JP7496379B2 - Gaming Machines - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an amusement machine.

Conventionally, as a gaming machine of this type, when a gaming ball enters a start entry port provided in the gaming area, a win/lose lottery is held to determine whether or not a special game will be played, and a special pattern showing the result of the win/lose lottery is determined. The special pattern is then displayed in a varying manner, and a specific pattern (jackpot pattern) is displayed as stopped, indicating that the result of the win/lose lottery is that a special game will be played (a jackpot has been won), thereby playing a special game in which many prize balls can be won.
In such gaming machines, in order to increase the player's interest, multiple game states with different degrees of advantage are provided, and when a predetermined specific pattern is determined, the game state after the special game ends is set to a game state with a different degree of advantage (for example, a time-saving game state).
Also, in recent years, in order to increase the interest of players, in the above-mentioned win/lose lottery, in addition to the lottery result that a special game will be played, a specific lottery result that sets a game state with a different degree of advantage (time-saving game state) without the need for a special game has been derived, and a gaming machine has been devised in which a special pattern (time-saving pattern) indicating the specific lottery result is displayed in a predetermined game state (normal game state), thereby setting a game state with a different degree of advantage from the predetermined game state without the need for a special game (see Patent Document 1).

JP 2021-78994 A

In gaming machines such as those described above, the game states with different degrees of advantage as described above are generally set to end when a termination condition is met, that is, the number of times the win/lose lottery has been executed (the number of times the special pattern has changed) reaches a predetermined number, and to transition to the above-mentioned predetermined game state (normal game state).
Here, the specific lottery result described above may be derived by a win/lose lottery held at the time when the game state with different advantageous degrees ends and transitions to a predetermined game state, and a special symbol showing the specific lottery result may be displayed as a static display. In this case, if it is determined that the above-mentioned end condition is met and transitions to a predetermined game state have occurred, and the above-mentioned special symbol is displayed as a static display in the predetermined game state, a situation will occur in which the above-mentioned game states with different advantageous degrees are set consecutively, and the boundaries and setting triggers of the game states with different advantageous degrees become unclear, which may give the player a sense of discomfort in the game.

Therefore, the present invention was made in light of the above-mentioned circumstances, and aims to provide a gaming machine that can prevent players from feeling uncomfortable while playing.

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention is configured as follows.
(1) The gaming machine according to the present invention includes a special symbol determination means capable of determining, based on the establishment of a predetermined condition, one of a plurality of special symbols including a specific symbol associated with the execution of a special game advantageous to a player and a special symbol different from the specific symbol, a special symbol display means capable of statically displaying the special symbol, a setting means capable of setting one of a plurality of game states including a first game state, a second game state having a higher advantage than the first game state, and a third game state having a lower advantage than the first game state, and a play means capable of executing a variable presentation that notifies a player of the determination by the special symbol determination means. and a dispense execution means , wherein the special symbols include at least a first special symbol and a second special symbol, and the setting means sets the third game state when the first special symbol is displayed as stopped in the first game state, sets the second game state when the second special symbol is displayed as stopped in the first game state, maintains the second game state when the special symbol is displayed as stopped in the second game state, and maintains the third game state when the special symbol is displayed as stopped in the third game state, and the second game state is determined based on the special symbol determined by the special symbol determination means. When the number of times the special symbol is determined reaches a predetermined number, the game state is terminated. When the special symbol is determined by the determination by the special symbol determination means for the predetermined number of times in the second game state, the second game state is maintained by determining that the special symbol is statically displayed in the second game state , and the second game state is terminated by determining that the number of times the special symbol is determined reaches a predetermined number. When the special symbol is determined in the third game state, the static display time of the special symbol is the same as that of the special symbol determined in the first game state. The effect execution means is capable of executing the variable effect in a common manner in both a first case in which the setting of the second game state is determined by determining the first special pattern in the first game state and a second case in which the setting of the third game state is determined by determining the second special pattern in the first game state, and is characterized in that in the first case, a notification is executed in a first pattern in the variable effect, and in the second case, a notification is executed in a second pattern in the variable effect .

According to the gaming machine of the present invention, when a special symbol associated with the setting of the second gaming state is determined by the determination of the special symbol being stopped and displayed a predetermined number of times in the second gaming state, which is more advantageous than the first gaming state, the second gaming state is maintained by determining that the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the second gaming state, and then the second gaming state is terminated by determining that the number of times the special symbol is determined has reached a predetermined number. This prevents the second gaming state from being set continuously, and the division and setting trigger of the second gaming state are not ambiguous, so that it is possible to prevent the player from feeling uncomfortable about the game.

The present invention provides a gaming machine that can prevent players from feeling uncomfortable while playing the game.

1 is an external perspective view of a pachinko machine according to a first embodiment. FIG. 1 is an external perspective view of a pachinko machine according to a first embodiment with a front door open; FIG. 1 is a schematic front view of a game board of a pachinko machine according to a first embodiment. FIG. An enlarged view of the second starting winning port and movable piece of the pachinko machine of the first embodiment. 1 is a front schematic view of the inside of an attacker device of a pachinko machine according to a first embodiment. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the pachinko machine according to the first embodiment. FIG. An explanatory diagram of a win/lose random number determination table for a pachinko machine of the first embodiment. 1 is an explanatory diagram of a special pattern random number determination table for a pachinko machine according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram of a special electric device operation table of a pachinko machine according to the first embodiment. 1 is an explanatory diagram of a game status setting table of a pachinko machine according to a first embodiment. FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of a variation pattern table of a pachinko machine according to the first embodiment. FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of a variation pattern table of a pachinko machine according to the first embodiment. FIG. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram of a stop display time table for a pachinko machine according to the first embodiment. An explanatory diagram of a winning determination random number judgment table for a pachinko machine of the first embodiment. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram of a normal symbol variation pattern determination table for a pachinko machine according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram of a movable piece operation control table of a pachinko machine according to the first embodiment. 4 is a flowchart showing an outline of the main processing in the main control board of the pachinko machine of the first embodiment. 4 is a flowchart showing an outline of the initialization process in the main control board of the pachinko machine of the first embodiment. 13 is a flowchart showing an outline of the power cut-off evacuation process in the main control board of the pachinko machine of the first embodiment. 13 is a flowchart showing an outline of timer interrupt processing in the main control board of the pachinko machine of the first embodiment. 13 is a flowchart showing an outline of the processing performed during sensor detection in the main control board of the pachinko machine of the first embodiment. 11 is a flowchart showing an outline of the processing performed when a gate is detected in the main control board of the pachinko machine of the first embodiment. A flowchart showing an outline of the processing performed when the first start winning port is detected in the main control board of a pachinko machine of the first embodiment. A flowchart showing an outline of the processing performed when a second start winning port is detected in the main control board of a pachinko machine of the first embodiment. 13 is a flowchart showing an outline of a pre-determination process in a main control board of a pachinko machine according to the first embodiment. 13 is a flowchart showing an outline of the processing performed when a specific area is detected in the main control board of the pachinko machine of the first embodiment. A flowchart showing an outline of special chart-related control processing in the main control board of a pachinko machine of the first embodiment. 13 is a flowchart showing an outline of the special symbol variation start processing in the main control board of the pachinko machine of the first embodiment. 13 is a flowchart showing an outline of the win/loss determination process in the main control board of the pachinko machine of the first embodiment. 13 is a flowchart showing an outline of the variation pattern determination process in the main control board of the pachinko machine of the first embodiment. 13 is a flowchart showing an outline of the special symbol variation stop processing in the main control board of the pachinko machine of the first embodiment. 13 is a flowchart showing an outline of post-stop processing in the main control board of the pachinko machine of the first embodiment. 4 is a flowchart showing an outline of the special game control processing in the main control board of the pachinko machine of the first embodiment. 13 is a flowchart showing an outline of the special game ending processing in the main control board of the pachinko machine of the first embodiment. 13 is a flowchart showing an outline of the general map-related control processing in the main control board of the pachinko machine of the first embodiment. 13 is a flowchart showing an outline of the normal pattern variation start processing in the main control board of the pachinko machine of the first embodiment. 13 is a flowchart showing an outline of the normal symbol variation stop processing in the main control board of the pachinko machine of the first embodiment. 13 is a flowchart showing an outline of the processing after the normal symbol stops in the main control board of the pachinko machine of the first embodiment. 13 is a flowchart showing an outline of a movable piece control process in a main control board of a pachinko machine according to the first embodiment. A state transition diagram showing the transition to each game state of a pachinko machine of the first embodiment. A state transition diagram showing the transition to each presentation state of a pachinko machine of the first form. A figure showing an example of the variable presentation of a pachinko machine according to the first embodiment. A figure showing an example of the variable presentation of a pachinko machine according to the first embodiment. A figure showing an example of the variable presentation of a pachinko machine according to the first embodiment. A figure showing an example of the variable presentation of a pachinko machine according to the first embodiment. A figure showing an example of the variable presentation of a pachinko machine according to the first embodiment. A figure showing an example of the variable presentation of a pachinko machine according to the first embodiment. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram of a variable presentation determination table for a pachinko machine according to the first embodiment. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram of a variable presentation determination table for a pachinko machine according to the first embodiment. 4 is a flowchart showing an outline of the main processing in the sub-control board of the pachinko machine of the first embodiment. 13 is a flowchart showing an outline of timer interrupt processing in the sub-control board of the pachinko machine of the first embodiment. 13 is a flowchart showing an outline of the game status setting related command receiving process in the sub-control board of the pachinko machine of the first embodiment. 13 is a flowchart showing an outline of the power interruption recovery command receiving process in the sub-control board of the pachinko machine of the first embodiment. 13 is a flowchart showing an outline of the stop display end command receiving process in the sub-control board of the pachinko machine of the first embodiment. 13 is a flowchart showing an outline of the variable pattern command receiving process in the sub-control board of the pachinko machine of the first embodiment. An explanatory diagram of a win/lose random number determination table for a pachinko machine of the second embodiment. An explanatory diagram of a special pattern random number determination table for a pachinko machine according to the second embodiment. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram of the special electric device operation table of the pachinko machine according to the second embodiment. An explanatory diagram of a game status setting table of a pachinko machine according to the second embodiment. An explanatory diagram of a variation pattern table of a pachinko machine according to the second embodiment. An explanatory diagram of a stop display time table for a pachinko machine according to a second embodiment. 13 is a flowchart showing an outline of the processing performed when a special area is detected in the main control board of a pachinko machine according to the second embodiment. 13 is a flowchart showing an outline of the special pattern variation start processing in the main control board of the pachinko machine of the second embodiment. A flowchart showing an outline of the win/loss determination process in the main control board of a pachinko machine of the second embodiment. 13 is a flowchart showing an outline of the special pattern variation stop processing in the main control board of the pachinko machine of the second embodiment. 13 is a flowchart showing an outline of the game status setting process at the time of stop display in the main control board of a pachinko machine of the second embodiment. 13 is a flowchart showing an outline of post-stop processing in the main control board of a pachinko machine according to the second embodiment. 13 is a flowchart showing an outline of the small win game control processing in the main control board of a pachinko machine according to the second embodiment. 13 is a flowchart showing an outline of the special game ending processing in the main control board of the pachinko machine of the second embodiment. A figure showing an example of the variable presentation of a pachinko machine according to the second embodiment.

(First form)
Hereinafter, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
(External configuration of pachinko machine P)
The gaming machine according to this embodiment is a pachinko machine P that uses gaming balls as a gaming medium. Although not shown in the figure, in an amusement parlor where the pachinko machines P are installed, a plurality of pachinko machines P are arranged side by side in an area where the gaming machines are installed, called an island, and a gaming ball lending device for lending the gaming balls is installed adjacent to each pachinko machine P. Each pachinko machine P is connected to a corresponding gaming ball lending device R.
The game ball lending device R can accept the insertion of bills and a storage medium (card) that stores value information required for lending game balls. After inserting bills (or a card) into the game ball lending device R, a player can receive game balls from the game ball lending device R by performing a predetermined operation on the pachinko machine P.

As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the pachinko machine P of this embodiment comprises a machine frame 1, which is a rectangular frame body fixed to an island and has a hollow portion (not shown), a main body frame 2, which is a rectangular frame body attached to the machine frame 1 by a hinge mechanism (not shown) so as to be freely opened and closed, and has a hollow portion (not shown), and a front door 3, which is attached to the main body frame 2 by a hinge mechanism (not shown) so as to be freely opened and closed, and has an opening (not shown) formed on the front.

As shown in Figure 1, a speaker serving as a sound output device 10 is provided in the lower left portion of the machine frame 1. A game board 11 for forming a game area 12 is housed in the hollow portion of the main body frame 2. The front door 3 is provided with a transparent plate 4 covering the opening, an upper tray 6 and a receiving tray 7 located below the transparent plate 4 and capable of receiving game balls, an operating handle 5 attached to the right of the receiving tray 7 for operating the launch of game balls, and two speakers serving as sound output devices 10 attached to the upper left and right portions of the transparent plate 4.

In this pachinko machine P, when the main frame 2 is closed against the machine casing 1 and the front door 3 is closed, the transparent plate 4 is positioned in front of the game board 11 with a gap between them. This makes it possible to view the game board 11 located at the rear through the transparent plate 4.

In addition, the upper tray 6 is adapted to guide game balls dispensed by the game ball dispenser R and prize balls dispensed from the pachinko machine P. The upper tray 6 is adapted to receive a predetermined amount of game balls, but when the upper tray 6 is filled with game balls, game balls that are subsequently dispensed or dispensed are adapted to be guided to the receiving tray 7. In addition, although not shown in the figure, the bottom surface of the receiving tray 7 is provided with a discharge hole for discharging the stored game balls and an opening/closing plate that can open and close the discharge hole. Normally, the discharge hole is closed by the opening/closing plate, but by moving the opening/closing lever 8 (see FIG. 1) attached integrally to the opening/closing plate in the horizontal direction, the opening/closing plate also moves in the same direction, opening the discharge hole. This allows the game balls to fall through the discharge hole and be discharged out of the receiving tray 7.

The operating handle 5 is also formed so that the player can rotate it in a predetermined direction. When the player rotates the operating handle 5, the game balls held in the upper tray 6 are sent to a launching device (not specifically shown), and the launching device launches the game balls toward the play area 12 with a strength that corresponds to the rotation angle of the operating handle 5. The game balls launched in this manner are guided upward by a pair of rails 13a, 13b fixed to the game board 11, and reach the play area 12.

Here, the game area 12 is a portion of the space formed between the game board 11 and the transparent plate 4 when the main frame 2 and the front door 3 are closed to the machine frame 1, which is partitioned into an approximately circular shape by a pair of rails 13a, 13b fixed to the game board 11, and is an area through which game balls can flow down.
As shown in Fig. 3, the game area 12 is composed of a first game area 12a, which is an area on the left side as seen by a player facing the pachinko machine P, and a second game area 12b, which is an area on the right side as seen by a player facing the pachinko machine P. The two game areas 12 have different possibilities for game balls to enter depending on the firing strength of the launching device. Specifically, when the firing strength of the launching device is less than a predetermined strength (a strength at which the game ball launched by the launching device does not reach the highest point of the game area 12), the game ball enters the first game area 12a. On the other hand, when the firing strength of the launching device is equal to or greater than a predetermined strength (a strength at which the game ball launched by the launching device can reach the highest point of the game area 12), the game ball enters the second game area 12b.

Also, within this game area 12, as shown in Figure 3, there are provided a windmill and numerous nails for making the direction in which game balls flow irregularly, a general winning opening 14 through which game balls can enter, a first starting winning opening 15 and a second starting winning opening 16 as starting areas, a gate 20 through which game balls can pass, an attacker device 17 that operates when a predetermined condition is met, an outlet 19 that guides game balls out of the game area 12, and a performance display device 21 that acts as a performance device that performs performances as the game progresses. Note that Figure 3 shows only some of the nails, and the other nails are omitted.

As shown in Figure 3, the general winning opening 14 is located slightly to the left of the center at the bottom of the game area 12, and when a game ball enters the general winning opening 14, a predetermined number of prize balls (five in this embodiment) are paid out.
The number and locations of the general winning ports 14 are not particularly limited.

As shown in FIG. 3, the first start winning hole 15 is located slightly below the center of the game area 12. In the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, only game balls flowing down the first game area 12a can enter the first start winning hole 15, and game balls flowing down the second game area 12b cannot enter the first start winning hole 15.

As shown in Fig. 3, the gate 20 is provided at the top of the second game area 12b (at a position slightly above the center of the right part of the game area 12). In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, only game balls flowing down the second game area 12b can pass through the gate 20, and game balls flowing down the first game area 12a cannot pass through the gate 20. In addition, the pachinko machine P is configured so that almost all game balls that enter the second game area 12b pass through the gate 20.
When the game ball passes through the gate 20, a lottery for a normal symbol, which will be described later, is held. If the result of the lottery for the normal symbol is a winning one, a movable piece 16b, which will be described later, is caused to protrude for a predetermined period of time.

Below the gate 20, as shown in FIG. 3, the second start winning hole 16 and a flat movable piece 16b (a normal electric device) that can be protruded and retracted into the game board 11 are arranged side by side.
The upper surface of the movable piece 16b is formed so as to slope downward from the right end to the left end when protruding from the game board 11. The right end of the movable piece 16b is located directly below the gate 20, and the second start winning hole 16 is located to the left of the left end of the movable piece 16b. The second start winning hole 16 is cup-shaped and opens upward, and a game ball that reaches the opening enters the second start winning hole 16. In addition, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, the time it takes for a game ball at the right end of the upper surface of the movable piece 16b to reach the opening of the second start winning hole 16 (hereinafter also referred to as the opening arrival time) is configured to be approximately 0.3 seconds.
In a state where the movable piece 16b protrudes from the game board 11 (hereinafter also referred to as the protruding state), the upper surface of the movable piece 16b functions as a guide member that guides the game ball to the opening of the second start winning hole 16 (see FIG. 4(b)). In contrast, in a state where the movable piece 16b is sunk into the game board 11 (hereinafter also referred to as the sunk state), the movable piece 16b cannot guide the game ball to the opening of the second start winning hole 16 (see FIG. 4(a)).
In addition, only game balls flowing down the second game area 12b can enter the second start winning port 16, and game balls flowing down the first game area 12a cannot enter the second start winning port 16.

It should be noted that the second starting winning hole 16 and the movable piece 16b are not limited to the configuration described above.
For example, the second start winning opening 16 may be provided with a wing member as the movable piece 16b that can rotate left and right about an axis perpendicular to the game board 11 to open and close the second start winning opening 16. Specifically, when the movable piece 16b (wing member) is closed, the second start winning opening 16 is in a closed state, and it is impossible for a game ball to enter the second start winning opening 16, whereas when the movable piece 16b is opened, the second start winning opening 16 is in an open state, and the movable piece 16b functions as a guide member that guides the game ball toward the second start winning opening 16, thereby enabling the game ball to enter the second start winning opening 16.
In addition, the movable piece 16b may be a cover member that rotates back and forth around an axis horizontal to the game board 11 to open and close the second start winning opening 16, or it may be a shutter member that slides up and down to open and close the second start winning opening 16.

The installation positions of the first start winning opening 15 and the second start winning opening 16 are not particularly limited. For example, the first start winning opening 15 and the second start winning opening 16 may be placed in a position that allows game balls flowing down either game area 12 (first game area 12a, second game area 12b) to easily enter the opening.

When a game ball enters the first start winning slot 15 or the second start winning slot 16, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out, and a winning/losing lottery is held to determine whether or not a jackpot (described below) has been won (hereinafter also referred to as winning or losing a jackpot) and whether or not a time-saving game state (described below) will be granted (hereinafter also referred to as granting or losing a time-saving game state), and one special symbol is selected from a number of pre-determined special symbols according to the result of the winning/losing lottery. There are a number of types of special symbols that can be selected, and depending on the type of special symbol selected, a game benefit such as the execution of a special game advantageous to the player or the granting of a time-saving game state (setting of a time-saving game state JT1 or JT2 described below) is awarded.
The number of prize balls paid out based on the entry of a game ball into the first start winning hole 15 or the second start winning hole 16 is not particularly limited as long as it is one or more, and may be any number. The number of prize balls may be the same or different between the first start winning hole 15 (a starting winning hole without the movable piece 16b) and the second start winning hole 16 (a starting winning hole with the movable piece 16b). In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, the number of prize balls paid out based on the entry of a game ball into the first start winning hole 15 is three, and the number of prize balls paid out based on the entry of a game ball into the second start winning hole 16 is one.

As shown in FIG. 3, the attacker device 17 is provided in the center of the right part of the game area 12 (below the second start winning hole 16 and the movable piece 16b). The attacker device 17 includes a large winning hole 18 into which a game ball can enter, and an opening/closing door 18b for opening and closing the large winning hole 18. Normally, the opening/closing door 18b is closed and the large winning hole 18 is closed, so that a game ball cannot enter the large winning hole 18. However, when the above-mentioned special game is played, the opening/closing door 18b opens and the large winning hole 18 is opened, so that a game ball can enter the large winning hole 18. Specifically, during the above-mentioned special game, a round game in which the large winning hole 18 is opened is played multiple times. When one game ball enters the large winning hole 18, a predetermined number of prize balls (15 in this embodiment) are paid out.
3, game balls flowing down the second game area 12b can enter the large prize opening 18, but game balls flowing down the first game area 12a cannot enter the large prize opening 18. Although not shown, nails, windmills, etc. are arranged so that almost all game balls flowing down the second game area 12b can reach the large prize opening 18, except for those that enter the second start prize opening 16. Therefore, as long as game balls continue to be shot out as long as the large prize opening 18 is open, the game balls will enter the large prize opening 18.

Furthermore, as shown in Figs. 5(a) and (b), a rolling path 51 is provided inside the attacker device 17 along which a gaming ball that has entered the large prize opening 18 can roll to the left. This rolling path 51 branches into an upper passage 52 and a lower passage 53 at a predetermined position in the rolling direction, and at the end of the upper passage 52 is provided a general area 58 into which a gaming ball that has entered the large prize opening 18 can enter, while at the end of the lower passage 53 is provided a specific area 57 into which a gaming ball that has entered the large prize opening 18 can enter (see Figs. 5(a) and (b)).

5(a) and (b), a distribution member 59 that distributes game balls to either the upper passage 52 or the lower passage 53 is provided at the position where the upper passage 52 and the lower passage 53 branch off. This distribution member 59 is rotatable about an axis perpendicular to the game board 11, and can be displaced between a first position that opens the path to the upper passage 52 and blocks the path to the lower passage 53, and a second position that blocks the path to the upper passage 52 and opens the path to the lower passage 53. When the distribution member 59 is in the first position, the game ball that enters the big prize opening 18 advances to the upper passage 52 and enters the general area 58, and when the distribution member 59 is in the second position, the game ball advances to the lower passage 53 and enters the specific area 57.

Although not specifically shown, the attacker device 17 is provided with a specific area outlet for discharging game balls that have entered the specific area 57 outside the big prize opening 18 (on the rear side of the game board 11), and a general area outlet for discharging game balls that have entered the general area 58 outside the big prize opening 18 (on the rear side of the game board 11).

