when the total number of outs reaches 60,000, the final base value of this section is saved as the final base value of the previous section. The performance display 113 can switch and display up to four base values at regular intervals (for example, every 5 seconds) (see FIG. 6(B)). Specifically, the performance indicator 113 displays the real-time base value bL (current section D) before the total number of outs reaches 60,000, the final base value b1 in the section A three times before, and the final base value b1 in the section A two times before. The final base value b2 in section B and the final base value b3 in the previous section C are displayed in this order.

"--" is displayed as the real-time base value bL and base values b1 to b3 until the total number of outs reaches a predetermined total number (for example, 300). Thereby, it is possible to prevent the possibility that the real-time base value immediately after the gaming machine 1 is powered on differs greatly from the actual base value.

If the total number of outs is greater than the predetermined total number but less than 60,000, only the real-time base value bL is displayed, and "--" is displayed as the base values b1 to b3. Furthermore, if the number of stored final base values is less than three, "--" is displayed as the base values b1 to b3 of the section in which no final base value is stored. The real-time base value bL and base values b1 to b3 are displayed cyclically on the performance display 113 due to the transition from low-accuracy non-time-saving to low-accuracy slight time-saving (or low-accuracy time-saving). This continues even when the prize ball counter is stopped. That is, the real-time base value bL and the cyclic display of the base values b1 to b3 on the performance display 113 are continued regardless of the gaming state.

Next, the setting change mode, setting confirmation mode, and RAM clear mode will be explained with reference to FIG. The gaming machine 1 shifts to a setting change mode, a setting confirmation mode, and a RAM clear mode depending on the states of the setting key switch 112a and the RWM clear switch 111a when the power is turned on. The setting change mode is a mode in which setting values can be changed. The setting confirmation mode is a mode in which the current setting value is displayed by lighting on the performance display 113. The RAM clear mode is a mode that is entered when the control state of the game other than the setting values stored in the main RAM 100c is initialized (that is, the gaming machine 1 is initialized to a low probability non-time saving state).

Note that the power "ON" in FIG. 7 means that the power switch is turned on. Further, the setting key SW "ON" in FIG. 10 means that the rotary member of the setting key switch 112a is in the ON position due to an operation using the setting key by a clerk at the game parlor. Further, the setting key SW "OFF" in FIG. 10 means that the rotating member of the setting key switch 112a is in the OFF position. Further, the RWM clear switch "ON" in FIG. 10 means that the RWM clear switch 111a is being operated. Further, the RWM clear switch "OFF" in FIG. 10 means that the RWM clear switch 111a is not operated.

If the power is turned on while the gaming machine 1 is in the OFF state with the setting key SW in the ON state and the RWM clear SW in the ON state, the settings will be changed immediately after the gaming machine 1 starts up. mode (see FIG. 7(B)). When the game machine 1 enters the setting change mode, the game control state other than the setting values stored in the main RAM 100c has been initialized, and the gaming machine 1 has been initialized to a low-reliability, non-time-saving state (that is, the RWM has been cleared). ).

When the mode is changed to the setting change mode, the main CPU 100a lights up the currently stored setting value on the performance display 113 and outputs a voice message saying "Settings are being changed" from the speaker 24. When the RWM clear switch 111a is operated during the setting change mode, the setting value is changed with each operation (flow from FIG. 7 (B) to (C)). Accordingly, the changed setting value is displayed on the performance display 113 and a voice message announcing the setting value (e.g., "It is 3") is output from the speaker 24. Note that the voice message announcing the setting value does not have to be output from the speaker 24 to prevent information leakage.

The changed setting value is temporarily stored in the main RAM 100a, and is stored again as the current setting value in the main RAM 100a by turning the power of the gaming machine 1 back on after the setting key SW is turned "OFF" (specifically, the power is "ON" with the setting key SW "OFF" and the RWM clear SW "OFF") (flow from FIG. 7 (C) to (D)). When the power of the gaming machine 1 is turned back on after the setting value is changed in this way (specifically, the power is "ON" with the setting key SW "OFF" and the RWM clear SW "OFF"), the gaming machine 1 transitions to a state where the store clerk can check the operation of various drive sources (motors, etc.) (see FIG. 7 (D)). In this state, the various drive sources (motors, etc.) operate, a voice message saying "Please check the operation of the solenoid" is output from the speaker 24, and the performance indicator 113 is turned off. Next, the decorative pattern 55 begins to be displayed on the LCD screen 5, and the performance indicator 113 begins to flash, after which the base value begins to be displayed (see Figures 7 (E) and (F)).

The setting value temporarily stored in the main RAM 100a as the changed setting value during the setting change mode may be re-stored in the main RAM 100a as the current setting value by turning the setting key SW to the "OFF" state during the setting change mode. Alternatively, the current setting value itself may be updated each time the RWM clear switch 111a is operated during the setting change mode. In these configurations, when the setting key SW is turned to the "OFF" state during the setting change mode, the gaming machine 1 transitions to a state where the operation of various drive sources (motors, etc.) can be checked by the gaming establishment's staff.

If the power is turned on while the gaming machine 1 is in the OFF state with the setting key SW in the ON state and the RWM clear SW in the OFF state, the settings will be checked immediately after the gaming machine 1 starts up. mode (see FIG. 7(G)). When the setting confirmation mode is entered, the gaming control state of the gaming machine 1 has not been initialized, and the gaming machine 1 is controlled in the previous gaming state.

When transitioning to the setting confirmation mode, the main CPU 100a causes the performance display 113 to display the stored current setting value by lighting, and outputs a voice from the speaker 24 saying "Setting confirmation is in progress." When the setting key SW is turned OFF during the setting confirmation mode, the game machine 1 shifts to a state in which a clerk at the game parlor can check the operation of various drive sources (motors, etc.) (see FIG. 7(D)). . The subsequent flow is the same as the flow when the power is turned on with the setting key SW in the OFF state and the RWM clear SW in the OFF state.

When the gaming machine 1 is in the power OFF state, if the power is turned ON with the setting key SW in the OFF state and the RWM clear SW in the ON state, the RAM will be cleared immediately after the gaming machine 1 starts up. mode (see FIG. 7(H)). When the game machine 1 shifts to the RAM clear mode, the game control state other than the set value has been initialized, and the gaming machine 1 has been initialized to a low-reliability, non-time-saving state.

When the mode changes to RAM clear mode, the main CPU 100a turns off the performance indicator 113 and outputs a voice message saying "RAM has been cleared" from the speaker 24. After that, when a predetermined time (e.g., 3 seconds) has elapsed, the gaming machine 1 changes to a state where the gaming establishment's staff can check the operation of the various drive sources (motors, etc.) (see FIG. 7(D)). The subsequent flow is the same as that when the power is turned "ON" with the setting key SW in the "OFF" state and the RWM clear SW in the "OFF" state.

Next, the display priority of the decorative pattern 55 will be explained with reference to FIG. In the low probability non-time saving state and the low probability slight time saving state, the decorative pattern 55 is composed of a number part 550 and a character part 551 (FIGS. 8(A) and (B)). The decorative designs in the left column (hereinafter referred to as "left symbols"), the decorative symbols in the middle row (hereinafter referred to as "middle symbols"), and the decorative symbols in the right column (hereinafter referred to as "right symbols") have a number part 550 and a character. The display priority with respect to the portion 551 (specifically, the degree to which it is displayed closer to the front) changes during variable display. Note that the decorative pattern 55 may be composed of alphabets instead of the numerical part 550, or may be composed of an image representing an object instead of the character part 551.

There are five types of display patterns (HP1 to HP5) for the display priority of the decorative pattern 55 in the low-probability non-time-saving state and the low-probability slight time-saving state. For example, the number part 550 of the middle symbol has a priority of "1", the character part 551 of the middle symbol has a priority of "2", and the number part 550 of the left and right symbols have a priority of "3". , When the character portion 551 of the left and right patterns has priority level "4" (HP1), the middle pattern can be highlighted when three decorative patterns overlap as illustrated in FIG. 9(A). It is. Also, for example, the number part 550 of the middle symbol has a priority of "3", the character part 551 of the middle symbol has a priority of "4", and the number part 550 of the left and right symbols have a priority of "1". If the character parts 551 of the left pattern and the right pattern have priority level "2" (HP2), the impression of the middle pattern is It is possible to make it thinner. Also, for example, the number part 550 of the middle symbol has a priority of "1", the character part 551 of the middle symbol has a priority of "3", and the number part 550 of the left and right symbols have a priority of "1". If the character portions 551 of the left and right patterns have priority "2" (HP3), when three decorative patterns overlap as illustrated in FIG. 9(C), each decorative pattern's It is possible to highlight the numerical part. For example, if the number part 550 of each decorative pattern has a priority of "1" and the character part 551 of each decorative pattern has a priority of "2" (HP4), as illustrated in FIG. 9(D), By displaying the three decorative patterns so that they do not overlap, each decorative pattern can be displayed in an easy-to-understand manner. Also, for example, the number part 550 of the middle symbol has a priority of "3", the character part 551 of the middle symbol has a priority of "4", the number part 550 of the left symbol has a priority of "1", and the left When the character part 551 of the symbol has a priority of "2", the number part 550 of the right symbol has a priority of "5", and the character part 551 of the right symbol has a priority of "6" (HP5), FIG. As illustrated in (E), by overlapping three decorative patterns, it is possible to make the screen appear to have depth.

In the low accuracy time saving state, the decorative pattern 55 does not have the character part 551 and is composed only of the number part 550. There are four types of display patterns for the display priority of the decorative pattern 55 in the low accuracy time saving state (HPs 6 to 9). For example, if the number part 550 of the middle symbol has a priority of "1" and the number part 550 of the left and right symbols have a priority of "2" (HP6), as illustrated in FIG. 9(F), When three decorative patterns overlap, the middle pattern can be highlighted. Also, for example, if the number part 550 of the middle symbol has a priority of "2" and the number part 550 of the left and right symbols have a priority of "1" (HP7), an example is shown in FIG. 9(G). When three decorative patterns overlap, it is possible to make the impression of the middle pattern weaker. For example, if the number part 550 of the middle symbol has a priority of "2", the number part 550 of the left symbol has a priority of "1", and the number part 550 of the right symbol has a priority of "3" ( HP8), it is possible to make the screen appear to have depth by overlapping three decorative patterns as illustrated in FIG. 9(H). For example, if the numerical part 550 of each decorative pattern has a priority of "1" (HP9), each decorative pattern can be displayed so that three decorative patterns do not overlap as illustrated in FIG. can be displayed in an easy-to-understand manner.

In the gaming machine 1, the display priority of the decorative pattern 55 may be displayed in any of the display patterns HP1 to HP9 during stop display. In the game machine 1, when the decorative pattern 55 is stopped and displayed, the number portions 550 are displayed so as not to overlap each other. Thereby, the combination of the decorative symbols 55 can be notified to the player in an easy-to-understand manner. Note that since the combination can be notified to the player by the small pattern 56 that is stopped and displayed in the same combination as the decorative pattern 55, when the display priority of the decorative pattern 55 is any of the display patterns HP1 to HP9, Also, the number portions 550 may be displayed so as to overlap each other when the display is stopped.

[Example of configuration of main RAM 100c]
FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a configuration example of the main RAM 100c in the game control board 100 and various information stored in the main RAM 100c. As illustrated in FIG. 10, the main RAM 100c includes a determination storage area 1030, a first reservation storage area 1031, a second reservation storage area 1032, a third reservation storage area 1033, a fourth reservation storage area 1034, and a first reservation storage area 1030. A reserved storage area 1035, a second reserved storage area 1036, a third reserved storage area 1037, and a fourth reserved storage area 1038 are provided.

The determination storage area 1030 is a storage area in which various information used for special symbol determination is stored when the special symbol determination is actually executed. Various types of information used for special symbol determination include jackpot random numbers, symbol random numbers, fluctuating pattern random numbers, and reach random numbers. The jackpot random number is a random number for determining whether it is a jackpot, a loss, or a small win. The symbol random number is a random number that determines the type of jackpot symbol when it is determined to be a jackpot, determines the type of small winning symbol when it is determined to be a small hit, and determines the type of losing symbol when it is determined to be a loss. It is.

In the gaming machine 1, the gaming state can be changed depending on the gaming state and the losing symbols that are stopped and displayed. Thereby, the game state can be changed without involving jackpots and small wins, and it is possible to make the player interested in the current game state and the stopped and displayed losing symbols. Furthermore, in the gaming machine 1, the combination of the number of rounds of the jackpot game and the gaming state immediately after the end of the jackpot game differs for each jackpot symbol (and small win symbol). Therefore, the symbol random number can be said to be a random number for determining the gaming state and the type of jackpot game.

The fluctuation pattern random number is a random number for determining the fluctuation time (fluctuation pattern) from when the special symbol starts to be fluctuatedly displayed until it is stopped and displayed in a manner that indicates the determination result of the special symbol determination. When determining the fluctuation pattern when it is determined that the reach random number is a loss, the reach random number is used to determine the fluctuation pattern group for losing that exceeds a specific number of seconds (for example, 13.5 seconds) and the fluctuation pattern group for losing that exceeds the specified number of seconds (for example, 13.5 seconds) and This is a random number for selecting from which of the group of fluctuation patterns for loss a fluctuation pattern is to be determined.

The first reserve memory area 1031 to the fourth reserve memory area 1034 are memory areas in which various information related to the first special pattern determination is stored in sequence from the first reserve memory area 1031 each time a gaming ball enters the first starting hole 11. The first reserve memory area 1035 to the fourth reserve memory area 1038 are memory areas in which various information related to the second special pattern determination is stored in sequence from the first reserve memory area 1035 each time a gaming ball enters the second starting hole 12.

For example, even if a game ball enters the first starting port 11 or the second starting port 12 when a special symbol is being displayed in a variable manner or during a jackpot game (or during a small winning game), the special symbol will be judged or the special symbol will be changed. Fluctuation display cannot be performed immediately. Under such a situation, the main CPU 100a stores various information related to the special symbol determination in the suspension storage areas 1031 to 1038 as information indicating suspension of the special symbol determination. On the other hand, if the special symbol is not being displayed in a variable manner, the special symbol determination is not pending, and the jackpot game is not in progress (or the small win game is in progress), the main CPU 100a uses the obtained various random numbers, etc. Immediately after the game ball is stored in the first holding storage area (1031 or 1035) corresponding to the winning start opening, it is shifted to the determination storage area 1030.

For example, if a game ball wins in the first start opening 11 with no information stored in any of the first reservation storage area 1031 to the fourth reservation storage area 1034, the first special symbol obtained by this winning Various information related to the determination is stored in the first reserved storage area 1031, which is the highest level of free entries. Further, for example, if a game ball wins in the first starting hole 11 with information stored in the first reservation storage area 1031 and the second reservation storage area 1032, the first special symbol determination obtained by this winning Such various information is stored in the third reserved storage area 1033, which is the highest level of free entries.

For example, the reserved memory areas 1031 to 1038 also store "preliminary judgment information." When a game ball enters a start hole, a preliminary judgment is made to determine whether or not a jackpot has been won prior to the special symbol judgment based on the jackpot random number, the symbol random number, the reach random number, and the variation pattern random number. The preliminary judgment information is information obtained by the preliminary judgment, and includes "winning start hole information," information indicating whether or not a jackpot has been won, information indicating the type of jackpot symbol if a jackpot has been won, information indicating the type of small win symbol if a small win, information indicating the type of miss symbol if a miss, information indicating the variation pattern of the special symbol, information indicating the game state, and the like. The "winning start hole information" is information indicating which of the first start hole 11 and the second start hole 12 each random number stored in the same reserved memory area was acquired as a result of winning the prize in the first start hole 11 or the second start hole 12. The preliminary judgment information including these pieces of information is stored in the same reserved memory area as the jackpot random number used in the preliminary judgment.

When the information stored in the first reserved memory area 1031 is shifted to the judgment memory area 1030 when the first special pattern judgment is performed, the information stored in the entries lower than the first reserved memory area 1031 is shifted up by one entry. For example, when information is stored in each of the first reserved memory area 1031 to the third reserved memory area 1033, when the information stored in the first reserved memory area 1031 is shifted to the judgment memory area 1030, the information stored in the second reserved memory area 1032 is shifted to the first reserved memory area 1031, and the information stored in the third reserved memory area 1033 is shifted to the second reserved memory area 1032.

Such information shift processing is similarly performed in the first reservation storage area 1035 to the fourth reservation storage area 1038 where information related to the second special symbol determination is stored. In the gaming machine 1, when both the first special symbol determination and the second special symbol determination are suspended, that is, when information is stored in both the first suspension storage area 1031 and the first suspension storage area 1035, Prior to the shift processing in the first pending storage area 1031 to the fourth pending storage area 1034, the shift processing in the first pending storage area 1035 to the fourth pending storage area 1038 is performed with priority. Therefore, when the second special symbol determination is suspended, various information stored in the first pending storage area 1035 is shifted to the determination storage area 1030. Further, when the second special symbol determination is not suspended, that is, when only the first special symbol determination is suspended, various information stored in the first suspension storage area 1031 is shifted. Note that a configuration may be adopted in which the first special symbol and the second special symbol can be displayed in a variable manner at the same time. In such a configuration, two determination storage areas 1030 for first special symbol determination and second special symbol determination may be provided. In this case, the shift processing in the first pending storage area 1031 to the fourth pending storage area 1034 may be performed independently of the shift processing in the first pending storage area 1035 to the fourth pending storage area 1038.

Two embodiments having partially different configurations will be described below. The feature of the first embodiment is that the low-probability, slight time-saving state is the most disadvantageous state for the player, and the low-probability, non-time-saving state is more advantageous to the player than the low-probability, slight time-saving state. Specifically, in the first embodiment, it is possible to shift to the low-accuracy time-saving state in response to a specific losing symbol being stopped and displayed in the low-accuracy non-time-saving state, while the low-accuracy slight time-saving state (and low-accuracy time-saving state) In response to a specific losing symbol being stopped and displayed in the state), the state does not shift to the low accuracy time saving state. The feature of the second embodiment is that the low probability non-time saving state is the most disadvantageous state to the player, and the low probability slight time saving state is more advantageous to the player than the low probability non time saving state. Specifically, in the second embodiment, it is possible to shift to a low-accuracy time-saving state in response to a specific losing symbol being stopped and displayed in a low-accuracy, fine-time-saving state, while a low-accuracy non-time-saving state (and a low-accuracy time-saving state) is possible. In response to a specific losing symbol being stopped and displayed in the state), the state does not shift to the low accuracy time saving state.

[First embodiment]
First, a first embodiment will be described. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the transition of gaming states in the first embodiment. Here, when RWM clear (specifically, RWM clear with a setting change or RWM clear without a setting change) is performed, the gaming machine 1 is controlled to a low-reliability non-time-saving state. Therefore, in the gaming machine 1 of the first embodiment, when the RWM clear is performed, the game can be started in the low probability non-time saving state which is more advantageous than the low probability slight time saving state. As a result, the gaming machine 1 of the first embodiment can motivate players to play immediately after the gaming parlor opens.

In the first embodiment, when a losing symbol (time-saving A) different from a "normal losing symbol" is displayed in a low-probability non-time-saving state, the state is controlled to a low-probability time-saving state, and the number of time-saving times is set to 700 (the flow shifts from FIG. 11 (a) to (b) via (a3)). Specifically, the number of time-saving times J1 for the first special symbol is set to 10, the number of time-saving times J2 for the second special symbol is set to 700, and the number of time-saving times J3 for the combined first and second special symbols is set to 700. The "normal losing symbol" is a losing symbol that does not change the game state in response to being displayed in a stopped state in any game state.

In the gaming machine 1, the low-accuracy time-saving state is a game state in which you can aim for the second starting port 12 and aim for a big hit (and a small win). This can be said to be a more advantageous situation for the player than the previous one (slight time saving). In the first embodiment, the low probability time saving state is also controlled in response to the end of a jackpot game in which the execution condition is the stop display of jackpot symbols indicating jackpot A or D. For example, when a jackpot game related to jackpot A or jackpot D is executed, 700 times is set as the number of time saving times. Specifically, the number of time reductions J1 related to the first special symbol is set to 10 times, the number of time reductions J2 related to the second special symbol is set to 700 times, and the total number of time reductions J1 related to the first special symbol and the second special symbol is set to 700 times. The number of time saving times J3 is set to 700 times.

In this way, in the first embodiment, when a predetermined condition (specifically, a loss or a jackpot) is met in a low-probability non-time-saving state, the probability of a loss (time-saving A) symbol and the jackpot A or jackpot are determined. With the total probability of D, the state shifts from the low probability non-time saving state to the low probability time saving state. In the first embodiment, when a predetermined condition (specifically, a loss or a jackpot) is met in a low-probability slight time-saving state, there is a probability that a jackpot A or D will result from the low-probability slight time-saving state to a low-probability time-saving state. transition to state. Therefore, the probability of transition to the low-probability time-saving state is greater in the low-probability non-time-saving state than in the low-probability slight time-saving state by the probability of a losing (time-saving A) symbol. Therefore, the low-probability slight time-saving state is a gaming state that is relatively disadvantageous to the player compared to the low-probability non-time-saving state.

In addition, the low probability time-saving state is controlled regardless of the game state by 750 consecutive misses after changing the setting, 750 consecutive misses after clearing the RWM, or 750 consecutive misses from the end of a jackpot game, and the number of time-saving times is set to 1000. Specifically, the number of time-saving times J1 related to the first special pattern is set to 10, the number of time-saving times J2 related to the second special pattern is set to 1000, and the number of time-saving times J3 related to the combined first and second special patterns is set to 1000. This number of time-saving times is more than the number of time-saving times set for a jackpot (or small jackpot), so it can be said to be a more advantageous state for the player.

In the following explanation, "750 consecutive losses" refers to losing 750 times in a row after changing settings, losing 750 times in a row after clearing RWM, or losing 750 times in a row after the end of a jackpot game. It is called. In the gaming machine 1, when the condition of 750 consecutive losses is satisfied, the number of time reductions is set which is greater than the number of time reductions controlled to reduce the time with low accuracy by satisfying other conditions. For this reason, the low-probability time-saving state that is controlled in response to the satisfaction of the condition of 750 consecutive losses in the gaming machine 1 is less accurate than the low-probability time-saving state that is controlled in response to the fulfillment of other conditions. This is a gaming situation that is advantageous to the player. It should be noted that the number of time savings set when the condition of 750 consecutive losses is met may be less than or the same as the number of time savings set based on the condition of a jackpot (or small win). Further, the number of time reductions set when the condition of 750 consecutive loses is met may be less than or the same as the number of time reductions set on the condition that a specific losing symbol is stopped and displayed.

If the condition for 750 consecutive losses is met once and then the condition for 750 consecutive losses is met again without a jackpot game being played, the game state does not change. If the condition for 750 consecutive losses is met once and then a jackpot game is played and the condition for 750 consecutive losses is met again, the same condition as when the condition for 750 consecutive losses was met for the first time. Controlled to a low-accuracy time-saving state.

The low-probability fine time-saving state is controlled by stopping and displaying a losing (time-saving B) symbol different from the normal losing symbol in the low-probability non-time-saving state. When the losing (time saving B) symbol is stopped and displayed, 500 times is set as the number of time saving times. Specifically, the number of time reductions J1 related to the first special symbol is set to 500 times, the number of time reductions J2 related to the second special symbol is set to 0 times, and the total number of time reductions J1 related to the first special symbol and the second special symbol is The number of time saving times J3 is set to 500 times. In addition, even if the losing (time saving B) symbol is stopped and displayed in the low probability fine time saving state and the low probability time saving state, the number of time saving times is not added and the gaming state does not change.

In the following explanation, a losing symbol that is different from a normal losing symbol and that changes the game state in response to being stopped and displayed in at least one game state is called a "specific losing symbol." For example, a losing (time-saving A) symbol and a losing (time-saving B) symbol are specific losing symbols. Unlike a losing (time-saving B) symbol, a losing (time-saving A) symbol is a losing symbol that is controlled by a low-probability time-saving, and is therefore a losing symbol that is more advantageous to the player than a losing (time-saving B) symbol.

Further, the low probability time saving state is controlled by the end of the jackpot game in which the execution condition is the stop display of jackpot symbols indicating jackpot B or C. For example, when a jackpot game related to jackpot B is executed, 99 times is set as the number of time saving times. Further, for example, when a jackpot game related to jackpot C is executed, 500 times is set as the number of time saving times.

The low-reliability non-time-saving state is controlled by the end of the time-saving number in the low-reliability time-saving state or the low-reliability slight time-saving state, in addition to the initial state (including activation after changing the set value). In this manner, when the low-probability time-saving state ends, the state shifts to a low-probability non-time-saving state that is less advantageous to the player than the low-probability time-saving state but more advantageous to the player than the low-probability slight time-saving state. Furthermore, when the low-probability, slightly time-saving state ends, the state shifts to a relatively advantageous, low-probability, non-time-saving state.

Further, the low probability non-time saving state is controlled by winning a small win a predetermined number of times (for example, twice) in the low probability slight time saving state. Further, the low-probability non-time-saving state is controlled by the end of the jackpot game related to the jackpot E (low-probability non-time-saving state as a gaming state). In addition, the low-probability non-time-saving state is controlled by ending the jackpot game that is executed following the small win game when a V prize is won during the small win game related to the small win C. In addition, the low-probability non-time-saving state is controlled by ending the small winning game if V is not won during the small winning game related to the small winning C. In addition, the low-probability non-time-saving state is controlled by ending the small winning game when V is not won during the small winning game related to the small winning B.

It is also possible to have a losing (time-saving A) symbol but not a losing (time-saving B) symbol.

In addition, the miss (time-saving B) symbol may be a first miss (time-saving B) symbol that is given a smaller number of time-saving times when stopped and displayed in a low-probability non-time-saving state, and a second miss (time-saving B) symbol that is given a larger number of time-saving times than the first miss (time-saving B) symbol when stopped and displayed in a low-probability non-time-saving state. For example, when the first miss (time-saving B) symbol is stopped and displayed, the number of time-saving times is set to 99 (specifically, the number of time-saving times J1 related to the first special symbol is set to 99 times, the number of time-saving times J2 related to the second special symbol is set to 0 times, and the number of time-saving times J3 related to the sum of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is set to 99 times). When the second miss (time-saving B) symbol is stopped and displayed, the number of time-saving times is set to 500 (specifically, the number of time-saving times J1 related to the first special symbol is set to 500, the number of time-saving times J2 related to the second special symbol is set to 0, and the number of time-saving times J3 related to the sum of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is set to 500). The fourth symbol 57 is displayed as a symbol corresponding to the type of miss (time-saving B) symbol, while the decorative symbol 55 is displayed as a combination of "459" regardless of the type of miss (time-saving B) symbol. As a result, since it is not possible to distinguish between the first miss (time-saving B) symbol and the second miss (time-saving B) symbol depending on the combination of the decorative symbols 55, it is possible to have the player play while expecting that the number of time-saving times is 99 in the low-probability micro-time-saving state.

Figure 12 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the results of the special pattern determination in the first embodiment. The big win has been described above, so a description is omitted here. In the first embodiment, the first special pattern determination has a probability of about 1/200 to win a small win regardless of the set value. Also, the first special pattern determination has a probability of about 1/10 to result in a miss (time-saving A or B) that generates a slight time-saving state or a time-saving state regardless of the set value. And the probability of a normal miss that does not change the game state other than the probability of being determined as a big win, small win, or miss (time-saving) is the result.

In the first embodiment, the small win is won with a probability of about 1/7 regardless of the setting value in the second special symbol determination. Moreover, in the second special symbol determination, there is no loss (time saving) regardless of the set value. Unless it is determined to be a jackpot or a small win, it is a normal loss that does not change the game state.

The feature of the results of the special pattern determination in the first embodiment is that the probability of being determined as a miss (time reduction) is different between the first special pattern determination and the second special pattern determination. This provides a new gameplay in which the first special pattern determination aims to change the game state by hitting a big win or a miss (time reduction), and the second special pattern determination aims to change the game state by hitting a big win or a small win.

Figure 13 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the jackpot type and the small jackpot type in the first embodiment. As illustrated in Figure 13 (A), jackpot A is a jackpot in which a round game is executed twice to open and close the large prize winning port 13 so that the game ball can easily pass through, and immediately after the jackpot game ends, the game transitions to a low-probability time-saving state. Jackpot B and C are jackpots in which a round game is executed twice, and immediately after the jackpot game ends, the game transitions to a low-probability minute time-saving state. Jackpot D is a jackpot in which a round game is executed ten times, and immediately after the jackpot game ends, the game transitions to a low-probability time-saving state. Jackpot E is a jackpot in which a round game is executed twice, and immediately after the jackpot game ends, the game transitions to a low-probability non-time-saving state.

Jackpots B and C are jackpots that set the upper limit of small wins to "2", while jackpots A, D, and E are jackpots that do not set an upper limit of small wins. When an upper limit of small wins is set, if you get a small win in the low probability micro time-saving state until the upper limit of small wins is reached, the state will transition to a low probability non-time-saving state. Note that the upper limit of small wins can be any number other than "2" as long as it is a predetermined number, and can be, for example, 1 or 5 times.

In the case of jackpot A, three identical decorative symbols 55 are displayed, whereas in the case of jackpot B and C, a special decorative symbol (time-saving symbol) is displayed to notify the player of a transition to a low-probability minute time-saving state. Although jackpots B and C have different stop display patterns for the fourth symbol, the player cannot tell whether it is jackpot B or C from the stop display pattern of the decorative symbol 55. For this reason, players who are not familiar with the game can play without knowing the number of time-saving times that will be set in the low-probability minute time-saving state.

The degree of advantage of each jackpot game is higher in the order of jackpot C<jackpot B<jackpot E<jackpot A<jackpot D.

In addition, as a result of the first special pattern determination, there may be a jackpot that transitions to a low probability non-time-saving state immediately after the end of the jackpot game.

As illustrated in FIG. 13B, the small prize A is a small prize that executes a small prize game that opens and closes the small prize opening 19 so that the game ball does not basically enter the V prize. Even if the small prize game related to the small prize A is executed, the V prize is not basically entered, so the big prize game is not executed immediately after the end of the small prize game, and the game state does not change. The small prize B is a small prize that executes a small prize game that opens and closes the small prize opening 19 so that the V prize is easily entered. When the small prize game related to the small prize B is executed, the V prize is basically entered, and the big prize game is executed immediately after the end of the small prize game. In the big prize game, 10 round games are executed, and the game transitions to a low-probability time-saving state immediately after the end of the big prize game. The small prize C is a small prize that executes a small prize game that opens and closes the small prize opening 19 so that the V prize is easily entered. When the small prize game related to the small prize C is executed, the V prize is basically entered, and the big prize game is executed immediately after the end of the small prize game. In this jackpot game, two rounds of play are played, and immediately after the jackpot game ends, the game transitions to a low-probability, non-time-saving state.