In addition, in the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, the manner in which the opening and closing door 18b opens and closes (opening and closing pattern) and the manner in which the distribution member 59 operates (operation pattern) in the round game executed during the above-mentioned special game are set for each type of special pattern determined when a jackpot is won.
In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, when a predetermined number of game balls (one in this embodiment) enter the specific area 57 during a specific round of play, the game state after the special game ends is set to a high-probability time-saving game state, which is a game state that is advantageous to the player, and a time-saving game state JT2 described later. On the other hand, when a predetermined number of game balls do not enter the specific area 57 during a specific round of play (i.e., when all game balls that entered the big prize opening 18 enter the general area 58), the game state after the special game ends is set to a low-probability time-saving game state LJT2, which is a game state that combines a low-probability game state and a time-saving game state JT2.
The opening and closing pattern of the opening and closing door 18b, the operation pattern of the sorting member 59, and the game state settings will be described in detail later.
As described above, the game state after the end of the special game is not set to a high probability time-saving game state or a low probability time-saving game state LJT2 depending on whether or not a predetermined number of game balls enter the specific area 57 in the round game during the special game, but the game state after the end of the special game may be set to a high probability time-saving game state or a low probability time-saving game state LJT2 depending on the type of special symbol determined when a jackpot is won. For example, when a jackpot is won and a specific special symbol is determined, the game state after the end of the special game is set to a high probability time-saving game state, but when a special symbol other than the specific special symbol is determined, the game state after the end of the special game may be set to a low probability time-saving game state LJT2 or a normal game state. In this way, when the game state after the end of the special game is determined depending on the type of special symbol, it is not necessary to provide the above-mentioned specific area 57.

As shown in FIG. 3, the outlet 19 is provided at the bottom of the game area 12 and receives game balls that have not entered any of the general winning opening 14, the first start winning opening 15, the second start winning opening 16, and the big winning opening 18. Game balls received in the outlet 19 are guided to the back side of the game board 11 and collected.

As shown in Fig. 3, the performance display device 21 is provided in the approximate center of the play area 12. In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, a liquid crystal display device is used as the performance display device 21. The performance display device 21 is provided with a display section 21a for displaying images such as moving images and still images, and in addition to displaying a background image on the display section 21a, performance symbols 50 (dummy symbols) are displayed in a variable manner, and a variable performance is performed to notify the player of the result of the winning/losing lottery depending on the stop display mode of each performance symbol 50.
In addition, the performance display device 21 is not limited to a liquid crystal display device, and may be, for example, a drum-type display device that uses multiple drums with patterns on the outer circumference to display various information.

The pachinko machine P in this embodiment is equipped with, as a performance device, in addition to the performance display device 21, a speaker as the above-mentioned audio output device 10, and a lamp (see Figure 1) as a performance lighting device 23 that produces performance by emitting light in various colors and lighting patterns.
It should be noted that the presentation devices are not limited to these, and may include, for example, prop devices that can move at various times and in various ways.

In addition, a performance operation device 9 is provided in front of the upper tray 6, which can be operated by the player to progress or switch the performance executed during play or standby. In this embodiment, the performance operation device 9 is composed of an operation dial 9a that is a circular ring-shaped frame body that can be rotated, and an operation button 9b that is fitted into the operation dial 9a and can be pressed. When a specific performance is being executed by the performance display device 21, rotating the operation dial 9a or pressing the operation button 9b causes various performances such as variable performances to progress or to switch to a different display.
The performance operation device 9 is not limited to the operation dial 9a and the operation button 9b, but may be a cross key capable of inputting up, down, left and right directions. In addition to providing the performance operation device 9 such as the operation dial 9a and the operation button 9b, the above-mentioned cross key may be provided separately.

As shown in FIG. 3, in the lower right portion of the game board 11 and outside the game area 12, a first special symbol display device 30, a second special symbol display device 31, a first special symbol reserved display device 38, a second special symbol reserved display device 39, a normal symbol display device 32, and a normal symbol reserved display device 33 are provided as devices for displaying various game statuses.

As described above, the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment is electrically connected to the game ball lending device R, and the pachinko machine P is configured to accept operations on the game ball lending device R, such as lending game balls and ejecting cards. For this reason, the pachinko machine P is provided with a value information display device 35 that displays value information (balance information) stored in the card, a ball lending button 36 that can be pressed, and a card return button 37 that can be pressed, as shown in FIG. 1.

(Configuration of the control means of the pachinko machine P)
Next, the control means for controlling the game and presentation of the pachinko machine P will be described.
The above-mentioned control means is composed of various control boards, and specifically, as shown in Figure 6, it includes a main control board 100 that controls the basic operations of the pachinko machine P, a launch and payout control board 200 that controls the launch of game balls and the payout of prize balls, a sub-control board 300 that controls various presentations, and a game ball lending control board 400 that relays operations to the game ball lending device R.

6, the main control board 100 is connected to a launching/payout control board 200 and a sub-control board 300, and the launching/payout control board 200 is connected to a game ball lending control board 400. Furthermore, the main control board 100 and the launching/payout control board 200 are connected to an external information terminal board 500 for outputting various information on the progress of the game to the outside of the pachinko machine P (for example, a hall computer in the game center).
In the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, as described above, the launch and payout control board 200 controls both the launch of game balls and the payout of prize balls, but a board that controls the launch of game balls (launch control board) and a board that controls the payout of prize balls (payout control board) may be provided separately.

Although not specifically shown, a power supply board is connected to each board equipped in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment. This power supply board is provided with a backup power supply, and when the voltage value of the power supplied to the pachinko machine P falls below a predetermined value, it determines that a power cut has occurred and outputs a power cut signal to the main control board 100.

The main control board 100 controls the games played on the pachinko machine P, and specifically controls the special game (lottery for winning or losing, determination of special patterns, and display of changing special patterns (hereinafter also referred to as special pattern changes)) which is started when the game ball enters the first start winning port 15 or the second start winning port 16, the regular game (lottery for regular patterns, display of changing regular patterns (hereinafter also referred to as regular pattern changes), etc.) which is started when the game ball passes through the gate 20, and special games which are advantageous to the player.
As shown in FIG. 6, the main control board 100 is equipped with a main CPU 101 which performs various calculation processes, a main ROM 102 which stores a control program for progressing the game and data and tables necessary for the game, and a main RAM 103 which is used as a temporary storage area during calculation processes.
Then, based on signals from each detection sensor and timer described later, the main CPU 101 reads out a control program stored in the main ROM 102 and performs calculation processing, as well as controlling various devices connected to the main CPU 101 and sending commands to other boards based on the results of the calculation processing.

6, the main control board 100 is connected to a general winning hole detection sensor 14a that detects the entry of a game ball into the general winning hole 14, a first start winning hole detection sensor 15a that detects the entry of a game ball into the first start winning hole 15, a second start winning hole detection sensor 16a that detects the entry of a game ball into the second start winning hole 16, a large winning hole detection sensor 18a that detects the entry of a game ball into the large winning hole 18, a gate detection sensor 20a that detects the passage of a game ball through a gate 20, a fraud detection sensor 35 that detects magnetism, radio waves, etc. directed toward the game board 11, and a specific area detection sensor 57a that detects the entry of a game ball into a specific area 57. The detection signals output from each of these detection sensors are input to the main control board 100.
It should be noted that the sensors connected to the main control board 100 are not limited to these, and for example, a general area detection sensor that detects when a gaming ball enters the general area 58 may be provided.

Furthermore, the main control board 100 is connected to the following devices to be controlled: a movable piece solenoid 16c which drives the movable piece 16b attached to the second start winning opening 16 to protrude and retract, a large prize opening solenoid 18c which drives the opening and closing door 18b of the large prize opening 18 to open and close, a distribution member solenoid 59c which displaces the distribution member 59, the first special pattern display device 30, the second special pattern display device 31, the normal pattern display device 32, the first special pattern reserve display device 38, the second special pattern reserve display device 39, and the normal pattern reserve display device 33.
The main control board 100 drives each solenoid to control the projection and recession of the movable piece 16b attached to the second start winning port 16, the opening and closing of the large winning port 18, and the displacement of the sorting member 59, as well as controlling the display of each display device.

In addition, in the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, only one setting level, setting value 1, is defined for the setting of the balls dispensed, and the win/lose random number determination table 110 used in the win/lose lottery described later is provided corresponding to this setting value 1.
In addition, the setting for the ball output may be set not only in one stage, but also in multiple stages, such as six stages from setting value 1 to setting value 6. When multiple stages are set for the setting for the ball output, the probability of winning the jackpot in the winning/losing lottery can be set to be different depending on the difference in the setting value. For example, the setting value 6 can be set to have a higher probability of winning the jackpot than the setting value 1, and if the probability of winning the jackpot is high, the possibility of winning prize balls is also high, so by changing the setting value, the expected amount of prize balls to be paid out in the pachinko machine P changes. The winning/losing random number determination table 110 used in the winning/losing lottery is provided corresponding to each of the setting values 1 to 6, and when the setting value is changed, the winning/losing random number determination table 110 provided for each setting value is changed in its entirety.
Although not shown, the main control board 100 is provided with a RAM clear switch and a setting switch. In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, when the front door 3 is open and the power is turned on with both the RAM clear switch and the setting switch on, the machine transitions to a setting change state in which the setting value can be changed. In this setting change state, the setting value can be changed by operating the RAM clear switch. As described above, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, since only one setting level, setting value 1, is defined as the setting related to the ball output, the setting value remains at 1 even if the RAM clear switch is operated during the setting change state.

The firing and dispensing control board 200, although not specifically shown, is equipped with a CPU, ROM, and RAM, just like the main control board 100, and is connected to the main control board 100 so as to be able to communicate bidirectionally.

As shown in FIG. 6, the launch/payout control board 200 is connected with the following devices for controlling the launch of game balls: a touch sensor 5a that detects when a player touches the operating handle 5; an operating volume 5b that detects the operating angle (rotation angle) of the operating handle 5; a launch stop switch 5c that stops the launch of game balls; a ball feed solenoid 60 that sends the game balls held in the upper tray 6 to a launch device (not shown); and a launch motor 61 that launches the game balls. In addition, control signals output from the touch sensor 5a, the operating volume 5b, and the launch stop switch 5c are input to the launch/payout control board 200.

When the control signals from the touch sensor 5a and the operation volume 5b are input to the launch/dispatch control board 200, the ball feed solenoid 60 and the launch motor 61 are energized to launch the game balls. While the ball feed solenoid 60 and the launch motor 61 are energized, the game balls are continuously launched at 0.6 second intervals (i.e., at a rate of 100 balls per minute). On the other hand, when the control signal from the launch stop switch 5c is input to the launch/dispatch control board 200, the ball feed solenoid 60 and the launch motor 61 are de-energized to stop the launch of the game balls.
In addition, a rotary solenoid may be used instead of the launch motor 61 as a device for launching the game ball.

As shown in FIG. 6, the launch payout control board 200 is connected to a payout motor 62 that pays out the game balls stored in a game ball storage section (not shown) as prize balls, and a payout counting switch 63 that detects and counts the paid-out game balls, as devices for controlling the payout of game balls. When the launch payout control board 200 receives a payout number command transmitted from the main control board 100, the launch payout control board 200 controls the payout motor 62 to pay out a predetermined number of game balls (prize balls) based on the payout number command. At this time, the number of paid-out game balls is counted by the payout counting switch 63, making it possible to determine whether the predetermined number of game balls (prize balls) have been paid out.

Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 6, the firing/dispensing control board 200 is connected to a front door open detection sensor 3a that detects the open state of the front door 3, and a tray full detection sensor 7a that detects the full state of the tray 7.

When the front door open detection sensor 3a detects that the front door 3 is open, it outputs an open detection signal to the launch/dispense control board 200, and the open detection signal is output continuously while the front door 3 is open. When the open detection signal is input, the launch/dispense control board 200 sends a door open command to the main control board 100. In response, when the front door open detection sensor 3a no longer detects that the front door 3 is open, it turns off and stops outputting the door open detection signal. When the input of the door open detection signal stops, the launch/dispense control board 200 determines that the front door 3 is closed, and stops sending the door open command to the main control board 100.

The tray full detection sensor 7a is provided at a predetermined position of the tray 7. When the tray 7 is filled with a predetermined amount of game balls to be paid out as prize balls, the stored game balls reach the above-mentioned predetermined position.
The tray full detection sensor 7a is turned on when it detects that the game balls have reached the above-mentioned predetermined position, and outputs a tray detection signal to the launch/dispatch control board 200. The tray detection signal is continuously output while the stored game balls are at the above-mentioned predetermined position. When the tray detection signal is input, the launch/dispatch control board 200 transmits a tray full command to the main control board 100. In response to this, the tray full detection sensor 7a turns off when it no longer detects that the game balls have reached the above-mentioned predetermined position, and stops outputting the tray detection signal. When the input of the tray detection signal stops, the launch/dispatch control board 200 determines that the tray 7 full state has been released, and stops sending the tray full command to the main control board 100.

As described above, the launching and dispensing control board 200 is connected to a game ball lending control board 400 that relays operations to the game ball lending device R. As shown in FIG. 6, the launching and dispensing control board 200 is connected, via the game ball lending control board 400, to a value information display device 35, a ball lending switch 36a that detects the pressing operation of the ball lending button 36, and a card return switch 37a that detects the pressing operation of the card return button 37.

When the ball lending button 36 is pressed, a detection signal output from the ball lending switch 36a is input to the launching and paying out control board 200, which then transmits a lending request signal requesting the lending of game balls to the game ball lending device R. When the game ball lending device R receives the lending request signal, the game ball lending device R subtracts predetermined value information from the stored value information and controls the paying out of a number of game balls corresponding to the subtracted value information.
When the card return button 37 is pressed, a detection signal output from the card return switch 37a is input to the launch/payout control board 200, which then transmits a return request signal requesting the return of the card to the game ball lending device R. When the game ball lending device R receives the return request signal, it controls the game ball lending device R to dispense the card.

The sub-control board 300 controls the presentation that is executed during play, standby, etc.
As shown in Figure 6, this sub-control board 300 is equipped with a sub-CPU 301 that performs various types of calculation processing, a sub-ROM 302 that stores control programs for executing performances, data and tables necessary for executing performances, etc., and a sub-RAM 303 that is used as a temporary memory area during calculation processing, and is connected so as to enable one-way communication from the main control board 100 to the sub-control board 300.
Then, based on commands sent from the main control board 100 and signals from a timer, the sub-CPU 301 reads out the control program stored in the sub-ROM 302 and performs calculations, and sends commands for executing performances to an image control board (not specifically shown) for controlling image display, an audio control board (not specifically shown) for controlling audio output, and an illumination control board (not specifically shown) for controlling the lighting.
In the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, as described above, the audio control board and the illumination control board are provided separately, but it is also possible to provide a single board (audio and illumination control board) that combines the functions of these boards, and to use this board to control both the audio output and the lighting.

The sub-control board 300 is also connected to the performance display device 21 via an image control board, and to a speaker as the audio output device 10 via an audio control board. The sub-control board 300 is also connected to the performance lighting device 23 via an illumination control board, a rotation operation detection sensor 9c that detects the rotation operation of the operation dial 9a, and a press operation detection sensor 9d that detects the press operation of the operation button 9b.

The image control board is equipped with an image CPU, image ROM, image RAM, etc., although not specifically shown. The image ROM of this image control board stores image data such as the performance pattern 50 and background displayed on the performance display device 21. Then, based on commands sent from the sub-control board 300, the image CPU controls the image display by the performance display device 21 by storing image data read from the image ROM in the image RAM.

The audio control board is equipped with a sound chip (CPU), sound ROM, sound RAM, etc., although not specifically shown. The sound ROM stores sound data such as the voice and background music output from the audio output device 10. Based on commands sent from the sub-control board 300, the sound data read from the sound ROM is stored in the sound RAM, thereby controlling the audio output from the audio output device 10.

The illumination control board controls the illumination by the illumination device 23 based on commands from the sub-control board 300. In addition, when the illumination control board receives a rotation detection signal output from the rotation detection sensor 9c based on the rotation of the operation dial 9a, or a press detection signal output from the press detection sensor 9d based on the press of the operation button 9b, the illumination control board transmits a specified command to the sub-control board 300.

(Overview of Pachinko Machine P)
Next, the game in the pachinko machine P of this embodiment will be described based on various tables stored in the main ROM 102.
As described above, in the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, the special game and the normal game proceed in parallel. In addition, as the game state when these two games proceed, either a low probability game state (so-called non-variable state) or a high probability game state (so-called variable state) is set as a game state that combines either a non-time-saving game state or a time-saving game state. In addition, in the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, two time-saving game states, a time-saving game state JT1 and a time-saving game state JT2, are provided as time-saving game states, and either of the time-saving game states can be set.
Specifically, in the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, one of the following game states is set: a normal game state which is a game state combining a low-probability game state and a non-time-saving game state; a low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 which is a game state combining a low-probability game state and a time-saving game state JT1; a low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 which is a game state combining a low-probability game state and a time-saving game state JT2; or a high-probability time-saving game state which is a game state combining a high-probability game state and a time-saving game state JT2.

The low-probability game state and the high-probability game state are game states in which the probability of winning a jackpot through a win/lose lottery, which will be described later, is set to be different, and in the high-probability game state, the probability of winning a jackpot through a win/lose lottery is set to a higher value than in the low-probability game state. In other words, it is easier to win a jackpot through a win/lose lottery in the high-probability game state than in the low-probability game state.

The non-time-saving game state, the time-saving game state JT1 and the time-saving game state JT2 are each set to a predetermined frequency for the game ball entering the second start winning port 16 (the difficulty of the ball entering, in other words, the frequency of the winning/losing lottery based on the game ball entering the second start winning port 16).
In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, the time-saving game state JT2 is set so that the movable piece 16b is more likely to be maintained in a protruding state (i.e., the game ball is more likely to enter the second start winning hole 16) than in the non-time-saving game state and the time-saving game state JT1. Also, although there are slight differences as described below, both the non-time-saving game state and the time-saving game state JT1 are set so that the movable piece 16b is hardly maintained in a protruding state (i.e., the game ball hardly enters the second start winning hole 16).
In addition, immediately after shipment from the factory or in the initial state after a reset, the normal game mode is set.

In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, when a game ball launched by a launching device (not shown) and flowing down the game area 12 enters the first start winning hole 15 or the second start winning hole 16, a winning/losing lottery is held, and a special symbol corresponding to the result of the winning/losing lottery is determined. In the winning/losing lottery in this embodiment, first, a judgment is made as to whether or not a jackpot has been won, and if a judgment result is derived that the jackpot has not been won (hereinafter also referred to as a non-win of the jackpot), then a judgment is made as to whether or not a time-saving game state is to be granted (whether or not a time-saving game state is to be granted, in other words, whether or not a time-saving game state is to be set), and if a judgment result is derived that the time-saving game state is not to be granted (hereinafter also referred to as a non-win of the time-saving game state), then the winning/losing lottery is held.
Then, when the result of the lottery indicates that the jackpot has been won (i.e., when the jackpot has been won), the jackpot opening 18 is opened and a special game is played that allows a game ball to enter the jackpot opening 18, and the game state after the special game ends is set to either a low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 or a high-probability time-saving game state. In other words, after the special game ends, the game state transitions to either a low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 or a high-probability time-saving game state.

In addition, when the above-mentioned win/lose lottery results in a determination that a time-saving game state will be granted (hereinafter also referred to as a win for the time-saving grant), either the time-saving pattern J1 or J2 is determined as a special pattern (hereinafter also referred to as a time-saving pattern) associated with the win for the time-saving grant, as described below.
In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, when the time-saving symbol J1 is determined in the normal game state, the time-saving game state JT1 is set without changing the low-probability game state. That is, when the time-saving symbol J1 is determined by the above-mentioned winning/losing lottery in the normal game state, the low-probability game state is left unchanged and the non-time-saving game state is changed to the time-saving game state JT1, thereby transitioning to the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1. Also, when the time-saving symbol J2 is determined in the normal game state, the time-saving game state JT2 is set without changing the low-probability game state. That is, when the time-saving symbol J2 is determined by the above-mentioned winning/losing lottery in the normal game state, the non-time-saving game state is changed to the time-saving game state JT2, while the low-probability game state is left unchanged, thereby transitioning to the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2.
In contrast, if the above-mentioned winning/losing lottery results in a loss during normal game mode (if the player does not win the jackpot and does not win the time-saving bonus), the game mode will remain in the normal game mode.
In this way, in the pachinko machine according to this embodiment, in the normal game state, the time-saving game state (time-saving game state JT1 (low-probability time-saving game state LJT1) or time-saving game state JT2 (low-probability time-saving game state LJT2)) can be set without going through the winning of a jackpot or the execution of a special game. In other words, the game state can be changed without going through the winning of a jackpot or the execution of a special game.

Furthermore, in the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, even during game states other than the normal game state (i.e., during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2, and during the high-probability time-saving game state (time-saving game state)), the above-mentioned win/loss lottery is used to determine whether or not a time-saving award has been awarded, and if a time-saving award is awarded, the time-saving pattern J1 or J2 can be determined.
However, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, even if the time-saving symbol J1 or J2 is determined by winning the time-saving award during a game state other than the normal game state, a new time-saving game state based on the award is not set, and the game state set at the time of the award is maintained. In other words, even if the time-saving award is won during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2, or the high-probability time-saving game state, the time-saving game state based on the award is not set again, and the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2, or the high-probability time-saving game state that is set continues.
In this way, in the pachinko machine of this embodiment, in a game state other than the normal game state, unlike the normal game state, a new time-saving game state is not set without first going through the winning of a jackpot and the execution of a special game.

The determination of whether or not the time-saving bonus will be awarded may be made only in the win/loss lottery during the normal game state, rather than in the win/loss lottery during all game states. In other words, it may be possible to win the time-saving bonus depending on the win/loss lottery during the normal game state, but not to win the time-saving bonus depending on the win/loss lottery during game states other than the normal game state. In this case, since the time-saving bonus will not be awarded during game states other than the normal game state, a new time-saving game state will not be set without going through the winning of a jackpot and the execution of a special game.