The degree of advantage of each small win game to the player increases in the following order: Small win A < Small win C < Small win B.

FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram for explaining types of failure (time saving) in the first embodiment. If the loss (time saving A) is stopped and displayed when it is in a low probability non-time saving state (i.e. the time saving game flag is OFF) at the start of the fluctuation, it will shift to a low probability time saving state without executing the jackpot game or small winning game. This is a mistake. When a loss (time saving A) is stopped and displayed in a low probability non-time saving state, the total out counter continues counting, but the out counter for base calculation and the prize ball counter for base calculation stop measuring, and the real time base value Calculation of bL is also stopped. Along with this, a new measurement of the time saving number is started while the measurement of the number of changes in the special symbol continues. That is, the main CPU 100a of the game control board 100 will add 1 to the current special symbol variation frequency and subtract 1 from the time saving frequency in response to the next special symbol determination. In addition, the number of changes of the special symbol is set to 0 according to a setting change, RWM clear, or execution of a jackpot game, and is incremented by 1 every time a special symbol determination is performed.

When a miss (time-saving A) is displayed in a stopped state during non-time-saving mode, the LCD screen 5 starts to display the number of remaining time-saving turns, and the right-hit lamp 49 starts to light up.

When a miss (time-saving A) is displayed, decorative symbols 55 are displayed as the combination "227." Since the combination "227" is not displayed in conjunction with any special symbol other than a miss (time-saving A), the player can recognize that it is a miss (time-saving A) by looking at decorative symbols 55.

When a miss (time-saving B) is displayed as a stop in the low-probability non-time-saving state at the start of the fluctuation, it causes a transition to a low-probability micro-time-saving state without executing a big win game or a small win game. The number of micro-time-saving times is set to 500 times. When a miss (time-saving B) is displayed as a stop in the low-probability non-time-saving state, the total out counter continues to count, but the out counter for calculating the base and the prize ball counter for calculating the base stop, and the calculation of the real-time base value bL also stops. As a result, the measurement of the number of times the special symbol changes continues, and a new measurement of the number of time-saving times begins. In other words, the main CPU 100a of the game control board 100 adds 1 to the number of times the special symbol changes this time and subtracts 1 from the number of time-saving times in response to the next special symbol determination.

When the loss (time saver B) is stopped and displayed in the low probability non-time saver state, unlike when the loser (time saver A) is stopped and displayed in the non-time saver state, the notification of the remaining number of time savers does not start on the LCD screen 5. The right-hander lamp 49 continues to be turned off. This makes it difficult to distinguish between the low-probability non-time-saving state and the low-probability slightly time-saving state.

Along with the stop display of a loss (time saver B), the decorative patterns 55 are stopped and displayed in the combination "459". Since the combination "459" is not stopped and displayed along with special symbols other than a loss (time saver B), the player can recognize that the game is a loss (time saver B) by looking at the decorative symbol 55.

When the loss (time saving A) is stopped and displayed in a low accuracy non-time saving state, from the next variable display of the normal symbol, the normal symbol will be displayed variably with the variable time for low accuracy time saving, and in the opening pattern for low accuracy time saving. The electric tulip 17 is opened. The fluctuation time of the normal symbol for low accuracy time saving is shorter than the fluctuation time of the normal symbol for low accuracy non time saving (and low accuracy fine time saving). Further, when a loss (time saving A) is stopped and displayed in a low accuracy non-time saving state, from the variable display of the next special symbol, the special symbol is variably displayed in a variable time for low accuracy time saving. The fluctuation time of the special symbol for low accuracy time saving is shorter than the fluctuation time of the special symbol for low accuracy non time saving (and low accuracy fine time saving).

When Miss (Time Shortening A) and Miss (Time Shortening B) are stopped and displayed when the state is in the low-probability micro-time-saving state or the low-probability micro-time-saving state (i.e., the time-saving game flag is ON) at the start of the fluctuation, the big win game and the small win game are not executed, and the game state does not change, resulting in a miss. In other words, when Miss (Time Shortening A) and Miss (Time Shortening B) are stopped and displayed in the low-probability micro-time-saving state, the number of micro-time-saving times is only subtracted by 1, and no new number of time-saving times is added. And, if the number of micro-time-saving times is not 0, the low-probability micro-time-saving state continues as it is. On the other hand, when the number of micro-time-saving times is 0, the state transitions from the low-probability micro-time-saving state to the low-probability non-time-saving state. For this reason, for example, when Miss (Time Shortening A) and Miss (Time Shortening B) are stopped and displayed in the final micro-time-saving fluctuation in the low-probability micro-time-saving state, the measurement is resumed in the base calculation out counter and the base calculation prize ball counter, and the calculation of the real-time base value bL is also resumed.

In addition, when in the low-probability time-saving state, if a miss (time-saving A) or a miss (time-saving B) is displayed as stopped, the number of time-saving times is merely subtracted by 1, and no new number of time-saving times is added. If the number of time-saving times is not 0, the low-probability time-saving state continues as is. On the other hand, if the number of time-saving times is 0, the state transitions from the low-probability time-saving state to the low-probability non-time-saving state. For this reason, for example, when a miss (time-saving A) or a miss (time-saving B) is displayed as stopped during the final time-saving fluctuation in the low-probability time-saving state, measurement is resumed with the base calculation out counter and base calculation prize ball counter, and calculation of the real-time base value bL is also resumed.

In the low-probability non-time-saving state, the player can aim to transition to the low-probability time-saving state by winning a jackpot and missing (time-saving A), whereas in the low-probability minute-time-saving state, the player basically aims to transition to the low-probability time-saving state by winning a jackpot. The transition probability to the low-probability time-saving state in the low-probability non-time-saving state is the sum of the probability of winning a jackpot and the probability of missing (time-saving A), whereas the transition probability to the low-probability time-saving state in the low-probability minute-time-saving state is only the probability of winning a jackpot. Therefore, the transition probability to the low-probability time-saving state in the low-probability non-time-saving state is higher than the transition probability to the low-probability time-saving state in the low-probability minute-time-saving state. For this reason, the low-probability non-time-saving state is more likely to transition to the low-probability time-saving state than the low-probability minute-time-saving state, which is advantageous to the player. As a result, in the first embodiment, it is possible to provide a gameplay in which the player can start playing in a relatively advantageous game state in the initial state (for example, after changing the settings or clearing the RWM).

When the game transitions to the low-probability micro-time-saving state, once the number of micro-time-saving times has run out, the game transitions to a low-probability non-time-saving state, which is more advantageous to the player. In addition to a miss (time-saving B) that sets the number of micro-time-saving times to 500, a miss that sets the number of micro-time-saving times to 99 may also be provided. If there are 99 consecutive misses after transitioning to the low-probability micro-time-saving state, and there are subsequent consecutive misses until the number of micro-time-saving times reaches 0, the game will definitely transition to the low-probability non-time-saving state. Since the game can transition to the low-probability non-time-saving state even after consecutive misses, it is possible to motivate the player to continue playing while looking forward to the low-probability non-time-saving state.

Note that, as illustrated in FIG. 15, in the first embodiment, the probability of losing (time saving) in the time saving non-gaming state may be relatively very high. In the example of FIG. 15, there is a probability of about 1/1 of a loss (time saving). That is, in the configuration illustrated in FIG. 15, when the first special symbol determination is performed in the low-probability non-time-saving state, the state basically shifts to the low-probability time-saving state or the low-probability slight time-saving state. Thereby, it is possible to shift to the low-accuracy time-saving state with a relatively high probability by the first special symbol determination immediately after shifting from the low-accuracy time-saving state to the low-accuracy non-time-saving state (for example, the first time). Therefore, even though the low-probability non-time-saving states are once passed through, the low-probability time-saving states appear to be connected, and as a result, even if the low-probability non-time-saving states are once passed through, the jackpots in the low-probability time-saving states appear to be connected. Can be provided.

FIG. 16 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the variation pattern (variation time group) of the first special symbol in the first embodiment. The characteristic point in the fluctuation pattern of the first special symbol is that in the low-probability non-time-saving state (and the low-probability slight time-saving state), the fluctuation time of the loss (time-saving A or B) is longer than the fluctuation time of the normal loss. The point is that it is easy to select something. In addition, the time when the loss (time saving A or B) is displayed in a stopped state is the same as the time when the normal loss is displayed in a stopped state, but the time when the loss (time saving A or B) is displayed in a stopped state is longer than the normal loss. The time may be long or short.

In the low probability non-time-saving state (and the low probability micro-time-saving state), the change time of the first special symbol is almost the same for misses (time-saving A) and misses (time-saving B), and the effects executed in conjunction with the change display of the first special symbol are also similar. This makes it difficult to recognize whether it is a miss (time-saving A) or a miss (time-saving B) depending on the change time of the first special symbol and the effect executed. Note that there may be a change time of the first special symbol that confirms a miss (time-saving A) and a change time of the miss (time-saving B). Also, there may be a change time of the first special symbol that confirms a miss (time-saving A) and a change time of the miss (time-saving B). Also, the change time of the first special symbol may be shorter or longer for misses (time-saving B) than for misses (time-saving A).

In the low probability non-time-saving state (and the low probability micro-time-saving state), the effects executed in conjunction with the changing display of a miss (time-saving A and B) are the same as the effects executed in conjunction with the changing display of a jackpot and a normal miss, except for the combination of decorative patterns 55. This makes it difficult to tell whether it is a jackpot, a normal miss, or a miss (time-saving A and B) based on the effects executed in conjunction with the changing display of the first special pattern.

In the low-probability time-saving state, a distinctive feature of the first special symbol fluctuation pattern is that the fluctuation time of a miss (time-saving A or B) is the same as the fluctuation time of a normal miss. The effect executed in conjunction with the fluctuation display of a miss (time-saving A and B) in the low-probability time-saving state is an effect that simply notifies a miss, similar to the effect executed in conjunction with the fluctuation display of a normal miss in the low-probability time-saving state. Here, the fluctuation pattern H113 of the first special symbol in the low-probability time-saving state has the same fluctuation time as the fluctuation pattern H201 of the second special symbol in the low-probability time-saving state. The effect executed in conjunction with the fluctuation display of the fluctuation pattern H113 is the same as the effect executed in conjunction with the fluctuation display of the fluctuation pattern H201 (specifically, an effect that simply notifies a miss).

The decorative pattern 55 that is stopped and displayed in the low-accuracy time-saving state and the low-accuracy fine time-saving state due to the fluctuating display of the loss (time saver A and B) is stopped and displayed in the low-accuracy non-time-saving state due to the fluctuating display of the loss (time saver A and B). This is the same combination as the decorative patterns 55. In other words, in the low-accuracy time-saving state and the low-accuracy slight time-saving state, the decorative pattern 55 that is stopped and displayed with a fluctuating display of a loss (time saving A and B) is a combination that indicates a loss and is advantageous to the player. be. However, even if the loss (time savings A and B) is stopped and displayed in the low probability time saving state and the low probability slight time saving state, the gaming state does not change. Therefore, in the low-accuracy time-saving state and the low-accuracy slight time-saving state, the decorative pattern 55 that is stopped and displayed due to the fluctuating display of a loss (time-saving A and B) is the same as the decorative pattern 55 that is stopped and displayed due to the fluctuating display of a normal loss. It may be a combination that simply indicates a loss and does not suggest that it is advantageous to the player. That is, the decorative pattern 55 that is stopped and displayed in the low accuracy time saving state and the low accuracy fine time saving state due to the fluctuating display of losing (time saving A and B), is stopped and displayed due to the fluctuating display of losing (time saving A and B) in the low accurate non time saving state. The combination of decorative patterns 55 that are stopped and displayed may be different.

Figure 17 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the fluctuation pattern (fluctuation time group) of the second special symbol in the first embodiment. A characteristic feature of the fluctuation pattern of the second special symbol is that the fluctuation time is relatively shorter than that of the first special symbol in the low probability non-time-saving state (and the low probability slight time-saving state).

[Main processing by the game control board 100]
FIG. 18 is a flow chart showing an example of main processing executed in the game control board 100. As shown in FIG. 18, the main processing starts with initial settings (step MS1). The initial settings include, for example, setting interrupt times, setting the main CPU 100a, and resetting various flags and counters. The initial values of flags are "OFF" and counters are "0". The initial settings also include processing in response to setting changes, processing in response to setting confirmation, and processing in response to RWM clearing. The initial settings are executed only once after power is turned on, and are not executed thereafter.

Following the initial setting (step MS2), interrupts are prohibited (step MS2) and a random number update process (step MS3) is executed to update the various random numbers used in determining normal and special symbols. In this random number update process, the various random numbers are updated by incrementing them by 1. When the various random numbers reach their upper limit, they return to "1" and are incremented again. Note that the periodic initial value of the various random numbers may be other than "1" and may be changed randomly.

Following the random number update process (step MS3), an interrupt is permitted (step MS4). While the interrupt is permitted, the game control board 100 can execute a timer interrupt process (step MS5). The timer interrupt process will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 19.

[Timer interrupt processing by game control board 100]
Next, the timer interrupt process executed in the game control board 100 will be explained with reference to FIG. Here, FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing an example of a timer interrupt process executed in the game control board 100. The game control board 100 is set so that a timer interrupt is periodically generated at regular intervals (for example, 4 milliseconds) during normal operation, excluding special cases such as when the power is turned on or when the power is turned off. When a timer interrupt occurs, the game control board 100 executes a series of processes illustrated in FIG. 19. Note that the processes shown in FIGS. 19 to 27 are performed according to instructions issued by the main CPU 100a based on a program stored in the main ROM 100b.

First, the main CPU 100a of the game control board 100 executes a random number update process to update the symbol random number, reach random number, variable pattern random number, and normal symbol random number by software (step S1A).

For example, each random number is incremented by "1" each time the processing of step S1A is performed. Note that a loop counter is used as the counter performing the processing of step S1A, and each random number is returned to "1" and updated after reaching a preset maximum value. Note that it may be preset so that the jackpot random number is updated by software, or each random number is generated by calculating a value generated by the random number circuit 104 and a value generated by software.

Following the process of step S1A, the main CPU 100a detects the first starting port detection switch 45a for detecting that a game ball has entered the first starting port 11, and the first starting port detection switch 45a for detecting that a gaming ball has entered the second starting port 12. Switch processing is executed to determine the state of the detection signal input from each switch such as the second starting port detection switch 47a for detection (step S2A). This switch processing will be described in detail later based on FIG. 20.

Following the process of step S2A, the main CPU 100a executes special symbol determination, causes the first special symbol display 41 or second special symbol display 42 to variably display the special symbol, and then displays the determination result of the special symbol determination. A special symbol process including a process of stopping and displaying the special symbol shown is executed (step S3A). In the special symbol processing, whether or not it is a jackpot, the jackpot type, the small win type, the loss type, the variation pattern of the special symbol, etc. are determined. This special symbol processing will be described in detail later based on FIG. 23.

Following the processing of step S3A, the main CPU 100a executes normal pattern determination, executes normal pattern processing including processing for variably displaying normal patterns on the normal pattern display 45 and then statically displaying normal patterns indicating the results of the normal pattern determination (step S4A). This normal pattern processing will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 24.

Following the process of step S4A, the main CPU 100a controls the small winning hole opening/closing solenoid 51c to open the small winning hole 19 when it is determined that there is a small win in the process of step S3A. (Step S5A). The small winning opening control process is a process for controlling the small winning game, and is performed when a special symbol (small winning symbol) indicating that it has been determined to execute the small winning game is stopped and displayed. This small prize opening control process will be described in detail later based on FIG. 37.

Following the processing in step S5A, the main CPU 100a executes a big winning opening control process to open the big winning opening 13 by controlling the big winning opening opening/closing solenoid 51b when it is determined that there is a jackpot in the processing in step S3A. Execute (step S6A). This big winning opening control process will be described in detail later based on FIG. 38.

Following the processing of step S6A, the main CPU 100a executes a prize ball process that controls the payout of prize balls according to the winning of game balls (step S7A). Following step S7A, the main CPU 100a executes a game ball counting process (step S8A). Specifically, the following are performed: a base calculation prize ball counter that measures the number of prize balls paid out based on the winning of game balls into various winning ports (specifically, the general winning port, the large winning port, the small winning port, and the starting port) during the low probability non-time-saving state; a base calculation out counter that measures the number of game balls detected by the out ball detection switch 39a during the low probability non-time-saving state; and a total out counter that measures the number of game balls detected by the out ball detection switch 39a regardless of the game state.

Note that the value of the total out counter, the value of the out counter for base calculation, and the value of the prize ball counter for base calculation are game information unrelated to the set value, and are not affected even if the set value is changed. This makes it possible to display performance (base value display) while eliminating the influence of set values.

Following the processing in step S8A, the main CPU 100a executes performance information calculation/setting processing (step S9A). Specifically, the base value bL in the current section divided by total outs is calculated and stored. Further, the main CPU 110a causes the performance display 113 to display the base value bL and the base values b1 to b3.

Following the processing of step S9A, the main CPU 100a executes the various commands set (stored) in the main RAM 100c in the processing steps before step S7A and information necessary to determine the content of the effect accompanying the variable display of the special symbol. A transmission process for transmitting to the production control board 130 is executed (step S10A).

[Switch processing by game control board 100]
FIG. 20 is a detailed flowchart of the switch processing in step S2A of FIG. 19. Following the process of step S1A, the main CPU 100a determines whether there is a detection signal from the gate detection switch 44a (step S2A1). If there is no detection signal from the gate detection switch 44a (step S2A1: NO), it is determined whether or not the time is shortened (step S2A2). If it is in a slight time saving state (step S2A2: YES), it is determined whether there is a detection signal from the general winning a prize opening detection switch 43a (step S2A3).

If step S2A3 is YES, or if step S2A1 is YES, it is determined whether or not the variable display of normal symbols is on standby (step S2A4). Waiting for the fluctuating display of the normal symbols is a state in which the fluctuating display of the regular symbols is not being executed, nor is 17 being opened while being powered. If the variable display of normal symbols is on standby (step S2A4: YES), a normal symbol random number is acquired and stored in the main main RAM 100ca (step S2A5).

When step S2A2 is NO, when step S2A3 is NO, or when step S2A4 is NO, the presence or absence of a detection signal from the first starting port detection switch 45a is monitored, and the first starting port is detected. Execute the first starting port switch process including the process of acquiring random numbers for special symbol determination (jackpot random number, symbol random number, reach random number, and fluctuation pattern random number) at the time when the detection signal from the switch 45a is input ( Step S2A6). This first starting port switch process will be described in detail later based on FIG. 21.

Next, the main CPU 100a monitors whether or not a detection signal is input from the second starting port detection switch 47a, and generates a random number for special symbol determination at the time when the detection signal from the second starting port detection switch 47a is input. The second starting port switch process including the process of acquiring the , etc. is executed (step S2A7). This second starting port switch process will be described in detail later based on FIG. 22.

[First starting port switch processing by game control board 100]
FIG. 21 is a detailed flowchart of the first starting port switch process in step S2A6 of FIG. As illustrated in FIG. 21, the main CPU 100a determines whether the first starting port detection switch 45a is turned "ON" based on whether a detection signal from the first starting port detection switch 45a is input. is determined (step S2101). For example, when an ON signal indicating that the first starting port detection switch 45a is turned "ON" is input, it is determined that the first starting port detection switch 45a is turned "ON".

When the main CPU 100a determines that the first starting port detection switch 45a is turned "ON" (step S2101: YES), the main CPU 100a acquires a jackpot random number, a symbol random number, a reach random number, and a reach random number as acquired information used for the first special symbol determination. A fluctuation pattern random number is obtained (steps S2102 to 2105).

Next, the main CPU 100a determines whether the number of reserved first special pattern determinations U1 stored in the main RAM 100c is less than the maximum number of reserved first special pattern determinations Umax1 (e.g., "4") stored in the main ROM 100b (step S2106).

If the main CPU 100a determines that the reserved number U1 is less than the maximum reserved number Umax1 (step S2106: YES), it updates the value of the reserved number U1 by adding "1" (step S2107).

Following the process in step S2107, the main CPU 100a determines whether or not the time saving state is low (step S2108). When determining that the main CPU 100a is not in a low-accuracy time-saving state (step S2108: NO), the main CPU 100a executes a preliminary determination process (step S2109). Specifically, the main CPU 100a determines the jackpot based on the acquired information obtained through the processing of steps S2102 to 2105, prior to the jackpot determination processing (see FIG. 25) and the fluctuation pattern determination processing (see FIG. 26), which will be described later. It is determined in advance whether or not it is determined that this is the case, and what type of variation pattern is to be determined.

Following the processing of step S2109, the main CPU 100a stores the pre-determination information obtained by the pre-determination processing of step S2109 and the various random numbers obtained by the processing of steps S2102 to 2105 in a reserved memory area in the main RAM 100c (step S2110).

When determining that the main CPU 100a is in a low-accuracy time-saving state (step S2108: YES), the main CPU 100a stores the various random numbers obtained in the processing of steps S2102 to 2105 in a reserved storage area in the main RAM 100c (step S2111).

When the main CPU 100a executes the processing of step S2110 or step S2111, it sets a hold command related to the first special symbol determination in the main RAM 100c (step S2112). This hold command is a command to notify that the first special symbol determination has been put on hold, and includes the advance determination information obtained in the processing of step S2109. The hold command is transmitted to the performance control board 130 by the transmission processing of step S10A.

When the process of step S2112 is executed, it is determined that the first starting port detection switch 45a is not turned on (step S2101: NO), or it is determined that the number of reservations U1 is not less than the maximum number of reservations Umax1. In this case (step S2106: NO), the main CPU 100a ends the process shown in FIG.

[Second start port switch processing by the game control board 100]
Fig. 22 is a detailed flowchart of the second start hole switch processing in step S2A7 of Fig. 20. As illustrated in Fig. 22, following the first start hole switch processing in step S21, the main CPU 100a determines whether the second start hole detection switch 47a has become "ON" based on whether a detection signal has been input from the second start hole detection switch 47a (step S2201). For example, when an ON signal indicating that the second start hole detection switch 47a has become "ON" is input, it is determined that the second start hole detection switch 47a has become "ON".

When the main CPU 100a determines that the second start hole detection switch 47a has been turned "ON" (step S2201: YES), it acquires the jackpot random number, pattern random number, reach random number, and fluctuation pattern random number as acquired information to be used in determining the second special pattern (steps S2202 to S2205).

Next, the main CPU 100a determines whether the number of reserved second special pattern determinations U2 stored in the main RAM 100c is less than the maximum number of reserved second special pattern determinations Umax2 (e.g., "4") stored in the main ROM 100b (step S2206).

If the main CPU 100a determines that the number of reservations U2 is less than the maximum number of reservations Umax2 (step S2206: YES), the main CPU 100a updates the value of the number of reservations U2 to a value obtained by adding "1" (step S2207).

Following the processing in step S2207, the main CPU 100a executes preliminary determination processing (step S2208). In addition, although the second starting port 12 is in a low-probability time-saving state (that is, when the time-saving game flag is "ON") and does not win a prize, even if the preliminary determination process is executed only when the time-saving game flag is "ON". good.

Following the processing of step S2208, the main CPU 100a stores the pre-determination information obtained by the pre-determination processing of step S2208 and the various random numbers obtained by the processing of steps S2202 to S2205 in a reserved memory area in the main RAM 100c (step S2209).

Following the process of step S2209, the main CPU 100a sets a pending command related to the second special symbol determination in the main RAM 100c (step S2110). This suspension command is a command to notify that the second special symbol determination has been suspended, and includes the preliminary determination information obtained in the process of step S2209. The hold command is transmitted to the production control board 130 by the transmission process of step S10A.

When the process of step S2210 is executed, it is determined that the second starting port detection switch 47a is not turned on (step S2201: NO), or it is determined that the number of reservations U2 is not less than the maximum number of reservations Umax2. In this case (step S2206: NO), the main CPU 100a ends the process shown in FIG.

[Special symbol processing by the game control board 100]
Next, the special symbol processing executed by the game control board 100 will be described in detail with reference to Fig. 23. Here, Fig. 23 is a detailed flowchart of the special symbol processing in step S3A of Fig. 19.

As illustrated in FIG. 23, the main CPU 100a determines whether or not a big win game or a small win game is being played (step S301). The main CPU 100a determines whether or not a big win game is being played based on, for example, whether or not a big win game flag stored in the main RAM 100c is set to "ON". This big win game flag is a flag indicating whether or not a big win game is being played, and is set to "ON" at the start of the big win game and is set to "OFF" at the end of the big win game. The main CPU 100a also determines whether or not a small win game is being played based on, for example, whether or not a small win game flag is set to "ON". This small win game flag is a flag indicating whether or not a small win game is being played that is stored in the main RAM 100c, and is set to "ON" at the start of the small win game and is set to "OFF" at the end of the small win game. If it is determined that a big win or small win is occurring (step S301: YES), processing proceeds to normal symbol processing in step S4A.

When the main CPU 100a determines that a jackpot is not being played (step S301: NO), it determines whether or not a special symbol is being displayed in a changing state (step S302). If it determines that a special symbol is not being displayed in a changing state (step S302: NO), it determines whether or not the reserved number U2 for the second special symbol determination stored in the main RAM 100c is "1" or more (step S303). If it determines that the reserved number U2 is "1" or more (step S303: YES), it updates the reserved number U2 to a value obtained by subtracting "1" (step S304).

If the main CPU 100a determines that the number of reservations U2 is not equal to or greater than "1" (step S303: NO), the main CPU 100a determines whether or not the number of reservations U1 of the first special symbol determination stored in the main RAM 100c is equal to or greater than "1". (Step S305). Here, if it is determined that the pending number U1 is not greater than "1" (step S305: NO), the process proceeds to the normal symbol processing of step S4.

If the main CPU 100a determines that the reserved number U1 is equal to or greater than "1" (step S305: YES), it updates the reserved number U1 to a value that is subtracted by "1" (step S306).

Following the process of step S304 or the process of step S306, the main CPU 100a executes a shift process for the reserved storage area of the main RAM 100c (step S308). Specifically, when executing the shift process subsequent to the process in step S304, the main CPU 100a transfers the earliest acquired information stored in the second special symbol determination pending storage area to the determination storage area. At the same time, the remaining acquired information is shifted upward one entry at a time. The determination storage area is a storage area in which various information used for special symbol determination is stored when the special symbol determination is actually executed. In addition, when performing a shift process following the process of step S306, the earliest acquired information stored in the reserved storage area for first special symbol determination is shifted to the determination storage area, and the remaining The acquired information is shifted upward one entry at a time.

Following the process of step S308, the main CPU 100a executes a jackpot determination process based on the random numbers stored in the determination storage area (step S309). This jackpot determination process will be described in detail later based on FIG. 25.

Following the process of step S309, the main CPU 100a executes a variation pattern determination process to select a variation pattern of the special symbol (step S310). This fluctuation pattern determination process will be described in detail later based on FIG. 26.

Following the processing of step S310, the main CPU 100a sets in the main RAM 100c a fluctuation start command including the setting information of the special pattern determined in the processing of step S309, information indicating whether the setting information of the special pattern relates to the first special pattern determination or the second special pattern determination, the setting information of the fluctuation pattern determined in the processing of step S310, information regarding the gaming state of the gaming machine 1, etc. (step S311).

This variation start command is a command for instructing the start of the production accompanying the variation display of the special symbol, and is transmitted to the production control board 130 by the transmission process of step S10A. As a result, variable display of the decorative pattern 55 on the liquid crystal screen 5 is started.

Following the processing of step S311, the main CPU 100a starts displaying the special symbol variations based on the setting information for the variation pattern included in the variation start command set in the processing of step S311 (step S312). At that time, if the processing of steps S309 to S311 is performed with the acquired information (random number) related to the first special symbol judgment stored in the judgment memory area, the display of the special symbol variations starts on the first special symbol display 41. On the other hand, if the processing of steps S309 to S311 is performed with the acquired information (random number) related to the second special symbol judgment stored, the display of the special symbol variations starts on the second special symbol display 42.

Next, the main CPU 100a starts measuring the fluctuation time, which is the elapsed time since the start of the fluctuation display in step S312 (step S313). Then, the main CPU 100a clears the customer waiting state flag (step S314).

If the main CPU 100a executes the process of step S314, or if it determines that the special symbol is being displayed in a variable manner (step S302: YES), the main CPU 100a selects a symbol selected by the process of step S310 from the start of measuring the variation time in step S313. It is determined whether the variation time corresponding to the variation pattern has elapsed (step S315). Here, if it is determined that the variable time has not elapsed (step S315: NO), the process proceeds to normal symbol processing in step S4.

When the main CPU 100a determines that the variable time has elapsed (step S315: YES), the special symbol indicating the determination result of the special symbol determination is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 41 or the second special symbol display 42. A symbol confirmation command is set in the main RAM 100c (step S316). This symbol confirmation command is transmitted to the production control board 130 by the transmission process in step S9. As a result, a process is performed in which the decorative pattern 55 that has been variably displayed on the liquid crystal screen 5 is stopped and displayed in a manner that indicates the judgment result of the special pattern judgment.

Following the process in step S316, the main CPU 100a ends the variable display of the special symbols started in the process in step S312 (step S317). Specifically, the special symbol (jackpot symbol or losing symbol) determined in the process of step S309 is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display that was being displayed in a variable manner. Note that this stop display of the special symbol continues until at least a predetermined symbol confirmation time (for example, 1 second) has elapsed.

In this way, the main CPU 100a causes the first special pattern display device 41 or the second special pattern display device 42 to display a variably changing special pattern, and then causes the first special pattern display device 41 or the second special pattern display device 42 to display a stopped special pattern indicating the result of the jackpot determination process.

Following the processing in step S317, the main CPU 100a resets the fluctuation time that was started to be measured in the processing in step S313 (step S318), and starts a jackpot game if it is a jackpot, and starts a small win if it is a small win. A stopping process including a process of setting an opening command for starting a winning game is executed (step S319). When this opening command is sent to the production control board 130 by the transmission process of step S9A (see FIG. 19), the sub CPU 130a of the production control board 130, for example, creates an OP production corresponding to the type of jackpot (or small win). An OP performance start command for instructing the start is set in the sub RAM 130c. The OP effect is started in response to this OP effect start command being transmitted to the image and sound control board 140 and the lamp control board 150 by the transmission process in step S30 (see FIG. 39). The stopping process will be described in detail later based on FIG. 27.

If the answer is NO in step S305, it is determined whether or not there is a customer waiting state flag indicating that the machine is in a customer waiting state (step S320). If there is no customer waiting state flag, the customer waiting state flag is set (step S321). When the customer waiting state flag is set, a customer waiting state designation command is sent from the game control board 100 to the presentation control board 130 by the transmission process of step S10A. In response to receiving the customer waiting state designation command, the presentation control board 130 starts a presentation indicating that the machine is in a customer waiting state (for example, displaying an image indicating that the volume can be adjusted).

[Normal symbol determination processing by game control board 100]
FIG. 24 is a detailed flowchart of the normal symbol processing in step S4A of FIG. 19. The main CPU 100a determines whether the electric tulip 17 is in operation (step S4A1). If the electric tulip 17 is not in operation (step S4A1: NO), it is determined whether the normal symbol is being displayed in a stopped state (from the start to the end of the normal symbol's stop time) (step S4A2). If the normal symbols are not being displayed in a stopped state (step S4A2: NO), it is determined whether or not the normal symbols are being displayed in a variable manner (step S4A3). If the normal symbols are not being displayed in a variable manner (step S4A3: NO), it is determined whether the normal symbol random numbers are stored (step S4A4). If the normal symbol random number is not stored (step S4A4: NO), the normal symbol determination process is ended.

If step S4A4 is YES, the system determines the result of the draw, the normal symbol, and the change time according to the game status (step S4A5), and starts displaying the normal symbol changes (step S4A6). In addition, a normal symbol change start command is set to notify the performance control board 130 that the normal symbol changes have started.

If the normal pattern is being displayed (step S4A3: YES), it is determined whether the normal pattern change time has elapsed (step S4A7), and if not, the process ends. On the other hand, if the answer is NO in step S4A7, the normal pattern is stopped with a display result according to the result of the normal pattern determination (step S4A8). In addition, in conjunction with this, a normal pattern change stop command is set to notify the performance control board 130 that the normal pattern change has stopped. The main CPU 100a then sets the normal pattern stop time (for example, 0.5 seconds) (step S4A9).

If the normal symbol is being displayed in a stopped state (step S4A2: YES), it is determined whether the stop time of the normal symbol has elapsed (step S4A11), and if it has not elapsed, the process ends. On the other hand, if the time has elapsed (step S4A11: YES), it is determined whether or not it is a hit (step S4A12), and if it is not a hit, the process ends (step S4A12: NO).

If it is a hit (step S4A12: NO), an opening pattern for the electric tulip 17 is set (step S4A13), and the electric tulip 17 is operated according to the set opening pattern (step S4A14).

If the electric tulip 17 is in operation (step S4A15), it is determined whether the operation time of the electric tulip 17 has elapsed (step S4A15), and if it has not elapsed, the process ends (step S4A15: NO). On the other hand, if the elapsed time has elapsed (step S4A15: NO), the operation of the electric tulip 17 is ended (step S4A16).

[Jackpot determination processing by game control board 100]
FIG. 25 is a detailed flowchart of the jackpot determination process in step S309 of FIG. 23. The main CPU 100a executes jackpot determination based on the jackpot random number stored in the determination storage area (step S3091). For example, in the jackpot determination table, a judgment value to be compared with the jackpot random number is assigned in advance to a jackpot, a small win, or a loss. The main CPU 100a determines whether the value of the jackpot random number obtained in the process of step S2102 in FIG. 21 (or the process in step S2202 in FIG. 22) matches any of the judgment values defined in the jackpot judgment table set in the main RAM 100c. Based on this, it is determined whether or not it is a jackpot.

Following the processing of step S3091, the main CPU 100a judges whether the judgment result of the jackpot judgment is a jackpot or not (step S3092). If it is judged to be a jackpot (step S3092: YES), the main CPU 100a refers to the pattern determination table pre-stored in the main ROM 100b, determines the type of jackpot pattern based on the pattern random number stored in the judgment memory area together with the jackpot random number used in the jackpot judgment of step S3091, and sets the setting information in the main RAM 100c (step S3093). The type of jackpot pattern is determined by determining the type of jackpot pattern. Specifically, for example, when the pattern random number is related to the first special pattern judgment, the main CPU 100a determines the jackpot pattern based on which judgment value specified in the pattern determination table for the first starting hole (not shown) the pattern random number matches. Furthermore, if the random number of symbols is related to the second special symbol determination, the main CPU 100a determines the big winning symbol based on which determination value specified in the symbol determination table for the second starting hole (not shown) the random number of symbols matches.

On the other hand, when the main CPU 100a determines that it is not a jackpot (step S3092: NO), the main CPU 100a determines whether or not it is a small win (step S3094). Here, if it is determined that it is a small hit (step S3094: YES), the main CPU 100a refers to the symbol determination table stored in advance in the main ROM 100b and determines the type of small winning symbol based on the random number of symbols. The setting information is set in the main RAM 100c (step S3095).

On the other hand, if the main CPU 100a determines that it is not a small win (step S3094: NO), the main CPU 100a determines whether or not it is a specific loss (time saver) that causes a slight time saver state or a time saver state to occur without executing the jackpot game. (Step S3096). If NO in step S3096, normal symbol setting information is set in the main RAM 100c (step S3097). As a result, in the process of step S317, the normal losing symbols are stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 41 or the second special symbol display 42. In this case, a jackpot game is not played, and a slight time saving state and a time saving state are not generated.

If step S3096 is YES, the main CPU 100a determines the type of losing symbol based on the symbol random number and sets the setting information in the main RAM 100c (step S3098). As a result, in the processing of step S317, a specific losing symbol is displayed on the first special symbol display 41 or the second special symbol display 42. In this case, no big win game is played, and a slight time-saving state or a time-saving state may be generated depending on the game state.

[Variation pattern determination processing by game control board 100]
FIG. 26 is a detailed flowchart of the variation pattern determination process in step S310 of FIG. The main CPU 100a determines whether the time-saving game flag is "ON" (step S3101).

If the result of the process in step S3101 is NO, the main CPU 100a reads out from the main ROM 100b a fluctuation pattern table for turning off the time-saving game flag according to the type of special symbol, and sets it in the main RAM 100c (step S3102). The fluctuation pattern table is a table that associates the type of special symbol, the fluctuation pattern of the special symbol, a judgment value for comparison with the fluctuation pattern random number, and (in the case of a miss, the number of reserved special symbol judgments), and is a table that is pre-stored in the main ROM 100b for each game state.

The main CPU 100a determines the variation pattern by referring to the table set in the processing of step S3102 (step S3103). Then, it adds "1" to the number of times the special symbol varies (step S3104).

If it is determined as YES in the process of step S3101, the main CPU 100a reads out the variation pattern table for turning on the time-saving game flag according to the type of special symbol from the main ROM 100b and sets it in the main RAM 100c (step S3105). Then, the main CPU 100a refers to the table set in step S3105 and determines a variation pattern (step S3106). The setting information of the fluctuation pattern is included in the fluctuation start command together with the special symbol setting information set in the main RAM 100c by the jackpot determination process of step S3091 described above, and is transmitted to the production control board 130 by the transmission process of step S10A. . With this, the main CPU 100a ends the process shown in FIG. 26.

[Stopped processing by game control board 100]
FIG. 27 is a detailed flowchart of the stopping process in step S319 of FIG. 23. As illustrated in FIG. 27, the main CPU 100a determines whether or not the result of the special symbol determination is a jackpot based on the result of the jackpot determination process in step S3091 (step S3191A). When the main CPU 100a determines that it is a jackpot (step S3191A: YES), the main CPU 100a sets the jackpot game flag stored in the main RAM 100c to "ON" (step S3192A).

Following the processing of step S3192A, the main CPU 100a sets the guaranteed bonus game flag stored in the main RAM 100c to "OFF" and clears various time-saving counts (step S3193A). The main CPU 100a then sets an opening command for the big win in the main RAM 100c (step S3194A). This opening command is a command for causing the performance control board 130 to perform an opening performance indicating that a big win game is about to start, and this command is sent to the performance control board 130 by executing the output processing of step S10A in FIG. 10.

On the other hand, when the main CPU 100a determines that it is not a jackpot (step S3191A: NO), the main CPU 100a determines whether the time-saving game flag is "ON" (step S3195A). When it is determined that the time saving game flag is set to "ON" (step S3195A: YES), it is determined whether the first special symbol is stopped and displayed (step S3196A). If YES in step S3196A, "1" is subtracted from the time saving number J1 related to the first special symbol, and "1" is subtracted from the time saving number J3 related to the sum of the first special symbol and the second special symbol (step S3197A ). These time saving times are stored in the main RAM 100c.

If the answer is NO in step S3196A, the main CPU 100a subtracts "1" from the number of time-saving times J2 related to the second special symbol, and subtracts "1" from the number of time-saving times J3 related to the combination of the first special symbol and the second special symbol (step S3198A). The number of time-saving times J2 is stored in the main RAM 100c.

If it is determined NO in step S3195A, if the process of step S3197A is executed, or if the process of step S3198A is executed, the main CPU 100a determines whether or not the result of the special symbol determination is a small hit ( Step S3199A). If it is a small win (step S3199A: YES), the main CPU 100a determines whether there is a setting for the upper limit number of small wins in the main RAM 100c (step S3191B).

If YES in step S3191B, the main CPU 100a subtracts "1" from the remaining number of small wins (step S3192B). Then, the main CPU 100a determines whether the remaining number of small wins is "0" (step S3193B). If YES in step S3193B, the variable probability game flag is set to "OFF" and various time saving times are cleared (step S3194B).

When the processing of step S3194B is executed, when step S3191B is NO, or when step S3193B is NO, the main CPU 100a sets an opening command for a small win in the main RAM 100c (step S3195B). This opening command is a command for causing the performance control board 130 to perform an opening performance indicating that a small win game is about to start, and this command is sent to the performance control board 130 by executing the output processing of step S10A in FIG. 10.

If the answer is NO in step S3199A, the main CPU 100a determines whether the result of the special pattern determination is a miss (time reduction) (step S3197B). If the answer is YES in step S3197B, the main CPU 100a sets the number of time reductions according to the time reduction game flag and the type of special pattern (step S3198B).

If the process of step S3198B has been executed, or if the answer is NO in step S3197B, it is determined whether the number of times the special symbol has changed has reached 750 (step S3199B). The number of times the special symbol has changed reaches 750 if there have been 750 consecutive misses after the setting has been changed, if there have been 750 consecutive misses after the RWM has been cleared, or if there have been 750 consecutive misses since the end of the jackpot game. If the answer is YES in step S3199B, the main CPU 100a sets the number of time-saving times (J1=10, J2=1000, J3=1000) in the main RAM 103a (step S3191C).

If the process of step S3191C is executed, if the process of step S3196B is executed, or if NO in step S3199B, the main CPU 100a determines whether any of the time saving times J1 to J3 is 0. (Step S3192C). If YES in step S3192C, the main CPU 100a sets the time saving game flag to OFF (step S3193C). When the time-saving game flag is set to OFF, a low-probability non-time-saving normal symbol variation pattern is selected from the next normal symbol variation display. If this normal symbol determination is a hit, the electric tulip 17 is opened in a low-accuracy, non-time-saving opening pattern. Furthermore, when the time-saving game flag is set to OFF, a low-probability non-time-saving special symbol variation pattern is selected from the next special symbol variation display. When transitioning from a low-accuracy time-saving state to a low-accuracy non-time-saving state, the fluctuation pattern of the second special symbol for the low-accuracy non-time-saving state is relatively shorter than the fluctuation pattern of the second special symbol for the low-accuracy time-saving state. (Figure 17). In addition, when transitioning from a low-accuracy time-saving state to a low-accuracy non-time-saving state, the fluctuation pattern of the second special symbol for the low-accuracy non-time-saving state is relatively higher than the fluctuation pattern of the second special symbol for the low-accuracy time-saving state. (or the same length).

When the processing of step S3193C is executed, or when the answer is NO in step S3192C, the main CPU 100a sets a game state designation command corresponding to the current game state determined from the state of the time-saving game flag in the main RAM 103a. This game state designation command is a command for updating the game state in the presentation control board 130, and the command is sent to the presentation control board 130 by executing the output processing of step S10A in FIG. 10.

Next, referring to FIG. 28, an example of the presentation of the low probability non-time-saving state in the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 28 shows the movement of the decorative pattern 55 when the normal losing pattern is stopped and the variable pattern H107 is selected. In the gaming machine 1, when the normal losing pattern is stopped and displayed, the decorative pattern 55 is stopped and displayed in a combination other than the combination of "227" and other than the combination of "459". Note that, if the combination of the decorative pattern 55 stopped and displayed with the normal losing pattern and other special pattern in the gaming machine 1 is different from the combination of the fourth pattern 57 stopped and displayed, the decorative pattern 55 may be stopped and displayed in the combination of "227" or "459" when the normal losing pattern is stopped and displayed.

As shown in FIG. 28, in the first embodiment, when the special symbol can be displayed variably in the low probability non-time-saving state, the effect is controlled in the heaven mode. In the heaven mode, a background image for the heaven mode is displayed, and the characters "heaven mode" representing the effect mode name are always displayed in the lower left corner of the liquid crystal screen 5. FIG. 28(A) illustrates an example of a state in which a normal losing symbol is stopped and displayed as the first special symbol in a low probability non-time-saving state with the first special symbol reserved. At this time, three decorative symbols 55 are stopped in a losing state, and small symbols 56 of the same combination as the decorative symbols 55 are stopped. In addition, a fourth symbol 57 indicating a loss is stopped and displayed accordingly. In the gaming machine 1, the display priority of the decorative symbol 55 when a normal losing symbol is stopped and displayed is the display pattern HP3. In addition, in the gaming machine 1, the display priority of the decorative symbol 55 when a normal losing symbol is stopped and displayed may be any of the display patterns HP1 to HP5.

In the example of FIG. 28(A), the reserved number 52 indicates that the number of reserved first special pattern judgments is 3, and the number of reserved second special pattern judgments is 0. Note that the number of reserved special pattern judgments does not increase midway in the example of FIG. 28. When a predetermined fixed stop period (e.g., 1 second) has elapsed since the first special pattern was stopped, the next first special pattern starts to change. In response to this, the number portion 550 and character portion 551 move and the size of the decorative pattern 55 increases (see FIG. 28(B)). In the gaming machine 1, when the decorative pattern 55 starts to change in the low probability non-time-saving state and the low probability minute time-saving state, the display priority of the decorative pattern 55 changes from the display pattern HP3 to HP2, as shown in FIG. 28(B). In addition, in the gaming machine 1, when the decorative pattern 55 starts to change in the low-probability non-time-saving state and the low-probability minute time-saving state, the display priority of the decorative pattern 55 may change to a pattern other than the display pattern H2, or the display priority of the decorative pattern 55 may not change.

When the decorative pattern 55 starts to fluctuate, the small pattern 56 starts to fluctuate at high speed. At the same time, an animation is displayed in which the pending icon 51 is moved to the right so that the earliest pending icon 51 is displayed as the changing icon 53. Further, the value of the number pending 52 indicating the number of pending for the first special symbol determination is decreased by one. As illustrated in FIGS. 28(C) to (H), the decorative pattern 55 that has started the fluctuating display fluctuates at a high speed and then comes to a permanent stop via the "temporary stop display". The temporary stop display is a display mode in which the display position of the decorative pattern 55 (or small pattern 56) is hardly changed, but is slightly moved so as to swing vertically, or is slightly enlarged and reduced. In the gaming machine 1, the display priority of the decorative pattern 55 from the time when the decorative pattern 55 is rapidly fluctuating in the low-accuracy non-time-saving state and the low-accuracy slight time-saving state until just before the stop display is the display pattern HP2. In addition, in the gaming machine 1, the display priority of the decorative pattern 55 from the time when the decorative pattern 55 is rapidly fluctuating in the low-accuracy non-time-saving state and the low-accuracy slight time-saving state until just before the stop display is determined by the display priority among the display patterns HP1 to HP5. Any of these is fine.

In the example of Figure 28, the normal losing symbol is displayed as stopped, so the decorative symbol 55 is displayed as a provisional stop in a combination other than the combination "227" and other than the combination "459", and then stops permanently. The game state does not change in response to this final stop. Therefore, the next first special symbol starts to change and display while remaining in the low probability non-time-saving state (see Figure 28 (I)).

Next, with reference to FIG. 29, an example of a performance in which the first special symbol determination is suspended when transitioning from low-accuracy non-time saving to low-accuracy time saving in the first embodiment will be described. 29(A) to (D) show cases in which the condition of 750 consecutive losses is not met and a specific losing symbol (specifically, a losing symbol (time saving A) symbol) is stopped and displayed. The movement when transitioning from low-accuracy non-time-saving to low-accuracy time-saving is described. FIG. 29(A) exemplifies the situation when a losing (time saving A) symbol is stopped and displayed as the first special symbol in a state where only the first special symbol is pending in a low probability non-time saving state. In the example of FIG. 29(A), the pending number 52 indicates that the pending number for the first special symbol determination is 3, and the pending number for the second special symbol determination is 0.

When the losing (time saving A) symbol is stopped and displayed, the three decorative symbols 55 come to a final stop in a losing manner, and the small symbols 56 of the same combination as the decorative symbol 55 come to a final halt. Further, in conjunction with this, the fourth symbol 57 indicating a loss is stopped and displayed. In the gaming machine 1, when the losing (time saving A) symbol is stopped and displayed, the decorative symbols 55 are stopped and displayed in the combination of "227". In addition, in the gaming machine 1, if the combination of the decorative symbol 55 that is stopped and displayed and the fourth symbol 57 that is stopped and displayed is different between the losing (time saving A) symbol and other special symbols, the losing (time saving A) symbol is stopped. When displayed, the decorative pattern 55 may be stopped and displayed in a combination other than "227".

In the gaming machine 1, when a losing (time-saving A) symbol is displayed in a stopped state in a low-probability non-time-saving state, the display priority of the decorative symbol 55 is the display pattern HP3. Note that in the gaming machine 1, when a losing (time-saving A) symbol is displayed in a stopped state in a low-probability non-time-saving state, the display priority of the decorative symbol 55 may be any of the display patterns HP1 to HP5.

When a predetermined fixed stop period (for example, 1 second) elapses after the losing (time saving A) symbol is stopped and displayed in the low probability non-time saving state, the state shifts from the low probability non time saving state to the low probability time saving state. In FIG. 29(A), since the condition of 750 consecutive losses is not satisfied, the number of time saving times is set to 700 times. In the example of FIG. 29(B), while the first special symbol determination is pending, the second special symbol determination is not pending. Therefore, the first special symbol starts to be displayed in a variable manner as the first variable display after shifting to the low accuracy time saving state (see FIG. 29(B)). When the second special symbol judgment is suspended during the fluctuation display, the second special symbol starts to be fluctuated as the next fluctuation, as illustrated in FIGS. 29(B) to (D).

As shown in FIG. 29(B), a door image emphasizing that the game will resume starts to be displayed in response to the start of the first special pattern change display after the transition to the low-probability time-saving state. As the door image, a moving image of the door closing, covering the entire screen, and then opening is displayed (see FIG. 29(B) and (C)). The display of the door image ends when a predetermined time (e.g., 2.5 seconds) has elapsed since it was displayed. As shown in FIG. 29(C), if the result of the first first special pattern determination after the transition to the low-probability time-saving state is a specific losing pattern, the display of the door image ends while the losing pattern is stopped. Even if a specific losing pattern is stopped in the low-probability time-saving state, the number of time-saving times is not added and the game state does not change. Here, in the gaming machine 1, the decorative pattern 55, the icon 53, and the reserved icon 51 have a lower display priority than the door image. Therefore, the decorative pattern 55, the icon 53, and the reserved icon 51 are temporarily invisible as the door image is displayed in front. On the other hand, in the gaming machine 1, the small symbol 56 and the fourth symbols 57 and 59 have a higher display priority than the door image. Therefore, while the door image is being displayed, the player can know the result of the first special symbol determination after the transition to the low probability time-saving state by looking at the small symbol 56 and the fourth symbol 57 that are displayed frozen after the high-speed fluctuation.

Even if the judgment result of the first special symbol judgment after the transition to the low-accuracy time-saving state is a jackpot symbol, the time when the door image is hidden is before the expectation of a jackpot or the notification of a jackpot. It is. For this reason, while the door image is being displayed after the transition to the low-accuracy time-saving state, it is impossible to perform a performance that makes people expect a jackpot, and it is also impossible to perform a performance for announcing a jackpot such as operating the performance accessories 7.

The door image may be displayed in a manner in which a black image overlaps the entire screen, or in a manner in which the entire screen is covered with a door image that appears in a mosaic pattern. The door image display may end in a manner in which the transparency of the door image that covers the entire screen increases and the door image is eventually hidden, or in a manner in which the door image is chipped away in a mosaic pattern and the door image is eventually hidden.

The board lighting device 74 and the frame lighting device 10 emit light in a light pattern for displaying a door image (e.g., a light pattern that flashes yellow) while the door image is displayed. Note that a light emitting means (e.g., a right side lamp) that can emit light when in the low-probability time-saving state but does not emit light when not in the low-probability time-saving state may be provided, and the light emitting means may emit light in a light pattern for displaying a door image while the door image is displayed after transitioning to the low-probability time-saving state.

In the gaming machine 1, characters urging the player to hit to the right start to be displayed in response to the start of the first special symbol variation display after the transition to the low-probability time-saving state. Characters urging the player to hit to the right include capital letters "Right hit →" and lowercase letters "Right hit" (for example, Figures 29 (B) and (C) and Figures 51 (B) and (C)). The capital letters "Right hit →" end to be displayed on the condition that the first variation display after the game state changes ends. On the other hand, the lowercase letters "Right hit" end to be displayed on the condition that the game state transitions from the low-probability time-saving state to another game state. Characters urging the player to hit to the right are images that indicate an advantage to the player, just like door images. In the gaming machine 1, door images have a lower display priority than characters urging the player to hit to the right. Therefore, the door image is displayed behind the characters urging the player to hit to the right, so the characters urging the player to hit to the right are not obscured by the door image. The capital letters "Right Hit →" may end displaying during the first change display after the game state changes, or may continue to be displayed for multiple changes (e.g., two times) after the first change display after the game state changes.

In the gaming machine 1, the speaker 24 outputs a voice message saying "RUSH mode started" to inform the player that the mode has been changed to the RUSH mode in response to the start of the first special symbol variation display after the transition to the low-probability time-saving state. Here, in the gaming machine 1, when the transition to the low-probability time-saving state is made via a jackpot game, a first warning message is displayed simultaneously to alert the player not to get carried away with the game during the jackpot game, and a second warning message is displayed simultaneously to alert the player not to forget to remove the prepaid card. In contrast, in the gaming machine 1, when the transition to the low-probability time-saving state is made via the stop display of a specific losing symbol, the transition to the low-probability time-saving state is made without displaying the warning message. Note that when the transition to the low-probability time-saving state is made via the stop display of a specific losing symbol, the first warning message may be displayed for a predetermined time (e.g., 2.5 seconds) in response to the start of the first special symbol variation display after the transition to the low-probability time-saving state.

As shown in FIG. 29(D), in low-probability time-saving mode, the effects are controlled by RUSH mode. In RUSH mode, a background image for RUSH mode is displayed, and the words "RUSH mode", which indicates the name of the effect mode, are always displayed in the lower left corner of the LCD screen 5. In RUSH mode, the "remaining number of time-saving times", which indicates the remaining number of time-saving times, is basically displayed in the upper right corner of the LCD screen 5. In the gaming machine 1, the background image, the name of the effect mode, and the remaining number of time-saving times have a lower display priority than the door image. For this reason, it appears to the player that the screen configuration of Heaven mode has changed to that of RUSH mode via the display of the door image.

When in the heaven mode, a pending icon 51 indicating the number of pending determinations of the first special symbol and an icon 53 indicating that the first special symbol is being displayed in a variable manner are displayed. On the other hand, when in the RUSH mode, a pending icon 51 indicating the number of pending second special symbol determinations and an icon 53 indicating that the second special symbol is being displayed in a variable manner are displayed. When in the RUSH mode, the pending icon 51 indicating the pending number of first special symbol determination and the icon 53 indicating that the first special symbol is being displayed in a variable manner are hidden. The RUSH mode differs from the heaven mode in the aspects (eg, shape and display position) of the hold icon 51 and the icon 53.

When the game machine 1 transitions to the low-probability time-saving state, the display priority of the decorative pattern 55, which was display pattern HP3 when the screen configuration was in heaven mode, changes to display pattern HP9 via the display of a door image. Note that the display priority of the decorative pattern 55 may be the same in heaven mode immediately before the transition to the low-probability time-saving state and when the game machine 1 transitions to RUSH mode via the display of a door image.

The appearance of the left, middle, and right patterns may be different or the same in heaven mode just before the door image is displayed and in rush mode just after the door image is displayed. Also, the display area of the left, middle, and right patterns may be different or the same in heaven mode just before the door image is displayed and in rush mode just after the door image is displayed. Also, the appearance and display area of the small patterns 56 may be the same or different in heaven mode just before the door image is displayed and in rush mode just after the door image is displayed.

The flow from FIG. 29(E) to FIG. 29(B) and the flow from FIG. 29(F) to FIG. 29(B) show the movement when transitioning from low-probability non-time-saving to low-probability time-saving due to 750 consecutive misses after changing the settings, 750 consecutive misses after clearing the RWM, or 750 consecutive misses from the end of a jackpot game. In the low-probability non-time-saving state, if the condition of 750 consecutive misses is met with only the first special symbol reserved, transition from low-probability non-time-saving to low-probability time-saving will occur whether a specific missing symbol is displayed or a normal missing symbol is displayed. If a missing symbol that meets the condition of 750 consecutive misses is displayed, the number of time-saving times is set to 1000.

FIG. 29(E) is an example in which a specific losing symbol satisfies the condition of 750 consecutive losses. Figure 29 (E) shows an example where the losing (time saving B) symbol is stopped and displayed as a specific losing symbol, but the losing (time saving A) symbol is stopped and displayed as a losing symbol that satisfies the condition of 750 consecutive losses. may be done. When the losing (time saving B) pattern is stopped and displayed, the decorative pattern 55 is stopped and displayed in the combination of "459". In addition, in the gaming machine 1, if the combination of the decorative symbol 55 that is stopped and displayed and the fourth symbol 57 that is stopped and displayed is different between the losing (time saving B) symbol and other special symbols, the losing (time saving B) symbol is stopped. When displayed, the decorative pattern 55 may be stopped and displayed in a combination other than "459".

FIG. 29(F) is an example in which the losing symbol that satisfies the condition of 750 consecutive losses is a normal losing symbol. In the gaming machine 1, when normal losing symbols are stopped and displayed, the decorative symbols 55 are stopped and displayed in combinations other than "227" and "459".

In the gaming machine 1, the display priority of the decorative symbol 55 when the losing (time saving B) symbol and the normal losing symbol are stopped and displayed is the display pattern HP3. In addition, when the losing (time saving B) symbol and the normal losing symbol are stopped and displayed in the gaming machine 1, the display priority of the decorative symbol 55 may be any one of the display patterns HP1 to HP5.

When a predetermined fixed stop period (e.g. 1 second) has elapsed since the stop display of a losing symbol that meets the condition of 750 consecutive misses, the game will transition from low-probability non-time-saving to low-probability time-saving. The flow from FIG. 29(B) onwards is basically the same as when the condition of 750 consecutive misses is not met and a losing (time-saving A) symbol is stopped and displayed in the low-probability non-time-saving state. The difference is that when the condition of 750 consecutive misses is not met, the initial value of the number of remaining time-saving times is 699 times, whereas when the condition of 750 consecutive misses is met, the initial value of the number of remaining time-saving times is 999 times.

If the condition for 750 consecutive misses is met without changing the settings, clearing the RWM, or playing a jackpot, and then 750 consecutive misses are met, the game state does not change according to the display of the missing symbol. On the other hand, if the condition for 750 consecutive misses is met after a jackpot game is played, and the condition for 750 consecutive misses is met after the jackpot game, the game will transition to low-probability time-saving according to the display of the missing symbol, and the number of time-saving times will be set to 1000. If the condition for 750 consecutive misses is met after a jackpot game is played, and then the condition for 750 consecutive misses is met during RUSH mode, the game will remain in RUSH mode (i.e., the game will remain in low-probability time-saving state) and the number of time-saving times will be overwritten to 1000 (see FIG. 29 (G)). Similarly, if you have not met the condition of 750 consecutive misses up until now, and you meet the condition of 750 consecutive misses during RUSH mode, you will remain in RUSH mode (i.e., you will remain in the low probability time-saving state) and the number of time-saving times will be overwritten to 1000.

In addition, in the case of transitioning from low certainty non-time saving to low certainty time saving, the following configuration may be used.
- The size of the entire middle pattern may be larger, smaller, or the same size in the RUSH mode immediately after the door image is displayed than in the heaven mode immediately before the door image is displayed.
- The size of the number part 550 of the middle pattern may be larger, smaller, or the same size in the RUSH mode immediately after the door image is displayed than in the heaven mode immediately before the door image is displayed.
- When transitioning from low-accuracy non-time saving to low-accuracy time saving, the overall size of the left pattern (and right pattern) is larger in RUSH mode immediately after the door image is displayed than in heaven mode immediately before the door image is displayed. It may be small, or it may be the same size.
- When transitioning from low-accuracy non-time saving to low-accuracy time saving, the number part 550 of the left pattern (and right pattern) is larger in the RUSH mode immediately after the door image is displayed than in the heaven mode immediately before the door image is displayed. The size may be large, small, or the same size.
- When in heaven mode just before the door image is displayed, the middle symbol is larger than the left symbol (and right symbol), and when in RUSH mode immediately after the door image is displayed, the sizes of the left symbol, middle symbol, and right symbol are the same. But that's fine.
- The size ratio between the left pattern, the middle pattern, and the right pattern may be the same in the heaven mode immediately before the door image is displayed and in the RUSH mode immediately after the door image is displayed.
- Immediately before the door image is displayed, it emits light in the heaven mode light emission pattern, and immediately after the door image display ends, it emits light in the RUSH mode light emission pattern.

Next, referring to FIG. 30, an example of a performance in which the first special symbol judgment is not reserved when transitioning from low-probability non-time-saving to low-probability time-saving in the first embodiment will be described. FIGS. 30(A)-(D) show the movement when transitioning from low-probability non-time-saving to low-probability time-saving in response to a specific missing symbol (specifically, a missing (time-saving A) symbol) being stopped and displayed when the condition of 750 consecutive misses is not met. FIG. 30(A) illustrates the state when a missing (time-saving A) symbol is stopped and displayed as the first special symbol in a low-probability non-time-saving state without a reserved first special symbol. In the example of FIG. 30(A), the reserved number 52 indicates that the number of reserved first special symbol judgments is 0, and the number of reserved second special symbol judgments is 0.