In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, game balls flowing down the first game area 12a can enter the first start winning hole 15. Also, game balls flowing down the second game area 12b can pass through the gate 20, enter the second start winning hole 16, and enter the big winning hole 18.
During the normal game state and the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, the player is made to shoot the game ball toward the first game area 12a (so-called left hit) so that the game ball will enter the first start winning port 15, and during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2, the high-probability time-saving game state and the special game, the player is made to shoot the game ball toward the second game area 12b (so-called right hit) so that the game ball will enter the large winning port 18 or pass through the gate 20 and enter the second start winning port 16. In other words, during the normal game state and the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, the player is mainly allowed to play in the first game area 12a, and during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 and the high-probability time-saving game state, the player is mainly allowed to play in the second game area 12b.
Specifically, when the low probability time-saving game state LJT2 or the high probability time-saving game state is set, or when the special game is started, a right-hit suggestion is made to encourage the player to shoot the game ball toward the second game area 12b (for example, a text image of "right hit" is displayed on the display unit 21a of the performance display device 21, the right-hit lamp is turned on to encourage the player to shoot the game toward the second game area 12b, etc.). Also, when the normal game state is set, a left-hit suggestion is made to encourage the player to shoot the game ball toward the first game area 12a (for example, a text image of "left hit" is displayed on the display unit 21a of the performance display device 21, the right-hit lamp is turned off as described above). In addition, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, when the time-saving pattern J1 is determined in the normal game state, the low probability time-saving game state LJT1 is set, but when the low probability time-saving game state LJT1 is set, the left-hit suggestion is not made.

The winning/losing lottery is conducted based on various random numbers obtained when the game ball enters the first start winning port 15 or the second start winning port 16, and various tables stored in the main ROM 102 for determining the random numbers.
Here, the pachinko machine P in this embodiment has random numbers for determining the win/lose lottery and the special pattern, such as a win/lose random number used to determine the result of the win/lose lottery (won a jackpot, won or lost the time-saving grant), a special pattern random number used to determine the type of special pattern, and a variation pattern random number used to determine the variation pattern command described below.
In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, the above-mentioned winning/losing random number uses a hardware random number built into the main control board 100. This winning/losing random number is updated according to a certain rule, and the random number sequence is automatically changed every time the random number sequence goes through one cycle, and the start value is changed every time the system is reset.
The variation pattern command is for determining the pattern (variation time, mode) of the variation performance that can notify the result of the winning/losing lottery. The random numbers used to determine the variation pattern command are not limited to those described above, and other random numbers may be used in addition to the random numbers.

When a game ball enters the first start winning port 15 or the second start winning port 16, a random number value is obtained for each of the above-mentioned random numbers, and each random number value is stored in a reserved memory area of the main RAM 103.
This reserved memory area is composed of a first reserved memory area for storing each random number value (hereinafter referred to as first special random number) of the random number related to the winning/losing lottery and the determination of the special pattern, which is obtained by the game ball entering the first start winning port 15, and a second reserved memory area for storing each random number value (hereinafter referred to as second special random number) of the random number related to the winning/losing lottery and the determination of the special pattern, which is obtained by the game ball entering the second start winning port 16. Each of these reserved memory areas is composed of a total of four memory sections, from the first memory section to the fourth memory section, and can store a total of four sets of first special random numbers and a total of four sets of second special random numbers.

In addition, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, when a game ball enters the first start winning port 15, the first special random number is stored in the first storage section of the first reserved memory area in order. For example, when a game ball enters the first start winning port 15 in a state where the first special random number is not stored in any storage section of the first reserved memory area, the first special random number acquired as a result of this is stored in the first storage section of the first reserved memory area. Also, when a game ball enters the first start winning port 15 in a state where the first special random number is stored in the first storage section of the first reserved memory area, the first special random number acquired as a result of this is stored in the second storage section of the first reserved memory area. Also, when a game ball enters the first start winning port 15 in a state where the first special random number is stored in the first storage section and the second storage section of the first reserved memory area, the first special random number acquired as a result of this is stored in the third storage section of the first reserved memory area. In addition, when the first special random number is stored in the first memory section to the third memory section of the first reserved memory area, if a game ball enters the first start winning hole 15, the first special random number acquired as a result of this is stored in the fourth memory section of the first reserved memory area. And, when the first special random number is stored in the first memory section to the fourth memory section of the first reserved memory area, if a game ball enters the first start winning hole 15, the first special random number related to this ball entry is not stored.

Similarly, when a game ball enters the second start winning hole 16, the second special random number is stored in the first storage section of the second reserved storage area in order. The specific storage process is the same as the storage of the first special random number described above, so a description thereof will be omitted.
In addition, in the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, the number of sets of first special random numbers stored in the first reserve memory area (hereinafter also referred to as the first reserve number) is stored in a first reserve number counter (not specifically shown), and the number of sets of second special random numbers stored in the second reserve memory area (hereinafter also referred to as the second reserve number) is stored in a second reserve number counter (not specifically shown).
In this specification, as described above, the storage of the first special chart random number and the second special chart random number in the reserved memory area is also referred to as "reserved" or "reserved memory", and the first reserved number and the second reserved number are simply referred to as "reserved numbers".

The pachinko machine P of this embodiment has a win/lose random number determination table 110 for determining the result of a win/lose lottery, a special pattern random number determination table 111 for determining the type of special pattern, a special electric device operation table 112 for controlling a special game that is executed when a jackpot is won, a game state setting table 113 for setting the game state after a time-saving award is won (after the time-saving pattern J1 or J2 has been determined) or after the special game has ended, a fluctuation pattern table 114 for determining a fluctuation pattern command, and a stop display time table 115 for determining the stop display time for which the special pattern is stopped after the fluctuation display of the special pattern has ended.
It should be noted that tables related to winning/losing lotteries etc. are not limited to these, and in cases where it is necessary to make other judgments or decisions based on random numbers, tables may be provided as appropriate.

The win/lose random number judgment table 110 is used to judge the result of the win/lose lottery (won the jackpot, won the time-saving bonus or lost), and is roughly divided into a low probability judgment table 110a that is referenced in low probability game states (normal game state, low probability time-saving game state LJT1, low probability time-saving game state LJT2), and a high probability judgment table 110b that is referenced in high probability game states (high probability time-saving game state). As mentioned above, in the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, only one setting level, setting value 1, is set for the setting of the balls to be dispensed, and only one type of low probability judgment table 110a and high probability judgment table 110b is provided, which corresponds to setting value 1.

In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, when a game ball enters the first start winning hole 15 or the second start winning hole 16, one win/loss random number within the numerical range of 0 to 65535 is obtained. Then, depending on the game state at the time of the win/loss lottery, either the low probability judgment table 110a or the high probability judgment table 110b is selected as the win/loss random number judgment table 110, and the win/loss lottery is performed based on the obtained win/loss random number and the selected win/loss random number judgment table 110.

As shown in FIG. 7(a), according to the low probability determination table 110a, if the win/loss random number is between 1000 and 1217, it is determined that a jackpot has been won, if the win/loss random number is between 3000 and 6275, it is determined that a time-saving bonus has been won, and if the win/loss random number is any other number (0 to 999, 1218 to 2999, 6276 to 65535), it is determined that a loss has been won. Therefore, in this low probability determination table 110a, the probability of winning a jackpot is approximately 1/300, and the probability of winning a time-saving bonus is approximately 1/20.

As shown in Fig. 7(b), according to the high probability judgment table 110b, if the win/loss random number is between 1000 and 2309, it is judged as a jackpot win, if the win/loss random number is between 3000 and 6275, it is judged as a time-saving win, and if the win/loss random number is any other than these (0 to 999, 2310 to 2999, 6276 to 65535), it is judged as a loss. Therefore, in this high probability judgment table 110b, the probability of winning a jackpot win is approximately 1/50, and the probability of winning a time-saving win is approximately 1/20.
That is, the high probability determination table 110b is set so that the probability of winning the jackpot is about six times higher than that of the low probability determination table 110a. Also, the low probability determination table 110a and the high probability determination table 110b are set so that the probability of winning the time-saving bonus is the same.

In addition, the numerical range of the hit/miss random number determined to be a hit in the low probability judgment table 110a is set to be included in the numerical range of the hit/miss random number determined to be a hit in the high probability judgment table 110b (specifically, the lower limit value in the numerical range determined to be a hit is the same and the upper limit value is different). In other words, the hit/miss random number determined to be a hit in the low probability judgment table 110a will also be determined to be a hit in the high probability judgment table 110b.
In the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, as described above, the lower limit value in the numerical range of the win/lose random number that determines whether a jackpot has been won is set to be the same and the upper limit value is set to be different, but this is not limited to this, and the upper limit values may be set to be the same and the lower limit values to be different.

In addition, the numerical range of the win/lose random number that is determined to be a winning entry for the time-saving award in the low probability determination table 110a and the numerical range of the win/lose random number that is determined to be a winning entry for the time-saving award in the high probability determination table 110b are outside the numerical range of the win/lose random number that is determined to be a winning entry for the jackpot, and are set so that the upper and lower limits of the numerical ranges are the same, so that the probability of winning the time-saving award is the same in both the low probability determination table 110a and the high probability determination table 110b.

In addition, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, the numerical ranges that are determined to be a winning jackpot and the numerical ranges that are determined to be a winning time-saving bonus are both made up of continuous numerical ranges, but this is not limited to this and they may be made up of discontinuous numerical ranges that include losing numerical values in between.

In addition, when multiple settings for ball output are defined, the high probability judgment table may be set so that when a high probability judgment table and a low probability judgment table corresponding to the same setting value are compared, the high probability judgment table has a higher probability of winning a jackpot than the low probability judgment table.
Similarly, the probability of winning the time-saving bonus may be set to be the same in both the high probability determination table and the low probability determination table corresponding to the same setting value.

The special pattern random number determination table 111 is used to determine the type of special pattern, and as shown in Figures 8 (a) and (b), it includes a first start winning gate determination table 111a which is referenced when a win/loss lottery is conducted using a first special pattern random number, and a second start winning gate determination table 111b which is referenced when a win/loss lottery is conducted using a second special pattern random number.
In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, when a game ball enters the first start winning port 15 or the second start winning port 16, one special symbol random number is obtained within a numerical range of 0 to 199. Then, when the above-mentioned winning/losing lottery is performed, the special symbol random number determination table 111 of either the first start winning port determination table 111a or the second start winning port determination table 111b is selected according to the start winning port into which the game ball entered, and the type of special symbol is determined based on the obtained special symbol random number and the selected special symbol random number determination table 111.

In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, six types of jackpot symbols (X1, X2, X3, X4, X5, X6) are provided as special symbols (hereafter referred to as jackpot symbols) that are determined in the event of a jackpot win, two types of time-saving symbols (J1, J2) are provided as special symbols (time-saving symbols) that are determined in the event of a time-saving win, and two types of loss symbols (Z1, Z2) are provided as special symbols (hereafter referred to as loss symbols) that are determined in the event of a loss.

8(a), according to the first start winning port judgment table 111a, when a jackpot is won, if the special pattern random number is 0 to 99, the jackpot pattern X1 is determined, if the special pattern random number is 100 to 193, the jackpot pattern X2 is determined, and if the special pattern random number is 194 to 199, the jackpot pattern X3 is determined. That is, in this first start winning port judgment table 111a, when a jackpot is won, the probability that the jackpot pattern X1 is determined is 50%, the probability that the jackpot pattern X2 is determined is 47%, and the probability that the jackpot pattern X3 is determined is 3%.
In addition, in the case where the time-saving bonus is won, the time-saving bonus J1 is determined when the special bonus random number is between 0 and 169, and the time-saving bonus J2 is determined when the special bonus random number is between 170 and 199. In other words, in the first start winning port determination table 111a, in the case where the time-saving bonus is won, the probability that the time-saving bonus J1 is determined is 85%, and the probability that the time-saving bonus J2 is determined is 15%.

As shown in Fig. 8(b), according to the second start winning port judgment table 111b, when a jackpot is won, if the special pattern random number is 0 to 39, the jackpot pattern X4 is determined, if the special pattern random number is 40 to 139, the jackpot pattern X5 is determined, and if the special pattern random number is 140 to 199, the jackpot pattern X6 is determined. That is, in this second start winning port judgment table 111b, when a jackpot is won, the probability that the jackpot pattern X4 is determined is 20%, the probability that the jackpot pattern X5 is determined is 50%, and the probability that the jackpot pattern X5 is determined is 30%.
In addition, in the case where the time-saving award is won, the time-saving pattern J1 is determined when the special pattern random number is between 0 and 169, and the time-saving pattern J2 is determined when the special pattern random number is between 170 and 199. That is, in the second start winning port judgment table 111b, similar to the first start winning port judgment table 111a, in the case where the time-saving award is won, the probability that the time-saving pattern J1 is determined is 85%, and the probability that the time-saving pattern J2 is determined is 15%.

In addition, if the winning/losing lottery based on the first special random number results in a loss, the losing pattern Z1 is determined without the above-mentioned lottery based on the special random number. In addition, if the winning/losing lottery based on the second special random number results in a loss, the losing pattern Z2 is determined without the above-mentioned lottery based on the special random number.
In other words, the special pattern random number determination table 111 is referenced when a jackpot is won or when a time-saving bonus is awarded, but is not referenced when a loss occurs.

The special electric device operation table 112 is for controlling the special game that is executed when a jackpot is won, and is referenced to operate the jackpot opening solenoid 18c and the distribution member solenoid 59c during the execution of the special game. In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, as shown in Figs. 9(a) to (c), the special electric device operation table 112 includes a first operation table 112a that is referenced when a jackpot is won and the jackpot pattern X1 or X4 is determined, a second operation table 112b that is referenced when a jackpot is won and the jackpot pattern X2 or X5 is determined, and a third operation table 112c that is referenced when a jackpot is won and the jackpot pattern X3 or X6 is determined.

Specifically, when a jackpot is won and the jackpot pattern X1 or X4 is determined, a special game is executed by referring to the first operation table 112a shown in Fig. 9(a). According to this first operation table 112a, a round game is executed three times in total, from round 1 to round 3, which ends when either the jackpot opening 18 is opened for 29.0 seconds or 10 game balls enter the jackpot opening 18. During the execution of each round game, the opening and closing door 18b is displaced from the closed position to the open position, and is positioned at the open position for 29.0 seconds, and then displaced from the open position to the closed position (opening and closing pattern), so that the jackpot opening 18 is opened only once, and the time during which the jackpot opening 18 is closed between each round game (i.e., the interval time) is set to 2.0 seconds.
Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 9(a), when the jackpot pattern X1 or X4 is determined, the allocating member 59 operates in such a manner (operation pattern) that it remains (is located) at the first position during each of the first and third rounds of play, and furthermore, during the second round of play, the allocating member 59 also operates in such a manner that it remains at the first position.

In addition, when a jackpot is won and the jackpot symbol X2 or X5 is determined, a special game is executed by referring to the second operation table 112b shown in Fig. 9(b). According to this second operation table 112b, a round game that ends under the same conditions as the above-mentioned first operation table 112a is executed three times in total, from round 1 to round 3. The opening and closing pattern of the opening and closing door 18b and the interval time are also set to the same contents as the first operation table 112a.
9(b), when the jackpot symbol X2 or X5 is determined, the allocating member 59 operates to stop at the first position during the first and third rounds of play, in the same manner as when the jackpot symbol X1 or X4 is determined. On the other hand, during the second round of play, the allocating member 59 operates to stop at the second position.

In addition, when the jackpot is won and the jackpot pattern X3 or X6 is determined, a special game is executed by referring to the third operation table 112c shown in Fig. 9(c). According to this third operation table 112c, a round game that ends under the same conditions as the first operation table 112a and the second operation table 112b is executed a total of 10 times from round 1 to round 10. The opening and closing pattern and interval time of the opening and closing door 18b are set to the same contents as the first operation table 112a and the second operation table 112b.
Also, as shown in FIG. 9(c), when the jackpot symbol X3 or X6 is determined, the allocating member 59 operates to stop at the first position during each of the first, third, fourth to tenth rounds of play, in the same manner as when the jackpot symbol X1, X2, X4 or X5 is determined, and further, during the second round of play, the allocating member 59 operates to stop at the second position, in the same manner as when the jackpot symbol X2 or X5 is determined.

As described above, in the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, when the jackpot pattern X2, X3, X5 or X6 is determined, the jackpot opening 18 is opened continuously for 29.0 seconds during two rounds of play (specific round play), and the distribution member 59 is stopped at the second position, so that as long as game balls are shot toward the second game area 12b, the game balls enter the jackpot opening 18 and a predetermined number of game balls (one in this embodiment) can be reliably admitted to the specific area 57.
In contrast, when the jackpot pattern X1 or X4 is determined, in two rounds of play, the large prize opening 18 is opened continuously for 29.0 seconds, but the distribution member 59 remains in the first position, so that even if a game ball enters the large prize opening 18, the game ball will all enter the general area 58, and it is impossible for the game ball to enter the specific area 57.

The game state setting table 113 is used to set the game state after a special game is played and the game state after a time-saving bonus is awarded and the time-saving pattern J1 or J2 is determined in a normal game state.
In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, when a special game is executed, the game state after the special game ends is set depending on whether or not a predetermined number of game balls enter the specific area 57 during the special game. Also, when a time-saving award is won in the normal game state and the time-saving symbol J1 or J2 is determined, the game state is set according to the determined time-saving symbol. Also, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, as described later, whether or not the game ball can enter the specific area 57 is set according to the type of the determined jackpot symbol, and essentially, depending on the determined jackpot symbol, whether or not the game will transition to a high-probability time-saving game state after the special game ends based on the determination is determined.

As shown in Figs. 10(a) to (d), the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment has a first game state setting table 113a that is referenced when a predetermined number of game balls enter the specific area 57 during special play, a second game state setting table 113b that is referenced when a predetermined number of game balls do not enter the specific area 57 during special play, a third game state setting table 113c that is referenced when a time-saving bonus is awarded in the normal play state and the time-saving symbol J1 is determined, and a fourth game state setting table 113d that is referenced when a time-saving bonus is awarded in the normal play state and the time-saving symbol J2 is determined.

Specifically, as shown in Fig. 10(a), if a predetermined number of game balls do not enter the specific area 57 during a special game, the game state after the special game ends is set to a low-probability game state and is set to a time-saving game state JT2. That is, after the special game ends, a low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 is set. Also, the number of times the time-saving game state continues (hereinafter, also referred to as the number of time-saving times) is set to 100 times.
In this case, after the special game ends, the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 continues until the result of the win/lose lottery is derived 100 times without winning the jackpot (until the number of times the special symbol changes reaches 100). Then, if the result of the win/lose lottery during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 is other than a jackpot win in all 100 times (i.e., a win or loss for the time-saving grant), the low-probability game state remains as it is, and the time-saving game state JT2 is changed to a non-time-saving game state, thereby changing the game state to a normal game state.
In addition, in the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, since the probability of winning a jackpot in the low-probability game state is approximately 1/300 (see Figure 7 (a)), it is not necessarily the case that a jackpot will be won during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2.

As shown in Fig. 10(b), when a predetermined number of game balls enter the specific area 57 during a special game, the game state after the special game ends is set to a high probability time-saving game state, and is set to the time-saving game state JT2. That is, after the special game ends, a high probability time-saving game state is set. In addition, the number of times the high probability game state continues (hereinafter also referred to as the high probability number of times) and the number of times the time-saving game state continues are both set to 10,000 times.
In this case, after the special game ends, the high-probability time-saving game state continues until the result of the win/lose lottery is derived 10,000 times without winning the jackpot (until the number of times the special symbol changes reaches 10,000 times). Then, if the result of the win/lose lottery during the high-probability time-saving game state is other than the jackpot for all 10,000 times, the high-probability game state is changed to a low-probability game state, and the time-saving game state JT2 is changed to a non-time-saving game state, thereby changing the game state to a normal game state.
In addition, in the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, the probability of winning a jackpot in the high-probability game state is approximately 1/50 (see Figure 7 (b)), and in effect, the above-mentioned high-probability time-saving game state will continue until a jackpot is won again.

Here, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, as described above, when a jackpot is won and the jackpot symbol X2, X3, X5, or X6 is determined, the allocating member 59 stays at the second position during the two rounds of the special game based on the determination, so that as long as game balls are shot into the second game area 12b to enter the big prize opening 18, a predetermined number of game balls will always enter the specific area 57. In other words, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, when the jackpot symbol X2, X3, X5, or X6 is determined, as long as game balls are shot into the second game area 12b, a high probability time-saving game state is set in principle.
However, even if the jackpot pattern X2, X3, X5 or X6 is determined, if a predetermined number of game balls do not enter the specific area 57 during the special game based on that determination due to an abnormality such as the jackpot opening 18 not opening, the game state after the special game ends is set to the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2.

As described above, when a jackpot is won and the jackpot symbol X1 or X4 is determined, the allocating member 59 stays at the first position during any round of the special game based on the determination, so that even if the game balls enter the big prize opening 18, the predetermined number of game balls will not enter the specific area 57. That is, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, when the jackpot symbol X1 or X4 is determined, the low probability time-saving game state LJT2 is set as a rule.
However, even if the jackpot pattern X1 or X4 is determined, if a predetermined number of game balls enter the specific area 57 during a special game based on that determination due to an abnormality such as the distribution member 59 stopping at the second position, the game state after the special game ends is set to a high-probability time-saving game state.

As shown in Fig. 10(c), when the time-saving symbol J1 is selected in the normal game state, the variable display of the time-saving symbol J1 as a special symbol ends and the stop display time for the special symbol to be stopped has elapsed, the low probability game state remains as it is, and the non-time-saving game state is changed to the time-saving game state JT1. In other words, when the variable display of the time-saving symbol J1 ends and the stop display time has elapsed, the low probability time-saving game state LJT1 is set. Also, the number of time-saving times is set to 10,000 times.
In this case, the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 continues until the result of the win/lose lottery is derived 10,000 times without winning the jackpot (until the number of times the special symbol changes reaches 10,000 times). Then, if the result of the win/lose lottery during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 is other than a jackpot win for all 10,000 times, the low-probability game state remains as it is, and the time-saving game state JT1 is changed to a non-time-saving game state, thereby changing the game state to a normal game state.
In the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, as described above, the probability of winning a jackpot in the low-probability game state is approximately 1/300 (see Figure 7 (a)), and in effect, the above-mentioned low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 will continue until a jackpot is won again.

As shown in Fig. 10(d), when the time-saving symbol J2 is selected as the winning symbol in the normal game state, the non-time-saving game state is changed to the time-saving game state JT2 while the low-probability game state remains as it is when the variable display of the time-saving symbol J2 as the special symbol ends and the above-mentioned stop display time has elapsed, while the low-probability game state remains as it is. In other words, when the variable display of the time-saving symbol J2 ends and the stop display time has elapsed, the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 is set. Also, the number of time-saving times is set to 10,000 times.
In this case, the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 continues until the result of the win/lose lottery is derived 10,000 times without winning the jackpot (until the number of times the special symbol changes reaches 10,000 times). Then, if the result of the win/lose lottery during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 is other than a jackpot win for all 10,000 times, the low-probability game state remains as it is, and the time-saving game state JT2 is changed to a non-time-saving game state, thereby changing the game state to a normal game state.
In the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, as described above, the probability of winning a jackpot in the low-probability game state is approximately 1/300 (see Figure 7 (a)), and in effect, the above-mentioned low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 will continue until a jackpot is won again.

As mentioned above, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, even in game states other than the normal game state (low probability time-saving game state LJT1, low probability time-saving game state LJT2, high probability time-saving game state), there are cases where a time-saving award is won and the time-saving pattern J1 or J2 is determined, but in this case, the game state that has been set will continue as is.

In addition, the timing for setting the game state to the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 or LJT2 when a time-saving award is won during normal game mode is not limited to the point at which the above-mentioned stopped display time has elapsed, but may be any point from when the variable display of the above-mentioned time-saving pattern begins to when it ends (for example, the start point, any point during the variable display, the end point, etc.).

As described above, the variation pattern table 114 is used to determine the variation pattern command.
In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, when the special symbol is determined as described above, a change pattern command is determined based on the result of the determination. As described above, the change pattern command is for determining the change pattern of the change performance, and the change pattern command determines the mode and change time of the change performance (the change time of the change display of the special symbol). In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, the change performance is divided into a first half and a second half, and the mode and change time of the first half of the change performance, and the mode and change time of the second half of the change performance are both determined by the change pattern command.
Specifically, the determined variation pattern command is transmitted from the main control board 100 to the sub-control board 300, and the sub-control board 300 determines the specific form of the variation performance (for example, an image to be displayed on the display unit 21a) based on the received variation pattern command.

In addition, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, multiple types of fluctuation pattern commands are provided, and each fluctuation pattern command is associated with a fluctuation pattern table 114. And, for each fluctuation pattern table 114, the type of fluctuation pattern command to be determined and the determination ratio are set.

The pachinko machine P in this embodiment has, as the variation pattern table 114, table MP1 that is referenced during the normal game state, table MP2 that is referenced during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, table MP3 that is referenced during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2, and table MP4 that is referenced during the high-probability time-saving game state (see Figures 11 and 12).

When a game ball enters the first start winning hole 15 or the second start winning hole 16, one fluctuation pattern random number within the numerical range of 0 to 249 is obtained, and a fluctuation pattern command is determined based on this obtained fluctuation pattern random number, the special symbol determined as described above, the current reserved number (first reserved number or second reserved number), and the fluctuation pattern table 114 according to the current game state.

Here, during the normal game state or the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, the player is made to play in the first game area 12a, so in principle the game ball enters the first start winning port 15 and the game ball entering the second start winning port 16 is irregular, but regardless of whether the game ball enters the first start winning port 15 or the second start winning port 16, the fluctuation pattern command is determined using the same fluctuation pattern table 114 according to the current game state.
Similarly, during a low probability time-saving game state LJT2 or a high probability time-saving game state, the player is made to play in the second game area 12b, so that in principle the game ball enters the second start winning port 16 and the entry of the game ball into the first start winning port 15 is irregular; however, regardless of whether the game ball enters the first start winning port 15 or the second start winning port 16, a fluctuation pattern command is determined using the same fluctuation pattern table 114 according to the game state of the point dictionary.
In addition, when a fluctuation pattern command is determined based on a game ball entering the first start winning port 15, the first reserved number at that time is referenced, and when a fluctuation pattern command is determined based on a game ball entering the second start winning port 16, the second reserved number at that time is referenced.

In addition, as the fluctuation pattern table 114, a separate table may be provided for each of the current game state and the type of start winning port into which the game ball has entered (first start winning port 15 (first special random number), second start winning port 16 (second special random number)). In other words, the fluctuation pattern command may be determined by referring to the fluctuation pattern table 114 corresponding to the current game state and the start winning port into which the game ball has entered.

As shown in FIG. 11(a), according to table MP1 referenced during normal game mode, when a losing symbol Z1 or Z2 is determined (i.e., the result of the winning/losing lottery is a losing one) and the current reserved number (first reserved number, second reserved number) is 0 or 1, if the fluctuation pattern random number is 0 to 219, a fluctuation pattern command "00H" associated with a fluctuation pattern of "13-second fluctuation" (a fluctuation pattern in which the fluctuation time of the first half is set to 0 seconds and the fluctuation time of the second half is set to 13 seconds) is determined, if the fluctuation pattern random number is 220 to 239, a fluctuation pattern command "02H" associated with a fluctuation pattern of "20-second fluctuation" (a fluctuation pattern in which the fluctuation time of the first half is set to 13 seconds and the fluctuation time of the second half is set to 7 seconds) is determined, and if the fluctuation pattern random number is 240 to 249, a fluctuation pattern command "03H" associated with a fluctuation pattern of "60-second fluctuation" (a fluctuation pattern in which the fluctuation time of the first half is set to 13 seconds and the fluctuation time of the second half is set to 47 seconds) is determined.

In addition, when a losing symbol Z1 or Z2 is determined and the current number of reserved symbols is 2 or more, if the fluctuation pattern random number is between 0 and 219, a fluctuation pattern command "01H" associated with a fluctuation pattern of "3-second fluctuation" (a fluctuation pattern in which the fluctuation time for the first half is set to 0 seconds and the fluctuation time for the second half is set to 3 seconds) is determined, if the fluctuation pattern random number is between 220 and 239, a fluctuation pattern command "02H" associated with a fluctuation pattern of "20-second fluctuation" is determined, and if the fluctuation pattern random number is between 240 and 249, a fluctuation pattern command "03H" associated with a fluctuation pattern of "60-second fluctuation" is determined.

In addition, when the jackpot pattern X1, X2, X3, X4, X5 or X6 is determined (i.e. the result of the lottery is a jackpot), regardless of the current number of reserved balls, if the fluctuation pattern random number is between 0 and 24, the fluctuation pattern command "0AH" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "20-second fluctuation" is determined, and if the fluctuation pattern random number is between 25 and 249, the fluctuation pattern command "0BH" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "60-second fluctuation" is determined.

In addition, when the time-saving pattern J1 is determined, regardless of the current number of reserved balls, when the fluctuation pattern random number is between 0 and 249 (i.e., whatever the value of the fluctuation pattern random number), the fluctuation pattern command "0EH" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "13-second fluctuation" is determined.
In addition, when the time-saving symbol J2 is determined, regardless of the current number of reserved symbols, when the fluctuation pattern random number is between 0 and 249, the fluctuation pattern command "0FH" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "13-second fluctuation" is determined.

As shown in FIG. 11(b), according to table MP2 referenced during low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, when a losing symbol Z1 or Z2 is determined and the current reserved number is 0 or 1, if the fluctuation pattern random number is 0 to 219, the fluctuation pattern command "10H" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "13-second fluctuation" is determined, if the fluctuation pattern random number is 220 to 239, the fluctuation pattern command "12H" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "20-second fluctuation" is determined, and if the fluctuation pattern random number is 240 to 249, the fluctuation pattern command "13H" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "60-second fluctuation" is determined.

In addition, when a losing pattern Z1 or Z2 is determined and the current number of reserved symbols is 2 or more, if the fluctuation pattern random number is between 0 and 219, the fluctuation pattern command "11H" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "3-second fluctuation" is determined, if the fluctuation pattern random number is between 220 and 239, the fluctuation pattern command "12H" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "20-second fluctuation" is determined, and if the fluctuation pattern random number is between 240 and 249, the fluctuation pattern command "13H" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "60-second fluctuation" is determined.

In addition, when the jackpot pattern X1, X2, X3, X4, X5 or X6 is determined, regardless of the current number of reserved symbols, if the fluctuation pattern random number is between 0 and 24, the fluctuation pattern command "1AH" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "20-second fluctuation" is determined, and if the fluctuation pattern random number is between 25 and 249, the fluctuation pattern command "1BH" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "60-second fluctuation" is determined.

In addition, when the time-saving pattern J1 or J2 is determined, the fluctuation pattern command "1CH" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "13-second fluctuation" is determined when the fluctuation pattern random number is between 0 and 249, regardless of the current number of reserved symbols.

As shown in FIG. 12(a), according to table MP3 referenced during low-probability time-saving game state LJT2, when a losing symbol Z1 or Z2 is determined and the current reserved number is 0 or 1, if the fluctuation pattern random number is 0 to 219, a fluctuation pattern command "20H" associated with a fluctuation pattern of "13-second fluctuation" is determined, if the fluctuation pattern random number is 220 to 239, a fluctuation pattern command "22H" associated with a fluctuation pattern of "20-second fluctuation" is determined, and if the fluctuation pattern random number is 240 to 249, a fluctuation pattern command "23H" associated with a fluctuation pattern of "45-second fluctuation" (the fluctuation time of the first half is 13 seconds, and the fluctuation time of the second half is 32 seconds) is determined.

In addition, when a losing symbol Z1 or Z2 is determined and the current number of reserved symbols is 2 or more, if the fluctuation pattern random number is between 0 and 219, a fluctuation pattern command "21H" is determined to which a fluctuation pattern called "2-second fluctuation" (a fluctuation pattern in which the fluctuation time for the first half is set to 0 seconds and the fluctuation time for the second half is set to 2 seconds) is associated, if the fluctuation pattern random number is between 220 and 239, a fluctuation pattern command "22H" is determined to which a fluctuation pattern called "20-second fluctuation" is associated, and if the fluctuation pattern random number is between 240 and 249, a fluctuation pattern command "23H" is determined to which a fluctuation pattern called "45-second fluctuation" is associated.

In addition, when the jackpot pattern X1, X2, X3, X4, X5 or X6 is determined, regardless of the current number of reserved symbols, if the fluctuation pattern random number is between 0 and 24, the fluctuation pattern command "2AH" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "20-second fluctuation" is determined, and if the fluctuation pattern random number is between 25 and 249, the fluctuation pattern command "2BH" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "45-second fluctuation" is determined.

In addition, when the time-saving pattern J1 or J2 is determined and the current reserved number is 0 or 1, when the fluctuation pattern random number is 0 to 219, the fluctuation pattern command "2CH" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "13-second fluctuation" is determined, when the fluctuation pattern random number is 220 to 239, the fluctuation pattern command "2EH" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "20-second fluctuation" is determined, and when the fluctuation pattern random number is 240 to 249, the fluctuation pattern command "2FH" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "45-second fluctuation" is determined.
In addition, when the time-saving pattern J1 or J2 is determined and the current number of reserved symbols is 2 or more, when the fluctuation pattern random number is 0 to 219, the fluctuation pattern command "2DH" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "2-second fluctuation" is determined, when the fluctuation pattern random number is 220 to 239, the fluctuation pattern command "2EH" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "20-second fluctuation" is determined, and when the fluctuation pattern random number is 240 to 249, the fluctuation pattern command "2FH" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "45-second fluctuation" is determined.

As shown in FIG. 12(b), according to table MP4 which is referenced during the high probability time-saving game state, when a losing symbol Z1 or Z2 is determined and the current reserved number is 0 or 1, if the fluctuation pattern random number is 0 to 219, the fluctuation pattern command "30H" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "13-second fluctuation" is determined, if the fluctuation pattern random number is 220 to 239, the fluctuation pattern command "32H" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "20-second fluctuation" is determined, and if the fluctuation pattern random number is 240 to 249, the fluctuation pattern command "33H" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "45-second fluctuation" is determined.

In addition, when a losing pattern Z1 or Z2 is determined and the current number of reserved symbols is 2 or more, if the fluctuation pattern random number is between 0 and 219, a fluctuation pattern command "31H" is determined to which a fluctuation pattern called "1 second fluctuation" (a fluctuation pattern in which the fluctuation time of the first half is set to 0 seconds and the fluctuation time of the second half is set to 1 second) is associated, if the fluctuation pattern random number is between 220 and 239, a fluctuation pattern command "32H" is determined to which a fluctuation pattern called "20 second fluctuation" is associated, and if the fluctuation pattern random number is between 240 and 249, a fluctuation pattern command "33H" is determined to which a fluctuation pattern called "45 second fluctuation" is associated.

In addition, when the jackpot pattern X1, X2, X3, X4, X5 or X6 is determined, regardless of the current number of reserved symbols, if the fluctuation pattern random number is between 0 and 24, the fluctuation pattern command "3AH" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "20-second fluctuation" is determined, and if the fluctuation pattern random number is between 25 and 249, the fluctuation pattern command "3BH" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "45-second fluctuation" is determined.

In addition, when the time-saving pattern J1 or J2 is determined and the current reserved number is 0 or 1, when the fluctuation pattern random number is 0 to 219, the fluctuation pattern command "3CH" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "13-second fluctuation" is determined, when the fluctuation pattern random number is 220 to 239, the fluctuation pattern command "3EH" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "20-second fluctuation" is determined, and when the fluctuation pattern random number is 240 to 249, the fluctuation pattern command "3FH" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "45-second fluctuation" is determined.
In addition, when the time-saving pattern J1 or J2 is determined and the current number of reserved symbols is 2 or more, when the fluctuation pattern random number is 0 to 219, the fluctuation pattern command "3DH" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "1 second fluctuation" is determined, when the fluctuation pattern random number is 220 to 239, the fluctuation pattern command "3EH" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "20 second fluctuation" is determined, and when the fluctuation pattern random number is 240 to 249, the fluctuation pattern command "3FH" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "45 second fluctuation" is determined.

The variation pattern command determined as above is transmitted to the sub-control board 300, and the specific form of the first half of the variation performance and the specific form of the second half of the variation performance are determined based on the variation pattern command. Then, the variation performance is executed according to the specific form determined in this way, and the sum of the variation time of the first half and the variation time of the second half set in the variation pattern command becomes the time from the start to the end of the variation performance (variable display of special symbols).
For example, if the determined fluctuation pattern command is "02H" (the fluctuation time of the first half is 13 seconds, and the fluctuation time of the second half is 7 seconds), the sum of the fluctuation time of the first half and the fluctuation time of the second half, 20 seconds (= 13 seconds + 7 seconds), becomes the fluctuation time of the entire fluctuation performance (the entire fluctuation display of the special pattern).
In addition, for the fluctuation pattern commands "00H", "01H", "0EH", "0FH", "10H", "11H", "1CH", "20H", "21H", "2CH", "2DH", "30H", "31H", "3CH", and "3DH", "0 seconds" is set as the fluctuation time of the first half. When these fluctuation pattern commands are determined, the entire fluctuation performance is executed in the manner determined according to the fluctuation pattern command during the corresponding fluctuation time of the second half.

In addition, based on the above-mentioned changing time, a changing performance is performed on the performance display device 21, and a changing display of the special pattern is performed on the special pattern display device (first special pattern display device 30 or second special pattern display device 31).
Specifically, when the starting winning port into which the game ball entered is the first starting winning port 15, the first special symbol display device 30 is displayed flashing during the above-mentioned variable time, and when the starting winning port into which the game ball entered is the second starting winning port 16, the second special symbol display device 31 is displayed flashing during the above-mentioned variable time. After the variable time has elapsed, the determined special symbol is displayed stationary until the later-described stationary display time has elapsed.

Regarding the manner of the variable presentation, rather than determining either the manner of the first half of the variable presentation or the manner of the second half of the variable presentation based on the variable pattern command, it is also possible to determine other commands besides the variable pattern command, and determine the manner of the first half of the variable presentation based on one of the commands, and determine the manner of the second half of the variable presentation based on the other command.
Also, instead of dividing the variable performance into a first half and a second half, it may be divided into more parts, with the aspect of each part being determined based on the corresponding command.

As described above, the stop display time table 115 is for determining the stop display time for which the special symbol is stopped after the varying display of the special symbol has ended.
In this stop display time table 115, the stop display time is determined according to the current game state (the game state when the winning/losing lottery is executed) and the type of special symbol determined as described above. The main CPU 101 refers to this stop display time table 115 to determine the stop display time according to the current game state and the determined special symbol. Then, when the variable display of the special symbol ends (stops), the special symbol is displayed in a stopped state until the determined stop display time has elapsed.
As shown in FIG. 13, according to the stop display time table 115, when the current game state is the normal game state, a stop display time of 0.5 seconds is determined when a losing symbol Z1 or Z2 is determined, a stop display time of 0.5 seconds is determined when a jackpot symbol X1, X2, X3, X4, X5 or X6 is determined, and a stop display time of 20 seconds is determined when a time-saving symbol J1 or J2 is determined.
In addition, when the current game state is the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 or the high-probability time-saving game state, when a losing symbol Z1 or Z2 is determined, when a jackpot symbol X1, X2, X3, X4, X5 or X6 is determined, or when a time-saving symbol J1 or J2 is determined, a stop display time of 0.5 seconds is determined.

Next, the process related to the regular game will be described.
In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, when a game ball launched by a launching device (not shown) and flowing down the game area 12 passes through the gate 20, a lottery for a normal symbol is held to determine whether or not to operate the movable piece 16b and to project the movable piece 16b. If a winning ball is selected by the lottery for the normal symbol, the movable piece 16b is projected for a predetermined operating time, so that the game ball flowing down to the right end of the upper surface of the movable piece 16b is guided to the second start winning hole 16, and the game ball can enter the second start winning hole 16.
The selection of this normal symbol is carried out based on a winning determination random number obtained when the game ball passes through the gate 20, and a winning determination random number determination table 116 that is stored in the main ROM 102 and is used to determine this random number.

When the game ball passes through the gate 20, the above-mentioned winning random number is obtained, and the random number is stored in the general map reserve memory area of the main RAM 103, with a maximum of four numbers. Specifically, this general map reserve memory area is composed of a total of four memory areas, from the first memory area to the fourth memory area, and the winning random numbers are stored starting from the first memory area in the order of passing through the gate 20. Also, if winning random numbers have already been stored in several memory areas, the winning random number is stored in the memory area with the smallest number among the empty memory areas. If four winning random numbers have already been stored in the general map reserve memory area, even if the game ball passes through the gate 20, the winning random number related to this passage is not stored in the general map reserve memory area.
In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, the winning random number is a hardware random number built into the main control board 100. This winning random number is updated according to a certain rule, and the random number sequence is automatically changed every time the random number sequence goes through one cycle, and the start value is changed every time the system is reset.
In addition, in the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, the number of winning determination random numbers stored in the regular number reserve memory area (hereinafter also referred to as the regular number reserve number) is stored in a regular number reserve number counter (not specifically shown).

The winning decision random number judgment table 116 is for judging whether or not a winning is obtained by drawing a normal pattern, and as shown in Fig. 14 (a) to (c), includes a first judgment table 116a referred to during a non-time-saving game state (i.e., during a normal game state), a second judgment table 116b referred to during a time-saving game state JT1 (i.e., during a low-probability time-saving game state LJT1), and a third judgment table 116c referred to during a time-saving game state JT2 (i.e., during a low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 or during a high-probability time-saving game state). Although not shown in the figure, the first judgment table 116a is also referred to during a special game.
In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, when the game ball passes through the gate 20, one winning random number is obtained within the range of 0 to 65535. If the game state at the time of drawing the normal symbol is the non-time-saving game state, the first judgment table 116a is selected, and the normal symbol is drawn based on the obtained winning random number and the selected first judgment table 116a. If the game state at the time of drawing the normal symbol is the time-saving game state JT1, the second judgment table 116b is selected, and the normal symbol is drawn based on the obtained winning random number and the selected second judgment table 116b. If the game state at the time of drawing the normal symbol is the time-saving game state JT2, the third judgment table 116c is selected, and the normal symbol is drawn based on the obtained winning random number and the selected third judgment table 116c.

14A, according to the first judgment table 116a, a winning decision random number between 1 and 65500 is determined to be a winning number, and a losing decision random number between 0, 65501 and 65535 is determined to be a losing number. Therefore, the probability of winning in this first judgment table 116a is approximately 99/100.
14(b), according to the second judgment table 116b, similarly to the first judgment table 116a, a winning decision is made when the winning decision random number is between 1 and 65500, and a losing decision is made when the winning decision random number is other than this (0, 65501 to 65535). Therefore, the probability of winning in this second judgment table 116b is also approximately 99/100, similarly to the first judgment table 116a.
14(c), according to the third judgment table 116c, similarly to the first judgment table 116a and the second judgment table 116b, a win is determined when the winning determination random number is between 1 and 65500, and a loss is determined when the winning determination random number is other than this (0, 65501 to 65535). Therefore, the probability of a win in this third judgment table 116c is also approximately 99/100, similarly to the first judgment table 116a and the second judgment table 116b.
As described above, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, the probability of winning by drawing normal symbols is set to be the same regardless of the game state.
If the normal symbol is selected by lottery, a winning symbol is determined, and if it is not selected, a losing symbol is determined.

The pachinko machine P according to this embodiment also includes a normal symbol fluctuation pattern determination table 117 and a movable piece operation control table 118 as tables for determining the normal symbol fluctuation pattern and controlling the operation of the movable piece 16b.

The normal symbol variation pattern determination table 117 is for determining the variation pattern of the normal symbol. As described above, when the game ball passes through the gate 20 and the lottery for the normal symbol is performed, the variation pattern of the normal symbol is determined based on the normal symbol variation pattern determination table 117.
In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 15, when the game state is the non-time-saving game state, a normal symbol variation pattern with a 10-second variation time is determined, when the game state is the time-saving game state JT1, a normal symbol variation pattern with a 9.5-second variation time, which is slightly shorter than the non-time-saving game state, is determined, and when the game state is the time-saving game state JT2, a normal symbol variation pattern with a 1-second variation time, which is much shorter than the non-time-saving game state and the time-saving game state JT1, is determined. Although not shown in particular, during special play, a normal symbol variation pattern with a 10-second variation time is determined, as in the non-time-saving game state.
Then, when the normal symbol variation pattern is determined, the normal symbol display device 32 (see FIG. 3) is flashed for the variation time set for the normal symbol variation pattern. When the normal symbol lottery results in a winning symbol being determined, the normal symbol display device 32 is turned on, and when the lottery results in a losing symbol being determined, the normal symbol display device 32 is turned off.
In this specification, the flashing display of the ordinary pattern display device 32 is referred to as the "change in ordinary pattern", and the lighting or turning off of the ordinary pattern display device 32 is referred to as the "stopped display of ordinary pattern", "stop of change in ordinary pattern", "stop of change in ordinary pattern", etc.

In addition, the movable piece operation control table 118 is referenced to control the operation of the movable piece 16b provided adjacent to the second start winning port 16.
In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, when the normal symbol display device 32 is turned on, the movable piece 16b is operated in a manner determined by the movable piece operation control table 118. Specifically, when the game state is a non-time-saving game state, as shown in Fig. 16, the movable piece solenoid 16c is energized for 0.05 seconds (=0.05 seconds x 1 time), so that the movable piece 16b is in a protruding state for 0.05 seconds. Also, when the game state is a time-saving game state JT1, as shown in Fig. 16, the movable piece solenoid 16c is energized for 0.08 seconds (=0.08 seconds x 1 time), so that the movable piece 16b is in a protruding state for 0.08 seconds, which is slightly longer than the non-time-saving game state. Also, when the game state is the time-saving game state JT2, as shown in Fig. 16, the movable piece solenoid 16c is energized for 3 seconds (= 3 seconds x 1 time), so that the movable piece 16b is in a protruding state for 3 seconds, which is longer than the non-time-saving game state and the time-saving game state JT1. Although not specifically shown, during special play, the movable piece 16b is in a protruding state for 0.05 seconds, as in the non-time-saving game state.