When a predetermined fixed stop period (e.g., 1 second) has elapsed since a miss (time-saving A) pattern is displayed in the low-probability non-time-saving state, the state transitions from the low-probability non-time-saving state to the low-probability time-saving state. In FIG. 30(A), the condition of 750 consecutive misses is not met, so the number of time-saving times is set to 700. In the example of FIG. 30(B), the number of reserved first special pattern judgments and the number of reserved second special pattern judgments are both 0. Therefore, a customer waiting command is sent from the game control board 100 to the performance control board 130 to notify that the customer waiting state has been entered in response to the lapse of the fixed stop period. After that, a setting image for setting the volume value and light value is started to be displayed in response to the lapse of a predetermined time (e.g., 10 seconds) without the special pattern being displayed in a variable manner. After that, a customer waiting performance is started in response to the lapse of a further predetermined time (e.g., 20 seconds) without the special pattern being displayed in a variable manner. In the customer waiting performance, a demo video to promote gaming machine 1 and the name of the company that manufactures gaming machine 1 are displayed repeatedly in a switched manner.

When a game ball passes through a gate 16 while the game machine 1 is in a customer waiting state, a normal symbol determination is performed. In the gaming machine 1, in the low accuracy time saving state, when a normal symbol determination is performed, the second starting port 12 is opened long with a 100% probability (see FIG. 2(A)). When the game ball enters the second starting hole 12, the second special symbol starts to be displayed in a variable manner as the first variable display after shifting to the low accuracy time saving state (see FIG. 30(B)). Furthermore, as illustrated in FIGS. 30(B) to (D), if one suspension of the first special symbol determination and one suspension of the second special symbol determination occur during the fluctuation display, the second special symbol will be displayed in the next fluctuation. starts to display fluctuations.

As illustrated in FIG. 30(B), after the transition to the low-accuracy time-saving state, the display of the door image and the characters urging the player to hit the ball to the right are started in response to the start of the first second special symbol variation display. As illustrated in FIGS. 29 and 30, the door image and the characters encouraging right-handed hitting are the same regardless of the type of special symbol that is variably displayed for the first time after the transition to the low-accuracy time-saving state. In FIG. 30(B), unlike FIG. 29(B), the second special symbol is displayed in a variable manner, so the icon 53 indicating that the second special symbol is displayed in a variable manner is displayed while the door image is displayed. be done. Also, in FIG. 30(C), unlike FIG. 29(C), the second special symbol determination is pending, so a pending icon 51 indicating the number of pending second special symbol determinations is displayed while the door image is displayed. Ru.

As illustrated in FIG. 30(C), if the judgment result of the first second special symbol judgment after the transition to the low-accuracy time-saving state is a normal losing symbol, the door image is displayed while the losing symbol is stopped and displayed. The display ends. While the door image is being displayed, the player knows the determination result of the first second special symbol determination after the transition to the low-accuracy time-saving state by looking at the small symbol 56 and the fourth symbol 57 that are stopped and displayed after the high-speed fluctuation. Is possible.

Even if the result of the first second special pattern determination after the transition to the low-probability time-saving state is a jackpot pattern, the time when the door image is hidden occurs before the jackpot is anticipated or notified. Therefore, while the door image is displayed after the transition to the low-probability time-saving state, it is not possible to execute a performance that anticipates a jackpot, and it is also not possible to execute a performance to notify a jackpot that operates the performance device 7.

The flow from FIG. 30(E) to FIG. 30(B) and the flow from FIG. 30(F) to FIG. 30(B) show the movement when transitioning from low-probability non-time-saving to low-probability time-saving due to 750 consecutive misses after changing the settings, 750 consecutive misses after clearing the RWM, or 750 consecutive misses since the end of a jackpot game. In the low-probability non-time-saving state, if the condition of 750 consecutive misses is met without a reserved special pattern, transition will occur from low-probability non-time-saving to low-probability time-saving regardless of whether a specific missing pattern or a normal missing pattern is stopped and displayed. If a missing pattern that meets the condition of 750 consecutive misses is stopped and displayed, the number of time-saving times is set to 1000.

Figure 30(E) is an example of a case where the losing symbol that satisfies the condition of 750 consecutive losses is a specific losing symbol. Figure 30(E) shows an example of a case where a losing symbol (time-saving B) is displayed as a specific losing symbol, but a losing symbol (time-saving A) may also be displayed as a losing symbol that satisfies the condition of 750 consecutive losses. Figure 30(F) is an example of a case where a losing symbol that satisfies the condition of 750 consecutive losses is a normal losing symbol.

When a predetermined fixed stop period (for example, 1 second) elapses from the stop display of a losing symbol that satisfies the condition of 750 consecutive losses, the process shifts from low-accuracy non-time-saving to low-accuracy time-saving. In the examples of FIGS. 30(E) and (F), both the suspension of the first special symbol determination and the suspension of the second special symbol determination are 0. For this reason, a customer waiting command is transmitted from the game control board 100 to the production control board 130 in response to the elapse of the fixed stop period. Thereafter, when a predetermined period of time (for example, 10 seconds) has elapsed without the special symbol being displayed in a variable manner, a setting image for setting the volume value and the light amount value is started to be displayed. Thereafter, when a predetermined period of time (for example, 20 seconds) has elapsed without any variable display of special symbols, a customer waiting performance is started.

When the gaming machine 1 is in a waiting state and a gaming ball passes through the gate 16, a normal symbol determination is performed. If the result of the normal symbol determination is that the gaming ball enters the long-open second starting port 12, the second special symbol begins to change as the first change display after the transition to the low-probability time-saving state (see FIG. 30(B)). The flow from FIG. 30(B) onwards is basically the same as when the condition for 750 consecutive misses is not met and a miss (time-saving A) symbol is displayed stationary in the low-probability non-time-saving state. The difference is that when the condition for 750 consecutive misses is not met, the initial value of the number of times remaining in the time-saving is 699 times, whereas when the condition for 750 consecutive misses is met, the initial value of the number of times remaining in the time-saving is 999 times.

Next, referring to FIG. 31, an example of a performance in which a low-probability non-time-saving mode transitions to a low-probability slight time-saving mode in the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 31 shows the movement when a transition occurs from a low-probability non-time-saving mode to a low-probability slight time-saving mode in response to a specific losing symbol (specifically, a losing (time-saving B) symbol) being stopped and displayed when the condition of 750 consecutive losses is not met. FIG. 31(A) illustrates an example of a state in which a losing (time-saving B) symbol is stopped and displayed as the first special symbol in a state in which only the first special symbol is reserved in a low-probability non-time-saving mode. In the example of FIG. 31(A), the reserved number 52 indicates that the number of reserved symbols for the first special symbol judgment is 3, and the number of reserved symbols for the second special symbol judgment is 0.

When a predetermined fixed stop period (e.g., 1 second) has elapsed since a missing (time-saving B) pattern was displayed in the low-probability non-time-saving state, the game will transition from the low-probability non-time-saving state to the low-probability slight time-saving state. In FIG. 31(A), the condition of 750 consecutive misses is not met, so the number of time-saving times is set to 500. Also, the upper limit of the number of small wins is set to 2 times.

After the transition to the low probability micro-time saving state, the first special symbol starts to change as the first change (see FIG. 31(B)). The display priority of decorative symbol 55, which was display pattern HP3 during the stopped display, changes to display pattern HP2 at the start of the change, as shown in FIG. 31(B). In the example of FIG. 31(B), reserved number 52 indicates that the reserved number for the first special symbol determination is 2, and the reserved number for the second special symbol determination is 0.

As shown in FIG. 31(B), in the first embodiment, the effects are controlled in hell mode during low-probability minute time-saving. In hell mode, a background image for hell mode is displayed, and the characters "Hell mode", which indicate the name of the effect mode, are always displayed in the lower left corner of the liquid crystal screen 5. In hell mode, the number of remaining time-saving times is not displayed. When switching from heaven mode to hell mode, a door image and characters encouraging right-hitting are not displayed. For this reason, the screen configuration of heaven mode appears to the player to have changed to that of hell mode in response to the start of the next variation. Note that a door image may be displayed in response to the start of the first variation display of the first special pattern after switching to the low-probability minute time-saving state. Note that the decorative pattern 55 in hell mode may be the same as the decorative pattern 55 in heaven mode, or may be different.

After that, if a specific losing symbol is displayed in the low probability micro time-saving state as exemplified in Figures 31 (C) and (E), the number of time-saving times is not incremented and the game state does not change.

As illustrated in FIG. 31(F), when a small win A is stopped and displayed in a low-accuracy minute time saving state, a heart image indicating that a small win has been made is displayed in the upper right corner of the LCD screen 5 in response to the stop display. Is displayed. In the low probability short time state, each time there is a small win, the number of heart images increases by one (see FIG. 31(H)). When the number of heart images reaches the upper limit number of small wins, the process changes from a low-probability slight time-saving mode to a low-probability non-time-saving mode (see FIG. 31(I)).

When the result of the 99th first special symbol determination in the low-probability micro-time-saving state is a normal losing symbol or a specific losing symbol, the special background image for Hell mode is displayed in response to the start of the next variation, as shown in FIG. 31 (G). The special background image is an image that is displayed until the game state transitions from the low-probability micro-time-saving state to another state, and indicates that if there are 400 consecutive losses thereafter, the game state will definitely transition to Heaven mode (i.e., low-probability non-time-saving state). In the first embodiment, the low-probability non-time-saving state is more advantageous to the player than the low-probability micro-time-saving state, so the player can continue playing by looking at the special background image, knowing with the peace of mind that if he or she continues to lose, the game state will definitely transition to the low-probability non-time-saving state.

Next, referring to FIG. 32, an example of the performance in which the low probability micro time-saving transition to the low probability non-time-saving transition in the first embodiment is described. FIG. 32 shows the movement when the final transition of the low probability micro time-saving transition is made, which is a transition display that does not satisfy the condition of 750 consecutive misses. In the example of FIG. 32(A), the reserved number 52 indicates that the reserved number of the first special pattern determination is 2, and the reserved number of the second special pattern determination is 0. As illustrated in FIG. 32(A), the background image changes to the hell mode final transition in response to the start of the final transition of the low probability micro time-saving transition. Note that the same background image may be displayed regardless of the remaining number of times the low probability micro time-saving transition is made. In addition, the background image for the hell mode final transition may be the same as the special background image for the hell mode, which indicates that if there are 400 consecutive misses after that, the mode will always transition to heaven mode (i.e., low probability non-time-saving transition), as illustrated in FIG. 31(G).

As illustrated in FIG. 32(B), when the normal losing symbol is stopped and displayed in the final variation of the low accuracy fine time reduction, the low accuracy fine time reduction to low accuracy is changed according to the elapse of a predetermined fixed stop period (for example, 1 second). Shift to non-working hours. Here, in the gaming machine 1, when the final fluctuation of the low-accuracy minute time-saving is stopped and displayed, the time-saving game flag remains ON and the number of time-savings is set according to the type of losing symbol. Therefore, as illustrated in Fig. 32 (D), when a specific losing symbol (in the example of Fig. 32 (D), the losing (time saving A) symbol) is stopped and displayed in the final fluctuation of the low accuracy fine time saving, it is a normal losing symbol. In the same way as when the symbols are displayed in a stopped state, the process changes from low-probability fine time-saving to low-probability non-time-saving in accordance with the elapse of a predetermined fixed stop period (for example, 1 second). In the example of FIG. 32(D), regardless of the remaining number of time savers, when a specific losing symbol is stopped and displayed in a low accuracy minute time saver, text, a door image, and a background for the low accuracy time saver state that prompts the player to hit right are displayed. Image is not displayed. In the examples shown in FIGS. 32(B) and 32(D), the condition of 750 consecutive losses is not satisfied, so the time saving number is cleared. Additionally, the upper limit number of small wins is cleared. When shifting to the low-accuracy non-time saving mode, counting by the out counter for base calculation and the prize ball counter for base calculation is restarted.

After the transition to the low-probability non-short state, the first special symbol starts to change as the first change (see FIG. 32(C)). Accordingly, the screen configuration for the final change of the hell mode changes to the heaven mode screen configuration. Note that, from the change display a predetermined number of times before (for example, 10 changes before) the final change of the low-probability micro-time-saving to the final change of the low-probability micro-time-saving, a countdown may be performed to notify the remaining number of times of time-saving each time the first special symbol starts to change. The countdown may be performed under the condition that a special background image for the hell mode, which indicates that the mode will always transition to the heaven mode (i.e., low-probability non-short time) if there are 400 consecutive misses thereafter, is displayed, as exemplified in FIG. 31(G). Note that, instead of (or in addition to) the countdown, a performance image (for example, a performance image in which a gauge is accumulating) that changes each time the first special symbol starts to change may be displayed from the change display a predetermined number of times before (for example, 10 changes before) the final change of the low-probability micro-time-saving to the final change of the low-probability micro-time-saving.

In addition, when the final variation of the low-probability micro-time-saving is stopped and the time-saving game flag is turned OFF, the number of time-saving times may be set according to the type of the miss pattern. In such a case, as illustrated in FIG. 32(E), when a miss (time-saving A) pattern is stopped and displayed in the final variation of the low-probability micro-time-saving, the low-probability micro-time-saving will transition to the low-probability time-saving as a predetermined fixed stop period (for example, 1 second) elapses. When the game transitions to the low-probability time-saving, the counting by the base calculation out counter and the base calculation prize ball counter remains stopped. In the example of FIG. 32(E), the condition of 750 consecutive misses is not met, so the number of time-saving times is set to 700. In addition, the upper limit number of small wins is cleared. FIG. 32(F), which follows FIG. 32(E), illustrates an example in which the first special pattern starts to change as the first change display after the transition to the low-probability time-saving state, and a door image and a character encouraging right-hitting are displayed accordingly. Thus, in the example of FIG. 32(E), in the final fluctuation of the low-probability micro-time-saving mode, text urging to hit to the right, a door image, and a background image for the low-probability time-saving mode begin to be displayed in response to a specific losing symbol being stopped and displayed. In contrast, in both the examples of FIG. 32(D) and (E), in the fluctuation display before the final fluctuation of the low-probability micro-time-saving mode, text urging to hit to the right, a door image, and a background image for the low-probability time-saving mode are not displayed in response to a specific losing symbol being stopped and displayed.

Next, referring to Figs. 33 to 35, a description will be given of an example of a reach effect being executed in a low probability non-time-saving state. Fig. 33 is an explanatory diagram for explaining an example of a normal reach effect being executed in a low probability non-time-saving state in the first embodiment. In the example of Fig. 33, unlike the examples of Figs. 28 and 31 in which the icon 53 is displayed in white, the icon 53 in a special form is displayed. Fig. 34 is an explanatory diagram for explaining an example of a SP reach effect being executed in a low probability non-time-saving state in the first embodiment. Fig. 35 is an explanatory diagram for explaining an example of a performance immediately after a miss is notified in the SP reach effect in a low probability non-time-saving state in the first embodiment. Note that in the examples of Figs. 33 to 35, the condition of 750 consecutive misses is not met.

As illustrated in FIGS. 33(A) and 33(B), in this example, a reach is established with the "2" symbol. As illustrated in FIG. 33(C), when a predetermined time (for example, 0.5 seconds) has elapsed since the ready-to-win state is established, the left and right decorative symbols 55 (hereinafter referred to as "ready-to-reach symbols") are displayed in the ready-to-reach state. An emphasized reach line is displayed, and a voice saying "reach" is outputted from the speaker 24 to emphasize the establishment of a reach. The reach line is an effect image that extends from the left edge of the screen (or the left edge of the left symbol) to the right edge of the screen (or the right edge of the right symbol), and is an image that is displayed for a predetermined period of time (for example, 2 seconds) in front of the decorative symbol 55. It is. In the gaming machine 1, the character portion 550 (or the entire decorative pattern 55) is made to emit light in conjunction with the display of the reach line in order to emphasize the achievement of a reach. Note that the character portion 550 (or the entire decorative pattern 55) does not need to emit light in conjunction with the display of the reach line. In the example of FIG. 33(C), the small pattern 56 continues to fluctuate at high speed. In addition, the small pattern 56 may be displayed in the same ready mode as the decorative pattern 55 when the ready-to-win pattern is established.

In the gaming machine 1, the display priority of the decorative pattern 55 is display pattern HP2 from the start of the variable display until the reach line is hidden. The middle pattern fluctuates at high speed from the start of the variable display until the reach is established, and fluctuates at a slower speed during the "normal reach performance" that starts in response to the establishment of the reach. The middle pattern is displayed dark while the reach line is displayed. The "normal reach performance" is a performance mode in which the reach pattern is displayed large in the center of the LCD screen 5 and scrolls at a relatively slow speed. The normal reach performance is more likely to be executed in the event of a miss than in the event of a jackpot. For this reason, the normal reach performance can be said to be a reach performance with a relatively low reliability (for example, a reliability of 0.01%).

In the gaming machine 1, the display priority of the decorative pattern 55 is the display pattern HP1 during the normal reach performance. That is, the display priority of the middle symbol becomes higher before and after the reach is established. Note that during the normal reach performance, the display priority of the decorative pattern 55 may be the display pattern HP2.

In the gaming machine 1, left symbols (and right symbols) other than the decorative symbols temporarily stopped as reach symbols are hidden. The hidden decorative pattern 55 is not displayed again until the variable display ends. Note that the hidden decorative pattern 55 may be redisplayed immediately before the variable display ends.

In gaming machine 1, the distance between the left and right symbols is wider during a normal reach performance than when a reach is achieved. Also, the middle symbol is displayed larger during a normal reach performance than when a reach is achieved. For this reason, the display area of decorative symbol 55 changes between when a reach is achieved and during a normal reach performance. On the other hand, decorative symbol 55 looks the same when a reach is achieved and during a normal reach performance.

Following FIG. 33(D), in the case of a variation pattern in which a miss (time-saving A) symbol is displayed in a normal reach performance (i.e., corresponding to variation pattern H102), the normal reach performance results in a provisional stop display of the reach miss symbol "272" and then a permanent stop (see FIG. 33(E) and (F)). When the provisional stop display of the reach miss symbol starts, the distance between the left symbol and the right symbol narrows, and the middle symbol becomes smaller to the same size as when the fluctuation started. Therefore, the display area of the decorative symbol 55 changes before and after the middle symbol is displayed in a provisional stop display in the normal reach performance. Also, during the provisional stop display of the reach miss symbol, the display priority of the decorative symbol 55 changes from the display pattern HP1 to HP3. Note that in the gaming machine 1, the display priority of the decorative symbol 55 when a miss symbol is displayed in a normal reach performance may be any of the display patterns HP1 to HP5. The small symbols 56 fluctuate at high speed until just before the reach miss pattern stops, and are displayed in the same combination as the decorative symbols 55 according to the stop display of the decorative symbols 55. As shown in FIG. 33(F), when the miss (time-saving A) symbol stops, the game transitions from low-probability non-time-saving to low-probability time-saving.

Following FIG. 33(D), in the case of a fluctuation pattern in which a normal miss symbol stops during a normal reach performance (i.e., in the case of a fluctuation pattern corresponding to H108), a provisional stop is displayed with a reach miss number other than "272" as a result of the normal reach performance, and the actual stop is performed as is (see FIG. 33(I)). When a normal miss symbol stops, the next fluctuation starts with low probability and no time reduction.

Following Fig. 33(D), in the case of a variation pattern in which jackpot A is stopped and displayed in the normal reach effect (that is, when it corresponds to variation pattern O101), the normal reach effect results in a temporary stop display at the symbol alignment "222", and as it is. The main stop is performed (see FIG. 33(G)). At the start of the temporary stop display of matching symbols, the interval between the left symbol and the right symbol becomes narrower, and the middle symbol becomes smaller to the same size as at the start of variation. Therefore, the display area of the decorative pattern 55 changes before and after the medium pattern is temporarily stopped and displayed in the normal reach performance. Further, during the temporary stop display of the pattern alignment, the display priority of the decorative pattern 55 changes from the display pattern HP1 to HP4. In addition, in the gaming machine 1, the display priority of the decorative pattern 55 when the jackpot pattern is stopped and displayed in the normal reach performance may be any one of the display patterns HP1 to HP5. The small symbols 56 are fluctuating at high speed until just before the jackpot symbol stops, and are stopped and displayed in the same combination as the decorative symbol 55 in response to the stop display of the jackpot symbol. As illustrated in FIG. 33(G), when the jackpot A is stopped and displayed, a jackpot game (low probability, non-time-saving game state) is executed. At the final stage of a jackpot game, a first warning that warns the player not to get absorbed in the game and a second warning that warns the player not to forget to take the prepaid card are displayed simultaneously. After the jackpot game ends, the game shifts to a low-accuracy time saving mode.

Continuing from FIG. 33(D), in the case of a variation pattern in which a jackpot B is displayed as stopped in a normal reach performance (i.e., corresponding to variation pattern O108), a special decorative pattern (time-saving pattern) is displayed as a temporary stop as a result of the normal reach performance, and then stops permanently (see FIG. 33(H)). The time-saving pattern is, for example, a decorative pattern including the word "Hell" which suggests a transition to a low-probability minute time-saving mode. Note that, if the combination of decorative pattern 55 displayed as stopped in a jackpot B and other special patterns and the fourth pattern 57 displayed as stopped in a gaming machine 1 are different, decorative pattern 55 may be displayed as a matching pattern when a jackpot B is displayed as stopped.

When the time-saving symbol starts to be displayed temporarily, the distance between the left and right symbols narrows, and the center symbol becomes smaller to the same size as when it started to change. Therefore, the display area of the decorative symbol 55 changes before and after the center symbol is displayed temporarily in the normal reach performance. Also, during the time-saving symbol is displayed temporarily, the display priority of the decorative symbol 55 changes from the display pattern HP1 to HP3. The small symbols 56 change at high speed until just before the pattern alignment stops permanently, and are displayed stopped in the same combination as the decorative symbols 55 according to the display of the decorative symbols 55. As shown in FIG. 33(H), when the big win B is displayed stopped, the big win game is executed. At the end of the big win game, the first and second warnings are displayed simultaneously. After the big win game ends, the game transitions to the low-probability minute time-saving game.

Following FIG. 33 (D), the normal reach performance may progress to an "SP reach performance." The SP reach performance is a performance in which one of characters A to D fights an enemy. During the SP reach performance, the light-emitting element (not shown) representing the character corresponding to the SP reach performance remains lit, while the light-emitting element (not shown) representing the character not corresponding to the SP reach performance remains unlit. A new character may appear during the SP reach performance. When the new character appears, the light-emitting element (not shown) representing that character remains lit.

In the case of a variation pattern that develops from a normal reach performance to an SP reach performance, the medium symbol starts to fluctuate at high speed at the end of the normal reach performance (see FIG. 34(A)). After that, the middle symbol is hidden and the SP reach effect is started. Along with this, the ready-to-reach symbol consisting of the number portion 550 and the character portion 551 changes to the ready-to-reach symbol consisting only of the number portion 550. Before and after the start of the SP reach effect, the display priority of the decorative pattern 55 changes from the display pattern HP2 to HP7. The icon 53 and the pending icon 51 are hidden in response to the start of the SP reach effect. During the SP reach effect, the small pattern 56 continues to fluctuate at high speed. Note that during the SP ready-to-win performance, the small symbols 56 may be temporarily stopped and displayed in the same combination as the ready-to-win symbol.

In the case of a variation pattern in which jackpot A is stopped and displayed without temporarily stopping display of the reach loss eye in the SP reach effect (i.e., corresponding to variation pattern O105), following Fig. 34(C), the enemy at the end of the SP reach effect If you are defeated, the pattern alignment will be displayed as a temporary stop, and then the main stop will be made. When the jackpot A is stopped and displayed, the jackpot game is executed. At the final stage of the jackpot game, the first attention call and the second attention call are displayed simultaneously. After the jackpot game ends, the game shifts to a low-accuracy time saving mode. In the case of a variation pattern in which jackpot B is stopped and displayed in the SP ready-to-reach performance (that is, corresponding to the variation pattern O115), the enemy is defeated at the end of the SP ready-to-reach performance and the time-saving symbol is temporarily stopped and displayed, and the main stop is made as it is. While it is possible to perform a jackpot notification performance such as operating the performance accessory 7 during the temporary stop display of the pattern alignment or time-saving design, it is impossible to perform a challenge performance that suggests that the fluctuating display will continue. .

During the provisional stop display of the matching patterns or the time-saving patterns, the display priority of the decorative patterns 55 changes from display pattern HP7 to HP4. That is, the decorative patterns 55 consisting of only the number portion 550 change to decorative patterns 55 consisting of the number portion 550 and the character portion 551. In addition, in the gaming machine 1, the display priority of the decorative patterns 55 when the jackpot pattern is stopped and displayed in the SP reach performance may be any of the display patterns HP1 to HP5. The small patterns 56 fluctuate at high speed until just before the jackpot pattern stops for real, and are stopped and displayed in the same combination as the decorative patterns 55 according to the stopped display of the jackpot pattern. In addition, during the jackpot announcement, the small patterns 56 may be temporarily stopped and displayed in the same combination as the decorative patterns 55.

As exemplified in FIG. 34(D), there is a variation pattern in which the enemy wins at the end of the SP reach effect, and then the losing move is temporarily stopped (that is, in the variation pattern O106, O107, H103, H106, H111, or H112). (if applicable). As illustrated in FIGS. 34(E) and 34(F), a restart effect that emphasizes that the game will be restarted is executed during the temporary stop display of the winning winning number. That is, the restart performance is performed after the loss notification is performed when the performance accessory 7 is in the initial position and the performance for jackpot notification such as operating the performance accessory 7 is not performed. As the restart effect, a black image with a pattern is displayed that covers the entire screen and overlaps from the right edge of the screen to the left edge. The restart effect ends when a predetermined period of time (for example, 2.5 seconds) has elapsed since the start. During the restart performance, the display priority of the decorative pattern 55 changes from the display pattern HP7 to HP2. In the gaming machine 1, the display priority of the decorative pattern 55 when the first special pattern is stopped and displayed after the restart presentation may be any one of the display patterns HP1 to HP5.

As illustrated in FIG. 34(G), if the determination result of the first special symbol determination is a normal losing symbol, the losing symbol will be stopped and displayed after the restart performance ends. As illustrated in FIG. 34(I), if the judgment result of the first special symbol judgment is jackpot A, after the restart performance ends, the pattern alignment is displayed as a temporary stop, and then the main stop is made. As illustrated in FIGS. 34(H) and (I), if the determination result of the first special symbol determination is a specific losing symbol, the losing symbol will be stopped and displayed after the restart performance ends. As illustrated in FIG. 34(H), when the judgment result of the first special pattern judgment is a loss (time saving A), the decorative pattern 55 which was a combination of "212" is changed to "272" through the restart effect. changes to a combination of Thereby, the player who has been refreshed by the restart effect can resume playing the game with low accuracy and in a short amount of time. Furthermore, as illustrated in FIG. 34(I), when the judgment result of the first special symbol judgment is a loss (time saving B), the decorative symbol 55 which was the combination of "212" is changed to " 459'' combination. As a result, the player who has been refreshed by the restart effect can resume playing the game with low certainty and in a short amount of time. In addition, when the determination result of the first special symbol determination is a specific loss, the combination of decorative symbols 55 does not need to change before and after the restart performance. In addition, if it is a loss (time saving A), the decorative pattern 55 changes to the combination of "272" through the restart effect, while if it is a loss (time saving B), the combination of the decorative patterns 55 changes before and after the restart effect. It doesn't have to change.

If the determination result of the first special symbol determination is a specific losing symbol, after the restart performance ends, the same background image of the heaven mode as at the start of the variation is displayed. Note that the background image may change to the background image of the heaven mode for confirming the game state change after the end of the restart performance and before the end of the change, or the background image for the game state to be changed is displayed. may be done.

Here, the icon 53 and the reserved icon 51, which were made invisible in response to the start of the SP reach performance, are redisplayed during the restart performance with the same appearance as immediately before the start of the SP reach performance. The redisplayed icon 53 is erased in response to the stop display of the first special symbol. In the gaming machine 1, the decorative symbol 55, the icon 53, and the reserved icon 51 have a lower display priority than the restart performance. Therefore, during the restart performance, the decorative symbol 55, the icon 53, and the reserved icon 51 are not visible because the restart performance is displayed in front. On the other hand, in the gaming machine 1, the small symbol 56 and the fourth symbols 57 and 59 have a higher display priority than the restart performance. Therefore, the player can see the small symbol 56 and the fourth symbol 57 even during the display of the restart performance. The appearance of the small symbol 56 and the fourth symbol 57 is the same before and after the restart performance (specifically, high-speed fluctuation). Note that the small symbol 56 may be displayed temporarily stopped in the same combination as the decorative symbol 55 during the restart performance.

The board lighting device 74 and the frame lighting device 10 emit light in a light pattern for the heaven mode immediately before the restart performance, emit light in a light pattern for the restart performance (for example, a white flashing light pattern) during the restart performance, and emit light in a light pattern for the heaven mode immediately after the restart performance ends. After the restart performance ends, the mode transitions to the heaven mode that was in effect when the variable display began. In other words, during the restart performance, light is emitted in a light pattern different from the light pattern corresponding to the SP reach performance.

Here, even if the result of the first special pattern determination is a jackpot pattern, the time when the restart effect is hidden occurs before the jackpot is announced. For this reason, it is not possible to execute a jackpot announcement effect that operates the special effect device 7 during the restart effect, but it is possible to execute the above-mentioned jackpot announcement effect after the restart effect. It is not necessary for a jackpot to occur after the restart effect is executed. In this case, it is not possible to execute a jackpot announcement effect that operates the special effect device 7 during or after the restart effect.

The challenge performance cannot be performed during or after the restart performance. Note that the challenge performance may be executed after the restart performance.

Note that the mode in which the restart effect is displayed may be such that black images overlap the entire screen, or may be such that the entire screen is covered with images that appear in a mosaic pattern. In addition, the display end mode of the restart effect may be such that the transparency of the image covering the entire screen increases and the image is finally hidden, or the image covering the entire screen is chipped in a mosaic pattern and finally the door opens. The image may be hidden.

As exemplified in FIG. 34(D), there is a variation pattern in which a challenge effect is executed after the enemy wins at the end of the SP reach effect and after a temporary stop display of the losing move (i.e., corresponds to variation pattern O107 or H112). case). As illustrated in FIGS. 35(A) and 35(B), during the challenge performance, the ready-to-reach symbols are hidden and the operation promotion performance is executed. The operation promotion performance is a performance that prompts the player to operate the performance button 26 by displaying the button image 90 and the gauge image 91 for a predetermined effective period (for example, 3 seconds). During the challenge presentation, candidates for decorative symbols that will stop as medium symbols are displayed, and the medium symbol will temporarily stop and display depending on the operation during the validity period. In addition, if there is no operation during the validity period, the middle symbol will be temporarily stopped and displayed at a predetermined validity period end timing (for example, when 3 seconds have elapsed from the start of the operation promotion effect).

If the challenge performance is successful, the middle symbol, which is the same as the reach symbol, is temporarily stopped and displayed, and the jackpot A is announced. During jackpot notification, the display priority of the decorative pattern 55 changes in the order of display patterns HP6, HP9, and HP4. As illustrated in FIG. 35(G), when the jackpot A is stopped and displayed, the jackpot game is executed. At the final stage of the jackpot game, the first attention call and the second attention call are displayed simultaneously. After the jackpot game ends, the game shifts to a low-accuracy time saving mode.

On the other hand, if the challenge effect is a failure, it is suggested that a middle symbol different from the reach symbol will be temporarily stopped and displayed, and a normal losing symbol will be stopped and displayed. After the restart performance is executed following the failure of the challenge performance, normal losing symbols are stopped and displayed. The reach symbol remains hidden from the time the challenge performance fails until the end of the restart performance, and is redisplayed from the end of the restart performance. The display priority of the decorative pattern 55 is the display pattern HP7 before the start of the restart performance, changes to the display pattern HP2 during the restart performance, and changes to the display pattern HP3 during the subsequent stop display. Note that the display priority of the decorative pattern 55 does not need to change before and after the restart performance.

Note that the following configuration may be used when executing the restart effect.
- The size of the entire middle symbol may be larger, smaller, or the same size immediately after the restart performance ends than immediately before the restart performance.
- The size of the number part 550 of the middle symbol may be larger or smaller, or may be the same size immediately after the restart performance ends than immediately before the restart performance.
-The overall size of the left symbol (and right symbol) may be larger, smaller, or the same size immediately after the restart presentation ends than immediately before the restart presentation.
- The size of the number part 550 of the left symbol (and right symbol) may be larger or smaller, or may be the same size immediately after the restart presentation ends than immediately before the restart presentation.
- Immediately before the restart performance, the middle symbol is larger than the left symbol (and right symbol), and immediately after the restart performance ends, the sizes of the left symbol, middle symbol, and right symbol may be the same.
- Immediately before the restart presentation and immediately after the end of the restart presentation, the size ratios between the left symbol, the middle symbol, and the right symbol may be the same.
- The appearance of the decorative pattern 55 may be the same immediately before the restart performance and immediately after the restart performance ends.
- The icon 53 and the hold icon 51 continue to be displayed during the SP reach performance, and the icon 53 and the hold icon 51 may have a higher display priority than the restart performance.
- The icon 53 is deleted at the start of the variable display or the start of the SP reach effect, and does not need to be redisplayed thereafter.
- Regardless of the type of special symbol that is stopped and displayed, after the restart performance ends, it may shift to a special heaven mode that is a performance mode that corresponds to the SP reach performance and has a different appearance from that at the start of the variable display.
- After performing a performance that makes the player expect the challenge performance to be executed, a restart performance may be performed without executing the challenge performance.
- A restart performance may be performed in response to a failure notification after the execution of a challenge performance.

Next, with reference to FIG. 36, a presentation example of the low-accuracy time-saving state in the first embodiment will be described. As illustrated in FIGS. 36(A) and 36(B), the variation pattern O201 that results in a jackpot D is a variation pattern that results in an immediate win in which the symbols are aligned without a ready-to-win effect being executed. As illustrated in FIG. 36(B), when the jackpot D is stopped and displayed, the jackpot game is executed. In the jackpot game, the first attention call and the second attention call are not displayed. After the end of the jackpot game, the game shifts to a low-accuracy time saving mode. In addition, in the jackpot game, a first attention call and a second attention call may be displayed. In the gaming machine 1, even when the variation pattern K201 results in a small win B, the same effect as the variation pattern O201 is executed.

As illustrated in FIGS. 36(A), (C), and (B), the fluctuation pattern O202 that results in a jackpot D suggests a transition (fall) from a low-probability time-saving to a low-probability non-time-saving, and then immediately hits. This is the fluctuation pattern. From the start of the fall suggestion, the door image starts to be displayed and the operation promotion effect is executed. The door image is the same as the door image displayed in response to the start of the first special symbol variation display after the transition to the low accuracy time saving state. Note that the door image displayed from the start of the falling suggestion may be different from the door image displayed in response to the first special symbol variation display start after the transition to the low probability time saving state. In the case of a jackpot D, the door image opens at a predetermined validity period end timing (for example, after 3 seconds have elapsed from the start of the operation promotion performance) regardless of whether or not there is an operation during the validity period, resulting in an immediate win. In addition, in the case of a jackpot D, the door image may be opened in response to an operation during the validity period, resulting in an immediate win.

As illustrated in Figures 36 (A), (C), and (D), the variation pattern H202 in which the normal losing symbol is displayed in a stopped state is a variation pattern in which a fall is suggested and then a loss is notified. The door image that starts to be displayed from the start of the fall suggestion opens at the end of the predetermined valid period (for example, 3 seconds after the start of the operation prompt performance) regardless of whether or not an operation is performed during the valid period, and a loss is notified. Note that in the case of a loss, the door image may be opened in response to an operation performed during the valid period, and a loss is notified.

As illustrated in FIGS. 36(A), (C), and (E), the fluctuation pattern K203 that results in a small hit C is a fluctuation pattern in which a small win C is announced by the small symbol 56 after a fall is suggested. be. The door image whose display has started from the start of the fall suggestion closes at a predetermined validity period end timing (for example, when 3 seconds have elapsed from the start of the operation promotion effect) regardless of the operation during the validity period. As illustrated in FIG. 36(E), when the small win C is stopped and displayed, the jackpot game is executed on the condition that V wins during the small win game. In the jackpot game, the first attention call and the second attention call are not displayed. After the end of the jackpot game (the game state is low probability non-time saving), it is controlled to be low probability non time saving. In addition, if a V prize is not won during the small winning game, the jackpot game is not executed and the game is controlled in a low-probability, non-time-saving manner. When shifting to the low-accuracy non-time saving mode, counting is performed by an out counter for base calculation and a prize ball counter for base calculation.

Figure 36 (F) is an example of a presentation when the reserve for the second special symbol judgment is consumed when the game is controlled in the low-probability non-time-saving mode. From the start of the first display of the second special symbol fluctuation in the low-probability non-time-saving mode until just before the display of the fluctuation related to the reserve for the first second special symbol judgment ends, a result indicating the number of winning balls the player has obtained by playing a jackpot is displayed. Also, from the start of the result, a door image starts to be displayed. The door image is the same as the door image displayed in response to the start of the first special symbol fluctuation display after the transition to the low-probability time-saving mode, and the door image displayed from the start of the fall suggestion. Note that the door image displayed from the start of the result may be different from the door image displayed in response to the start of the first special symbol fluctuation display after the transition to the low-probability time-saving mode, and the door image displayed from the start of the fall suggestion. Note that the result and the door image displayed from the start of the result are also displayed when the number of times the low-probability time-saving mode is completed (for example, the flow from Figure 36 (D) to (F)). If the variable display indicating the end of the low-probability time-saving count does not meet the condition of 750 consecutive misses, the game will transition to low-probability non-time-saving when the variable display ends, and counting will be performed using the out counter for base calculation and the prize ball counter for base calculation. On the other hand, if the variable display indicating the end of the low-probability time-saving count meets the condition of 750 consecutive misses, the game will transition to low-probability time-saving when the variable display ends, and counting will remain stopped using the out counter for base calculation and the prize ball counter for base calculation.

In addition, from the predetermined number of changes (for example, 10 changes before) before the final change of low accuracy time saver to the final change of low accuracy time saver, the remaining number of time savers is notified every time the special symbol starts changing display. You can also do a countdown. In the gaming machine 1, as illustrated in FIG. 36(D), the icon 53 and the pending icon 51 are hidden from the display of the fluctuation a predetermined number of times (for example, 3 fluctuations ago) before the final fluctuation of the low probability time saving. Note that the icon 53 and the pending icon 51 may be displayed until the final change of the low-accuracy time saving is completed.

If all the second special symbol judgments are pending, the result will be hidden and the door image will be opened just before the end of the variable display related to the first second special symbol judgment pending (Fig. 36(G)). Along with this, the display priority of the decorative pattern 55 changes from the display pattern HP9 to HP3 during the result display.

In addition, when displaying a door image accompanying the result display, the following configuration may be used.
The size of the entire middle pattern may be larger, smaller, or the same size in Heaven mode immediately after the door image is displayed than in RUSH mode before the door image is displayed.
The size of the number portion 550 of the center pattern may be larger, smaller, or the same size in the Heaven mode immediately after the door image is displayed than in the RUSH mode before the door image is displayed.
The overall size of the left image (and right image) may be larger, smaller, or the same size in Heaven mode immediately after the door image is displayed than in RUSH mode before the door image is displayed.
The size of the number portion 550 of the left image (and right image) in Heaven mode immediately after the door image is displayed may be larger, smaller, or the same size as that in RUSH mode before the door image is displayed.
In the RUSH mode before the door image is displayed, the middle pattern is larger than the left pattern (and the right pattern), and in the Heaven mode immediately after the door image is displayed, the sizes of the left, middle, and right patterns may be the same.
The size ratio between the left, middle, and right patterns may be the same in the RUSH mode before the door image is displayed and in the Heaven mode immediately after the door image is displayed.
- While the door image is displayed, it will light up in the door image lighting pattern, and immediately after the door image display ends it will light up in the heaven mode lighting pattern.

As shown in FIG. 36(H), if the pending second special pattern judgment consumed during low probability non-time-saving is a big win D, the result is erased and the door image displayed from the start of the result opens, resulting in an instant win. As shown in FIG. 36(I), if the pending second special pattern judgment consumed during low probability non-time-saving is a small win C, the result is erased and the door image displayed from the start of the result opens, resulting in an instant win by the small pattern 56.

[Small winning hole opening control process by the game control board 100]
Hereinafter, the small prize opening control process executed by the game control board 100 will be described with reference to FIG. 37. This small prize opening control process is a process for executing a small prize game selected based on a small prize pattern determination table stored in the main ROM 100b. Here, FIG. 37 is a detailed flowchart of the small prize opening control process in step S5A of FIG. 19. The main CPU 100a judges whether the small prize game flag is set to "ON" (step S641). Here, if it is judged that the small prize game flag is not set to "ON" (step S641: NO), the process proceeds to the large prize opening control process in step S7.

When the main CPU 100a determines that the big win game flag is set to "ON" (step S641: YES), it determines whether or not it is in the opening period of the small win game based on whether or not the elapsed time since the opening command for the small win game was set by the stop processing has reached a predetermined opening time (step S642). Here, when it is determined that it is in the opening period (step S642: YES), it also determines whether or not the opening time has elapsed based on whether or not the elapsed time has reached the predetermined opening time (step S643). Here, when it is determined that the opening time has not elapsed (step S643: NO), the process proceeds to the big win port control process of step S7.

When the main CPU 100a determines that the opening time has elapsed (step S643: YES), it sets the operation pattern of the small prize opening opening solenoid 51c and stores the setting information in the main RAM 100c (step S644). By executing the process of this step S644, various times related to the small prize game, such as the ending time after the end of the round, are also set.

Following the processing of step S644, the main CPU 100a resets the number X of winning balls that have entered the small winning opening 19, which is stored in the main RAM 100c (step S645).

Following the processing of step S645, the main CPU 100a starts the opening control of the small prize opening (step S646). Next, the main CPU 100a starts measuring the opening time, which is the elapsed time since the opening control started (step S647).

When the main CPU 100a determines that the opening of the small winning game is not in progress (step S642: NO), the main CPU 100a determines that the current state is stored in the main RAM 100c, for example, based on information indicating at which point in the small winning game the current state is. , it is determined whether the ending period is in progress (step S648). Here, if it is determined that the ending period is in progress (step S648: YES), the process proceeds to step S659, which will be described later.

When the main CPU 100a determines that the small win game is not ending (step S648: NO), it determines whether the small win port switch has been turned "ON" (step S649). Specifically, it determines whether the small win port switch 116a has been turned "ON" based on the presence or absence of a detection signal from the small win port switch 116a.

Here, if the main CPU 100a determines that the small winning hole switch 116a has been turned "ON" (step S649: YES), it determines that one game ball has won the small winning hole 19, and updates the number of winning game balls X to a value incremented by "1" (step S650).

Following the process of step S650, the main CPU 100a determines whether the V winning a prize opening switch 116b has been turned "ON". When it is determined that the V winning a prize opening switch 116b is turned "ON" (step S651: YES), a V winning prize command is set (step S652), and the jackpot game flag is turned "ON" (step S653).

When the main CPU 100a executes the process of step S653, executes the process of step S647, or determines that the small prize opening switch 116a is not "ON" (step S649: NO), it determines whether or not the specified opening time has elapsed since the small prize opening 19 started to be opened (step S654). Specifically, it determines whether or not the opening time that was started to be measured by the process of step S647 has reached the specified opening time stored in the main ROM 100b.

When the main CPU 100a determines that the specified opening time has not elapsed (step S654: NO), it determines whether the number of winning balls X in the current round of play stored in the main RAM 100c matches the number of winning balls Xmax (e.g., "9") that specifies the timing of closing the large prize opening 13 stored in the main ROM 100b (step S655). Here, when it is determined that the number of winning balls X does not match the number of winning balls Xmax (step S655: NO), the process proceeds to the large prize opening control process of step S7.

On the other hand, if the main CPU 100a determines that the number of winnings X matches the number of game balls Xmax (step S655: YES), it causes the small winning opening opening solenoid 51c to end the opening control of the small winning opening 19 that was started in the processing of step S646 (step S656).

Following the processing in step S656, the main CPU 100a starts measuring the ending time (step S657), and sets the ending command in the main RAM 100c (step S658). This ending command is a command to notify that the round game of the small winning game has ended, and is transmitted to the production control board 130 by the transmission process of step S9.

When the main CPU 100a executes the process of step S658, it determines whether the ending time has elapsed (step S659). If it is determined that the ending time has not elapsed (step S659: NO), the process proceeds to the large prize opening control process of step S7.

If the main CPU 100a determines that the ending time has elapsed (step S659: YES), the main CPU 100a sets the small winning game flag to "OFF" in order to end the small winning game (step S660).

[Big prize opening control process by the game control board 100]
Hereinafter, the big prize opening control process executed by the game control board 100 will be described with reference to FIG. 38. This big prize opening control process is a process for executing a big prize game selected based on a big prize pattern determination table stored in the main ROM 100b. Here, FIG. 38 is a detailed flowchart of the big prize opening control process in step S6A of FIG. 19. Following the small prize opening control process in step S5A, the main CPU 100a judges whether the big prize game flag is set to "ON" (step S601). Here, if it is judged that the big prize game flag is not set to "ON" (step S601: NO), the process proceeds to the prize ball process in step S8.

When the main CPU 100a determines that the jackpot game flag is set to "ON" (step S601: YES), the main CPU 100a sets the elapsed time from setting the opening command related to the jackpot game to the predetermined opening time by the stopping process. It is determined whether or not the opening of the jackpot game is in progress based on whether or not the game has reached (step S602). Here, if it is determined that the opening is in progress (step S602: YES), it is determined whether the opening time has elapsed based on whether or not the elapsed time has reached a predetermined opening time (step S603). ). Here, if it is determined that the opening time has not elapsed (step S603: NO), the process proceeds to prize ball processing in step S8.

When the main CPU 100a determines that the opening time has elapsed (step S603: YES), it sets the number of rounds Rmax for the jackpot game, the operation pattern of the jackpot opening/closing solenoid 51b, etc., and stores the setting information in the main RAM 100c (step S604). By executing the process of this step S604, various times related to the jackpot game, such as the interval time between rounds and the next round, the ending time after the final round, etc., are also set.

Following the processing of step S604, the main CPU 100a resets the number Y of winning balls into the big prize opening 13 stored in the main RAM 100c (step S605), and updates the number of rounds R during the big prize, also stored in the main RAM 100c, to a value incremented by "1" (step S606). This number of rounds R is set to "0" before the start of the big prize, and is incremented by "1" each time the processing of step S606 is performed.

Following the processing of step S606, the main CPU 100a starts the opening control of the special prize opening (step S607). Next, the main CPU 100a starts measuring the opening time, which is the elapsed time since the opening control started (step S608). Then, the main CPU 100a sets a round start command in the main RAM 100c to notify that a round of play to open the special prize opening 13 has started (step S609).

When the main CPU 100a determines that the jackpot game is not in the opening stage (step S602: NO), it determines whether the game is in the ending stage immediately after the end of the final round (step S611) based on information indicating the point in time of the jackpot game in which the current state is stored in the main RAM 100c. If it is determined that the game is in the ending stage (step S611: YES), the process proceeds to step S625 described below.

When the main CPU 100a determines that the ending of the jackpot game is not in progress (step S611: NO), the main CPU 100a determines the interval based on information indicating at what point in the jackpot game the current state stored in the main RAM 100c is, for example. It is determined whether it is in the middle (between one round and the next round) (step S612). Here, if it is determined that the interval is in progress (step S612: YES), whether or not the interval time set by the process of step S604 has elapsed since the big prize opening 13 was closed at the end of the previous round game. is determined (step S613). Here, if it is determined that the interval time has elapsed (step S613: YES), it is time to start the next round game, so the process proceeds to step S605. Conversely, if it is determined that the interval time has not elapsed (step S613: NO), the process proceeds to the prize ball process of step S8.

On the other hand, if the main CPU 100a determines that the game is not in an interval (step S612: NO), it determines that a round is being played and determines whether the special prize opening switch has been turned "ON" (step S614). Specifically, it determines whether the special prize opening detection switch 50a has been turned "ON" based on the presence or absence of a detection signal from the special prize opening detection switch 50a.

Here, if the main CPU 100a determines that the big winning hole detection switch 50a is turned "ON" (step S614: YES), it determines that one game ball has won in the big winning hole 13, and the game ball The winning number Y is updated to a value obtained by adding "1" (step S615).

When the main CPU 100a executes the process of step S615, when the process of step S609 is executed, or when it is determined that the big winning hole detection switch 50a is not "ON" (step S614: NO), the big winning hole 13 It is determined whether a specified opening time has elapsed since the start of opening (step S616). Specifically, it is determined whether the open time whose measurement was started in the process of step S608 has reached the specified open time stored in the main ROM 100b.

If the main CPU 100a determines that the specified opening time has not elapsed (step S616: NO), it determines whether the number of winning game balls Y in the current round of play stored in the main RAM 100c matches the number of game balls Ymax (e.g., "9") that specifies the closing timing of the large prize opening 13 stored in the main ROM 100b (step S617). If it is determined that the number of winning game balls Y does not match the number of game balls Ymax (step S617: NO), the process proceeds to the prize ball processing in step S8.

On the other hand, if the main CPU 100a determines that the number of winnings Y matches the number of game balls Ymax (step S617: YES), or if it determines that the specified opening time has elapsed (step S616: YES), the main CPU 100a controls the grand prize opening opening/closing solenoid. 51b, the opening control of the big prize opening 13 started in the process of step S607 is ended (step S618).

Following the process in step S618, the main CPU 100a determines whether the current number of rounds R of the jackpot game stored in the main RAM 100c matches the number of rounds Rmax set in the process in step S604. (Step S619). Here, if it is determined that the number of rounds R does not match the number of rounds Rmax (step S619: NO), in order to control the start timing of the next round game, the time elapsed after the big prize opening 13 was closed is Measurement of a certain interval time is started (step S620). The interval time whose measurement has been started in the process of step S620 is used in the process of step S613.

On the other hand, if the main CPU 100a determines that the number of rounds R matches the number of rounds Rmax (step S619: YES), it starts measuring the ending time (step S622), resets the number of rounds R stored in the main RAM 100c (step S623), and sets an ending command in the main RAM 100c (step S624). This ending command is a command that notifies the player that the last round of play has ended, and is transmitted to the performance control board 130 by the transmission process of step S8. This ending command includes information (game information) regarding the game state after the big win game ends.

When the main CPU 100a executes the processing of step S624 or determines that the ending is in progress (step S611: YES), it determines whether or not the set ending time has elapsed (step S625). Specifically, it determines whether or not the ending time that began to be measured by the processing of step S622 above has reached the set ending time that was set by the processing of step S604 above. Here, if it is determined that the ending time has not elapsed (step S625: NO), processing proceeds to the prize ball processing of step S8.

When the main CPU 100a determines that the set ending time has elapsed (step S625: YES), it sets the number of time-saving times and a game state designation command according to the type of special symbol (step S626).

After processing step S626, the main CPU 100a sets the jackpot game flag to "OFF" to end the jackpot game (step S627).

[Timer interrupt processing by production control board 130]
Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 39, the timer interrupt process executed in the production control board 130 will be described. Here, FIG. 39 is a flowchart showing an example of a timer interrupt process executed in the production control board 130. Below, the processing shown in FIGS. 39 to 41 will be explained as being performed by the production control board 130, but some or all of these processes will be performed by the production control board 130, the image sound control board 140, and the lamp control board 150. It may be executed in any of the following.

The sub-CPU 130a in the performance control board 130 repeatedly executes the series of processes illustrated in FIG. 39 at regular intervals (e.g., 4 milliseconds), similar to the timer interrupt process performed in the game control board 100. Note that the processes shown in FIG. 39 to FIG. 41 are performed according to commands issued by the sub-CPU 130a based on the program stored in the sub-ROM 130b.

The sub CPU 130a first executes a command reception process to perform a process according to a command from the game control board 100 (step S10), and then executes a transmission process (step S30). In the command reception process, processing is performed in response to receiving various commands from the game control board 100 and the lamp control board 150. Specifically, the sub CPU 130a, for example, receives a command as game information from the game control board 100, and sets the performance content according to the received command. For example, the sub CPU 130a determines a variable performance pattern corresponding to the special symbol fluctuation pattern, and determines whether or not to execute an executable notice performance and the content in the determined variable performance pattern. Then, the sub CPU 130a generates, for example, a command instructing execution of the determined effect, and transmits it to the image and sound control board 140 and the lamp control board 150. As a result, the effect determined by the effect control board 130 is executed by the image and sound control board 140 and the lamp control board 150. The command reception process will be described in detail later based on FIG. 40.

Following the processing in step S30, the sub CPU 130a performs data transfer processing (step S50). The sub CPU 130a receives information transmitted from the image and sound control board 140, for example, in order to control the frame lighting device 10, etc. to emit light, or to control (for example, operate) the performance accessory 7, etc., at the start of each performance. Transfer the data to lamp control board 150. By performing this data transfer process, for example, light emission that causes the board lighting device 74 and the frame lighting device 10 to emit light in conjunction with the effect image displayed on the liquid crystal screen 5 or the effect sound output from the speaker 24. Control is performed, and the performance accessories 7 are operated. With this, the sub CPU 130a ends the process shown in FIG. 39.

[Command reception processing by production control board 130]
FIG. 40 is a detailed flowchart of the command reception process in step S10 of FIG. As illustrated in FIG. 40, the sub CPU 130a first determines whether or not a command transmitted from the game control board 100 or the lamp control board has been received (step S11). Here, if it is determined that no command has been received (step S11: NO), the process proceeds to step S30.

When the sub CPU 130a determines that a command has been received (step S11: YES), the command is a game transmitted from the game control board 100 in accordance with the process of step S3194C (FIG. 27) or step S627 (see FIG. 38). It is determined whether the command is a state specifying command (step S12). Here, if it is determined that the received command is not a gaming state designation command (step S12: NO), the process proceeds to step S14, which will be described later.

If the sub CPU 130a determines that the received command is a gaming state designation command (step S12: YES), it executes a gaming state update process to update the gaming state (step S13).

If the sub CPU 130a determines that the received command is not a pending command (step S12: NO), the sub CPU 130a determines that the command is a fluctuation start command transmitted from the game control board 100 in accordance with the process of step S311 (see FIG. 23). It is determined whether there is one (step S14). Here, if it is determined that the received command is not a fluctuation start command (step S14: NO), the process proceeds to step S16, which will be described later.

If the sub-CPU 130a determines that the received command is a fluctuation start command (step S14: YES), it executes a fluctuation start command reception process (step S15). In the fluctuation start command reception process, the sub-CPU 130a determines, for example, a fluctuation performance pattern that corresponds to the fluctuation pattern of the special symbol included in the fluctuation start command. This fluctuation start command reception process will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 41.

If the sub-CPU 130a determines that the received command is not a change start command (step S14: NO), it determines whether or not the command is a pattern determination command sent from the game control board 100 in response to the processing of step S316 (see FIG. 23) (step S16). If the sub-CPU 130a determines that the command is a pattern determination command (step S16: YES), it sets a change performance end command in the sub-RAM 130c (step S17). This change performance end command is sent to the image and sound control board 140 and the lamp control board 150 by the sending processing of step S30, and the decorative pattern 55 and the small pattern 56 are displayed in a stopped state on the LCD screen 5 in conjunction with the stopped display of the special pattern.

When the sub CPU 130a determines that the received command is not a symbol confirmation command (step S16: NO), the sub CPU 130a determines whether the command is an operation command transmitted from the lamp control board 150 (step S18). This operation command is a command sent from the lamp control board 150 to notify the information when the lamp CPU 151 of the lamp control board 150 detects the operation of the production button 26 or the production key 27. The operation command includes information indicating which of the production button 26 and the production key 27 was operated, information indicating which key was operated when the production key 27 was operated, and the like.

When the sub CPU 130a determines that the operation command has been received (step S18: YES), the sub CPU 130a sets the operation effect start command in the sub RAM 130c (step S19). This command is transmitted to the image-acoustic control board 140 and the lamp control board 150 by the transmission process in step S30. By receiving this command, the image and sound control board 140 can, for example, execute an image or sound effect using the liquid crystal screen 5 or the speaker 24 in accordance with the operation during the validity period. Further, by receiving this command, the lamp control board 150 can execute an effect that causes various lamps to emit light according to the operation during the valid period.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the received command is not an operation command (step S18: NO), processing according to the command is executed (step S20). As an example, when the sub CPU 130a determines that the opening command transmitted from the game control board 100 has been received, the sub CPU 130a starts the performance of the jackpot game (or small win game) corresponding to the type of jackpot (or small win). Set the opening command to direct.

[Variation start command reception processing by the performance control board 130]
Hereinafter, referring to Fig. 41, the fluctuation start command receiving process executed in the performance control board 130 in response to receiving the fluctuation start command transmitted from the game control board 100 will be described. Here, Fig. 41 is a detailed flowchart of the fluctuation start command receiving process in step S15 of Fig. 40.

As illustrated in FIG. 40, when the sub CPU 130a determines that the command received from the game control board 100 is a fluctuation start command (step S14: YES), the sub CPU 130a acquires a fluctuation effect pattern random number and stores it in the sub RAM 130c. (Step S1511). The sub CPU 130a, such as the variable effect pattern random number, obtains the value at the time of receiving the change start command as the variable effect pattern random number.

Following the processing of step S1511, the sub-CPU 130a analyzes the fluctuation start command received from the gaming control board 100 (step S1512). As described above, the fluctuation start command includes information indicating whether or not there is a jackpot, which indicates the result of the jackpot determination (see FIG. 25), the type of special symbol, setting information for the fluctuation pattern of the special symbol, information indicating the gaming status of the gaming machine 1, and the like. By performing this processing, the sub-CPU 130a obtains the information necessary to determine the fluctuation presentation pattern.

Following the processing of step S1512, the sub-CPU 130a judges whether or not the display is a special pattern change display for the first spin after the time-saving play flag is turned ON (step S1513). If the processing of step S1513 judges YES, the sub-CPU 130a judges whether or not the change pattern is for low-probability time-saving (step S1514). If the processing of step S1514 judges YES, the sub-CPU 130a determines a change presentation pattern for a right-hit notification mode that involves the display of text and a door image encouraging a right hit (step S1515).

If the determination in step S1513 or step S1514 is NO, the sub CPU 130a determines a variable performance pattern that is not a right-handed hitting notification mode (step S1516).

When the process of step S1515 is executed, or when the process of step S1516 is executed, the sub CPU 130a sets a variable effect start command including the setting contents determined in these processes (step S1517). The fluctuation effect start command is transmitted to the image and sound control board 140 and the lamp control board 150 by the transmission process in step S30 (see FIG. 39). As a result, the effect determined by the effect control board 130 is realized by the image and sound control board 140 and the lamp control board 150.

Following the process in step S1517, the sub CPU 130a subtracts "1" from the value of the number of reservations stored in the sub RAM 130c (step S1518). With this, the sub CPU 130a ends the process shown in FIG. 41.

[Effects of the First Embodiment]
The gaming machine 1 of the first embodiment controls the game in a low-probability non-time-shortening state, a low-probability minute-time-shortening state, and a low-probability time-shortening state. The low-probability non-time-shortening state is a game state that is more advantageous to the player than the low-probability minute-time-shortening state. When the gaming machine 1 is in the power "OFF" state, if the power is turned "ON" with the setting key SW in the "OFF" state and the RWM clear SW in the "ON" state, the gaming machine 1 transitions to the RAM clear mode immediately after starting up. When transitioning to the RAM clear mode, information regarding the game state is initialized and the gaming machine 1 starts playing in the low-probability non-time-shortening state, which is more advantageous to the player than the high-probability minute-time-shortening state. This makes it possible for the gaming machine 1 of the first embodiment to motivate players to play immediately after the gaming establishment opens.

The gaming machine 1 of the first embodiment controls play in a low-probability non-time-saving state, a low-probability minute-time-saving state, and a low-probability time-saving state. The low-probability non-time-saving state is a game state that is more advantageous to the player than the low-probability minute-time-saving state. When the gaming machine 1 is in the power "OFF" state and the power is turned "ON" with the setting key SW "ON" and the RWM clear SW "ON", the gaming machine 1 transitions to the setting change mode immediately after startup. When the transition is made to the setting change mode, information regarding the game state is initialized and the gaming machine 1 starts play in the low-probability non-time-saving state, which is more advantageous to the player than the high-probability minute-time-saving state. This makes it possible for the gaming machine 1 of the first embodiment to motivate the player to play immediately after the setting change (i.e., immediately after the gaming facility opens).