As described above, during the non-time-saving game state (normal game state), there is an extremely high probability of winning in the lottery for the normal symbol that is executed when the game ball passes through the gate 20, and there are many opportunities for the movable piece 16b to be in the protruding state. However, since the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is 10 seconds and the operation time of the movable piece 16b is 0.05 seconds, the time it takes for the movable piece 16b to go from the immersed state to the protruding state is long (the interval from the protruding state to the next protruding state is long), and the time the movable piece 16b is maintained in the protruding state is extremely short. Furthermore, the time it is maintained in this protruding state is shorter than the opening arrival time (the time it takes for the game ball at the right end of the upper surface of the movable piece 16b to reach the opening of the second start winning hole 16), which is approximately 0.3 seconds. Therefore, during non-time-saving play, the movable piece 16b is almost always in a recessed state, and even if it does protrude, the game ball at the right end of the upper surface of the movable piece 16b will be in a recessed state before it reaches the opening of the second start winning hole 16, so in principle it is impossible for a game ball that has entered the second play area 12b to enter the second start winning hole 16.

In addition, during the time-saving game state JT1 (low-probability time-saving game state LJT1), the probability of winning in the lottery for normal symbols is the same as during the non-time-saving game state, so there are many opportunities for the movable piece 16b to be in a protruding state, just as during the non-time-saving game state. However, since the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is 9.5 seconds and the operation time of the movable piece 16b is 0.08 seconds, just as during the non-time-saving game state, the time it takes for the movable piece 16b to go from the immersed state to the protruding state is long, and the time the movable piece 16b is maintained in the protruding state is extremely short. Furthermore, the time that the movable piece 16b is maintained in this protruding state is shorter than the opening arrival time mentioned above (approximately 0.3 seconds). Therefore, although there are some differences from the non-time-saving game state in terms of the normal pattern change time and the operation time of the movable piece 16b, even during the time-saving game state JT1, the movable piece 16b is almost always in a immersed state, and even if it is in a protruding state, the game ball at the right end of the upper surface of the movable piece 16b will be in a immersed state before it reaches the opening of the second start winning hole 16, so in principle it is impossible for a game ball that has entered the second game area 12b to enter the second start winning hole 16.

In contrast, during the time-saving game state JT2 (low-probability time-saving game state LJT2, high-probability time-saving game state), the probability of winning in the lottery for the normal symbol is the same as during the non-time-saving game state and the time-saving game state JT1, so there are many opportunities for the movable piece 16b to be in the protruding state, just like during the non-time-saving game state and the time-saving game state JT1. And since the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is 1 second, which is shorter than during the non-time-saving game state and the time-saving game state JT1, and the operating time of the movable piece 16b is 3 seconds, which is longer than during the non-time-saving game state and the time-saving game state JT1, the time until the movable piece 16b goes from the immersed state to the protruding state is shorter than during the non-time-saving game state and the time-saving game state JT1, and the time the movable piece 16b is maintained in the protruding state is longer. Furthermore, the time that this protruding state is maintained is longer than the opening arrival time (approximately 0.3 seconds) mentioned above. Therefore, during the time-saving game state JT2, the period during which the movable piece 16b is in a protruding state becomes longer, and the game ball at the right end of the upper surface of the movable piece 16b can be guided to the opening of the second start winning hole 16, so that the game ball that has entered the second game area 12b can enter the second start winning hole 16 with a high frequency.

As described above, in the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, the probability of winning by drawing a normal pattern is set to be extremely high overall in all of the non-time-saving game state, the time-saving game state JT1, and the time-saving game state JT2, but by varying the fluctuation time of the normal pattern and the operation time of the movable piece 16b, the possibility of the game ball entering the second start winning port 16 is changed.
In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, while it is impossible for game balls to enter the second start winning hole 16 during both the non-time-saving game state and the time-saving game state JT1, game balls can enter the second start winning hole 16 with high frequency during the time-saving game state JT2. Therefore, during the time-saving game state JT2 (during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 and the high-probability time-saving game state), prize balls based on game balls entering the second start winning hole 16 can be obtained frequently, so that it is possible to obtain more opportunities for winning or losing lottery per given time while suppressing the decrease in game balls as the game progresses than during the non-time-saving game state (normal game state) and the time-saving game state JT1 (during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1).

In addition, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, during the time-shortened game state JT2, control is performed to shorten the average time for the special symbol to change (the so-called special symbol change shortening function is activated) compared to during the non-time-shortened game state and the time-shortened game state JT1 (see Figures 11 and 12). This, combined with the change in the frequency with which the game ball enters the second start winning hole 16 described above, makes it easier to execute the win/lose lottery and the special symbol change display during the time-shortened game state JT2 compared to during the non-time-shortened game state and the time-shortened game state JT1. In other words, the frequency with which the win/lose lottery is executed (in other words, the frequency with which the special symbol change display is executed) is changed.

In order to vary the probability of the game ball entering the second start winning hole 16, the frequency of the winning/losing lottery and the display of the special symbol fluctuation for each game state, one or more of the elements that determine the performance of the normal symbol game (probability of winning in the lottery for the normal symbol, the fluctuation time of the normal symbol, the operation time of the movable piece 16b) may be set to be different for each game state, or all of the elements may be set to be different. Also, while all of the elements that determine the performance of the normal symbol game are set to be the same in any game state, the average fluctuation time of the special symbol may be set to be different for each game state.

(Outline of processing in pachinko machine P)
Next, an overview of the processing executed by the main control board 100 as the special game, normal game, and special game progress as described above will be explained using a flowchart.
First, the main processing of the main control board 100 will be described.
When power is supplied from the power supply board, a system reset occurs in the main CPU 101, and the main CPU 101 executes the main processing shown in the flowchart of FIG.

In step 100, the main CPU 101 executes an initialization process.
In step 101, the main CPU 101 updates the initial value update random number for special pattern random numbers, which is referenced when updating the special pattern random numbers. This initial value update random number for special pattern random numbers is used to determine the initial value of the special pattern random numbers. In other words, the special pattern random numbers are updated with the initial value update random number for special pattern random numbers at the time when the update is started as the initial value. Then, once this random number range has been completed, the update of the special pattern random numbers is continued with the initial value update random number for special pattern random numbers at that time as the initial value. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 102.

In step 102, the main CPU 101 updates the fluctuation pattern random number for determining the fluctuation pattern. Then, when the processing of step 102 is completed, the processing of steps 101 and 102 is repeatedly executed thereafter until a predetermined interrupt processing is performed.

Next, the initialization process in step 100 mentioned above will be described with reference to the flow chart of FIG.
In step 130, the main CPU 101 executes an initial setting process required for executing various processes when power is restored (when the power switch is turned on, or when power is restored from an unexpected power outage), such as reading a startup program from the main ROM 102. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 131.
In step 131, the main CPU 101 sets a power interruption monitoring time, which is a waiting time until the execution of the above-mentioned various processes starts after the power interruption is restored, in a power interruption monitoring time timer counter. Then, the process proceeds to step 132.

In step 132, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not a power interruption occurrence signal has been detected. If it is judged that a power interruption occurrence signal has been detected, the process returns to step 131. On the other hand, if it is judged that a power interruption occurrence signal has not been detected, the process proceeds to the next step 133.
In step 133, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not the power interruption monitoring time set in the above-mentioned step 131 has elapsed. If it is judged that the time has not elapsed, the process returns to step 132. On the other hand, if it is judged that the time has elapsed, the process proceeds to the next step 134. Note that a subtraction timer is used as the power interruption monitoring time timer counter, and the timer counter is subtracted by 1 each time the above-mentioned power interruption occurrence signal detection judgment is performed, and when the timer counter reaches 0, it is judged that the power interruption monitoring time has elapsed.

In step 134, the main CPU 101 permits access to the main RAM 103. This process enables various data to be stored in the main RAM 103 and various data to be read (loaded) from the main RAM 103. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 135.
In step 135, the main CPU 101 judges whether the conditions for the RAM clear process are met. That is, it checks whether the power was turned on (the power switch was turned on) with the RAM clear switch provided on the power supply board being operated, and whether an inconsistency occurred between the data stored in the main RAM 103 at the time of the unexpected power cut and the data stored in the main RAM 103 at the time of recovery from the unexpected power cut. Then, if the power was turned on with the RAM clear switch being operated or an inconsistency occurred in the stored data, it is judged that the conditions for the RAM clear process are met. On the other hand, if the power was turned on without the RAM clear switch being operated, or if the main RAM 103 recovered from the unexpected power cut without an inconsistency occurring in the stored data, it is judged that the conditions for the RAM clear process are not met. If it is judged that the conditions for the RAM clear process are not met, it proceeds to step 138. On the other hand, if it is judged that the conditions for the RAM clear process are met, it proceeds to the next step 136.

In step 136, the main CPU 101 executes a RAM clear process (i.e., clearing the data stored in the main RAM 103). When the RAM clear process is executed, the game state that was set before the power failure is cleared, and the normal game state is set. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 137.
In step 137, the main CPU 101 transmits a RAM clear command indicating that the RAM clear process has been executed to the launch/payout control board 200 and the sub-control board 300. Then, the process proceeds to step 140.

In step 138, which is reached when it is determined in step 135 that the conditions for the RAM clearing process are not met, the main CPU 101 executes normal power interruption recovery processing, which clears only a portion of the data stored in the main RAM 103 before the power interruption occurred and maintains the other data. Note that even if the normal power interruption recovery processing is executed, the game state that was set before the power interruption occurs is not cleared, and the game state is maintained as is. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 139.
In step 139, the main CPU 101 transmits a power failure recovery command, which indicates that power has been restored, to the launch/payout control board 200 and the sub-control board 300. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 140.

In step 140, the main CPU 101 transmits various commands based on the power interruption recovery to the sub-control board 300. The commands transmitted to the sub-control board 300 when the power interruption recovery occurs include a first reserved number designation command indicating the first reserved number, a second reserved number designation command indicating the second reserved number, a game state designation command indicating the game state at the time of the power interruption recovery, and a launch position designation command indicating the direction in which the game ball will be shot (either right or left). Then, the initialization process ends.

Next, the power cut-off and evacuation process of the main control board 100 will be described.
In the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, when the voltage of the power supply falls below a predetermined value, the main processing of the main control board 100 described above is interrupted and the power cut-off evacuation processing shown in the flowchart of Figure 19 is executed.

In step 150, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not a power interruption occurrence signal has been detected. If it is judged that a power interruption occurrence signal has been detected, the process proceeds to step 152. On the other hand, if it is judged that a power interruption occurrence signal has not been detected, the process proceeds to the next step 151.
In step 151, the main CPU 101 performs processing to permit an interrupt, and then ends the power interruption evacuation processing.

Furthermore, in step 152, which is reached if it is determined in step 150 that a power interruption occurrence signal has been detected, the main CPU 101 prohibits access to the main RAM 103. This process makes it impossible to store various data in the main RAM 103 or read (load) various data from the main RAM 103, and the stored data in the main RAM 103 is maintained. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 153.
In step 153, the main CPU 101 sets the power interruption monitoring time in a power interruption monitoring time timer counter. Then, the process proceeds to step 154.

In step 154, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not a power interruption occurrence signal has been detected. If it is judged that a power interruption occurrence signal has been detected, the process returns to step 153. On the other hand, if it is judged that a power interruption occurrence signal has not been detected, the process proceeds to the next step 155.
In step 155, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not the power interruption monitoring time set in the above-mentioned step 153 has elapsed. If it is judged that the time has not elapsed, the process returns to step 154. On the other hand, if it is judged that the time has elapsed, the power interruption evacuation process is terminated and the above-mentioned initialization process is executed. The judgment of the elapse of the power interruption monitoring time is performed in the same manner as the judgment in the above-mentioned initialization process.
In addition, if a power outage occurs, the operation of the pachinko machine P will stop while the above-mentioned steps 153 to 155 are looped.

Next, the timer interrupt process of the main control board 100 will be described.
A reset clock pulse generating circuit provided on the main control board 100 generates a clock pulse at a predetermined period (4 milliseconds in the pachinko machine P of this embodiment), thereby executing the timer interrupt processing shown in the flowchart of Figure 20.

In step 200, the main CPU 101 executes a timer update process for updating various timer counters.
In addition, the pachinko machine P in this embodiment employs a countdown timer, and the timer counter is decremented by one each time the timer interrupt process of the main control board 100 is executed, and the countdown stops when it reaches 0.
In step 201, the main CPU 101 updates the special symbol random number. Specifically, the random number counter is updated by adding "1", and if the result of the addition exceeds the maximum value of the random number range, the random number counter is reset to "0", and if the random number counter has completed one cycle, the random number is updated from the value of the special symbol random number initial value update random number at that time. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 202.

In step 202, the main CPU 101 determines whether there is an input to the gate detection sensor 20a, the first start winning hole detection sensor 15a, the second start winning hole detection sensor 16a, and the specific area detection sensor 57a, and executes a sensor detection process to perform a predetermined process based on the result.Then, the process proceeds to the next step 203.
In step 203, the main CPU 101 executes a special symbol-related control process for controlling the special symbol game and the special game. Then, the process proceeds to step 204.

In step 204, the main CPU 101 executes a general map-related control process for controlling the general map game. Then, the process proceeds to step 205.
In step 205, the main CPU 101 executes error-related processing to control the occurrence and cancellation of various errors. Specifically, when the main control board 100 receives a door open command based on the opening of the front door 3, a tray full command based on the full state of the tray 7, etc., the main CPU 101 generates a corresponding error designation command (e.g., a door open command, a tray full command, etc.) and stores (sets) it in the performance transmission data storage area. Also, when the main control board 100 no longer receives the above-mentioned commands, the main CPU 101 generates a corresponding error cancellation designation command (e.g., a door close command, a full cancellation command, etc.) and stores it in the performance transmission data storage area. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 206.

In step 206, when the detection signals from the general winning hole detection sensor 14a, the first start winning hole detection sensor 15a, the second start winning hole detection sensor 16a, and the large winning hole detection sensor 18a are input to the main CPU 101, the main CPU 101 updates the prize ball counters provided corresponding to the respective detection signals, and transmits payout number designation commands corresponding to the respective detection signals to the launch payout control board 200. When the launch payout control board 200 pays out prize balls, a payout command is transmitted to the main control board 100 for each payout, and when the main CPU 101 receives the payout command, it decrements the prize ball counter. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 207.
In step 207, the main CPU 101 executes the creation of external information data for outputting the game status of the pachinko machine P to the outside of the pachinko machine P, movable piece solenoid data for controlling the operation of the movable piece 16b, large prize opening solenoid data for controlling the opening and closing of the large prize opening 18, display data for various display devices (first special symbol display device 30, second special symbol display device 31, normal symbol display device 32, first special symbol reserved display device 38, second special symbol reserved display device 39, and normal symbol reserved display device 33), etc. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 208.

In step 208, the main CPU 101 executes output control processing to perform port output processing to output signals of the data created in step 207 described above, and command transmission processing to transmit commands stored in the performance transmission data storage area. Then, the timer interrupt processing of the main control board 100 is terminated.

Next, the sensor detection process in step 202 will be described with reference to the flow chart of FIG.
In step 300, the main CPU 101 executes a gate detection process for performing a lottery for a normal symbol based on the fact that the gaming ball has passed through the gate 20. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 301.
In step 301, the main CPU 101 executes a first start winning hole detection process for performing a winning/losing lottery based on the game ball entering the first start winning hole 15. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 302.

In step 302, the main CPU 101 executes a second start winning hole detection process for performing a winning/losing lottery based on the game ball entering the second start winning hole 16. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 303.
In step 303, the main CPU 101 executes a specific area detection process for carrying out a predetermined process based on the gaming ball entering the specific area 57. Then, the sensor detection process is terminated.

Next, the gate detection process in step 300 will be described with reference to the flow chart of FIG.
In step 400, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not a detection signal has been input from the gate detection sensor 20a. If it is judged that a detection signal has not been input from the gate detection sensor 20a, the gate detection process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is judged that a detection signal has been input from the gate detection sensor 20a, the process proceeds to the next step 401.
In step 401, the main CPU 101 determines whether the value of the normal reserved number counter (i.e., the current normal reserved number) is less than "4". If it is determined that the value is not less than "4" (i.e., "4"), the gate detection process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the value is less than 4, the process proceeds to the next step 402.

In step 402, the main CPU 101 increments the value of the reserved number counter by "1". Then, the process proceeds to step 403.
In step 403, the main CPU 101 obtains a winning determination random number and stores it in the regular game reserve memory area, and ends the gate detection processing.

Next, the processing at the time of detecting the first start winning port in step 301 described above will be explained with reference to the flowchart in FIG.
In step 500, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not a detection signal has been input from the first start winning hole detection sensor 15a. If it is judged that a detection signal has not been input from the first start winning hole detection sensor 15a, the first start winning hole detection process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is judged that a detection signal has been input from the first start winning hole detection sensor 15a, the process proceeds to the next step 501.
In step 501, the main CPU 101 judges whether the value of the first reserved number counter (i.e., the current first reserved number) is less than "4". If it is judged that the value is not less than "4" (i.e., "4"), the first start winning port detection process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is judged that the value is less than "4", the process proceeds to the next step 502.

In step 502, the main CPU 101 increments the value of the first reservation number counter by "1". Then, the process proceeds to step 503.
In step 503, the main CPU 101 acquires a win/lose random number and stores it in the memory section of the first reserved memory area. Then, the process proceeds to step 504.

In step 504, the main CPU 101 acquires the special symbol random number updated in the above-mentioned step 201, and stores it in the memory section of the first reserved memory area in which the win/lose random number was stored in the above-mentioned step 503. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 505.
In step 505, the main CPU 101 acquires the variable pattern random number updated in step 102 described above, and stores it in the memory section of the first reserved memory area in which the win/lose random number was stored in step 503 described above. As a result, the acquired win/lose random number, special symbol random number, and variable pattern random number are all stored in the memory section of the same first reserved memory area. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 506.

In step 506, the main CPU 101 generates a start winning command indicating that the first special symbol random number has been stored, and stores the command in the performance transmission data storage area. Then, the process proceeds to step 507.
In step 507, the main CPU 101 judges whether the current gaming state is a non-time-saving gaming state or a time-saving gaming state JT1. If it is judged that the current gaming state is neither a non-time-saving gaming state nor a time-saving gaming state JT1 (i.e., the current gaming state is a time-saving gaming state JT2), the first start winning hole detection process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is judged that the current gaming state is a non-time-saving gaming state or a time-saving gaming state JT1, the process proceeds to the next step 508.

In step 508, the main CPU 101 executes a pre-determination process for the stored first special random number to make various determinations regarding the winning/losing lottery before the special pattern based on the first special random number starts to change (at the time when the first special random number is acquired (stored as pending)). Then, the process at the time of detection of the first start winning slot is terminated.

Next, the processing at the time of detecting the second start winning port in step 302 described above will be explained with reference to the flowchart in FIG.
In step 600, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not a detection signal is input from the second start winning hole detection sensor 16a. If it is judged that a detection signal is not input from the second start winning hole detection sensor 16a, the second start winning hole detection process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is judged that a detection signal is input from the second start winning hole detection sensor 16a, the process proceeds to the next step 601.
In step 601, the main CPU 101 judges whether the value of the second reserved number counter (i.e., the current second reserved number) is less than "4". If it is judged that the value is not less than "4" (i.e., "4"), the second start winning port detection process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is judged that the value is less than "4", the process proceeds to the next step 602.

In step 602, the main CPU 101 increments the value of the second reserved number counter by "1". Then, the process proceeds to step 603.
In step 603, the main CPU 101 acquires the win/lose random number and stores it in the memory section of the second reserved memory area. Then, the process proceeds to step 604.

In step 604, the main CPU 101 acquires the special symbol random number updated in the above-mentioned step 201, and stores it in the memory section of the second reserved memory area in which the win/lose random number was stored in the above-mentioned step 603. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 605.
In step 605, the main CPU 101 acquires the variable pattern random number updated in step 102 described above, and stores it in the memory section of the second reserved memory area in which the win/lose random number was stored in step 603 described above. As a result, the acquired win/lose random number, special symbol random number, and variable pattern random number are all stored in the memory section of the same second reserved memory area. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 606.

In step 606, the main CPU 101 generates a start winning command indicating that the second special symbol random number has been stored, and stores the command in the performance transmission data storage area. Then, the process proceeds to step 607.
In step 607, the main CPU 101 judges whether the current gaming state is the time-saving gaming state JT2 or not. If it is judged that the current gaming state is not the time-saving gaming state JT2 (i.e., the current gaming state is the non-time-saving gaming state or the time-saving gaming state JT1), the second start winning port detection process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is judged that the current gaming state is the time-saving gaming state JT2, the process proceeds to the next step 608.

In step 608, the main CPU 101 executes a pre-determination process for the stored second special random number to make various determinations regarding the winning/losing lottery before the special pattern based on the second special random number starts to change (at the time the second special random number is acquired (stored as pending)). Then, the process at the time of detection of the second start winning slot is terminated.

Next, the above-mentioned pre-determination process of step 508 and step 608 will be described with reference to the flowchart of Fig. 25. In the above-mentioned pre-determination process of step 508, the following process is executed based on the win/loss random number, special symbol random number, and variable pattern random number stored in the storage unit of the first reserved storage area, and the first reserved number, and in the above-mentioned pre-determination process of step 608, the following process is executed based on the win/loss random number, special symbol random number, and variable pattern random number stored in the storage unit of the second reserved storage area, and the second reserved number.
In step 650, the main CPU 101 checks the type of start winning hole into which the game ball entered (first start winning hole 15, second start winning hole 16), the number of reserved balls (first reserved number, second reserved number), and the game state (normal game state, low probability time-saving game state LJT1, low probability time-saving game state LJT2, high probability time-saving game state). Then, the process proceeds to the next step 651.

In step 651, the main CPU 101 acquires one of the winning/losing random number judgment tables 110 (low probability judgment table 110a, high probability judgment table 110b) corresponding to the game state confirmed in the above-mentioned step 650, and executes a winning/losing judgment process to judge the result of the winning/losing lottery based on the acquired table and the stored winning/losing random number. After that, data related to the result of the judgment (winning the jackpot, winning or losing the time-saving bonus) is stored in a predetermined processing area of the main RAM 103. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 652.
In step 652, the main CPU 101 executes a special symbol determination process to determine the type of special symbol. Specifically, if the start winning hole into which the game ball entered is the first start winning hole 15 (first special symbol random number), the first start winning hole determination table 111a is acquired, and based on the table, the result of the winning/losing lottery determined in the above-mentioned step 651, and the stored special symbol random number, the type of jackpot symbol (jackpot symbol X1, X2, X3), the type of time-saving symbol (time-saving symbol J1, J2), or the type of loss symbol (loss symbol Z1) is determined. Also, if the starting winning hole into which the game ball entered is the second starting winning hole 16 (second special symbol random number), the second starting winning hole determination table 111b is acquired, and based on the table, the result of the winning/losing lottery determined in the above-mentioned step 651, and the stored special symbol random number, the type of jackpot symbol (jackpot symbol X4, X5, X6), the type of time-saving symbol (time-saving symbol J1, J2), or the type of loss symbol (loss symbol Z2) is determined. The main CPU 101 stores data related to the result of the determination (type of special symbol) in a specified processing area of the main RAM 103. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 653.

In step 653, the main CPU 101 acquires the variation pattern table 114 corresponding to the gaming state confirmed in the above-mentioned step 650. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 654.
In step 654, the main CPU 101 executes a variation pattern command determination process to determine a variation pattern command based on the type of special symbol determined in the above-mentioned step 652, the reserved number, the variation pattern table 114 acquired in the above-mentioned step 653, and the stored variation pattern random number. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 655.

In step 655, the main CPU 101 stores in the performance transmission data storage area the result of the winning/losing lottery determined in the above-mentioned step 651, the type of special symbol determined in the above-mentioned step 652, and the pre-determination command including the variation pattern command determined in the above-mentioned step 654. Then, the pre-determination process is terminated.
Through the above processing, for the first special pattern random number or the second special pattern random number stored as pending, the result of the win/lose lottery determined when the special pattern begins to change, the type of special pattern, and the change pattern command are transmitted to the sub-control board 300 in advance (i.e., before the change begins) at the time the random number is obtained by the advance determination command.

In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, the above-mentioned pre-determination process determines the first special random number obtained based on the entry of a game ball into the first start winning port 15 and stored in the reserved memory area (first reserved memory area), or the second special random number obtained based on the entry of a game ball into the second start winning port 16 and stored in the reserved memory area (second reserved memory area), but is not limited to this. For example, in the pre-determination process, instead of directly determining the random number stored in the reserved memory area, it is also possible to determine a random number stored in another memory area (such as a register).

Next, the specific area detection process in step 303 will be described with reference to the flow chart of FIG.
In step 670, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not a special game is being played. If it is judged that a special game is not being played, the specific area detection process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is judged that a special game is being played, the process proceeds to step 671.
In step 671, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not the detection signal from the specific area detection sensor 57a has been input a predetermined number of times (in this embodiment, once). If it is judged that the detection signal from the specific area detection sensor 57a has not been input the predetermined number of times, the specific area detection process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is judged that the detection signal from the specific area detection sensor 57a has been input the predetermined number of times, the process proceeds to the next step 672.
In step 672, the main CPU 101 turns on an entry flag indicating that a predetermined number of gaming balls have entered the specific area 57. Then, the specific area detection process is terminated.

Next, the special drawing related control processing in step 203 described above will be explained with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
In step 700, the main CPU 101 loads the value of the execution phase data. This execution phase data indicates which of a plurality of function modules (subroutines) constituting the special symbol-related control process is to be executed. Specifically, this execution phase data has data "00" indicating the execution of a special symbol variation start process described later, data "01" indicating the execution of a special symbol variation stop process described later, data "02" indicating the execution of a post-stop process described later, data "03" indicating the execution of a special game control process described later, and data "04" indicating the execution of a special game end process described later.
Then, the main CPU 101 executes any one of the following processes based on the value of the execution phase data loaded in the above-mentioned step 700: special symbol variation start process (step 701), special symbol variation stop process (step 702), post-stop process (step 703), special game control process (step 704), or special game end process (step 705). Then, the special symbol-related control process is terminated.

Next, the special symbol variation start process in step 701 described above will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG.
In step 800, the main CPU 101 judges whether the execution phase data is "00", which indicates the execution of the special symbol variation start process. If it is judged that the execution phase data is "00", the process proceeds to the next step 801. On the other hand, if it is judged that the execution phase data is not "00", the special symbol variation start process is terminated.
In step 801, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not the second special random number is stored in the memory section of the second reserved memory area, that is, whether or not the second reserved number counter is equal to or greater than "1". If it is judged that the second special random number is stored, the process proceeds to step 804. On the other hand, if it is judged that the second special random number is not stored, the process proceeds to the next step 802.

In step 802, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not the first special random number is stored in the memory section of the first reserved memory area, that is, whether or not the first reserved number counter is equal to or greater than "1". If it is judged that the first special random number is not stored, the process proceeds to step 812. On the other hand, if it is judged that the first special random number is stored, the process proceeds to the next step 803.
In step 803, the main CPU 101 decrements the value of the first reserved number counter by "1" and executes a shift process of the first reserved memory area. Specifically, the random numbers stored in the first memory section of the first reserved memory area are stored in a predetermined processing area provided in the main RAM 103, and the random numbers stored in the second memory section to the fourth memory section of the first reserved memory area are shifted to a memory section with a smaller number by one. As a result, the random numbers stored in the first reserved memory area are used in the win/loss determination process described below in a so-called first-in, first-out (FIFO) manner. Then, the process proceeds to step 805.

In step 804, which is performed when it is determined in step 801 that the second special random number is stored, the main CPU 101 decrements the value of the second reserved number counter by "1" and executes a shift process of the second reserved memory area. Specifically, the random numbers stored in the first memory section of the second reserved memory area are stored in a predetermined processing area provided in the main RAM 103, and the random numbers stored in the second memory section to the fourth memory section of the second reserved memory area are shifted to a memory section with a smaller number by one. As a result, the random numbers stored in the second reserved memory area are used in the winning/losing judgment process described later in a so-called first-in, first-out (FIFO) manner. Then, the process proceeds to step 805.
In step 805, the main CPU 101 increments the count value of the variation counter for counting the number of times the winning/losing lottery is executed (the number of times the special symbol varies) by "1". The main CPU 101 also stores a variation count command including the count value of the variation count counter in the performance transmission data storage area. This causes the variation count command to be sent to the sub-control board 300, which is then able to grasp the current count value of the variation count counter. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 806.

In step 806, the main CPU 101 executes a win/lose determination process to derive the result of the win/lose lottery. Then, the process proceeds to step 807.
In step 807, the main CPU 101 executes a special symbol determination process to determine the type of special symbol. Specifically, if the start winning hole into which the game ball entered is the first start winning hole 15 (first special symbol random number), the first start winning hole determination table 111a is acquired, and based on the table, the result of the winning/losing lottery determined in the above-mentioned step 806 (winning the jackpot, winning the time-saving grant, losing), and the special symbol random number stored in a predetermined processing area in the above-mentioned step 803 or step 804, the type of the jackpot symbol (jackpot symbol X1, X2, X3), the type of the time-saving symbol (time-saving symbol J1, J2), or the type of the losing symbol (losing symbol Z1) is determined. In addition, if the start winning hole into which the game ball entered is the second start winning hole 16 (second special symbol random number), the second start winning hole determination table 111b is acquired, and based on the table, the result of the winning/losing lottery determined in the above-mentioned step 806 (winning the jackpot, winning the time-saving grant, losing), and the special symbol random number stored in the predetermined processing area in the above-mentioned step 803 or step 804, the type of jackpot symbol (jackpot symbol X4, X5, X6), the type of time-saving symbol (time-saving symbol J1, J2), or the type of losing symbol (losing symbol Z2) is determined. Then, data corresponding to the determined special symbol is stored in a predetermined temporary storage area of the main RAM 103. In addition, in this special symbol determination process, the current game state, that is, the game state at the time when the special symbol is determined, is stored in the game state buffer. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 808.
In addition, in the special pattern variation start processing of the pachinko machine P in this embodiment, when both the first special pattern random number and the second special pattern random number are stored, the second special pattern random number is processed in priority to the first special pattern random number, but this is not limited to this, and they may be processed in the order in which they are stored in the pending memory area.

In step 808, the main CPU 101 stores in the performance transmission data storage area a symbol determination command indicating the type of special symbol determined in the above-mentioned step 807. This causes information regarding the determined type of special symbol to be transmitted to the sub-control board 300 at the start of the fluctuation. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 809.
In step 809, the main CPU 101 executes a fluctuation pattern determination process for determining a fluctuation pattern based on the fluctuation pattern random number stored in the processing area in the above-mentioned step 803 or step 804. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 810.

In step 810, the main CPU 101 sets variable display data for starting the variable display of the special symbol on the first special symbol display device 30 or the second special symbol display device 31. As a result, when the variable display of the special symbol is performed based on the first special symbol random number, the first special symbol display device 30 starts a blinking display, and when the variable display of the special symbol is performed based on the second special symbol random number, the second special symbol display device 31 starts a blinking display. Here, the blinking display means that "-" blinks at a predetermined interval on each display device.
In addition, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, when the first special symbol random number is stored in the first reserved memory area, the first special symbol reserved display device 38 is displayed in a manner in which the first reserved number can be recognized, and when the second special symbol random number is stored in the second reserved memory area, the second special symbol reserved display device 39 is displayed in a manner in which the second reserved number can be recognized. When the above-mentioned special symbol variable display is performed based on the first special symbol random number, the first special symbol reserved display device 38 is displayed and controlled to indicate that the first reserved number is decreased by one at the same time as the variable display starts, and when the above-mentioned special symbol variable display is performed based on the second special symbol random number, the second special symbol reserved display device 39 is displayed and controlled to indicate that the second reserved number is decreased by one at the same time as the variable display starts.
Then, proceed to the next step 811.

In step 811, the main CPU 101 sets the execution phase data to "01" so that the special pattern change stop processing is executed in the special pattern related control processing, and ends the special pattern change start processing.
In step 812, which is reached when it is determined in step 802 that the first special symbol random number is not stored in the first reserved memory area, the main CPU 101 executes a customer waiting determination process for displaying a customer waiting state on the performance display device 21 based on the fact that a variable display is not being performed. Specifically, the main CPU 101 counts the time during which a variable display of the special symbol is not being performed, and when a predetermined customer waiting time (for example, 30 seconds) has elapsed without a variable display of the special symbol, it stores a customer waiting command for displaying a customer waiting screen on the performance display device 21 in the performance transmission data storage area, assuming that a customer waiting state has been entered. Then, the special symbol variable start process is terminated.

Next, the pass/fail determination process in step 806 described above will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG.
In step 850, the main CPU 101 selects one of the winning/losing random number determination tables 110 (low probability determination table 110a, high probability determination table 110b) corresponding to the current game state (low probability game state, high probability game state), and executes a winning/losing jackpot determination process to determine whether or not a jackpot will be won (i.e., to determine whether or not a jackpot will be won) based on the selected table and the winning/losing random number stored in the predetermined processing area in step 803 or step 804 described above. Specifically, the main CPU 101 obtains information on the numerical range that will result in a winning jackpot from the above table, and determines whether or not the winning/losing random number described above falls within this obtained numerical range. Then, if the winning/losing random number described above falls within the numerical range, it is determined that a jackpot has been won, and if the winning/losing random number described above does not fall within the numerical range, it is determined that a jackpot has not been won. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 851.
In step 851, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not the result of the jackpot winning/losing judgment process executed in the above-mentioned step 850 was a winning jackpot (i.e., whether or not a jackpot was won). If it is judged that a jackpot was not won (a non-winning jackpot), the process proceeds to step 853. On the other hand, if it is judged that a jackpot was won, the process proceeds to the next step 852.

In step 852, the main 101 stores the fact that a jackpot has been won in a predetermined storage area of the main RAM 103. Then, the win/loss determination process ends.
In step 853, which is performed when it is determined in step 851 that the jackpot has not been won, the main CPU 101 executes a time-saving award determination process to determine whether or not the time-saving award will be won (i.e., to determine whether or not the time-saving award will be won) based on the table selected in step 850 and the winning/losing random number stored in the predetermined processing area in step 803 or step 804 (i.e., the winning/losing random number is the same as the winning/losing random number that was the subject of determination in step 850). Specifically, the main CPU 101 obtains information on the numerical range that will result in the winning of the time-saving award from the table, and determines whether or not the winning/losing random number falls within this obtained numerical range. Then, if the winning/losing random number falls within the numerical range, it is determined that the time-saving award has been won, and if the winning/losing random number does not fall within the numerical range, it is determined that the time-saving award has not been won. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 854.

In step 854, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not the result of the time-saving grant judgment process executed in the above-mentioned step 853 was a win for the time-saving grant (i.e., whether or not the time-saving grant was won). If it is judged that the time-saving grant was not won (i.e., the time-saving grant was not won), the process proceeds to step 856. On the other hand, if it is judged that the time-saving grant was won, the process proceeds to the next step 855.
In step 855, the main 101 stores the fact that the time-saving bonus has been awarded in a predetermined storage area of the main RAM 103. Then, the win/loss determination process ends.

In step 856, which is reached when it is determined in step 854 that the time-saving bonus has not been awarded, the main CPU 101 stores a loss in a predetermined storage area of the main RAM 103. Then, the winning/losing determination process is terminated.
In addition, in the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, the process for determining whether or not a jackpot has been won and the process for determining whether or not a time-saving feature has been granted are both executed by a common processing program (the same module) for selecting a win/lose random number determination table 110 corresponding to the game status, obtaining information on the numerical range to be determined, and determining whether or not the win/lose random number belongs to that numerical range.

Next, the fluctuation pattern determination process in step 809 described above will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG.
In step 900, the main CPU 101 checks the type of start winning hole into which the game ball entered (first start winning hole 15, second start winning hole 16), the number of reserved balls (first reserved number, second reserved number), and the game state (normal game state, low probability time-saving game state LJT1, low probability time-saving game state LJT2, high probability time-saving game state). Then, the process proceeds to the next step 901.
In step 901, the main CPU 101 acquires the fluctuation pattern table 114 corresponding to the gaming state confirmed in the above-mentioned step 900. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 902.

In step 902, the main CPU 101 determines a variation pattern command based on the variation pattern table 114 acquired in the above step 901, the type of special symbol determined in the above step 807, the reserved number confirmed in the above step 900, and the variation pattern random number stored in the processing area in the above step 803 or 804, and stores the determined variation pattern command in a predetermined processing area. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 903.
In step 903, the main CPU 101 stores the variation pattern command determined in the above-mentioned step 902 in the performance transmission data storage area.

In step 904, the main CPU 101 determines the fluctuation time associated with the fluctuation pattern command based on the fluctuation pattern table 114. Then, the determined fluctuation time is set in the fluctuation time timer counter. Then, the fluctuation pattern determination process is terminated.

Next, the special symbol variation stop process in step 702 will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG.
In step 1000, the main CPU 101 judges whether the execution phase data is data "01" indicating the execution of the special symbol variation stop processing. If it is judged that the execution phase data is not "01", the special symbol variation stop processing is terminated. On the other hand, if it is judged that the execution phase data is "01", the process proceeds to the next step 1001.

In step 1001, the main CPU 101 judges whether the variable time set in the variable time timer counter in step 904 has elapsed. If it is judged that the variable time has not elapsed, the special symbol variation stop processing is terminated. On the other hand, if it is judged that the variable time has elapsed, the process proceeds to the next step 1002.
In step 1002, the main CPU 101 sets the stop display data for stopping and displaying the special symbol determined in the above-mentioned step 807 on the first special symbol display device 30 or the second special symbol display device 31, and executes the stop display of the special symbol. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 1003.

In step 1003, the main CPU 101 stores a symbol determination command indicating that the special symbol has been determined in the performance transmission data storage area.
In step 1004, the main CPU 101 refers to the stop display time table 115 to determine the stop display time corresponding to the current game state and the type of special symbol determined in the above step 807, and sets this determined stop display time in the stop display time timer counter. In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, as described above, when the current game state is the normal game state, when the losing symbol Z1 or Z2 is determined, and when the jackpot symbol X1, X2, X3, X4, X5, or X6 is determined, the stop display time is set to 0.5 seconds, and when the time-saving symbol J1 or J2 is determined, the stop display time is set to 20 seconds (see FIG. 13). In addition, when the current game state is other than the normal game state (low probability time-saving game state LJT1, low probability time-saving game state LJT2, high probability time-saving game state), when the losing symbol Z1 or Z2 is determined, when the big win symbol X1, X2, X3, X4, X5 or X6 is determined, and when the time-saving symbol J1 or J2 is determined, a stop display time of 0.5 seconds is set (see FIG. 13). Then, the process proceeds to the next step 1005.

In step 1005, the main CPU 101 sets the execution phase data to "02" so that post-stop processing is executed in the special symbol-related control processing. Then, the special symbol variation stop processing is terminated.

Next, the post-stop processing in step 703 mentioned above will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG.
In step 1100, the main CPU 101 determines whether the execution phase data is "02", which indicates execution of post-stop processing. If it is determined that the execution phase data is not "02", the post-stop processing is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the execution phase data is "02", the process proceeds to the next step 1101.
In step 1101, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not the stopped display time set in the stopped display time timer counter in the above-mentioned step 1004 has elapsed. If it is judged that the stopped display time has not elapsed, the post-stop processing is terminated. On the other hand, if it is judged that the stopped display time has elapsed, the process proceeds to the next step 1102.

In step 1102, the main CPU 101 stores a stop display end command, which indicates that the stop display time has elapsed, in the performance transmission data storage area. This notifies the sub-control board 300 that the stop display time has elapsed. The main CPU 101 also stores the current game status in the game status buffer. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 1103.
In step 1103, the main CPU 101 executes a time-shortening count update process. Specifically, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not either the first time-shortening game flag indicating that the current game state is the time-shortening game state JT1 or the second time-shortening game flag indicating that the current game state is the time-shortening game state JT2 is on. If it is judged that the first time-shortening game flag or the second time-shortening game flag is on, it updates a time-shortening count storage area provided in the main RAM 103. In this time-shortening count storage area, the remaining number of fluctuations until the time-shortening game state being set ends is stored. Then, the stored remaining number of fluctuations is decremented by "1". If it is judged that neither the first time-shortening game flag nor the second time-shortening game flag is on, the main CPU 101 does not perform any process. Then, it proceeds to the next step 1104.

In step 1104, the main CPU 101 performs a high probability count update process. Here, the main CPU 101 determines whether or not a high probability game flag, which indicates that the current game state is a high probability game state, is on. If it is determined that the high probability game flag is on, the main CPU 101 updates a high probability count storage area provided in the main RAM 103. This high probability count storage area stores the number of remaining changes until the high probability game state ends. The stored remaining number of changes is then decremented by "1". If it is determined that the high probability game flag is not on, the main CPU 101 does not perform any process. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 1105.

In step 1105, the main CPU 101 judges whether the special symbol displayed as stopped is a big win symbol. If it is judged that the special symbol displayed as stopped is not a big win symbol (i.e., a time-saving symbol or a losing symbol), the process proceeds to step 1111. On the other hand, if it is judged that the special symbol displayed as stopped is a big win symbol, the process proceeds to the next step 1106.
In step 1106, the main CPU 101 sets a command for transmitting the game state when the jackpot is won and the type of the jackpot symbol (jackpot symbol X1, X2, X3, X4, X5, X6) that is stopped and displayed to the sub-control board 300. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 1107.

In step 1107, the main CPU 101 resets the current game state. Then, the process proceeds to step 1108.
In step 1108, the main CPU 101 sets the opening time, which is the waiting time set at the start of the special game, in the opening time timer counter, and stores an opening command indicating that the opening process is to start in the performance transmission data storage area. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 1109.

In step 1109, the main CPU 101 sets the number of rounds in the main RAM 103 based on the type of jackpot symbol that is stopped and displayed. Specifically, if the jackpot symbol that is stopped and displayed is X1, X2, X4, or X5, the main CPU 101 sets the number of rounds to "3," and if the jackpot symbol that is stopped and displayed is X3 or X6, the main CPU 101 sets the number of rounds to "10." Then, the process proceeds to the next step 1110.
In step 1110, the main CPU 101 sets the execution phase data to "03" so that the special game control process is executed in the special chart related control process. Then, the post-stop process is terminated.

In step 1111, which is reached when it is determined in step 1105 that the special symbol displayed as stopped is not a big win symbol, the main CPU 101 determines whether the special symbol displayed as stopped is a time-saving symbol or not. If it is determined that the special symbol displayed as stopped is not a time-saving symbol (i.e., a losing symbol), the process proceeds to step 1115. On the other hand, if it is determined that the special symbol displayed as stopped is a time-saving symbol, the process proceeds to the next step 1112.
In step 1112, the main CPU 101 judges whether the current game state (i.e., the game state at the time when the winning/losing lottery is executed, and the game state at the time when the special symbol starts to fluctuate) is the normal game state. If it is judged that the game state is not the normal game state (i.e., the game state is the low probability time-saving game state LJT1, the low probability time-saving game state LJT2, or the high probability time-saving game state), the process proceeds to step 1114. On the other hand, if it is judged that the game state is the normal game state, the process proceeds to the next step 1113.

In step 1113, the main CPU 101 executes a time-saving game state setting process for setting a game state according to the time-saving symbol that is stopped and displayed. Specifically, if the time-saving symbol that is stopped and displayed is J1, the main CPU 101 turns on the first time-saving game flag and sets the time-saving number of times to "10000". As a result, a low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 in which the time-saving number of times is 10000 times is set (the normal game state is changed to the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 (the time-saving number of times is 10000 times)). Also, if the time-saving symbol that is stopped and displayed is J2, the main CPU 101 turns on the second time-saving game flag and sets the time-saving number of times to "10000". As a result, a low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 in which the time-saving number of times is 10000 times is set (the normal game state is changed to the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 (the time-saving number of times is 10000 times)). Then, proceed to step 1115.
In step 1114, which is performed when it is determined in step 1112 that the normal game state is not set, the main CPU 101 executes a normal game state setting process for setting the normal game state based on the remaining number of changes until the time-saving game state being set ends and the remaining number of changes until the high-probability game state ends. Specifically, when the remaining number of changes stored in the time-saving number storage area updated in step 1103 above becomes "0", the first time-saving game flag or the second time-saving game flag that was turned on is turned off. In addition, when the remaining number of changes stored in the high-probability number storage area updated in step 1104 above becomes "0", the high-probability game flag that was turned on is turned off. This sets the normal game state (the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2, or the high-probability time-saving game state that was set is changed to the normal game state). In addition, if the remaining number of times of change stored in the updated time-saving number storage area is "1" or more, if the remaining number of times of change stored in the updated time-saving number storage area is "1" or more, the main CPU 101 does not perform any processing. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 1115.

In step 1115, the main CPU 101 checks the game state set after the execution of the process of step 1113 or step 1114, and stores a game state command indicating the game state in the performance transmission data storage area. Then, the process proceeds to step 1116.
In step 1116, the main CPU 101 sets the execution phase data to "00" so that the special symbol variation start process is executed in the special symbol related control process. Then, the post-stop process is terminated.

Next, the special game control process in step 704 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
In step 1200, the main CPU 101 judges whether the execution phase data is "03", which indicates the execution of the special game control process. If it is judged that the execution phase data is not "03", the special game control process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is judged that the execution phase data is "03", the process proceeds to the next step 1201.
In step 1201, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not the opening time set in the opening time timer counter in the above-mentioned step 1108 has elapsed. If it is judged that the opening time has not elapsed, the special game control process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is judged that the opening time has elapsed, the process proceeds to the next step 1202.

In step 1202, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not the special game control process is in the ending process, which is a waiting process performed after all rounds of play have ended. If it is judged that the ending process is in progress, the process proceeds to step 1210. On the other hand, if it is judged that the ending process is not in progress, the process proceeds to the next step 1203.
In step 1203, the main CPU 101 executes a special winning opening opening/closing control process for opening and closing the special winning opening 18 and operating the distribution member 59 based on the special electric device operation table 112 corresponding to the type of the winning symbol stopped and displayed. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 1204.