The gaming machine 1 of the first embodiment controls the game in a low-probability non-time-saving state, a low-probability minute-time-saving state, and a low-probability time-saving state. If a jackpot A occurs in the low-probability non-time-saving state or the low-probability minute-time-saving state, the game transitions to the low-probability time-saving state upon the end of the jackpot game. If a specific losing symbol is displayed in the low-probability non-time-saving state, the game can transition from the low-probability non-time-saving state to the low-probability time-saving state. On the other hand, if a specific losing symbol is displayed in the low-probability minute-time-saving state, the game state does not change. Therefore, the probability of transitioning to the low-probability time-saving state is higher in the low-probability non-time-saving state than in the low-probability minute-time-saving state by the probability of a specific losing symbol. This makes the low-probability non-time-saving state a game state that is more advantageous to the player than the low-probability minute-time-saving state.

Furthermore, the gaming machine 1 of the first embodiment controls the game in a low-reliability non-time-saving state, a low-reliability slight time-saving state, and a low-reliability time-saving state. The probability of determining that a jackpot game will be executed is the same in the low-probability non-time-saving state, the low-probability slightly time-saving state, and the low-probability time-saving state. When a jackpot A is achieved in the low-probability non-time-saving state or the low-probability slight time-saving state, the game shifts to the low-probability time-saving state in response to the end of the jackpot game. When a specific losing symbol is stopped and displayed in the low-probability non-time-saving state, it is possible to shift from the low-probability non-time-saving state to the low-probability time-saving state. On the other hand, when a specific losing symbol is stopped and displayed in a low probability time saving state, the gaming state does not change. For this reason, when the game is in the low-probability non-time-saving state, the probability of transition to the low-probability time-saving state is higher by the probability of a specific losing symbol than when it is in the low-probability, slightly time-saving state. As a result, in a situation where the probability of executing a jackpot game is the same, the low-probability non-time-saving state can be made into a gaming state more advantageous to the player than the low-probability slightly time-saving state.

In addition, the gaming machine 1 of the first embodiment controls the game in a low-probability non-time-saving state, a low-probability minute-time-saving state (time-saving count 99 or 500 times), and a low-probability minute-time-saving state. In the low-probability minute-time-saving state, the number of times the special pattern judgment result is notified reaches 99 or 500 times, and the low-probability minute-time-saving state ends. If a jackpot A is obtained in the low-probability non-time-saving state or the low-probability minute-time-saving state, the game moves to a low-probability minute-time-saving state (time-saving count 700 times) upon the end of the jackpot game. In addition, if a specific losing pattern is stopped and displayed in the low-probability non-time-saving state, it is possible to move from the low-probability non-time-saving state to the low-probability minute-time-saving state (time-saving count 700 times). On the other hand, if a specific losing pattern is stopped and displayed in the low-probability minute-time-saving state, the game state does not change from the low-probability minute-time-saving state. The probability of moving to the low-probability minute-time-saving state is higher in the low-probability non-time-saving state than in the low-probability minute-time-saving state. If the condition of 750 consecutive misses is met in the low-probability non-time-saving state or the low-probability slight time-saving state, the state transitions to the low-probability time-saving state (time-saving count 1000 times). Therefore, in the first embodiment of the gaming machine 1, the low-probability time-saving state includes a state in which the low-probability time-saving state ends when the number of times the judgment result of the special pattern judgment is notified reaches 700 times, and a state in which the low-probability time-saving state ends when the number of times the judgment result of the special pattern judgment is notified reaches 1000 times. The low-probability slight time-saving state, the low-probability time-saving state (time-saving count 700 times), and the low-probability time-saving state (time-saving count 1000 times) each have a different degree of advantage to the player. This makes it possible to make the player interested in the number of times the judgment result of the special pattern judgment is notified.

The gaming machine 1 of the first embodiment controls the game in a low-probability non-time-saving state, a low-probability minute-time-saving state (time-saving times of 99 or 500), and a low-probability time-saving state. When a big win A occurs in the low-probability non-time-saving state or the low-probability minute-time-saving state, the game transitions to a low-probability time-saving state (time-saving times of 700) upon the end of the big win game. When a specific losing symbol is stopped and displayed in the low-probability non-time-saving state, it is possible to transition from the low-probability non-time-saving state to the low-probability time-saving state. On the other hand, when a specific losing symbol is stopped and displayed in the low-probability minute-time-saving state, the game state does not change from the low-probability minute-time-saving state. For this reason, the low-probability minute-time-saving state is a game state that is disadvantageous to the player compared to the low-probability non-time-saving state. When the remaining number of time-saving times becomes 0 in the low-probability minute-time-saving state, the game transitions to the low-probability non-time-saving state. This makes it possible to have the player play with the aim of transitioning to the low-probability non-time-saving state when in the low-probability minute-time-saving state.

Furthermore, the gaming machine 1 of the first embodiment controls the game in a low-reliability non-time-saving state, a low-reliability slight time-saving state, and a low-reliability time-saving state. The low-probability time-saving state is more advantageous to the player than the low-probability non-time-saving state and the low-probability slight time-saving state. When it is determined that the jackpot game is not to be executed, a specific losing symbol or a normal losing symbol is stopped and displayed. When a specific losing symbol is stopped and displayed in the low-probability non-time-saving state, it is possible to shift from the low-probability non-time-saving state to the low-probability time-saving state. Thereby, the player can be happy even if he loses because he can aim to shift the low probability non-time saving state to the low probability time saving state by a specific losing symbol.

Furthermore, the gaming machine 1 of the first embodiment controls the game in a low-reliability non-time-saving state, a low-reliability slight time-saving state, and a low-reliability time-saving state. The low-probability time-saving state is more advantageous to the player than the low-probability non-time-saving state and the low-probability slight time-saving state. When it is determined that the jackpot game is not to be executed, a specific losing symbol or a normal losing symbol is stopped and displayed. When a specific losing symbol is stopped and displayed in the low-probability non-time-saving state, it is possible to shift from the low-probability non-time-saving state to the low-probability time-saving state. In the low probability time saving state, if a specific losing symbol is stopped and displayed in a variation before the final time saving variation, the gaming state does not change. The low-reliability time-saving state ends when the remaining number of time-savings becomes 0. Thereby, when the game is in the low-probability non-time-saving state, it is possible to make the player expect a specific losing symbol more than when it is in the low-probability, time-saving state.

Furthermore, the gaming machine 1 of the first embodiment controls the game in a low-reliability non-time-saving state, a low-reliability slight time-saving state, and a low-reliability time-saving state. The low-probability time-saving state is more advantageous to the player than the low-probability non-time-saving state and the low-probability slightly time-saving state. When it is determined that the jackpot game is not to be executed, a specific losing symbol or a normal losing symbol is stopped and displayed. When a losing (time saving A) symbol is stopped and displayed as a specific losing symbol in the low probability non-time saving state, it is possible to shift from the low probability non time saving state to the low probability time saving state. When a losing (time saving B) symbol is stopped and displayed as a specific losing symbol in the low probability non-time saving state, it is possible to shift from the low probability non time saving state to the low probability fine time saving state. In the low probability time saving state, if a specific losing symbol is stopped and displayed in a variation before the final time saving variation, the gaming state does not change. The low-reliability time saving state ends when the number of time saving times becomes 0. This makes it possible to give the player a sense of excitement as to whether the game will transition to a low-accuracy time-saving state or a low-accuracy micro-time-saving state due to a specific losing symbol when the game is in a low-accuracy non-time-saving state.

Furthermore, the gaming machine 1 of the first embodiment controls the game in a low-reliability non-time-saving state, a low-reliability slight time-saving state, and a low-reliability time-saving state. The low-probability time-saving state is more advantageous to the player than the low-probability non-time-saving state and the low-probability slight time-saving state. When it is determined that the jackpot game is not to be executed, a specific losing symbol or a normal losing symbol is stopped and displayed. When a losing (time saving A) symbol is stopped and displayed as a specific losing symbol in the low probability non-time saving state, it is possible to shift from the low probability non time saving state to the low probability time saving state. The normal symbol is displayed in a variable pattern for a low-accuracy non-time-saving state in a low-accuracy non-time-saving state, and is variably displayed in a variable pattern for a low-accuracy time-saving state in a low-accuracy time-saving state. The variation pattern of the normal symbol for the low-accuracy time-saving state is shorter than the variation pattern of the normal symbol for the low-accuracy non-time-saving state. As a result, the normal symbols can be changed more frequently in the low-accuracy time-saving state than in the low-accuracy non-time-saving state.

Furthermore, the gaming machine 1 of the first embodiment controls the game in a low-reliability non-time-saving state, a low-reliability slight time-saving state, and a low-reliability time-saving state. The low-probability time-saving state is more advantageous to the player than the low-probability non-time-saving state and the low-probability slight time-saving state. When it is determined that the jackpot game is not to be executed, a specific losing symbol or a normal losing symbol is stopped and displayed. When a losing (time saving A) symbol is stopped and displayed as a specific losing symbol in the low probability non-time saving state, it is possible to shift from the low probability non time saving state to the low probability time saving state. The electric tulip 17 is opened in an open pattern for a low-reliability non-time-saving state in a low-reliability non-time-saving state, and is opened in an open pattern for a low-reliable time-saving state in a low-reliability time-saving state. The opening time of the electric tulip 17 is longer in the low-accuracy time-saving state than in the low-accuracy non-time-saving state. As a result, it is easier to land a game ball in the second start opening 12 in the low-accuracy time-saving state than in the low-accuracy non-time-saving state.

The gaming machine 1 of the first embodiment controls the game in a low-probability non-time-saving state, a low-probability minute-time-saving state, and a low-probability time-saving state. The low-probability time-saving state is more advantageous to the player than the low-probability non-time-saving state and the low-probability minute-time-saving state. When it is determined that a jackpot game will not be executed, a specific losing symbol or a normal losing symbol is displayed. When a losing (time-saving A) symbol is displayed as a specific losing symbol in the low-probability non-time-saving state, it is possible to transition from the low-probability non-time-saving state to the low-probability time-saving state. In the low-probability non-time-saving state, the special symbol is displayed in a variable pattern for the low-probability non-time-saving state, and in the low-probability time-saving state, it is displayed in a variable pattern for the low-probability time-saving state. The variable pattern of the special symbol for the low-probability time-saving state is shorter than the variable pattern of the special symbol for the low-probability non-time-saving state. This allows the special symbol to be variable more frequently in the low-probability time-saving state than in the low-probability non-time-saving state.

In addition, the gaming machine 1 of the first embodiment controls the game in a low-probability non-time-saving state, a low-probability minute-time-saving state, and a low-probability time-saving state. When in the low-probability time-saving state, the right-hit lamp 49 is lit to encourage the player to hit the right. When in the low-probability non-time-saving state or the low-probability minute-time-saving state, the right-hit lamp 49 is turned off. When it is determined that a jackpot game will not be executed, a specific losing symbol or a normal losing symbol is displayed as a stopped symbol. When a losing symbol (time-saving A) is displayed as a specific losing symbol in the low-probability non-time-saving state, it is possible to transition from the low-probability non-time-saving state to the low-probability minute-time-saving state. In response to the missing symbol (time-saving A) being displayed as a stopped symbol in the low-probability non-time-saving state, the right-hit lamp 49 is lit. When a missing symbol (time-saving B) is displayed as a specific losing symbol in the low-probability non-time-saving state, it is possible to transition from the low-probability non-time-saving state to the low-probability minute-time-saving state. In the low probability non-time-saving state, the right hit lamp 49 remains unlit in response to the display of a missing (time-saving B) symbol. This makes it possible to indicate to the player whether or not the game ball is likely to enter the second starting hole 12, depending on the state of the right hit lamp 49.

The gaming machine 1 of the first embodiment controls play in a low-probability non-time-saving state, a low-probability minute time-saving state, and a low-probability time-saving state. The low-probability non-time-saving state has a higher probability of transitioning to the low-probability time-saving state than the low-probability minute time-saving state, and is therefore advantageous to the player. When the number of time-saving times reaches 0 in the low-probability minute time-saving state, the game transitions to the low-probability non-time-saving state. If the small win symbol is displayed stopped a specified maximum number of times (e.g., 2 times) when the number of time-saving times is not 0 in the low-probability minute time-saving state, it is possible to transition from the low-probability minute time-saving state to the low-probability non-time-saving state. This makes it possible to transition from the low-probability minute time-saving state to the low-probability non-time-saving state by achieving a small win before the number of time-saving times reaches 0, and therefore it is possible to provide the player with a varied game.

Furthermore, the gaming machine 1 of the first embodiment controls the game in a low-reliability non-time-saving state, a low-reliability slight time-saving state, and a low-reliability time-saving state. When it is determined that the jackpot game is not to be executed, a specific losing symbol or a normal losing symbol is stopped and displayed. When a specific losing symbol is stopped and displayed in the low-probability non-time-saving state, it is possible to shift from the low-probability non-time-saving state to the low-probability time-saving state. In response to a specific losing symbol being stopped and displayed in a low-accuracy, non-time-saving state, characters urging a right hit, a door image, and a background image for a low-accuracy, time-saving state are displayed. In response to a specific losing symbol being stopped and displayed in the low-accuracy time-saving state, the text that prompts a right hit, the door image, and the background image for the low-accuracy time-saving state are not displayed. Thereby, it is possible to clearly indicate to the player that a specific losing symbol that changes the gaming state is stopped and displayed.

Furthermore, the gaming machine 1 of the first embodiment controls the game in a low-reliability non-time-saving state, a low-reliability slight time-saving state, and a low-reliability time-saving state. When it is determined that the jackpot game is not to be executed, a specific losing symbol or a normal losing symbol is stopped and displayed. When a specific losing symbol is stopped and displayed in the low-probability non-time-saving state, it is possible to shift from the low-probability non-time-saving state to the low-probability time-saving state. In response to a specific losing symbol being stopped and displayed in a low-accuracy, non-time-saving state, characters urging a right hit, a door image, and a background image for a low-accuracy, time-saving state are displayed. When a specific losing pattern is stopped and displayed in a low probability time saving state, a performance indicating that it is a mere loss is executed. Thereby, it is possible to clearly indicate to the player whether a specific losing symbol that causes a transition to the game state is stopped and displayed, or whether a normal losing symbol that does not cause a transition to the gaming state is stopped and displayed.

[Second embodiment]
Next, the second embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 42 to 52. The gaming machine 1 of the second embodiment is mainly different from the gaming machine 1 of the first embodiment in that, while it can transition to a low-probability time-saving state in response to a specific losing symbol being stopped and displayed in a low-probability minute time-saving state, it does not transition to a low-probability time-saving state in response to a specific losing symbol being stopped and displayed in a low-probability non-time-saving state.

Note that the second embodiment will be described in terms of the differences from the first embodiment, but parts not described will be considered to be the same as the first embodiment.

FIG. 42 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the transition of gaming states in the second embodiment. In the initial state where the RWM clear is performed, the gaming machine 1 is controlled to be in a low-reliability, non-time-saving state. When a specific losing pattern (specifically, a losing (time saving A) symbol and a losing (time saving A) symbol) is stopped and displayed in a low probability non-time saving state, it is controlled to a low probability fine time saving state, and the number of time saving times is 20 or 500 times is set (flow from FIG. 42(a) to (c) via (a6)). Specifically, when the losing (time saving A) symbol is stopped and displayed, the number of time reductions J1 related to the first special symbol is set to 20 times, the number of time reductions J2 related to the second special symbol is set to 0 times, The number of time saving times J3 related to the sum of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is set to 20 times. When the losing (time-saving) symbol is stopped and displayed, the number of time-savings J1 related to the first special symbol is set to 500, the number of time-savings J2 related to the second special symbol is set to 0, and the number of times J1 related to the first special symbol is set to 0. The time saving number J3 related to the total with the second special symbol is set to 500 times. The losing (time saving A) symbol is a losing symbol that is more advantageous to the player than the losing (time saving A) symbol because the number of times the time saving is controlled to be small and accurate is greater than that of the losing (time saving A) symbol.

When a specific losing pattern (specifically, a losing (time saving A) pattern and a losing (time saving A) pattern) is stopped and displayed in the low accuracy fine time saving state, it is controlled to a low accuracy time saving state and the number of time saving times is set to 700. (flow from FIG. 42(c) to FIG. 42(b) via (c3)). Specifically, when a losing (time saving A) symbol or a losing (time saving A) symbol is stopped and displayed, the number of time saving times J1 related to the first special symbol is set to 10, and the number of time saving times J2 related to the second special symbol is set. is set to 700 times, and the time saving number J3 related to the total of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is set to 700 times. In the case of transitioning to a low probability time saving state, when the number of slight time savings ends, the game shifts to a low probability non time saving state which is disadvantageous for the player.

The low-probability time-saving state allows players to aim for a big win (and a small win) by targeting the second starting hole 12, so it is more advantageous to the player than the low-probability non-time-saving state (and low-probability micro-time-saving state) which aims for the first starting hole 11. The low-probability micro-time-saving state allows players to transition to the low-probability time-saving state when a specific losing symbol stops, so it is more advantageous to the player than the low-probability non-time-saving state. Note that if a losing (time-saving A) symbol or a losing (time-saving B) symbol stops and is displayed in the low-probability time-saving state, the number of time-saving times is not added and the game state remains in the low-probability time-saving state.

Further, the low probability time saving state is controlled by the end of the jackpot game whose execution condition is the stop display of jackpot symbols indicating jackpot A. For example, when a jackpot game related to jackpot A is executed, 700 times is set as the time saving number. Specifically, the number of time reductions J1 related to the first special symbol is set to 10 times, the number of time reductions J2 related to the second special symbol is set to 700 times, and the total number of time reductions J1 related to the first special symbol and the second special symbol is set to 700 times. The number of time saving times J3 is set to 700 times.

In this way, in the second embodiment, when a predetermined condition (specifically, when a miss or a jackpot occurs) is met in the low-probability micro-time-saving state, the game transitions from the low-probability micro-time-saving state to the low-probability time-saving state with the combined probability of the probability of a specific miss symbol and the probability of a jackpot A. In the second embodiment, when a predetermined condition (specifically, when a miss or a jackpot occurs) is met in the low-probability non-time-saving state, the game transitions from the low-probability non-time-saving state to the low-probability time-saving state with the probability of a jackpot A. For this reason, the probability of transitioning to the low-probability time-saving state is greater in the low-probability micro-time-saving state than in the low-probability non-time-saving state by the probability of a specific miss symbol. Therefore, the low-probability non-time-saving state is a game state that is relatively more disadvantageous to the player than the low-probability micro-time-saving state.

In addition, the low probability time saving state is controlled regardless of the gaming state when the condition of 750 consecutive losses is met, and the number of time saving times is set to 1000 times. Specifically, the number of time reductions J1 related to the first special symbol is set to 10 times, the number of time reductions J2 related to the second special symbol is set to 1000 times, and the total number of time reductions J1 related to the first special symbol and the second special symbol is set to 1000 times. The number of time saving times J3 is set to 1000 times. This number of time savings is greater than the number of time savings set on the condition of a big win (or a small win), so it can be said that this is a more advantageous situation for the player.

The low probability micro time-saving state is controlled by the end of a jackpot game, the execution condition of which is the display of a jackpot pattern showing jackpot I or U. For example, when a jackpot game related to jackpot I is executed, the number of time-saving times is set to 20. Specifically, the number of time-saving times J1 related to the first special pattern is set to 20, the number of time-saving times J2 related to the second special pattern is set to 0, and the number of time-saving times J3 related to the combination of the first special pattern and the second special pattern is set to 20. Also, for example, when a jackpot game related to jackpot U is executed, the number of time-saving times is set to 500. Specifically, the number of time-saving times J1 related to the first special pattern is set to 500, the number of time-saving times J2 related to the second special pattern is set to 0, and the number of time-saving times J3 related to the combination of the first special pattern and the second special pattern is set to 500.

The low-reliability non-time-saving state is controlled by ending the number of time-savings in the low-reliability time-saving state or the low-reliability slight time-saving state, in addition to the initial state. Further, it is controlled by the completion of a jackpot game whose execution condition is the stop display of a jackpot symbol indicating a jackpot. Further, it is controlled by executing a small winning game whose execution condition is the stop display of a small winning symbol indicating a small winning A. In addition, if you win a V prize during a small winning game, the jackpot game that is executed following the small winning game ends and it is controlled to a low probability non-time saving state, and if you do not win a V prize during a small winning game, you will receive a small prize. When the winning game ends, it is controlled to a low probability non-time saving state. In addition, when a V prize is not won during a small winning game in which the execution condition is the stop display of the small winning symbol indicating a small winning A, the small winning game is ended and the small winning game is controlled to a low probability non-time saving state.

In addition, on the condition that a specific losing symbol (specifically, a losing (time-saving A) symbol and a losing (time-saving B) symbol) is stopped and displayed in the low-probability non-time-saving state, the number of time-saving times may not be incremented and the game state may remain unchanged in the low-probability non-time-saving state. Also, on the condition that a losing (time-saving A) symbol is stopped and displayed in the low-probability non-time-saving state, the number of time-saving times may not be incremented and the game state may remain unchanged in the low-probability non-time-saving state, while when a losing (time-saving B) symbol is stopped and displayed in the low-probability non-time-saving state, the state may be controlled to the low-probability micro-time-saving state and the number of time-saving times may be set to 500 times (or 20 times).

FIG. 43 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the result of special symbol determination in the second embodiment. In the second embodiment, in the first special symbol determination, there is a probability of about 1/500 of a specific loss (time saving A or B) that causes a slight time saving state or a time saving state to occur, regardless of the set value. It is a normal loss that does not change the game state with a probability other than that of a big hit, a small win, or a specific loss (time saving A or B).

A feature of the results of the special symbol determination in the second embodiment is that the probability of being determined to be a loss (time saving) is different between the first special symbol determination and the second special symbol determination. As a result, the first special symbol determination aims to change the gaming state by drawing a jackpot or loss (time saving), and the second special symbol determination aims to change the gaming state by drawing a jackpot or small win. It can provide a new kind of gameplay.

FIG. 44 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the jackpot type and small win type in the second embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 44(A), the jackpot A involves playing a round game twice in which the jackpot 13 is opened and closed so that the game ball can easily pass through, and immediately after the jackpot game ends, the jackpot A is in a low probability time saving state. It's a big hit to move on. Jackpots A and C are jackpots in which a round game is executed twice and the game shifts to a low-probability, slightly time-saving state immediately after the jackpot game ends. Jackpot E is a jackpot in which a round game is executed 10 times and the game shifts to a low-probability time-saving state immediately after the jackpot game ends. A jackpot game is a jackpot game in which a round game is executed twice and a low-probability non-time-saving state is entered immediately after the jackpot game ends.

The jackpots of the second embodiment differ from the jackpots of the first embodiment in that they are jackpots that do not set an upper limit for the number of small wins. In the second embodiment, since low-probability slight time-saving is more advantageous to the player than low-probability non-time-saving, if a small win is drawn until the maximum number of small wins is reached in the low-probability slight time-saving state, the state shifts to the low-probability non-time-saving state. Adopting such a configuration is not very preferable because it would be disadvantageous to the player. Therefore, in the second embodiment, a configuration is adopted in which the upper limit number of small wins is not set. In addition, in the second embodiment, the upper limit number of small hits is set and the jackpot is controlled to be low-probability non-time saving after the end of the jackpot game, and if the small win is drawn until the upper limit number of small wins is reached in the low-probability non-time saving state, it is low probability. You may shift to a slight time saving state.

In the case of a jackpot A, three identical decorative symbols 55 are displayed, whereas in the case of jackpots B and C, a special decorative symbol (time-saving symbol) is displayed to notify the player of a transition to a low-probability minute time-saving state. Although the fourth symbol is displayed differently in jackpots B and C, the player cannot tell whether it is a jackpot B or C from the display mode of the decorative symbol 55. For this reason, players who are not familiar with the game can play without knowing the number of time-saving times that will be set in the low-probability minute time-saving state.

The degree of advantage of each jackpot game to the player increases in the following order: jackpot O < jackpot B < jackpot C < jackpot A < jackpot D.

In addition, as a result of the first special symbol determination, there may be a jackpot that shifts to a low probability non-time saving state immediately after the end of the jackpot game.

As illustrated in FIG. 44(B), small wins A and B are small wins in which a small winning game is executed in which the small prize opening 19 is opened and closed to make it easy to win a V prize. When the small winning games related to small winnings A and B are executed, a V prize is basically won, and the jackpot game is executed immediately after the small winning game ends. In the jackpot game related to small win A, the round game is executed 10 times, and immediately after the jackpot game ends, the game shifts to a low probability time saving state. In the jackpot game related to the small win A, the round game is executed twice, and immediately after the jackpot game ends, the game shifts to a low-probability non-time-saving state.

Regarding the degree of advantage of each small win game, the degree of advantage for the player increases in the order of small win A < small win A.

Figure 45 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the types of misses (time reduction) in the second embodiment. Misses (time reduction A) and misses (time reduction B) are misses that, when stopped and displayed when the state is in a low probability non-time reduction state (i.e., the time reduction game flag is OFF) at the start of the fluctuation, will cause the state to transition to a low probability micro-time reduction state without executing a big win game or a small win game. When misses (time reduction A) or misses (time reduction B) are stopped and displayed in a low probability non-time reduction state, the counting in the total out counter continues, but the measurement in the base calculation out counter and the base calculation prize ball counter stops, and the calculation of the real-time base value bL is also stopped. Accordingly, the measurement of the number of times the special pattern changes continues, and the measurement of the number of times the time reduction is newly started. That is, the main CPU 100a of the game control board 100 will add 1 to the number of times the special pattern changes this time and subtract 1 from the number of times the time reduction is performed in response to the next special pattern judgment. The number of times the special symbol changes is set to 0 when the settings are changed, the RWM is cleared, or a jackpot is played, and is incremented by 1 each time a special symbol is determined.

When a miss (time-saving A) or a miss (time-saving B) is displayed as a stopped display in the non-time-saving state, the remaining number of time-saving turns is not announced on the LCD screen 5, and the right-hit lamp 49 remains off. This makes it difficult to distinguish between a low-probability non-time-saving state and a low-probability minute-time-saving state. Note that when a miss (time-saving A) or a miss (time-saving B) is displayed as a stopped display in the non-time-saving state, the right-hit lamp 49 may remain off and the remaining number of time-saving turns may be announced on the LCD screen 5. This makes it easy to distinguish between a low-probability non-time-saving state and a low-probability minute-time-saving state.

The decorative symbols 55 are stopped and displayed in a combination of "227" in conjunction with the stop display of specific losing symbols (specifically, losing (time-saving A) and losing (time-saving A)). Since the combination "227" is not stopped and displayed together with special symbols other than the specific losing symbol, the player can recognize that it is a losing move to a low-probability minute time saving by looking at the decorative symbol 55.

When a miss (time-saving A) or a miss (time-saving B) is displayed in a stopped state in the low-probability non-time-saving state, the normal pattern is displayed in a low-probability micro-time-saving change time from the next normal pattern change display, and the electric tulip 17 is opened in a low-probability micro-time-saving opening pattern. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the change time of the normal pattern for low-probability micro-time-saving is shorter than the change time of the normal pattern for low-probability non-time-saving (and for low-probability micro-time-saving). Also, when a miss (time-saving A) or a miss (time-saving B) is displayed in a stopped state in the low-probability non-time-saving state, the special pattern is displayed in a low-probability micro-time-saving change time from the next special pattern change display. The change time of the special pattern for low-probability micro-time-saving is the same as the change time of the special pattern for low-probability non-time-saving (and for low-probability micro-time-saving). Note that the change time of the special pattern for low-probability micro-time-saving may be shorter than the change time of the special pattern for low-probability non-time-saving.

When a miss (time-saving A) or miss (time-saving B) is displayed in a stopped state during low-probability micro-time-saving, the next normal pattern display will display a normal pattern with the low-probability time-saving change time, and the electric tulip 17 will be opened in the low-probability time-saving opening pattern. The change time of the normal pattern for low-probability time-saving is shorter than the change time of the normal pattern for low-probability micro-time-saving (and low-probability micro-time-saving). Also, when a miss (time-saving A) or miss (time-saving B) is displayed in a stopped state during low-probability micro-time-saving, the next special pattern display will display a special pattern with the low-probability time-saving change time. The change time of the special pattern for low-probability time-saving is shorter than the change time of the special pattern for low-probability micro-time-saving.

Loss (Time Saving A) and Loss (Time Saving B) are losses in which when the time saving state is low at the start of the fluctuation, the jackpot game and the small winning game are not executed and the game state does not change when the game is stopped and displayed. That is, in the case of a low-accuracy time-saving state, when the loss (time-saving A) and loss (time-saving A) are stopped and displayed, the number of time-savings is only subtracted by 1, and a new number of time-savings is not added. If the number of time saving times is not 0, the low accuracy time saving state continues as it is. On the other hand, when the number of times of time saving is 0, the state shifts from the low-reliability time-saving state to the low-reliability non-time-saving state. Therefore, for example, if a loss (time saving A) and a loss (time saving A) are stopped and displayed due to the final change in time saving in a low accuracy time saving state, the out counter for base calculation and the prize ball counter for base calculation restart. , calculation of the real-time base value bL is also restarted.

In the low-probability micro-time-saving state, the player can aim to transition to the low-probability time-saving state by hitting a jackpot or hitting a specific missing symbol, whereas in the low-probability non-time-saving state, the player basically aims to transition to the low-probability time-saving state by hitting a jackpot. The probability of transitioning to the low-probability time-saving state in the low-probability micro-time-saving state is the sum of the probability of hitting a jackpot and the probability of hitting a specific missing symbol, whereas the probability of transitioning to the low-probability time-saving state in the low-probability non-time-saving state is only the probability of hitting a jackpot. Therefore, the probability of transitioning to the low-probability time-saving state in the low-probability micro-time-saving state is higher than the probability of transitioning to the low-probability time-saving state in the low-probability non-time-saving state. For this reason, the low-probability micro-time-saving state is easier to transition to the low-probability time-saving state than the low-probability non-time-saving state, which is advantageous for the player.

Figure 46 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the fluctuation pattern (fluctuation time group) of the first special symbol in the second embodiment. A characteristic feature of the fluctuation pattern of the first special symbol is that in the low probability non-time-saving state (and the low probability minute time-saving state), a miss (time-saving A or B) with a longer fluctuation time than a normal miss is likely to be selected. Note that the time for which a miss (time-saving A or B) is displayed frozen is the same as the time for which a normal miss is displayed frozen, but the time for which a miss (time-saving A or B) is displayed frozen may be longer or shorter than the time for which a normal miss is displayed frozen.