In step 1204, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not it is the time when the round game has started based on the large prize opening/closing control in the above-mentioned step 1203. If it is judged that the round game has not started, the process proceeds to step 1206. On the other hand, if it is judged that the round game has started, the process proceeds to the next step 1205.
In step 1205, the main CPU 101 stores a round game start command indicating the start of a round game in the effect transmission data storage area.
In addition, a round play start command is provided for each number of round plays, which makes it possible to transmit to the sub-control board 300 which number of round plays has started.

In step 1206, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not the round game has ended based on the control of opening and closing the special prize opening in the above-mentioned step 1203. If it is judged that the round game has not ended, the special game control process is ended. On the other hand, if it is judged that the round game has ended, the process proceeds to the next step 1207.
In step 1207, the main CPU 101 decrements the number of rounds stored in the main RAM 103 by "1". Then, the process proceeds to the next step 1208.

In step 1208, the main CPU 101 judges whether the number of rounds decremented in the above-mentioned step 1207 is "0". If it is judged that the number of rounds is not "0", the special game control process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is judged that the number of rounds is "0", the process proceeds to the next step 1209.
In step 1209, the main CPU 101 sets the ending time, which is the waiting time set at the end of the special game, in the ending time timer counter, and stores an ending command indicating that the ending process is to start in the performance transmission data storage area. Then, the special game control process is terminated.

In step 1210, which is reached when it is determined in step 1202 that the ending process is in progress, the main CPU 101 determines whether or not the ending time set in the ending time timer counter in step 1209 has elapsed. If it is determined that the ending time has not elapsed, the special game control process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the ending time has elapsed, the process proceeds to the next step 1211.
In step 1211, the main CPU 101 stores a special game end command, which indicates that the special game has ended, in the effect transmission data storage area.

In step 1212, the main CPU 101 sets the execution phase data to "04" so that the special game end process is executed in the special chart related control process. Then, the special game control process is ended.

Next, the special game ending process in step 705 will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG.
In step 1300, the main CPU 101 judges whether the execution phase data is "04", which indicates the execution of the special game end process. If it is judged that the execution phase data is not "04", the special game end process is ended. On the other hand, if it is judged that the execution phase data is "04", the process proceeds to the next step 1301.
In step 1301, the main CPU 101 determines whether or not the entry flag is on. If it is determined that the entry flag is not on (i.e., is off), the process proceeds to step 1303. On the other hand, if it is determined that the entry flag is on, the process proceeds to the next step 1302.

In step 1302, the main CPU 101 executes a high probability game state setting process to set the game state to a high probability game state. Specifically, the high probability game flag is turned on, and the high probability count is set to "10000". Then, the process proceeds to step 1304.
In step 1303, which is reached when it is determined in step 1301 that the entry flag is not on, the main CPU 101 executes a low probability game state setting process for setting the game state to a low probability game state. Specifically, the high probability game flag is turned off. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 1304.

In step 1304, the main CPU 101 executes a time-shortened game state JT2 setting process to set the game state to the time-shortened game state JT2. Specifically, the main CPU 101 turns on the second time-shortened game flag and sets the time-shortened number of times to "100". Then, the process proceeds to step 1305.
In step 1305, the main CPU 101 turns off the entry flag, and then proceeds to the next step 1306.

In step 1306, the main CPU 101 sets a game state designation command in the performance transmission data storage area according to the game state set as described above. This game state designation command includes information on whether the high probability game flag is on or off, information on whether the second time-saving game flag is on or off, the number of high probability games, and the number of time-saving games, all of which are set as described above. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 1307.
In step 1307, the main CPU 101 sets the execution phase data to "00" so that the variable start process is executed in the special chart related control process. Then, the special game end process is ended.

Next, the map-related control process in step 204 will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG.
In step 1400, the main CPU 101 loads the value of the normal pattern execution phase data. This normal pattern execution phase data indicates which of the multiple function modules (subroutines) constituting the normal pattern related control process is to be executed. Specifically, this normal pattern execution phase data has data "10" indicating the execution of the normal pattern variation start process described later, data "11" indicating the execution of the normal pattern variation stop process described later, data "12" indicating the execution of the normal pattern stop post-processing described later, and data "13" indicating the execution of the movable piece control process described later.
Then, the main CPU 101 executes either the normal symbol variation start process (step 1401), the normal symbol variation stop process (step 1402), the normal symbol stop post-stop process (step 1403), or the movable piece control process (step 1404) based on the value of the normal symbol execution phase data loaded in the above-mentioned step 1400. Then, the normal symbol related control process is terminated.

Next, the normal symbol variation start processing in step 1401 described above will be explained with reference to the flowchart in FIG.
In step 1500, the main CPU 101 judges whether the normal pattern execution phase data is "10" which indicates the execution of the normal pattern variation start process. If it is judged that the normal pattern execution phase data is not "10", the normal pattern variation start process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is judged that the normal pattern execution phase data is "10", the process proceeds to the next step 1501.
In step 1501, the main CPU 101 judges whether a winning random number is stored in the normal reserved memory area, i.e., whether the normal reserved number counter is "1" or more. If it is judged that the normal reserved number counter is not "1" or more (i.e., "0"), the normal pattern variation start process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is judged that the normal reserved number counter is "1" or more, the process proceeds to the next step 1502.

In step 1502, the main CPU 101 decrements the value of the reserved number counter by "1". Then, the process proceeds to step 1503.
In step 1503, the main CPU 101 executes a shift process of the regular reserved memory area. Specifically, the winning determination random number stored in the first memory unit is stored in a predetermined processing area provided in the main RAM 103, and the winning determination random numbers stored in the second memory unit to the fourth memory unit are shifted to the memory unit with the next smaller number. As a result, the winning determination random numbers stored in the regular reserved memory area are used in the winning determination process described below in a so-called first-in, first-out (FIFO) manner. Then, the process proceeds to step 1504.

In step 1504, the main CPU 101 selects a winning determination random number determination table 116 (either the first determination table 116a, the second determination table 116b, or the third determination table 116c) corresponding to the current game state (non-time-saving game state, time-saving game state JT1, time-saving game state JT2), and executes a winning determination process to derive the result of the lottery for the normal symbol based on the selected table and the winning determination random number stored in the processing area in the above-mentioned step 1503. Specifically, the main CPU 101 refers to the first determination table 116a when in the non-time-saving game state, refers to the second determination table 116b when in the time-saving game state JT1, and refers to the third determination table 116c when in the time-saving game state JT2, and determines the winning determination random number stored in the processing area. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 1505.
In step 1505, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not the result of the winning judgment process in the above-mentioned step 1504 is a win. If it is judged to be a win, the process proceeds to the next step 1506. On the other hand, if it is judged to be a no win (i.e., a loss), the process proceeds to step 1507.

In step 1506, the main CPU 101 stores the winning symbol data in a predetermined processing area of the main RAM 103. Then, the process proceeds to step 1508.
In step 1507, which is reached when it is determined in step 1505 that the result of the winning determination process is not a win (i.e., a loss), the main CPU 101 stores the loss symbol data in a predetermined processing area of the main RAM 103. Then, the process proceeds to step 1508.

In step 1508, the main CPU 101 checks whether the current game state is a non-time-saving game state, a time-saving game state JT1, or a time-saving game state JT2, and sets the normal symbol fluctuation time timer counter to the normal symbol fluctuation time corresponding to the current game state by referring to the normal symbol fluctuation pattern determination table 117. Specifically, the main CPU 101 sets the normal symbol fluctuation time timer counter to "10 seconds" when in a non-time-saving game state, sets the normal symbol fluctuation time timer counter to "9.5 seconds" when in the time-saving game state JT1, and sets the normal symbol fluctuation time timer counter to "1 second" when in the time-saving game state JT2. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 1509.
In step 1509, the main CPU 101 sets the variable display data for starting the variable display of the normal symbol. As a result, when the variable display of the normal symbol is performed, the normal symbol display device 32 starts blinking. In addition, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, when the winning determination random number is stored in the normal symbol reservation memory area, the normal symbol reservation display device 33 is displayed in a manner that allows the number of reserved normal symbols to be recognized. Then, when the variable display of the normal symbol is performed, the display of the normal symbol reservation display device 33 is controlled so as to indicate that the number of reserved normal symbols is reduced by one at the same time as the variable display starts. Then, proceed to the next step 1510.

In step 1510, the main CPU 101 stores the current gaming state in the gaming machine state buffer as the gaming state at the start of the fluctuation.
In step 1511, the main CPU 101 sets the normal symbol execution phase data to "11" so that the normal symbol variation stop process is executed in the normal symbol related control process. Then, the normal symbol variation start process is terminated.

Next, the normal symbol variation stop processing in step 1402 described above will be explained with reference to the flowchart in FIG.
In step 1600, the main CPU 101 judges whether the normal pattern execution phase data is data "11" indicating the execution of the normal pattern variation stop processing. If it is judged that the normal pattern execution phase data is not "11", the normal pattern variation stop processing is terminated. On the other hand, if it is judged that the normal pattern execution phase data is "11", the process proceeds to the next step 1601.
In step 1601, the main CPU 101 judges whether the normal symbol variation time set in the normal symbol variation time timer counter in step 1508 has elapsed. If it is judged that the variation time has not elapsed, the normal symbol variation stop process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is judged that the variation time has elapsed, the process proceeds to the next step 1602.

In step 1602, the main CPU 101 sets stop display data for stopping and displaying the normal symbols on the normal symbol display device 32, and executes the stop display of the normal symbols. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 1603.
In step 1603, the main CPU 101 sets the normal symbol stop display time for stopping and displaying the normal symbol in the normal symbol stop display time timer counter. Then, the process proceeds to step 1604.

In step 1604, the main CPU 101 sets the normal symbol execution phase data to "12" so that normal symbol post-stop processing is executed in the normal symbol-related control processing. Then, the normal symbol change stop processing is terminated.

Next, the post-stop processing of the normal symbols in step 1403 described above will be explained with reference to the flowchart in FIG.
In step 1700, the main CPU 101 judges whether the normal symbol execution phase data is data "12" indicating the execution of normal symbol stop post-processing. If it is judged that the normal symbol execution phase data is not "12", the normal symbol stop post-processing is terminated. On the other hand, if it is judged that the normal symbol execution phase data is "12", the main CPU 101 proceeds to the next step 1701.
In step 1701, the main CPU 101 judges whether the normal symbol stop display time set in the normal symbol stop display time timer counter in the above-mentioned step 1603 has elapsed. If it is judged that the normal symbol stop display time has not elapsed, the normal symbol stop post-processing is terminated. On the other hand, if it is judged that the normal symbol stop display time has elapsed, the process proceeds to the next step 1702.

In step 1702, the main CPU 101 judges whether the stopped normal symbol is a winning symbol. If it is judged that the stopped normal symbol is not a winning symbol (i.e., a losing symbol), the process proceeds to step 1704. On the other hand, if it is judged that the stopped normal symbol is a winning symbol, the process proceeds to the next step 1703.
In step 1703, the main CPU 101 sets the normal symbol execution phase data to "13" so that the movable piece control process is executed in the normal symbol related control process. Then, the normal symbol stop post-processing is terminated.

In step 1704, which is reached when it is determined in step 1702 that the normal symbol displayed as stopped is not a winning symbol (i.e., a losing symbol), the main CPU 101 sets the normal symbol execution phase data to "10" so that normal symbol variation start processing is executed in the normal symbol related control processing. Then, the normal symbol post-stop processing is terminated.

Next, the movable piece control process in step 1404 will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG.
In step 1800, the main CPU 101 judges whether the normal map execution phase data is data "13" indicating the execution of the movable piece control process. If it is judged that the normal map execution phase data is not "13", the movable piece control process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is judged that the normal map execution phase data is "13", the process proceeds to the next step 1801.
In step 1801, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not the movable piece 16b is under operation control, i.e., whether or not the movable piece solenoid 16c is energized. If it is judged that the movable piece 16b is under operation control, the process proceeds to step 1804. On the other hand, if it is judged that the movable piece 16b is not under operation control, the process proceeds to the next step 1802.

In step 1802, the main CPU 101 checks whether the game state at the start of the variation of the normal symbols was in the non-time-saving game state, the time-saving game state JT1, or the time-saving game state JT2. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 1803.
In step 1803, the main CPU 101 refers to the movable piece operation control table 118 and sets the number of operations (number of energizations) and the operation time (energization time) as the operation control data (energization control data) of the movable piece solenoid 16c according to the game state confirmed in the above-mentioned step 1802. As a result, the movable piece 16b is brought into a protruding state. Then, the movable piece control process is terminated.

In step 1804, which is reached when it is determined in step 1801 that the movable piece 16b is under operation control, the main CPU 101 determines whether or not the operation time (energization time) set in step 1803 has elapsed. If it is determined that the operation time (energization time) has not elapsed, the movable piece control process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the operation time (energization time) has elapsed, the process proceeds to the next step 1805.
In step 1805, the main CPU 101 stops the operation of the movable piece 16b, that is, stops the power supply to the movable piece solenoid 16c. This causes the movable piece 16b to enter the retracted state. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 1806.

In step 1806, the main CPU 101 sets the normal symbol execution phase data to "10" so that the normal symbol variation start process is executed in the normal symbol related control process. Then, the movable piece control process is terminated.

(Gameability of the Pachinko Machine P According to the Present Embodiment)
As described above, in the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, the game progresses by setting either a normal game state (a game state combining a low-probability game state and a non-time-saving game state), a low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 (a game state combining a low-probability game state and a time-saving game state JT1), a low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 (a game state combining a low-probability game state and a time-saving game state JT2), or a high-probability time-saving game state (a game state combining a high-probability game state and a time-saving game state JT2).

As described above, in the initial state after the RAM is cleared (reset), the normal game state is set.
During normal game play, the probability of winning a jackpot is set to approximately 1/300, and even if a game ball is shot toward the second game area 12b, the game ball will not enter the second start winning hole 16 (see Figures 7(a), 14(a), 15, and 16).
As described above, during the normal game state, the player is allowed to play in the first game area 12a, and as long as the game ball is shot toward the first game area 12a, the game ball has a possibility of entering the first start winning hole 15. When the game ball enters the first start winning hole 15 during the normal game state, a jackpot or time-saving bonus can be won in a winning/losing lottery based on the ball entry, and when a jackpot is won, a jackpot pattern X1, X2, or X3 is determined, and when a time-saving bonus is won, a time-saving bonus pattern J1 or J2 is determined (see FIG. 7(a) and FIG. 8(a)).

If a jackpot is won and the jackpot pattern X1 is determined, a predetermined number of game balls will not enter the specific area 57 during the special game based on that determination, so the game state after the special game ends is set to a low-probability time-saving game state LJT2, and the number of time-saving times is set to 100 (see FIG. 10(a)). If a jackpot is won and the jackpot pattern X2 or X3 is determined, a predetermined number of game balls can enter the specific area 57 during the special game based on that determination, and when the predetermined number of game balls enter, the game state after the special game ends is set to a high-probability time-saving game state, and both the high-probability number and the number of time-saving times are set to 10,000 (see FIG. 10(b)).
In addition, if the time-saving symbol J1 is selected during the normal game state, the game state after the variable display of the time-saving symbol J1 ends and the stop display time has elapsed is set to a low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, and the number of time-saving times is set to 10,000 (see FIG. 10(c)). If the time-saving symbol J2 is selected during the normal game state, the game state after the variable display of the time-saving symbol J2 ends and the stop display time has elapsed is set to a low-probability time-saving game state LJT2, and the number of time-saving times is set to 10,000 (see FIG. 10(d)).
In other words, in the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, if a game ball is shot toward the first game area 12a during the normal game state, based on winning a jackpot or winning a time-saving bonus, the machine will transition to a low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 (time-saving count is 10,000 times), a low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 (time-saving count is 100 times), or a high-probability time-saving game state (high-probability count and time-saving count are 10,000 times) (see Figure 40).

Here, during the normal game state (low probability game state), the probability of winning the time-saving award is about 1/20, so it is easy to win the time-saving award, and since the probability of winning this time-saving award is much higher than the probability of winning a jackpot during the normal game state (about 1/300), it is easier to win the time-saving award than to win a jackpot (see FIG. 7(a)). Furthermore, when the time-saving award is won, the probability of the time-saving pattern J1 being determined is 85%, and the probability of the time-saving pattern J2 being determined is 15%, so it is easier to determine the time-saving pattern J1 than the time-saving pattern J2 (see FIGS. 8(a) and (b)).
From the above, in the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, it is difficult to remain in the normal game state, and it is more likely to transition to a low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 (the number of time-saving times is 10,000) by determining the time-saving pattern J1 based on winning the time-saving grant, than to transition to another game state through the execution of a special game based on winning a jackpot or the determination of the time-saving pattern J2 based on winning the time-saving grant.

During the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, the probability of winning a jackpot is the same as during the normal game state, and just as during the normal game state, even if a game ball is shot toward the second game area 12b, the game ball will not enter the second start winning hole 16 (see Figures 7(a), 14(b), 15 and 16).
During the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, the player is allowed to play in the first game area 12a, as in the normal game state, and as long as the game ball is shot toward the first game area 12a, the game ball has a possibility of entering the first start winning hole 15. When the game ball enters the first start winning hole 15 during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, a jackpot or time-saving award can be won in a win/lose lottery based on the ball entry, and when a jackpot is won, a jackpot pattern X1, X2, or X3 is determined, and when a time-saving award is won, a time-saving pattern J1 or J2 is determined (see FIG. 7(a) and FIG. 8(a)).

If a jackpot is won and the jackpot pattern X1 is determined, a predetermined number of game balls will not enter the specific area 57 during the special game based on that determination, so the game state after the special game ends is set to a low-probability time-saving game state LJT2, and the number of time-saving times is set to 100 (see FIG. 10(a)). If a jackpot is won and the jackpot pattern X2 or X3 is determined, a predetermined number of game balls can enter the specific area 57 during the special game based on that determination, and when the predetermined number of game balls enter, the game state after the special game ends is set to a high-probability time-saving game state, and both the high-probability number and the number of time-saving times are set to 10,000 (see FIG. 10(b)).
On the other hand, as described above, if a time-saving bonus is awarded during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 and the time-saving pattern J1 or J2 is determined, a new time-saving game state JT1 or JT2 is not set based on that determination, and the currently set low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 continues, so there is no transition to another game state (see Figures 10 (c) and (d)).
In other words, in the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, if a game ball is shot toward the first game area 12a during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, upon winning a jackpot, the game will transition to a low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 (time-saving count is 100 times) or a high-probability time-saving game state (high probability count and time-saving count are 10,000 times) (see Figure 40).

Here, when the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 is set based on the determination of the time-saving pattern J1 during the normal game state, the number of time-saving times is set to 10,000, and since the probability of winning a jackpot during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 (low-probability game state) is approximately 1/300, as described above, the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 continues until a jackpot is won. Also, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, as described above, it is difficult to stay in the normal game state, and it is easy to transition from the normal game state to the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 based on the winning of the time-saving grant, so there is a high possibility that the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 will stay longer than the normal game state.
In addition, during both the normal game state and the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, the player is allowed to play in the first game area 12a, the probability of winning a jackpot is the same, and the performance of the normal game is also almost the same (even if a game ball is shot into the second game area 12b, it is impossible for the game ball to enter the second start winning port 16), so it is impossible to recognize whether the player is in the normal game state or the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 from the mode of game operation (shotting a game ball into the first game area 12a) and the performance of the normal game.
As mentioned above, in order to change the possibility of the game ball entering the second start winning port 16 for each game state, one or more of the elements that determine the performance of the normal game (probability of winning in the lottery for the normal pattern, the fluctuation time of the normal pattern, and the operation time of the movable piece 16b) can be set to be different.
Here, in order to make it impossible for a game ball to enter the second start winning port 16 both during the normal game state and during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, for example, the operating time of the movable piece 16b may be the same time shorter than the opening arrival time both during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 and during the normal game state, but at least one of the following settings may be made: the fluctuation time of the normal pattern is shorter during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 than in the normal game state, and/or the probability of winning in the lottery for the normal pattern is higher during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 than in the normal game state. Even in this case, if the second start winning port 16 and the movable piece 16b are configured as in the pachinko machine P of this embodiment (see Figure 4), since the operating time of the movable piece 16b is shorter than the opening arrival time, even if other elements (the fluctuation time of the normal pattern, the probability of winning in the normal pattern lottery) are set to be more favorable in the low probability time-saving game state LJT1 than in the normal game state, the game ball cannot be made to enter the second start winning port 16 in either game state, and the performance of the normal game will be the same as that of the pachinko machine of this embodiment.

During the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2, the probability of winning a jackpot is the same as during the normal game state and during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, but when a game ball is shot toward the second game area 12b, the game ball can enter the second start winning hole 16 with a high frequency (see Fig. 7(a), Fig. 14(c), Fig. 15, Fig. 16). In other words, during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2, prize balls based on the game ball entering the second start winning hole 16 can be obtained frequently, and the decrease in game balls as the game progresses can be suppressed more than during the normal game state and during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, making it a more advantageous game state than during the normal game state and during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1.
As described above, during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2, the player is made to play in the second game area 12b, and as long as the game ball is shot toward the second game area 12b, the game ball will frequently enter the second start winning hole 16. When a game ball enters the second start winning hole 16 during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2, a jackpot or time-saving bonus can be won in a win/lose lottery based on the ball entry, and when a jackpot is won, the jackpot symbol X4, X5, or X6 is determined, and when a time-saving bonus is won, the time-saving bonus symbol J1 or J2 is determined (see FIG. 7(a) and FIG. 8(b)).

If a jackpot is won and the jackpot pattern X4 is determined, a predetermined number of game balls will not enter the specific area 57 during the special game based on that determination, so the game state after the special game ends is set to a low-probability time-saving game state LJT2, and the number of time-saving times is set to 100 (see FIG. 10(a)). If a jackpot is won and the jackpot pattern X5 or X6 is determined, a predetermined number of game balls can enter the specific area 57 during the special game based on that determination, and when the predetermined number of game balls enter, the game state after the special game ends is set to a high-probability time-saving game state, and both the high-probability number and the number of time-saving times are set to 10,000 (see FIG. 10(b)).
On the other hand, as described above, if a time-saving bonus is awarded during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 and the time-saving pattern J1 or J2 is determined, a new time-saving game state JT1 or JT2 is not set based on that determination, and the currently set low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 continues, so there is no transition to another game state (see Figures 10 (c) and (d)).
In other words, in the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, if a game ball is shot toward the second game area 12b during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2, upon winning a jackpot, the game will transition to a low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 (time-saving count is 100 times) or a high-probability time-saving game state (high-probability count and time-saving count are 10,000 times) (see Figure 40).