In the low-probability non-time-saving state (and the low-probability slight time-saving state), the fluctuation pattern of the first special symbol is the same for the loss (time-saving A) and the loss (time-saving A), and is executed in conjunction with the fluctuation display of the first special symbol. The same goes for the performance. This makes it impossible to recognize whether it is a loss (time-saving A) or a loss (time-saving A) depending on the variation time of the first special symbol and the performance performed. In addition, as the variation time of the first special symbol, there may be one in which a loss (time-saving A) is guaranteed, and one in which a loss (time-saving A) is certain. In addition, the performance executed in conjunction with the variable display of the first special symbol may include one in which a loss (time-saving A) is guaranteed, and one in which a loss (time-saving A) is certain. Further, the variation time of the first special symbol may be shorter or longer for a loss (time-saving A) than for a loss (time-saving A).

In the low probability non-time-saving state (and the low probability micro-time-saving state), the presentation executed in conjunction with the changing display of a miss (time-saving A or B) is the same as the presentation executed in conjunction with the changing display of a jackpot and a normal miss, except for the combination of decorative patterns 55. This makes it difficult to tell whether it is a jackpot, a normal miss, or a miss (time-saving A or B) based on the presentation executed in conjunction with the changing display of the first special pattern.

In the low-probability time-saving state, a distinctive feature of the first special symbol fluctuation pattern is that the fluctuation time of a miss (time-saving A or B) is the same as the fluctuation time of a normal miss. The effect executed in conjunction with the fluctuation display of a miss (time-saving A or B) in the low-probability time-saving state is an effect that simply notifies of a miss, similar to the effect executed in conjunction with the fluctuation display of a normal miss in the low-probability time-saving state. Here, the fluctuation pattern H311 of the first special symbol in the low-probability time-saving state has the same fluctuation time as the fluctuation pattern H201 of the second special symbol in the low-probability time-saving state. The effect executed in conjunction with the fluctuation display of the fluctuation pattern H311 is the same as the effect executed in conjunction with the fluctuation display of the fluctuation pattern H201 (specifically, an effect that simply notifies of a miss).

The decorative pattern 55 displayed in a stopped state by the variable display of a miss (time-saving A or B) in the low-probability time-saving state is the same as the combination of decorative patterns 55 displayed in a stopped state by the variable display of a miss (time-saving A or B) in the low-probability non-time-saving state and the low-probability minute time-saving state. In other words, the decorative pattern 55 displayed in a stopped state by the variable display of a miss (time-saving A or B) in the low-probability time-saving state is a combination that suggests a miss and is advantageous to the player. However, even if a miss (time-saving A or B) is displayed in a stopped state in the low-probability time-saving state, the game state does not change. For this reason, the decorative pattern 55 displayed in a stopped state by the variable display of a miss (time-saving A or B) in the low-probability time-saving state may be a combination that simply indicates a miss and does not suggest an advantage to the player, just like the decorative pattern 55 displayed in a stopped state by the variable display of a normal miss. In other words, the decorative patterns 55 displayed in a stopped state by the changing display of a miss (time-saving A and B) in the low-probability time-saving state may be different from the combination of decorative patterns 55 displayed in a stopped state by the changing display of a miss (time-saving A or B) in the low-probability non-time-saving state and the low-probability minute time-saving state.

FIG. 47 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the variation pattern (variation time group) of the second special symbol in the second embodiment. A characteristic point in the variation pattern of the second special symbol is that it is relatively shorter than the variation time of the first special symbol in the low probability non-time saving state (and the low probability fine time saving state).

Comparing Figures 47 (A) and (B), the pattern of change of the second special symbol for the low-probability non-time-saving state is shorter than the pattern of change of the second special symbol for the low-probability non-time-saving state. This makes it possible to quickly end the display of the change of the second special symbol when moving from the low-probability time-saving state to the low-probability non-time-saving state.

The pattern of change of the second special symbol for the low-probability non-time-saving state may be longer than the pattern of change of the second special symbol for the low-probability time-saving state.

Next, referring to Fig. 48 to Fig. 50, an example of a reach effect being executed in a low probability non-time-saving state will be described. Fig. 48 is an explanatory diagram for explaining an example of a normal reach effect being executed in a low probability non-time-saving state in the second embodiment. In the example of Fig. 48, the icon 53 in a special mode is displayed. Fig. 49 is an explanatory diagram for explaining an example of a SP reach effect being executed in a low probability non-time-saving state in the second embodiment. Fig. 50 is an explanatory diagram for explaining an example of a performance immediately after a miss is notified in the SP reach effect in a low probability non-time-saving state in the second embodiment. Note that in the examples of Fig. 48 to Fig. 50, the condition of 750 consecutive misses is not satisfied. In the second embodiment, the performance is controlled in the morning mode in a low probability non-time-saving state. In the morning mode, a background image for the morning mode is displayed, and the characters "morning mode" representing the performance mode name are always displayed in the lower left corner of the liquid crystal screen 5.

As illustrated in FIGS. 48(A) and 48(B), in this example, a reach is established with the "2" symbol. As illustrated in FIG. 48(C), when a predetermined time (for example, 0.5 seconds) has elapsed since the reach is established, a reach line is displayed or a voice saying "reach" is output from the speaker 24. In the example of FIG. 48(C), the small pattern 56 continues to fluctuate at high speed. In addition, the small pattern 56 may be displayed in the same ready mode as the decorative pattern 55 when the ready-to-win pattern is established.

In the gaming machine 1, the display priority of the decorative pattern 55 is the display pattern HP2 from the start of the variable display until the reach line is hidden. The medium symbol changes at high speed from the start of the variable display until the time when the reach is established, and changes at a low speed during the normal reach performance that starts in response to the formation of the reach.

In the gaming machine 1, during a normal reach performance, the display priority of the decorative pattern 55 is the display pattern HP1. In other words, the display priority of the middle pattern is higher before and after the reach is established. Note that during a normal reach performance, the display priority of the decorative pattern 55 may be the display pattern HP2.

In the gaming machine 1, left symbols (and right symbols) other than the decorative symbols temporarily stopped as reach symbols are hidden. The hidden decorative pattern 55 is not displayed again until the variable display ends. Note that the hidden decorative pattern 55 may be redisplayed immediately before the variable display ends.

In the gaming machine 1, the interval between the left symbol and the right symbol is wider during the normal reach performance than when the reach is established. Also, the medium symbol is displayed larger during the normal reach effect than when the reach is established. For this reason, the display area of the decorative pattern 55 changes between when the ready-to-win is established and during the normal ready-to-reach performance. On the other hand, the appearance of the decorative pattern 55 is the same when the reach is established and during the normal reach performance.

Following FIG. 48(D), in the case of a variation pattern in which a miss (time-saving A) symbol is displayed in a normal reach performance (i.e., corresponding to variation pattern H301), the normal reach performance results in a provisional stop display of the reach miss symbol "272" and then a permanent stop (see FIG. 48(E) and (F)). When the provisional stop display of the reach miss symbol starts, the interval between the left symbol and the right symbol narrows, and the middle symbol becomes smaller to the same size as when the change started. Therefore, the display area of the decorative symbol 55 changes before and after the middle symbol is displayed in a provisional stop display in the normal reach performance. Also, during the provisional stop display of the reach miss symbol, the display priority of the decorative symbol 55 changes from the display pattern HP1 to HP3. Note that in the gaming machine 1, the display priority of the decorative symbol 55 when a miss symbol is displayed in a normal reach performance may be any of the display patterns HP1 to HP5. The small symbols 56 fluctuate at high speed until just before the reach miss pattern stops, and are displayed in the same combination as the decorative symbols 55 according to the display of the decorative symbols 55. As shown in FIG. 48(F), when the miss (time-saving A) symbol stops, the game transitions from low-probability non-time-saving to low-probability micro-time-saving.

Following Fig. 48 (D), in the case of a variation pattern in which a normal losing symbol is stopped and displayed in a normal reach effect (i.e., corresponding to variation pattern H306), a temporary stop occurs when a reach loss number other than "272" occurs as a result of a normal reach effect. is displayed, and then the main operation is stopped (see FIG. 48(I)). When the normal losing symbol stops displaying, the next fluctuation starts with low accuracy and short time.

Following Fig. 48 (D), in the case of a variation pattern in which the jackpot A is stopped and displayed in the normal reach effect (that is, when it corresponds to the variation pattern O301), the normal reach effect is temporarily stopped and displayed at the pattern alignment "222", and as it is. Main stop (see FIG. 48(G)). At the start of the temporary stop display of matching symbols, the interval between the left symbol and the right symbol becomes narrower, and the middle symbol becomes smaller to the same size as at the start of variation. Therefore, the display area of the decorative pattern 55 changes before and after the medium pattern is temporarily stopped and displayed in the normal reach performance. Further, during the temporary stop display of the pattern alignment, the display priority of the decorative pattern 55 changes from the display pattern HP1 to HP4. In addition, in the gaming machine 1, the display priority of the decorative pattern 55 when the jackpot pattern is stopped and displayed in the normal reach performance may be any one of the display patterns HP1 to HP5. The small symbols 56 are fluctuating at high speed until just before the jackpot symbol stops, and are stopped and displayed in the same combination as the decorative symbol 55 in response to the stop display of the jackpot symbol. As illustrated in FIG. 48(G), when the jackpot A is stopped and displayed, a jackpot game (low probability, non-time-saving game state) is executed. At the final stage of the jackpot game, the first attention call and the second attention call are displayed simultaneously. After the jackpot game ends, the game shifts to a low-accuracy time saving mode.

Following FIG. 48(D), in the case of a variation pattern in which the jackpot I is displayed in a normal reach performance (i.e., in the case corresponding to variation pattern O308), a special decorative pattern (time-saving pattern) is displayed as a temporary stop as a result of the normal reach performance, and then stops permanently (see FIG. 48(H)). The time-saving pattern is, for example, a decorative pattern including the word "night" which suggests a transition to a low-probability minute time-saving. Here, in the second embodiment, the performance is controlled in night mode during low-probability minute time-saving. In night mode, a background image for the night mode is displayed, and the word "night mode", which indicates the name of the performance mode, is always displayed in the lower left corner of the liquid crystal screen 5. Note that, if the combination of the decorative pattern 55 displayed in a stopped state with the jackpot I and other special patterns in the gaming machine 1 and the fourth pattern 57 displayed in a stopped state is different, the decorative pattern 55 may be displayed in a pattern alignment when the jackpot I is displayed in a stopped state.

When the time-saving symbol starts to be displayed as a temporary stop, the distance between the left and right symbols narrows, and the center symbol becomes smaller to the same size as when it started to change. Therefore, the display area of the decorative symbol 55 changes before and after the center symbol is displayed as a temporary stop in the normal reach performance. Also, during the time-saving symbol's temporary stop, the display priority of the decorative symbol 55 changes from display pattern HP1 to HP3. The small symbols 56 change at high speed until just before the pattern alignment stops permanently, and are displayed as stopped in the same combination as the decorative symbols 55 according to the display of the decorative symbols 55. As shown in FIG. 48 (H), when the jackpot I is displayed as a stopped jackpot, a jackpot game is executed. At the end of the jackpot game, the first and second warnings are displayed simultaneously. After the jackpot game ends, the game transitions to a low-probability minute time-saving game.

Continuing from FIG. 48(D), there is a case where the normal reach effect develops into the SP reach effect. In the case of a variation pattern that develops from a normal reach performance to an SP reach performance, the medium symbol starts to fluctuate at high speed at the end of the normal reach performance (see FIG. 49(A)). After that, the middle symbol is hidden and the SP reach effect is started. Along with this, the ready-to-reach symbol consisting of the number portion 550 and the character portion 551 changes to the ready-to-reach symbol consisting only of the number portion 550. Before and after the start of the SP reach effect, the display priority of the decorative pattern 55 changes from the display pattern HP2 to HP7. The icon 53 and the pending icon 51 are hidden in response to the start of the SP reach effect. During the SP reach effect, the small pattern 56 continues to fluctuate at high speed. Note that during the SP ready-to-win performance, the small symbols 56 may be temporarily stopped and displayed in the same combination as the ready-to-win symbol.

In the case of a variation pattern in which the SP Reach performance displays a jackpot A without a tentative stop of a reach failure symbol (i.e., corresponding to variation pattern O305), the enemy is defeated at the end of the SP Reach performance, the pattern alignment is tentatively displayed, and the game stops as it is, following FIG. 49(C). When the jackpot A is displayed, the jackpot game is executed. At the end of the jackpot game, the first and second warnings are displayed simultaneously. After the jackpot game ends, the game transitions to low-probability time-saving. In the case of a variation pattern in which the SP Reach performance displays a jackpot I (i.e., corresponding to variation pattern O310), the enemy is defeated at the end of the SP Reach performance, the time-saving pattern is tentatively displayed, and the game stops as it is. During the tentative stop of the pattern alignment or the time-saving pattern, a jackpot notification performance that operates the performance device 7 can be executed, but a challenge performance cannot be executed.

During the temporary stop display of the pattern alignment or time-saving pattern, the display priority of the decorative pattern 55 changes from the display pattern HP7 to HP4. That is, the decorative pattern 55 consisting only of the number portion 550 changes to the decorative pattern 55 consisting of the number portion 550 and the character portion 551. In the gaming machine 1, the display priority of the decorative pattern 55 when the jackpot pattern is stopped and displayed in the SP ready-to-win performance may be any one of the display patterns HP1 to HP5. The small symbols 56 are fluctuating at high speed until just before the jackpot symbol stops, and are stopped and displayed in the same combination as the decorative symbol 55 in response to the stop display of the jackpot symbol. In addition, during the jackpot notification, the small pattern 56 may be temporarily stopped and displayed in the same combination as the decorative pattern 55.

As exemplified in FIG. 49(D), there is a variation pattern in which the enemy wins at the end of the SP reach performance, and then the losing move is temporarily stopped (in other words, in the variation pattern O306, O307, H303, H304, H309, or H310). (if applicable). As illustrated in FIGS. 49(E) and 49(F), the restart performance is executed during the temporary stop display of the winning number. The restart performance is executed after the loss notification is made when the performance accessory 7 is in the initial position and the performance for jackpot notification such as operating the performance accessory 7 is not performed. As the restart effect, a black image with a pattern is displayed that covers the entire screen and overlaps from the right edge of the screen to the left edge. The restart effect ends when a predetermined period of time (for example, 2.5 seconds) has elapsed since the start. During the restart performance, the display priority of the decorative pattern 55 changes from the display pattern HP7 to HP2. In the gaming machine 1, the display priority of the decorative pattern 55 when the first special pattern is stopped and displayed after the restart presentation may be any one of the display patterns HP1 to HP5.

As illustrated in FIGS. 49(G) to (I), if the determination result of the first special symbol determination is a specific losing symbol, the losing symbol will be stopped and displayed after the restart performance ends. In the example of FIG. 49, if the judgment result of the first special pattern judgment is a loss (time saving A), the decorative pattern 55 which was the combination of "212" changes to the combination of "272" through the restart effect. do. As a result, the player who has been refreshed by the restart effect can resume playing the game with low certainty and in a short amount of time. In addition, when the determination result of the first special symbol determination is a specific loss, the combination of decorative symbols 55 does not need to change before and after the restart performance.

If the result of the first special pattern determination is a specific losing pattern, the background image will change to a morning mode background image for confirming the transition to night mode after the restart performance ends and before the change ends. Note that if the result of the first special pattern determination is a specific losing pattern, the same morning mode background image as when the change began may be displayed after the restart performance ends, or a background image for night mode may be displayed.

If the judgment result of the first special pattern judgment is a normal losing pattern, the decorative patterns 55 which were the combination of "212" are stopped and displayed in the same combination through the restart performance.

Here, the icon 53 and the pending icon 51 that were hidden in response to the start of the SP ready-to-win performance are re-displayed during the restart performance with the same appearance as immediately before the start of the SP ready-to-win performance. The redisplayed icon 53 is erased in response to the stop display of the first special symbol. In the gaming machine 1, the decorative pattern 55, the icon 53, and the pending icon 51 have a lower display priority than the restart effect. Therefore, during the restart performance, the decorative pattern 55, the icon 53, and the pending icon 51 are not visible because the restart performance is displayed on the front side. On the other hand, in the gaming machine 1, the small symbol 56 and the fourth symbols 57 and 59 have a higher display priority than the restart performance. Therefore, the player can see the small symbol 56 and the fourth symbol 57 even while the restart performance is being displayed. The modes of the small symbol 56 and the fourth symbol 57 are the same (specifically, high-speed fluctuation) before and after the restart performance. In addition, the small pattern 56 may be temporarily stopped and displayed in the same combination as the decorative pattern 55 during the restart presentation.

The board lighting device 74 and the frame lighting device 10 emit light in a light emission pattern for the morning mode immediately before the restart performance, and emit light in a light emission pattern for the restart performance (for example, a flashing white light emission pattern) during the restart performance. , Immediately after the restart effect ends, it emits light in the morning mode light emission pattern. That is, during the restart performance, light is emitted in a light emission pattern different from the light emission pattern corresponding to the SP ready-to-reach performance. In addition, when shifting to low-accuracy time saving after the end of the fluctuation, the board lighting device 74 and the frame lighting device 10 may emit light in a light emission pattern for confirming the transition to night mode immediately after the restart performance ends.

Here, even if the result of the first special pattern determination is a jackpot pattern, the time when the restart effect is hidden occurs before the jackpot is announced. For this reason, it is not possible to execute a jackpot announcement effect that operates the special effect device 7 during the restart effect, but it is possible to execute the above-mentioned jackpot announcement effect after the restart effect. It is not necessary for a jackpot to occur after the restart effect is executed. In this case, it is not possible to execute a jackpot announcement effect that operates the special effect device 7 during or after the restart effect.

The challenge performance cannot be performed during or after the restart performance. Note that the challenge performance may be executed after the restart performance.

The restart effect may be displayed in a manner in which a black image overlaps the entire screen, or in a manner in which the entire screen is covered by an image appearing in a mosaic pattern. The restart effect may end in a manner in which the transparency of the image covering the entire screen increases and the image is finally hidden, or in a manner in which the image covering the entire screen is chipped away in a mosaic pattern and the door image is finally hidden.

As shown in FIG. 49(D), there is a variation pattern in which the enemy wins at the end of the SP reach performance, and then the reach failure symbol is displayed as a temporary stop, and then a challenge performance is executed (i.e., when it corresponds to variation pattern O307, H304, or H310). As shown in FIG. 50(A) and (B), the reach symbol is hidden in response to the start of the challenge performance. During the challenge performance, the operation prompt performance is executed with a candidate decorative symbol that will stop as a middle symbol displayed. The middle symbol is displayed as a temporary stop in response to the operation during the valid period of the operation prompt performance. Note that if no operation is performed during the valid period, the middle symbol is displayed as a temporary stop at the end of the predetermined valid period (for example, 3 seconds after the start of the operation prompt performance).

If the challenge performance is successful, the middle symbol, which is the same as the reach symbol, will be temporarily stopped and the jackpot will be announced. During jackpot notification, the display priority of the decorative pattern 55 changes in the order of display patterns HP6, HP9, and HP4. As illustrated in FIGS. 50(H) and (I), when the jackpot A is stopped and displayed, the jackpot game is executed. At the final stage of the jackpot game, the first attention call and the second attention call are displayed simultaneously. After the jackpot game ends, the game shifts to a low-accuracy time saving mode.

On the other hand, if the challenge performance is unsuccessful, a middle symbol different from the reach symbol is temporarily displayed and a normal losing symbol is displayed.
Following the failure of the challenge performance, the same restart performance as in the cases of Fig. 49 (E) and (F) is executed. Note that, as the restart performance executed following the failure of the challenge performance, a restart performance of a mode different from the cases of Fig. 49 (E) and (F) may be executed.

When a restart performance is executed following a failed challenge performance, a normal losing symbol may be displayed as a stopped symbol, or a specific losing symbol (specifically, a losing symbol (time-saving A or B)) may be displayed as a stopped symbol. The reach symbol remains hidden from the time the challenge performance fails until the end of the restart performance, and is redisplayed when the restart performance ends. The display priority of the decorative symbol 55 is display pattern HP7 before the start of the restart performance, changes to display pattern HP2 during the restart performance, and then changes to display pattern HP3 when it is displayed as a stopped symbol. Note that the display priority of the decorative symbol 55 does not have to change before and after the restart performance.

In addition, when executing the restart performance, the following configuration may be used.
- The size of the entire middle pattern may be larger or smaller, or the same size, immediately after the restart performance ends compared to just before the restart performance.
The size of the number portion 550 of the middle symbol may be larger, smaller, or the same size immediately after the end of the restart performance than immediately before the restart performance.
- The size of the overall left pattern (and right pattern) may be larger, smaller, or the same size immediately after the restart performance ends compared to just before the restart performance.
The size of the number portion 550 of the left pattern (and right pattern) may be larger, smaller, or the same size immediately after the end of the restart performance than immediately before the restart performance.
- Just before the restart performance, the middle pattern is larger than the left pattern (and right pattern), and just after the restart performance ends, the sizes of the left pattern, middle pattern, and right pattern may be the same.
- The size ratio between the left, middle, and right patterns may be the same immediately before the restart performance and immediately after the end of the restart performance.
- The appearance of the decorative pattern 55 may be the same immediately before the restart performance and immediately after the restart performance ends.
- The icon 53 and the hold icon 51 continue to be displayed during the SP reach performance, and the display priority of the icon 53 and the hold icon 51 may be higher than that of the resume performance.
The icon 53 is erased when the variable display starts or when the SP reach performance starts, and does not have to be displayed again thereafter.
Regardless of the type of special pattern that is stopped and displayed, after the restart performance ends, the display may transition to a special morning mode that corresponds to the SP reach performance and has a different appearance from when the variable display began.
After executing an effect that gives the player hope that a challenge effect will be executed, a resume effect may be executed without executing the challenge effect.
- A restart effect may be executed in response to a failure notification after the challenge effect is executed.

Next, with reference to FIG. 51, an example of a performance in which the first special symbol determination is suspended when transitioning from a low-probability minute time-saving to a low-probability time-saving in the second embodiment will be described. Figures 51 (A) to (D) show cases in which the condition of 750 consecutive losses is not met and a specific losing symbol (specifically, a losing (time-saving A) symbol) is stopped and displayed. The movement when transitioning from low-accuracy fine time saving to low-accuracy time saving is described. FIG. 51(A) exemplifies the situation when a losing (time-saving A) symbol is stopped and displayed as the first special symbol in a state where only the first special symbol is pending in the low-probability time-saving state. In the example of FIG. 51(A), the pending number 52 indicates that the pending number for the first special symbol determination is 3, and the pending number for the second special symbol determination is 0.

When a losing (time-saving A) symbol is stopped, three decorative symbols 55 stop in a losing mode, and small symbols 56 of the same combination as the decorative symbols 55 stop. In addition, a fourth symbol 57 indicating a losing is also stopped. In gaming machine 1, when a losing (time-saving A) symbol is stopped, decorative symbols 55 are displayed as a combination of "227". Note that, if the combination of decorative symbols 55 displayed as a losing (time-saving A) symbol and other special symbols and the fourth symbol 57 displayed as a stopped symbol are different in gaming machine 1, decorative symbols 55 may be displayed as a combination other than "227" when a losing (time-saving A) symbol is stopped.

In the gaming machine 1, when a missing (time-saving A) symbol is displayed in a stopped state in the low-probability minute time-saving state, the display priority of the decorative symbol 55 is the display pattern HP3. Note that in the gaming machine 1, when a missing (time-saving A) symbol is displayed in a stopped state in the low-probability minute time-saving state, the display priority of the decorative symbol 55 may be any of the display patterns HP1 to HP5.

When a predetermined fixed stop period (for example, 1 second) passes after the losing (time saving A) symbol is stopped and displayed in the low probability non-time saving state, the state shifts from the low probability fine non time saving state to the low probability time saving state. In FIG. 51(A), since the condition of 750 consecutive losses is not satisfied, the number of time saving times is set to 700 times. In the example of FIG. 51(B), while the first special symbol determination is pending, the second special symbol determination is not pending. Therefore, the first special symbol starts to be displayed in a variable manner as the first variable display after shifting to the low accuracy time saving state (see FIG. 51(B)). When the second special symbol judgment is suspended during the fluctuation display, the second special symbol starts to be fluctuated as the next fluctuation, as illustrated in FIGS. 29(B) to (D).

As illustrated in FIG. 51(B), the door image starts to be displayed in response to the first special symbol variation display start after the transition to the low accuracy time saving state. As the door image, a moving image in which the door closes, covers the entire screen, and then opens the door is displayed (see FIGS. 51B and 51C). The display of the door image ends when a predetermined period of time (for example, 2.5 seconds) has elapsed since the door image was displayed. If the determination result of the first special symbol determination after the transition to the low-accuracy time-saving state is a specific losing symbol, the display of the door image ends while the losing symbol is stopped and displayed. Even if a specific losing symbol is stopped and displayed in a low-accuracy time-saving state, the number of time-savings is not added and the game state does not change. Here, in the gaming machine 1, the decorative pattern 55, the icon 53, and the hold icon 51 have a lower display priority than the door image. Therefore, the decorative pattern 55, the icon 53, and the hold icon 51 become temporarily invisible as the door image is displayed on the front side. On the other hand, in the gaming machine 1, the small symbol 56 and the fourth symbols 57 and 59 have a higher display priority than the door image. Therefore, while the door image is being displayed, the player can determine the first special symbol determination after transitioning to the low accuracy time saving state by looking at the small symbol 56 and the fourth symbol 57 that are stopped and displayed after the high-speed fluctuation. It is possible to know the results.

Even if the judgment result of the first special symbol judgment after the transition to the low-accuracy time-saving state is a jackpot symbol, the time when the door image is hidden is before the expectation of a jackpot or the notification of a jackpot. It is. For this reason, while the door image is being displayed after the transition to the low-accuracy time-saving state, it is impossible to perform a performance that makes people expect a jackpot, and it is also impossible to perform a performance for announcing a jackpot such as operating the performance accessories 7.

The door image may be displayed in a manner in which a black image overlaps the entire screen, or in a manner in which the entire screen is covered with a door image that appears in a mosaic pattern. The door image display may end in a manner in which the transparency of the door image that covers the entire screen increases and the door image is eventually hidden, or in a manner in which the door image is chipped away in a mosaic pattern and the door image is eventually hidden.

The board lighting device 74 and the frame lighting device 10 emit light in a light emission pattern for displaying a door image (for example, a light emission pattern that flashes in yellow) while displaying the door image. Note that a light-emitting means (for example, a right side lamp) that can emit light when in the low-accuracy time-saving state but does not emit light when not in the low-accuracy time-saving state may be provided, and the door image after transitioning to the low-accuracy time-saving state may be During the display, the light emitting means may be made to emit light in a light emitting pattern for displaying the door image.

In the gaming machine 1, when the first special symbol variation display starts after the transition to the low probability time-saving state, text begins to be displayed encouraging the player to hit to the right (for example, Figures 29 and 51). In the gaming machine 1, the door image has a lower display priority than the text encouraging the player to hit to the right. Therefore, the text encouraging the player to hit to the right is not obscured by the door image because the door image is displayed behind it.

In the gaming machine 1, in response to the start of the first special symbol variation display after the transition to the low-accuracy time-saving state, the speaker 24 outputs a voice saying "RUSH mode start" to notify the player that the game has transitioned to the RUSH mode. . Here, in the gaming machine 1, when transitioning to the low probability time saving state via the jackpot game, the first alert and the second alert are displayed simultaneously during the jackpot game. On the other hand, in the gaming machine 1, when shifting to the low-accuracy time-saving state through the stop display of a specific losing symbol, the gaming machine 1 shifts to the low-accuracy time-saving state without displaying the above-mentioned warning. In addition, when transitioning to the low-accuracy time-saving state through the stop display of a specific losing symbol, the first alert is issued for a predetermined period of time (for example, 2 .5 seconds) may be displayed.

As shown in FIG. 51(D), in low-probability time-saving mode, the presentation is controlled in RUSH mode. In gaming machine 1, the background image, presentation mode name, and remaining number of time-saving plays have a lower display priority than the door image. For this reason, it appears to the player that the night mode screen configuration has changed to the RUSH mode screen configuration via the display of the door image.

When in the night mode, a pending icon 51 indicating the number of pending first special symbol determinations and an icon 53 indicating that the first special symbol is being displayed in a variable manner are displayed. On the other hand, when in the RUSH mode, a pending icon 51 indicating the number of pending second special symbol determinations and an icon 53 indicating that the second special symbol is being displayed in a variable manner are displayed. When in the RUSH mode, the pending icon 51 indicating the pending number of first special symbol determination and the icon 53 indicating that the first special symbol is being displayed in a variable manner are hidden. The RUSH mode differs from the night mode in the aspects (eg, shape and display position) of the hold icon 51 and the icon 53.

When shifting to the low accuracy time saving state, the display priority of the decorative pattern 55, which was the display pattern HP3 in the night mode screen configuration, changes to the display pattern HP9 through the display of the door image. In addition, in the gaming machine 1, the display priority of the decorative pattern 55 may be the same in the night mode immediately before the transition to the low-accuracy time saving state and when the mode changes to the RUSH mode through the display of the door image.

The modes of the left pattern, middle pattern, and right pattern may be different or the same in the night mode immediately before the door image is displayed and the RUSH mode immediately after the door image is displayed. Further, the display areas of the left symbol, middle symbol, and right symbol may be different or may be the same in the night mode immediately before displaying the door image and in the RUSH mode immediately after displaying the door image. Furthermore, the mode and display area of the small pattern 56 may be the same or different between the night mode immediately before the door image is displayed and the RUSH mode immediately after the door image is displayed.

The flow from FIG. 51(E) to FIG. 51(B) and the flow from FIG. 51(F) to FIG. 51(B) show the movement when transitioning from low-probability non-time-saving to low-probability time-saving by meeting the condition of 750 consecutive misses. In the low-probability non-time-saving state, if the condition of 750 consecutive misses is met with only the first special symbol reserved, a transition will occur from low-probability non-time-saving to low-probability time-saving whether a specific missing symbol is stopped and displayed or a normal missing symbol is stopped and displayed. If a missing symbol that meets the condition of 750 consecutive misses is stopped and displayed, the number of time-saving times is set to 1000.

FIG. 51(E) is an example where the losing symbol that satisfies the condition of 750 consecutive losses is a specific losing symbol. Fig. 51 (E) shows an example where the losing (time saving A) symbol is stopped and displayed as a specific losing symbol, but the losing (time saving A) symbol is stopped and displayed as a losing symbol that satisfies the condition of 750 consecutive losses. may have been done.

Figure 51 (F) shows an example of a case where the losing symbol that satisfies the condition of 750 consecutive losses is a normal losing symbol. In the gaming machine 1, when a normal losing symbol is stopped and displayed, the decorative symbol 55 is displayed in a combination other than "227".

In the gaming machine 1, the display priority of the decorative pattern 55 when a specific losing pattern and a normal losing pattern are stopped and displayed is the display pattern HP3. Note that in the gaming machine 1, the display priority of the decorative pattern 55 when a specific losing pattern and a normal losing pattern are stopped and displayed may be any of the display patterns HP1 to HP5.

When a predetermined fixed stop period (e.g. 1 second) has elapsed since the stop display of a losing symbol that meets the condition of 750 consecutive misses, the game will transition from low-probability micro-time-saving to low-probability micro-time-saving. The flow from FIG. 51(B) onwards is basically the same as when the condition of 750 consecutive misses is not met and a specific losing symbol is stopped and displayed in the low-probability micro-time-saving state. The difference is that when the condition of 750 consecutive misses is not met, the initial value of the remaining number of time-saving times is 699 times, whereas when the condition of 750 consecutive misses is met, the initial value of the remaining number of time-saving times is 999 times.

In addition, when transitioning from low-probability micro-time reduction to low-probability time reduction, the following configuration may also be used.
The size of the entire middle pattern may be larger, smaller, or the same size in RUSH mode immediately after the door image is displayed than in NIGHT mode immediately before the door image is displayed.
The size of the number portion 550 of the center pattern may be larger, smaller, or the same size in rush mode immediately after the door image is displayed than in night mode immediately before the door image is displayed.
-When transitioning from low probability non-time-saving to low probability time-saving, the overall size of the left pattern (and right pattern) may be larger, smaller, or the same size in RUSH mode immediately after the door image is displayed than in night mode immediately before the door image is displayed.
When transitioning from low probability non-time-saving to low probability time-saving, the size of the number portion 550 of the left pattern (and right pattern) may be larger, smaller, or the same size in RUSH mode immediately after the door image is displayed than in night mode immediately before the door image is displayed.
In the night mode immediately before the door image is displayed, the middle pattern is larger than the left pattern (and the right pattern), and in the rush mode immediately after the door image is displayed, the sizes of the left, middle, and right patterns may be the same.
The size ratio between the left, middle, and right patterns may be the same in the night mode immediately before the door image is displayed and in the rush mode immediately after the door image is displayed.
- Just before the door image is displayed, it will light up in the night mode lighting pattern, and just after the door image display ends, it will light up in the rush mode lighting pattern.

Here, an example of a performance in which the first special symbol determination is not reserved when transitioning from the low-probability minute time-saving to the low-probability minute time-saving in the second embodiment will be described. When the condition of 750 consecutive misses is not met and a specific miss symbol is displayed as the first special symbol without the first special symbol being reserved in the low-probability minute time-saving state, the low-probability minute time-saving transition occurs when a predetermined fixed stop period (e.g., 1 second) has elapsed since the stop display. Since the condition of 750 consecutive misses is not met, the number of time-savings is set to 700. When both the first special symbol determination reservation and the second special symbol determination reservation are 0, a customer waiting command is transmitted from the game control board 100 to the performance control board 130 in response to the lapse of the fixed stop period. After that, a setting image for setting the volume value and the light intensity value is started to be displayed in response to the lapse of a predetermined time (e.g., 10 seconds) without the special symbol being displayed in a variable manner. After that, if a predetermined time (e.g., 20 seconds) has passed without any special symbol changing display, the customer waiting performance will begin.

When the gaming machine 1 is in a waiting state and the gaming ball passes through the gate 16, a normal symbol determination is made. In the gaming machine 1, when a normal symbol determination is made in a low-probability time-saving state, the second start hole 12 is long-opened with a 100% probability (see FIG. 2 (A)). When the gaming ball enters the second start hole 12, the second special symbol begins to change as the first change display after the transition to the low-probability time-saving state.

After the transition to the low probability time-saving state, a door image and text encouraging the player to hit to the right will begin to be displayed in response to the first start of the second special symbol variation display. While the door image is displayed, the icon 53 indicating that the second special symbol is varying is displayed. In addition, if the second special symbol determination is put on hold while the door image is displayed, a hold icon 51 indicating the number of second special symbol determinations on hold is displayed.

If the determination result of the first second special symbol determination after the transition to the low-accuracy time-saving state is a normal losing symbol, the display of the door image ends while the losing symbol is stopped and displayed. While the door image is being displayed, the player can learn the determination result of the first second special symbol determination after the transition to the low-accuracy time-saving state by looking at the small symbol 56 and the fourth symbol 57 that are stopped and displayed after the high-speed fluctuation. Is possible.

In addition, in the low probability non-time-saving state, if the condition of 750 consecutive losses is met without a reserved special pattern, the game will transition from the low probability non-time-saving state to the low probability time-saving state whether a specific losing pattern or a normal losing pattern is stopped and displayed. If a losing pattern that meets the condition of 750 consecutive losses is stopped and displayed, the number of time-saving times will be set to 1000.

When a predetermined fixed stop period (for example, 1 second) elapses from the stop display of a losing symbol that satisfies the condition of 750 consecutive losses, the process shifts from low-accuracy fine time saving to low-accuracy time saving. When both the suspension of the first special symbol determination and the suspension of the second special symbol determination are 0, a customer waiting command is transmitted from the game control board 100 to the production control board 130 in response to the elapse of the confirmed suspension period. Thereafter, when a predetermined period of time (for example, 10 seconds) has elapsed without the special symbol being displayed in a variable manner, a setting image for setting the volume value and the light amount value is started to be displayed. Thereafter, when a predetermined period of time (for example, 20 seconds) has elapsed without any variable display of special symbols, a customer waiting performance is started.

When the gaming machine 1 is in a waiting state and a gaming ball passes through the gate 16, a normal symbol determination is performed. If the result of the normal symbol determination is that a gaming ball enters the long-open second starting port 12, the second special symbol begins to change as the first change display after the transition to the low-probability time-saving state. The flow after the transition to the low-probability time-saving state is basically the same as when the condition for 750 consecutive misses is not met and a specific miss symbol is displayed stationary in the low-probability minute time-saving state. The difference is that when the condition for 750 consecutive misses is not met, the initial value of the number of times remaining in the time-saving state is 699 times, whereas when the condition for 750 consecutive misses is met, the initial value of the number of times remaining in the time-saving state is 999 times.

Next, referring to FIG. 52, an example of the presentation of the low-probability time-saving state in the second embodiment will be described. As illustrated in FIG. 52(A) and (B), the variation pattern O201 resulting in a jackpot E is an instantaneous winning variation pattern. As illustrated in FIG. 52(B), when the jackpot E is displayed as stopped, a jackpot game is executed. In the jackpot game, the first and second warnings are not displayed. After the jackpot game ends, the game transitions to a low-probability time-saving state. Note that the first and second warnings may be displayed in the jackpot game. In the gaming machine 1, the same presentation as the variation pattern O201 is executed even in the case of the variation pattern K201 resulting in a small win A.

As illustrated in FIGS. 52(A), (C), and (B), the fluctuation pattern O202 that results in a jackpot is a fluctuation pattern that suggests a fall and then results in an immediate win. From the start of the fall suggestion, the door image starts to be displayed and the operation promotion effect is executed. The door image is the same as the door image displayed in response to the start of the first special symbol variation display after the transition to the low accuracy time saving state. Note that the door image displayed from the start of the falling suggestion may be different from the door image displayed in response to the first special symbol variation display start after the transition to the low probability time saving state. In the case of a jackpot, the door image opens at a predetermined validity period end timing (for example, after 3 seconds have elapsed from the start of the operation promotion effect) regardless of whether or not there is an operation during the validity period, resulting in an immediate win. In addition, in the case of a jackpot, the door image may be opened in response to an operation during the validity period, resulting in an immediate win.

As illustrated in FIGS. 52(A), (C), and (D), a variation pattern H202 in which normal losing symbols are stopped and displayed is a variation pattern in which a loss is notified after a fall is suggested. The door image that starts to be displayed from the start of the fall suggestion will be displayed again at the end of the valid period (for example, 3 seconds after the start of the operation promotion effect) regardless of whether or not there is an operation during the valid period. is opened and a loss is announced. In addition, in the case of a loss, the door image may be opened in response to an operation during the validity period to notify the loss.

As illustrated in FIGS. 52(A), (C), and (E), the fluctuation pattern K203 that results in a small hit is a fluctuation pattern in which a small hit is announced by the small symbol 56 after suggesting a fall. be. The door image whose display has started from the start of the fall suggestion closes at a predetermined validity period end timing (for example, when 3 seconds have elapsed from the start of the operation promotion effect) regardless of the operation during the validity period. As illustrated in FIG. 52(E), when the small win A is stopped and displayed, the jackpot game is executed on the condition that V wins during the small win game. In the jackpot game, the first attention call and the second attention call are not displayed. After the end of the jackpot game (the game state is low probability non-time saving), it is controlled to be low probability non time saving. In addition, if a V prize is not won during the small winning game, the jackpot game is not executed and the game is controlled in a low-probability, non-time-saving manner. When shifting to the low-accuracy non-time saving mode, counting is performed by an out counter for base calculation and a prize ball counter for base calculation.

FIG. 52(F) is an example of a performance when the suspension of the second special symbol determination is extinguished when the control is performed in a low-accuracy, non-time-saving manner. The number of prize balls obtained by the player in the jackpot game from the start of the variable display of the second special symbol for the first time in the low-probability, non-time saving game until just before the variable display related to the suspension of the earliest second special symbol judgment ends. A result that suggests this will be displayed. Furthermore, the display of the door image starts from the start of the results. The door image is the same as the door image displayed in response to the start of the first special symbol variation display after the transition to the low probability time saving state, and the door image displayed from the start of the fall suggestion. In addition, the door image that is displayed from the start of the result is the door image that is displayed in response to the start of the first special symbol variation display after transitioning to the low accuracy time saving state, and the door image that is displayed from the start of the fall suggestion. may be different from Note that the result and the door image displayed from the start of the result are also displayed when the number of low-accuracy time savings ends (for example, the flow from FIG. 43(D) to FIG. 43(F)). If the variable display at which the number of time savers for low accuracy time saver ends does not satisfy the condition of 750 consecutive losses, when the variable display ends, it will shift to low accuracy non time saver, so the out counter for base calculation and the prize ball counter for base calculation Counting will now be performed. On the other hand, if the variable display at which the number of time savers for low accuracy time saver ends satisfies the condition of 750 consecutive losses, when the variable display ends, it will shift to low accuracy time saver, so the out counter for base calculation and the prize ball counter for base calculation counting remains stopped.

In addition, a countdown may be performed to notify the remaining number of times of time reduction each time the special pattern starts to display a change, from the change display a predetermined number of times before (for example, 10 changes before) the final change of the low-probability time reduction to the final change of the low-probability time reduction. In the gaming machine 1, the icon 53 and the reserved icon 51 are hidden from the change display a predetermined number of times before (for example, 3 changes before) the final change of the low-probability time reduction, as illustrated in FIG. 52 (D). In addition, the icon 53 and the reserved icon 51 may remain displayed until the final change of the low-probability time reduction is completed.

If all pending second special pattern judgments are failures, the results will be hidden and the door image will open just before the variable display related to the first pending second special pattern judgment ends (see FIG. 52(G)). Accordingly, the display priority of the decorative pattern 55 will change from display pattern HP9 to HP3 while the results are being displayed.

In addition, when displaying a door image accompanying the result display, the following configuration may be used.
The size of the entire middle pattern may be larger, smaller, or the same size in morning mode immediately after the door image is displayed than in rush mode before the door image is displayed.
The size of the number portion 550 of the center pattern may be larger, smaller, or the same size in the morning mode immediately after the door image is displayed than in the rush mode before the door image is displayed.
The overall size of the left image (and right image) may be larger, smaller, or the same size in morning mode immediately after the door image is displayed than in rush mode before the door image is displayed.
The size of the number portion 550 of the left design (and right design) may be larger, smaller, or the same size in morning mode immediately after the door image is displayed than in rush mode before the door image is displayed.
In the RUSH mode before the door image is displayed, the middle pattern is larger than the left pattern (and the right pattern), and in the morning mode immediately after the door image is displayed, the sizes of the left, middle, and right patterns may be the same.
The size ratio between the left, middle, and right designs may be the same in rush mode before the door image is displayed and in morning mode immediately after the door image is displayed.
- While the door image is displayed, the light will be emitted in a lighting pattern for door images, and immediately after the door image display ends, the light will be emitted in a lighting pattern for morning mode.

As illustrated in FIG. 52(H), when the second special symbol determination that has been completed in the low-probability, non-time-saving mode is a jackpot, the result is deleted and the door image that is displayed from the start of the result. It opens and becomes an instant hit. As illustrated in FIG. 52 (I), if the pending second special symbol judgment that has been completed in the low probability non-time saving is a small hit, the result is deleted and the door that is displayed from the start of the result The image is opened and a small hit is announced by a small pattern 56.

In the second embodiment, the game ball may be configured in advance to be unable to enter the second start hole 12 in the non-time-saving state, while the game ball may be allowed to enter the second start hole 12 in the minute-time-saving state. Specifically, the probability that a short opening symbol will be displayed in the minute-time-saving state may be, for example, 4999/5000, and the probability that a long opening symbol will be displayed in the minute-time-saving state may be, for example, 1/5000. This makes it possible to provide gameplay that enhances the player's desire to control the game in the minute-time-saving state rather than in the non-time-saving state.

[Effects of the first embodiment and the second embodiment]
The gaming machine 1 of the first embodiment and the second embodiment calculates a base value in a low probability non-time saving state. The base calculation prize ball counter counts the total number of payouts that are paid out in response to the winning of game balls in a specific section in a low-probability, non-time-saving state. The base calculation out counter counts the total number of game balls hit by the player in a specific section in a low probability non-time saving state. When the system shifts to the low-accuracy time-saving state in response to a specific losing symbol being stopped and displayed in the low-accuracy non-time-saving state, counting by the base calculation prize ball counter and the base calculation out counter is stopped. In response to the normal losing symbol being stopped and displayed in the time saving final variation in the low accuracy time saving state, counting by the base calculation prize ball counter and the base calculation out counter is restarted. Thereby, when the game state changes in response to a specific losing symbol being stopped and displayed, counting by the base calculation prize ball counter and the base calculation out counter can be stopped.

[Effects of the second embodiment]
The gaming machine 1 of the second embodiment controls the game in a low-probability non-time-saving state, a low-probability minute-time-saving state, and a low-probability time-saving state. When a big win occurs in the low-probability non-time-saving state or the low-probability minute-time-saving state, the game state transitions to the low-probability time-saving state upon the end of the big win game. When a specific losing symbol is stopped and displayed in the low-probability non-time-saving state, the game state does not change from the low-probability non-time-saving state. On the other hand, when a specific losing symbol is stopped and displayed in the low-probability minute-time-saving state, it is possible to transition from the low-probability minute-time-saving state to the low-probability time-saving state. Therefore, the probability of transitioning to the low-probability time-saving state is higher in the low-probability minute-time-saving state than in the low-probability non-time-saving state by the probability of a specific losing symbol. This makes the low-probability minute-time-saving state a game state that is more advantageous to the player than the low-probability non-time-saving state.

Furthermore, the gaming machine 1 of the second embodiment controls the game in a low-reliability non-time-saving state, a low-reliability slight time-saving state, and a low-reliability time-saving state. The probability of determining that a jackpot game will be executed is the same in the low-probability non-time-saving state, the low-probability slightly time-saving state, and the low-probability time-saving state. When a jackpot is achieved in the low-probability non-time-saving state or the low-probability slight time-saving state, the game shifts to the low-probability time-saving state in response to the end of the jackpot game. When a specific losing symbol is stopped and displayed in a low-probability non-time-saving state, the gaming state does not change from the low-probability non-time-saving state. On the other hand, when a specific losing symbol is stopped and displayed in the low-accuracy time-saving state, it is possible to shift from the low-accuracy time-saving state to the low-accuracy time-saving state. The probability of transition to the low-probability time-saving state is higher when the state is in the low-probability slightly time-saving state than when it is in the low-probability non-time-saving state. Thereby, in a situation where the probability of executing a jackpot game is the same, the low-probability slight time-saving state can be made into a gaming state more advantageous to the player than the low-probability non-time-saving state.

Furthermore, the gaming machine 1 of the second embodiment controls the game in a low-reliability non-time-saving state, a low-reliability slight time-saving state (the number of time-savings is 20 or 500 times), and a low-reliability time-saving state. The low probability time saving state ends when the number of notifications of the judgment result of the special symbol determination becomes 20 or 500 times in the low probability time saving state. When a jackpot is achieved in the low-probability non-time-saving state or the low-probability slight time-saving state, the game shifts to the low-probability time-saving state (700 times of time-saving) in response to the end of the jackpot game. When a specific losing symbol is stopped and displayed in the low-accuracy time-saving state, it is possible to shift from the low-accuracy time-saving state to the low-accuracy time-saving state. The probability of transition to the low-probability time-saving state is higher when the state is in the low-probability slightly time-saving state than when it is in the low-probability non-time-saving state. When the condition of 750 consecutive losses is satisfied in the low-accuracy non-time-saving state or the low-accuracy slight time-saving state, the state shifts to the low-accuracy time-saving state (the number of time savings is 1000). Therefore, in the gaming machine 1 of the second embodiment, the low-accuracy time-saving state includes a state in which the low-accuracy time-saving state ends when the number of notifications of the determination result of the special symbol determination reaches 700, and a state in which the low-accuracy time-saving state ends when the determination result of the special symbol determination is notified. There is a state in which the low-accuracy time-saving state ends when the number of notifications reaches 1000 times. The degree of advantage to the player is different between the low-probability time-saving state, the low-probability time-saving state (700 time-savings), and the low-probability time-saving state (1000 time-savings). Thereby, it is possible to make the player interested in the number of notifications of the determination result of the special symbol determination.

Furthermore, the gaming machine 1 of the second embodiment controls the game in a low-reliability non-time-saving state, a low-reliability slight time-saving state, and a low-reliability time-saving state. When it is determined that the jackpot game is not to be executed, a specific losing symbol or a normal losing symbol is stopped and displayed. When a specific losing symbol is stopped and displayed in the low-probability non-time-saving state, it is possible to shift from the low-probability non-time-saving state to the low-probability slight time-saving state. When a specific losing symbol is stopped and displayed in the low-accuracy time-saving state, it is possible to shift from the low-accuracy time-saving state to the low-accuracy time-saving state. As a result, the probability of transitioning to the low-probability time-saving state can be made higher in the low-probability slightly time-saving state than in the low-probability non-time-saving state by the probability of a specific losing symbol.

Furthermore, the gaming machine 1 of the second embodiment controls the game in a low-reliability non-time-saving state, a low-reliability slight time-saving state, and a low-reliability time-saving state. When it is determined that the jackpot game is not to be executed, a specific losing symbol or a normal losing symbol is stopped and displayed. When a specific losing symbol is stopped and displayed in the low-probability non-time-saving state, it is possible to shift from the low-probability non-time-saving state to the low-probability slight time-saving state. In the low probability time saving state, if a specific losing symbol is stopped and displayed in a variation before the final time saving variation, the gaming state does not change. Thereby, it is possible to have a player play a game with the aim of moving to a low-probability slight time-saving state in addition to aiming to shift to a low-probability non-time-saving state when the player is in a low-probability non-time-saving state.

The gaming machine 1 of the second embodiment controls the game in a low-probability non-time-saving state, a low-probability minute-time-saving state, and a low-probability time-saving state. When it is determined that a jackpot game will not be executed, a specific losing symbol or a normal losing symbol is displayed as a stopped symbol. When a specific losing symbol is displayed as a stopped symbol in the low-probability minute-time-saving state, it is possible to transition from the low-probability minute-time-saving state to the low-probability time-saving state. In the low-probability minute-time-saving state, the normal symbol is displayed as a changing pattern for the low-probability minute-time-saving state, and in the low-probability time-saving state, it is displayed as a changing pattern for the low-probability minute-time-saving state. The changing pattern of the normal symbol for the low-probability time-saving state is shorter than the changing pattern of the normal symbol for the low-probability minute-time-saving state. This allows the normal symbol to change more frequently in the low-probability time-saving state than in the low-probability minute-time-saving state.

Furthermore, the gaming machine 1 of the second embodiment controls the game in a low-reliability non-time-saving state, a low-reliability slight time-saving state, and a low-reliability time-saving state. When it is determined that the jackpot game is not to be executed, a specific losing symbol or a normal losing symbol is stopped and displayed. When a specific losing symbol is stopped and displayed in the low-accuracy time-saving state, it is possible to shift from the low-accuracy time-saving state to the low-accuracy time-saving state. The electric tulip 17 is opened in an opening pattern for a low-accuracy time-saving state in a low-accuracy time-saving state, and is opened in an opening pattern for a low-accuracy time-saving state in a low-accuracy time-saving state. The opening time of the electric tulip 17 is longer in the low accuracy time saving state than in the low accuracy fine time saving state. As a result, it is easier to land a game ball in the second starting port 12 in the low-accuracy time-saving state than in the low-accuracy slight time-saving state.

Furthermore, the gaming machine 1 of the second embodiment controls the game in a low-reliability non-time-saving state, a low-reliability slight time-saving state, and a low-reliability time-saving state. When it is determined that the jackpot game is not to be executed, a specific losing symbol or a normal losing symbol is stopped and displayed. When a specific losing symbol is stopped and displayed in the low-accuracy time-saving state, it is possible to shift from the low-accuracy time-saving state to the low-accuracy time-saving state. The special symbol is displayed in a variable pattern for a low-accuracy time-saving state in a low-accuracy time-saving state, and is displayed in a variable pattern for a low-accuracy time-saving state in a low-accuracy time-saving state. The variation pattern of the special symbol for the low-accuracy time-saving state is shorter than the variation pattern of the special symbol for the low-accuracy fine time-saving state. Thereby, the special symbol can be changed more frequently in the low-accuracy time-saving state than in the low-accuracy fine time-saving state.

Furthermore, the gaming machine 1 of the second embodiment controls the game in a low-reliability non-time-saving state, a low-reliability slight time-saving state, and a low-reliability time-saving state. When the game is in a low-accuracy time-saving state, a right-hand hitting lamp 49 is lit to prompt the player to play right. The right-handed lamp 49 is turned off in the low-accuracy, non-time-saving state or the low-accuracy, slightly time-saving state. When it is determined that the jackpot game is not to be executed, a specific losing symbol or a normal losing symbol is stopped and displayed. When a specific losing symbol is stopped and displayed in the low-accuracy time-saving state, it is possible to shift from the low-accuracy time-saving state to the low-accuracy time-saving state. In response to a specific losing symbol being stopped and displayed in the low probability time saving state, the right-hitting lamp 49 lights up. Thereby, it is possible to suggest to the player whether or not the game ball is in a state where it is easy to win a prize in the second starting port 12 based on the state of the right-handed lamp 49.

The gaming machine 1 of the second embodiment controls the game in a low-probability non-time-saving state, a low-probability minute-time-saving state, and a low-probability time-saving state. If it is determined that a jackpot game will not be executed, a specific losing symbol or a normal losing symbol is displayed. If a specific losing symbol is displayed in the low-probability minute-time-saving state, it is possible to transition from the low-probability minute-time-saving state to the low-probability time-saving state. In response to a specific losing symbol being displayed in the low-probability minute-time-saving state, text encouraging the player to hit to the right, a door image, and a background image for the low-probability time-saving state are displayed. This makes it easy for the player to understand that a specific losing symbol that will cause the game state to change is displayed.

[Modified example]
The present invention is also applicable to other gaming machines, such as single-type gaming machines, reel-type gaming machines, and slot machines.

In the first and second embodiments, when the condition of 750 consecutive misses is met, the number of time-saving times is set to be greater than the number of time-saving times controlled to low-probability time-saving times by meeting other conditions. In both the first and second embodiments, the number of time-saving times controlled to low-probability time-saving times may be greater when a specific missing symbol is stopped and displayed than when the condition of 750 consecutive misses is met. In such a configuration, the low-probability time-saving state controlled in response to the specific missing symbol being stopped and displayed is a game state that is more advantageous to the player than the low-probability time-saving state controlled in response to the satisfaction of other conditions.

In both the first and second embodiments, it may be difficult for the player to recognize whether the state is a low-probability non-time-saving state or a low-probability minute-time-saving state. For example, the same background image and the same presentation mode name may be displayed in the low-probability non-time-saving state and the low-probability minute-time-saving state, making it difficult for the player to recognize which game state the state is. This makes it possible to prevent players from being unable to play because the game state (presentation mode) is relatively unfavorable to the player. Note that even in a configuration in which it is difficult for the player to recognize whether the state is a low-probability non-time-saving state or a low-probability minute-time-saving state, there is no need to make the game state difficult for the player to recognize in the low-probability time-saving state, so the presentation mode name is displayed in the low-probability time-saving state to enable the player to recognize the game state (presentation mode).

In both the first embodiment and the second embodiment, it is not necessary to provide a configuration in which the number of time reductions is set when the condition of 750 consecutive losses is met. That is, no matter how many times a normal losing symbol is continuously displayed in a stopped state, the time saving state is not controlled.

In the first embodiment and the second embodiment, when the condition of 750 consecutive losses and the condition that a specific losing symbol is stopped and displayed are simultaneously satisfied, the condition that the specific losing symbol is stopped and displayed is disabled. The explanation has been made assuming that the same processing as when only the condition of 750 consecutive losses is satisfied is given priority (ignored). In both the first embodiment and the second embodiment, if the condition of 750 consecutive losses and the condition that a specific losing symbol is stopped and displayed are simultaneously satisfied, the condition of 750 consecutive losses is not given priority ( The same process may be performed as in the case where only the condition that a specific losing symbol is stopped and displayed is satisfied (ignored).

In both the first and second embodiments, when a transition to a low probability time-saving state occurs in response to the display of a specific losing symbol, a presentation may be provided that makes it appear as if a jackpot has been reached in response to the display of the specific losing symbol, even though the winning combination is in fact a losing combination.

The operation means that the player operates to input operation information may be of any type. For example, the operation means may be a touch panel, which is a display screen on which the player can input operation information by performing a touch operation with his/her finger. The operation means may also be an optical sensor or the like provided on the frame member 3 so that the player can input operation information by performing a touch operation on a glass plate.

In addition, a part of the processing executed in the image/sound control board 140 and the lamp control board 150 may be executed by the performance control board 130, or a part of the processing executed in the performance control board 130 may be executed by the image/sound control board 140 or the lamp control board 150.

Furthermore, the configuration of the gaming machine 1 and the light emitting mode and operating mode of each member described in the above embodiment are merely examples, and it goes without saying that the present invention can be realized even with other configurations, light emitting modes, and operating modes. stomach. In addition, the order of processing, the number of times of time saving, the ratio, the set value, the threshold value used for determination, etc. in the above-mentioned flowchart are merely examples, and other orders and values may be used as long as they do not depart from the scope of the present invention. It goes without saying that the present invention can be realized. The explanatory diagrams and the like illustrated in the above embodiments are merely examples, and other embodiments may be used.

Note that the effects and numerical values described above are merely examples, and the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications and applications are possible. Furthermore, the above embodiments and modifications are applicable to each other, and the present invention may be realized in various combinations.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 Gaming machine 5 Display screen of liquid crystal display device 7 Performance device 11 First start hole 12 Second start hole 100 Gaming control board 100a CPU
100b ROM
100c RAM
130: Performance control board 130a: CPU
130b ROM
130c RAM
140 Image and sound control board 150 Lamp control board

Claims (1)

A gaming machine capable of shooting out a gaming ball in response to a shooting operation of a gaming operation means,
The game balls shot by the game operation means are configured to be shot into a first game area and a second game area,
A first winning area disposed in the first game area and into which a game ball can win;
A variable member disposed in the second play area and capable of being in an open state and a closed state;
a second winning area that is disposed in the second game area, and into which the game ball can easily win when the variable member is in the open state, but into which the game ball cannot easily win when the variable member is in the closed state ;
A determination means for determining whether or not a special game is to be executed when a gaming ball has entered the first winning area or the second winning area;
a determination result notifying means for notifying a determination result based on the determination result of the determining means;
a special game execution means for executing the special game in response to the determination result of the determination means being notified in a manner in which the special game is executed;
a game state control means for controlling a game state to one of a plurality of game states including a first game state which is a normal game state , a second game state which is a time-saving game state in which a game ball is more likely to enter the second winning area than in the first game state, and a third game state which is a time-saving game state in which a game ball is more likely to enter the second winning area than in the second game state;
A performance execution means for executing a performance,
the second gaming state is set so that it is more advantageous for a player to launch a gaming ball into the first gaming area than to launch a gaming ball into the second gaming area, and is a gaming state that is relatively more disadvantageous to a player than the first gaming state;
The third gaming state is set so that it is more advantageous for a player to launch a gaming ball into the second gaming area than to launch a gaming ball into the first gaming area,
the determination result notifying means is capable of notifying a first determination result or a second determination result as a determination result in response to the determination by the determination means not to execute the special game;
The game state control means includes:
The game state can be shifted to the third game state upon completion of the special game,
A transition from the first gaming state to the third gaming state is possible in response to the first determination result being notified in the first gaming state,
A transition from the third gaming state to the first gaming state is possible when a first end condition set in advance is satisfied in the third gaming state;
A transition from the first gaming state to the second gaming state is possible in response to the second determination result being notified in the first gaming state,
A transition from the second gaming state to the first gaming state is possible when a second ending condition, which is a preset second ending condition different from the first ending condition, is established in the second gaming state;
The second termination condition is that the number of times the determination result is notified during the second gaming state reaches a predetermined number of times ,
The performance execution means includes:
A warning to alert the player;
A notification effect for notifying a player of a transition to the third gaming state;
A first shot instruction for instructing a method of shooting the game ball advantageously according to a game state for a predetermined time period;
a second shot instruction which is a shot instruction given in a manner different from the first shot instruction and which instructs a method of shooting the game ball in an advantageous manner according to the game state for a period of time longer than the predetermined period of time;
A warning can be issued when the special game is ended and the game state is transitioned to the third game state.
When the first gaming state is transitioned to the third gaming state in response to the notification of the first determination result in the first gaming state, a warning is not executed, but a notification performance, a first shot instruction, and a second shot instruction can be executed;
When the first gaming state is transitioned to the second gaming state in response to the notification of the second determination result, the notification performance, the first shot instruction, and the second shot instruction are not executed, and the remaining number of determinations by the determination means that can be executed during the second gaming state is not notified.
A gaming machine capable of notifying the game result of the special game when transitioning from the third game state to the first game state as a result of the first termination condition being satisfied in the third game state, while not notifying the game result of the special game when transitioning from the second game state to the first game state as a result of the second termination condition being satisfied in the second game state .

Images