During the high-probability time-saving game state, the probability of winning a jackpot is higher than during the normal game state, the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, and the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2, and similarly to the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2, when a game ball is shot toward the second game area 12b, there is a high frequency that the game ball will enter the second start winning port 16 (see Figures 7(b), 14(c), 15, and 16). In other words, during the high-probability time-saving game state, the probability of winning a jackpot is higher than during the normal game state, the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, and the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2, and prize balls can be obtained more frequently based on the game balls entering the second start winning port 16, and the decrease in game balls as the game progresses can be suppressed more than during the normal game state and the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, making this a more advantageous game state (the most advantageous game state) than during the normal game state, the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, and the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2.
During the high- and low-probability time-saving game state, as described above, the player is made to play in the second game area 12b, and as long as the game ball is shot toward the second game area 12b, the game ball will frequently enter the second start winning hole 16. When a game ball enters the second start winning hole 16 during the high-probability time-saving game state, a jackpot or time-saving award can be won in a win/lose lottery based on the ball entry, and when a jackpot is won, the jackpot pattern X4, X5, or X6 is determined, and when a time-saving award is won, the time-saving pattern J1 or J2 is determined (see FIG. 7(b) and FIG. 8(b)).

If a jackpot is won and the jackpot pattern X4 is determined, a predetermined number of game balls will not enter the specific area 57 during the special game based on that determination, so the game state after the special game ends is set to a low-probability time-saving game state LJT2, and the number of time-saving times is set to 100 (see FIG. 10(a)). If a jackpot is won and the jackpot pattern X5 or X6 is determined, a predetermined number of game balls can enter the specific area 57 during the special game based on that determination, and when the predetermined number of game balls enter, the game state after the special game ends is set to a high-probability time-saving game state, and both the high-probability number and the number of time-saving times are set to 10,000 (see FIG. 10(b)).
On the other hand, as described above, if a time-saving bonus is awarded during a high-probability time-saving game state and the time-saving pattern J1 or J2 is determined, a new time-saving game state JT1 or JT2 is not set based on that determination, and the currently set low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 continues, so there is no transition to another game state (see Figures 10 (c) and (d)).
In other words, in the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, if a game ball is shot toward the second game area 12b during a high-probability time-saving game state, upon winning a jackpot, the game will transition to a low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 (time-saving count is 100 times) or a high-probability time-saving game state (high probability count and time-saving count are 10,000 times) (see Figure 40).

In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, the probability of winning the time-saving award is high (about 1/20) during the normal game state that is set after the RAM is cleared or after the end of the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 with 100 time-saving times, and when the time-saving award is won, the time-saving symbol J1 is more likely to be determined than the time-saving symbol J2. Therefore, there is a high possibility that the machine will transition to the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 before winning a jackpot in the normal game state.
In the normal game state, when the time-saving symbol J2 is determined by winning the time-saving award, the game state transitions to a low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 in which the number of time-saving times is 10,000. In contrast, in the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 to which the game state transitions from the normal game state as described above, even if the time-saving symbol J2 is determined by winning the time-saving award, the game state does not transition to the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 in which the number of time-saving times is 10,000. In other words, after transitioning from the normal game state to the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, unless the normal game state is set again, the game state does not transition to the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 in which the number of time-saving times is 10,000, even if the time-saving award is won.
As described above, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, in the normal game state set after the RAM is cleared or after the end of the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 with 100 time-saving times, if a jackpot is won or the time-saving pattern J2 is determined before the time-saving pattern J1 is determined, the game machine transitions to the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 with 10,000 time-saving times, which is advantageous for the player and in which the player can reliably win a jackpot while suppressing the decrease in game balls that accompanies the progress of the game. On the other hand, in the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, which is easy to transition from the normal game state and is easy to stay in longer than the normal game state, the game machine does not transition to the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 with 10,000 time-saving times. Therefore, a novel gameplay can be imparted in which the normal game state becomes a chance zone in which the player may transition to the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 with 10,000 time-saving times, which is advantageous for the player, and the interest of the player can be enhanced.
In addition, during both the normal game state and the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, the player is made to play in the first game area 12a, so that it is possible to switch from the normal game state to the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, which is a different game state, without making the player change his/her game operation, thereby providing an innovative gameplay.

(Outline of the effects in Pachinko machine P)
As described above, the special game, normal game, and special game progress by executing various processes in the main control board 100. During the progress of these games, the main control board 100 transmits various commands to the sub-control board 300, which receives the commands and controls the presentation as the games progress.
The following describes the change presentation that is executed in conjunction with the changing display of the special pattern and can notify (indicate) the result of the win/lose lottery.

(Overview of the production status)
In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, a plurality of presentation states are provided to be referenced for executing the variable presentation described later, and the sub-CPU 301 is set to one of the presentation states based on the transition to the above-mentioned game states (normal game state, low probability time-saving game state LJT1, low probability time-saving game state LJT2, high probability time-saving game state), the occurrence of a power outage, winning the time-saving award, etc. Also, the execution mode of the variable presentation selectable for each presentation state is determined, and the variable presentation can be executed by one of the execution modes according to the presentation state being set.
Specifically, in the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, the presentation states include a normal presentation state which remains during the normal game state, a low-probability time-saving presentation state A1 and a low-probability time-saving presentation state A2 which remain during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, a low-probability time-saving presentation state B which remains during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 with the time-saving count of 10,000 times, a low-probability time-saving presentation state C which remains during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 with the time-saving count of 100 times, and a high-probability time-saving presentation state which remains during the high-probability time-saving game state.

In the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 41, when the normal gaming state is set (transition to the normal gaming state), the presentation state is set to the normal presentation state (the normal presentation state is started).
In the normal presentation state based on the setting of the normal game state, when the time-saving award is won and the time-saving symbol J1 is determined, and the state transitions to the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, the presentation state is set to the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1, and when the time-saving award is won and the time-saving symbol J2 is determined, and the state transitions to the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 with the time-saving number of 10,000 times, the presentation state is set to the low-probability time-saving presentation state B, and when the state transitions to the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 with the time-saving number of 100 times based on the winning of a jackpot, the presentation state is set to the low-probability time-saving presentation state C, and when the state transitions to the high-probability time-saving game state based on the winning of a jackpot, the presentation state is set to the high-probability time-saving presentation state (see FIG. 41). Although not shown in particular, if a power interruption occurs during the setting of the normal presentation state (normal game state) and a normal power interruption return process is performed, the presentation state remains in the normal presentation state.

During the setting of the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1 based on the transition to the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, if a power interruption occurs and normal power interruption recovery processing is performed (i.e., the conditions for the RAM clear processing are not met and the power interruption is restored without the RAM clear processing being performed), the presentation state is set to the low-probability time-saving presentation state A2 (see FIG. 41). Also, during the setting of the low-probability time-saving presentation state A2, if a time-saving award is won and the time-saving pattern J1 or J2 is determined, the presentation state is set to the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1 (see FIG. 41). Although not shown in particular, if a power interruption occurs during the setting of the low-probability time-saving presentation state A2 and normal power interruption recovery processing is performed, the presentation state remains in the low-probability time-saving presentation state A2.
Furthermore, in the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, regardless of whether the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1 or A2 is set, when a transition is made to the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 with 100 time-saving cycles based on a jackpot win, the presentation state is set to the low-probability time-saving presentation state C, and when a transition is made to a high-probability time-saving game state based on a jackpot win, the presentation state is set to the high-probability time-saving presentation state, and when a transition is made to the normal game state because the special pattern variable display has been performed 10,000 times without a jackpot win, the presentation state is set to the normal presentation state (see Figure 41).

When the low probability time-saving performance state B is set based on a transition to the low probability time-saving game state LJT2 with 10,000 time-saving times, and the game transitions to the low probability time-saving game state LJT2 with 100 time-saving times based on a jackpot win, the performance state is set to the low probability time-saving performance state C, and when the game transitions to the high probability time-saving game state based on a jackpot win, the performance state is set to the high probability time-saving performance state, and when the game transitions to the normal game state due to the special pattern variable display being performed 10,000 times without a jackpot win, the performance state is set to the normal performance state (see FIG. 41). Although not shown in particular, if a power interruption occurs during the setting of the low probability time-saving performance state B (low probability time-saving game state LJT2 with 10,000 time-saving times) and normal power interruption recovery processing is performed, the performance state remains in the low probability time-saving performance state B.

When the low probability time-saving performance state C is set based on a transition to the low probability time-saving game state LJT2 with 100 time-saving times, if the game transitions again to the low probability time-saving game state LJT2 with 100 time-saving times based on a jackpot win, the performance state is reset to the low probability time-saving performance state C, and if the game transitions to a high probability time-saving game state based on a jackpot win, the performance state is set to the high probability time-saving performance state, and if the game transitions to the normal game state by the special pattern variable display being performed 100 times without a jackpot win, the performance state is set to the normal performance state (see FIG. 41). Although not shown in particular, if a power interruption occurs during the setting of the low probability time-saving performance state C (low probability time-saving game state LJT2 with 100 time-saving times) and normal power interruption recovery processing is performed, the performance state remains in the low probability time-saving performance state C.

When the high probability time-saving presentation state is set based on a transition to a high probability time-saving game state, if the game transitions to a low probability time-saving game state LJT2 with 100 time-saving cycles based on a jackpot win, the presentation state is set to the low probability time-saving presentation state C. If the game transitions again to the high probability time-saving game state based on a jackpot win, the presentation state is reset to the high probability time-saving presentation state. If the game transitions to the normal game state because the special pattern variable display is performed 10,000 times without a jackpot win, the presentation state is set to the normal presentation state (see FIG. 41). Although not shown in particular, if a power interruption occurs during the setting of the high probability time-saving presentation state (high probability time-saving game state) and normal power interruption recovery processing is performed, the presentation state will remain in the high probability time-saving presentation state.

(Summary of the variable effects)
In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, as described above, a variable performance is executed in which the result of the winning/losing lottery is notified (suggested) by the display mode of the performance pattern 50 in conjunction with the variable display of the special pattern. In this variable performance, the variable display of the performance pattern 50 (dummy pattern) is performed superimposed on the background image displayed on the display unit 21a of the performance display device 21. Then, the result of the winning/losing lottery can be notified to the player by the combination (stop display mode) of the performance pattern 50 that is stopped and displayed after the variable display.

In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, as shown in Figs. 42 to 46, the performance symbols 50 are symbols displaying the numbers "1" to "9" (hereinafter also referred to as number symbols).
In addition, the performance pattern 50 is not limited to a number pattern, and a special pattern (for example, a pseudo consecutive pattern indicating that a pseudo consecutive performance will be executed, a look-ahead pattern indicating that a look-ahead performance will be executed, etc.) indicating that a predetermined performance (for example, a pseudo consecutive performance in which a temporary stop is executed a predetermined number of times by a predetermined temporary stop display mode, or a look-ahead performance that is executed for a predetermined hold and can be executed before a variable performance based on the hold) will be executed when the performance pattern 50 is stopped may be provided. In addition, the performance pattern 50 may be a pattern consisting of a number display section that displays numbers and a non-number display section that displays other images other than numbers (for example, an image of a character, etc.).

In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, when the variable display of the special symbols starts, the variable display of all the performance symbols 50 starts from the state in which all the performance symbols 50 are displayed stationary (see Fig. 42(a)-(b), Fig. 43(a)-(b), Fig. 44(a)-(b), Fig. 45(a)-(b), Fig. 46(a)-(b)). Note that the downward arrow in the figure indicates that the performance symbols 50 are displayed scrolling from top to bottom.
After that, the performance pattern 50 located on the left side (hereinafter also referred to as the first stop pattern), the performance pattern 50 located on the right side (hereinafter also referred to as the second stop pattern), and the performance pattern 50 located in the center (hereinafter also referred to as the third stop pattern) are displayed in that order (see Figures 42 (c) to (e)).

If the result of the lottery is a jackpot, the first stop pattern, second stop pattern, and third stop pattern will all stop and display the same number pattern (for example, 222, 555, etc.), thereby announcing that the jackpot has been won (see FIG. 43(e)). Note that, hereinafter, this type of stop display pattern will also be referred to as the "win pattern."

On the other hand, if the result of the winning/losing lottery is a winning or losing of the time-saving grant, at least one of the first stop pattern, the second stop pattern, and the third stop pattern is stopped and displayed with a different number pattern, thereby notifying the winning or losing of the time-saving grant (see FIG. 42(e), FIG. 44(e), FIG. 45(f), FIG. 46(f)). In the following, such a stop display mode will also be called a "non-winning mode". In this way, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, the stop display mode of the performance pattern 50 is a non-winning mode in either the winning or losing case of the time-saving grant, so that the player can understand from the stop display mode of the performance pattern 50 that the result of the winning/losing lottery is not a winning of the jackpot, but cannot understand whether the time-saving grant is a winning or a losing case.
When a player wins the time-saving bonus, the display pattern of the effect symbols 50 may be displayed in a special manner different from the winning and non-winning manners described above (for example, a manner in which all effect symbols 50 are displayed in a special manner (such as the letter "J") corresponding to the time-saving bonus win). In this case, the display pattern of the effect symbols 50 allows the player to understand that he or she has won the time-saving bonus.

In addition, the execution modes of the variation effects are roughly classified into normal non-winning variation patterns, reach variation patterns with development, reach variation patterns without development, special reach variation patterns, and special non-winning variation patterns.
The normal non-winning variation pattern is an execution mode in which the first and second stopping patterns are displayed as different numerical patterns, and then the third stopping pattern is displayed as is, and the display mode of the performance pattern 50 becomes a non-winning mode (see Figures 42 (c) to (e)).
The reach variation pattern with development is an execution mode in which a reach display is performed in which the first and second stopping patterns are displayed stopped with the same numerical pattern, and then a reach development effect is executed in which a predetermined development effect image is displayed on the display unit 21a together with the changing display of the third stopping pattern, and then the third stopping pattern is displayed stopped, and the stopped display mode of the effect pattern 50 becomes a non-winning mode or a winning mode (see Figures 43 (c) to (e)).
Although not specifically shown, the no-development reach variation pattern is an execution mode in which, after a reach display is made, the third stop pattern is stopped and displayed without the above-mentioned reach development performance being executed, and the stopped display mode of the performance pattern 50 becomes a non-winning mode or a winning mode.
The special reach variation pattern is an execution mode in which, after the variation display of the performance pattern 50 starts, a special teasing display in which a special development display image is displayed on the display unit 21a is executed together with the variation display of the first stop pattern, the second stop pattern, and the third stop pattern, suggesting whether or not a special reach development display will be executed, a reach display is executed after a suggestion that the special reach development display will be executed, the third stop pattern is displayed as stopped after the above-mentioned special reach development display is executed, and the stopped display mode of the performance pattern 50 becomes a non-winning mode (see Figures 45 (c) to (f) and Figures 46 (c) to (f)).
The special non-winning variation pattern is an execution mode in which, after the varying display of the performance pattern 50 begins, the above-mentioned special teasing performance is executed on the display unit 21a along with the varying display of the first, second and third stopping patterns, but an indication is given that the special reach development performance will not be executed, no reach display is performed, the first, second and third stopping patterns are displayed stopped, and the stopped display mode of the performance pattern 50 becomes a non-winning mode (see Figures 44 (c) to (e)).

In this embodiment of the pachinko machine P, the reach variation pattern with development is set to be more likely to be executed in the event of a jackpot win than the reach variation pattern without development, which heightens the player's sense of anticipation.

In addition, for each execution mode, various settings are made for the way in which the changing display of the performance pattern 50 is made, and various images to be displayed during the changing display (for example, a preview image which is a video or still image different from the performance pattern 50 and which heightens the anticipation of winning the jackpot, or the above-mentioned development performance image).
For example, the development performance images displayed in the reach development performance of the development reach variation pattern include low expectation development performance images which can be displayed in either the case of a miss, a win that grants a time reduction, or a win of a jackpot, but which have a relatively low probability of being displayed if a jackpot is won; high expectation development performance images which can be displayed in either the case of a miss, a win that grants a time reduction, or a win of a jackpot, but which have a relatively high probability of being displayed if a jackpot is won; and confirmed jackpot development performance images which are not displayed in the case of a miss or a win that grants a time reduction, but which are displayed only if a jackpot is won.
As a result, in the reach development presentation, when a high expectation development presentation image is displayed, the expectation of winning a jackpot is higher than when a low expectation development presentation image is displayed, and when a jackpot confirmed development presentation image is displayed, the player can recognize that he or she has won a jackpot, thereby enhancing the player's interest.

In addition, in each of the above-mentioned performances, in addition to displaying an image, a specified sound may be output, and the performance lighting device 23 (lamp) may be made to emit light in a specified lighting pattern or color.

In the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, the execution mode of the variable presentation that can be executed is determined for each presentation state and the result of the win/lose lottery, and the variable presentation is executed in any of the execution modes that can be executed corresponding to the currently set presentation state and the result of the win/lose lottery.
The outline of the variable presentation executed during each presentation state will be described in detail later.

In addition, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, in addition to the above-mentioned display of the effect pattern 50, the mini-pattern MD, which is much smaller than the effect pattern 50 and is harder for the player to see than the effect pattern 50, is displayed in the lower right corner of the display section 21a in response to the display of the special pattern (see FIG. 42(a) and the like). The result of the winning/losing lottery is also notified (suggested) to the player by the combination (stop display mode) of the mini-pattern MD that is stopped and displayed after the display of the variation.

The mini pattern MDs are the same as the performance pattern 50, with the numbers "1" to "9", and the number "0" not used in the performance pattern 50, and as shown in FIG. 42 etc., three mini pattern MDs are displayed side by side. When the variable display of the special pattern starts, all mini pattern MDs are displayed frozen, and then the variable display (scrolling display from top to bottom) of all mini pattern MDs starts, and when the variable display of the special pattern ends (when the special pattern is displayed frozen), the mini pattern MD located on the left, the mini pattern MD located in the center, and the mini pattern MD located on the right are all displayed frozen at the same time.

At this time, regardless of the presentation state, if the result of the winning/losing lottery is a losing or big win, and if the winning is a time-saving award in the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1, the low-probability time-saving presentation state B, the low-probability time-saving presentation state C, or the high-probability time-saving presentation state, the mini pattern MD located on the left side is displayed as a stopped pattern with the same number pattern as the presentation pattern 50 located on the left side (first stop pattern), the mini pattern MD located in the center is displayed as a stopped pattern with the same number pattern as the presentation pattern 50 located in the center (third stop pattern), and the mini pattern MD located on the right side is displayed as a stopped pattern with the same number pattern as the presentation pattern 50 located on the right side (second stop pattern) (see Figures 42(e), 43(e), and 44(e)). That is, the presentation patterns 50 and mini pattern MD at the corresponding positions are both displayed as stopped patterns with the same number patterns.
On the other hand, if a time-saving bonus is awarded in the normal presentation state or the low-probability time-saving presentation state A2, the mini pattern MD located on the left side is displayed stopped with the same number pattern as the presentation pattern 50 located on the left side, and the mini pattern MD located on the right side is displayed stopped with the same number pattern as the presentation pattern 50 located on the right side, but the mini pattern MD located in the center is displayed stopped with the number pattern "0" (i.e., a number pattern different from the presentation pattern 50 located in the center) (see Figures 45 (f) and 46 (f)).

(Overview of background image display)
In the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, the background images displayed on the display unit 21a of the performance display device 21 include a first background image corresponding to the normal game state and a low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 with 10,000 time-saving plays (see Figures 42(a)-(e), 43(a)-(c), 44(a)-(b) and (e), 45(a)-(b), 46(a)-(b) and (g)), a second background image corresponding to a low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 with 100 time-saving plays (see Figure 47(b)), and a third background image corresponding to the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 with 10,000 time-saving plays and a high-probability time-saving game state (see Figure 45(g)). During each game state, the background image is displayed on the display unit 21a.

Specifically, the first background image is displayed during the normal game state that is set after the RAM is cleared, or after the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 with 100 time-saving times is ended due to the execution of 100 times of variable display of special symbols without winning a jackpot, and during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 with 10,000 time-saving times that is set based on the determination of the time-saving symbol J1 during the normal game state. That is, the same background image is displayed during both the normal game state and the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1. This makes it impossible for the player to know from the displayed background image whether the normal game state or the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 is set.
A second background image is displayed during a low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 with 100 time-saving times, which is set after the special game based on the determination of the jackpot pattern X1 or X4 ends (when the predetermined number of game balls do not enter the specific area 57).
The third background image is displayed during both the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 with 10,000 time-saving times set based on the determination of the time-saving symbol J2 during the normal game state, and the high-probability time-saving game state set after the end of the special game based on the determination of the jackpot symbol X2, X3, X5, or X6 (when a predetermined number of game balls enter the specific area 57). That is, the same background image is displayed during both the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 with 10,000 time-saving times and the high-probability time-saving game state. Although these are different game states with different probabilities of winning a jackpot, both continue until a jackpot is won and the performance of the normal game is the same, so that it can be said that they are substantially game states with the same advantage. Therefore, by displaying the same background image, it is possible to give the player the impression that he is playing in the same game state without actively suggesting that they are different game states.
In addition, different background images may be displayed during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 in which the number of time-saving times is 10,000, and during the high-probability time-saving game state.

(Overview of effects that can be performed during each effect state)
Below, we will explain in detail the various effects that can be executed during each effect state.
(1) During normal performance (normal gameplay)
As described above, after the RAM is cleared or after the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 in which the time-saving count is 100 times ends due to 100 variable displays of special symbols being executed without winning a jackpot, the normal game state is set and the presentation state is set to the normal presentation state.
Then, with the setting of the normal presentation state (normal game state), the display unit 21a displays the first background image and also displays a chance zone stay suggestion (for example, a chance zone stay suggestion image in which the text "Super time with a character appearing!?" scrolls horizontally) to suggest that the player may be staying in the normal game state, which is a chance zone (see Figs. 42(a)-(e), 43(a)-(c), 44(a)-(e), 45(a)-(f), and 46(a)-(f)). The display of the first background image and the suggestion of staying in the chance zone are continuously executed during the normal presentation state (normal game state) except for a certain period. Note that, if a power interruption occurs during the normal presentation state (normal game state) and a normal power interruption recovery process is executed, the normal presentation state (normal game state) remains, so that the display of the first background image and the suggestion of staying in the chance zone are executed even after the power interruption is restored.
In addition, although not shown, when the normal game state is set, a left hit suggestion is made (for example, a left hit suggestion image of "←←← left hit" is displayed, a left hit lamp is turned on to suggest the launch, etc.) to suggest the launch of the game ball toward the first game area 12a. This left hit suggestion may be made to continue during the normal presentation state (normal game state), or may be made to continue until a predetermined end point after the normal presentation state (normal game state) is set (for example, a predetermined time (for example, 5 seconds) has elapsed since the first variable presentation started).

Then, a change performance is executed in accordance with the change in the display of the special symbol.
(1-1) If the result of the winning/losing lottery is a loss If the result of the winning/losing lottery is a loss during the normal presentation state (normal game state), a variation presentation can be executed using any one of the following: a normal non-winning variation pattern, a no-development reach variation pattern, a development reach variation pattern, or a special non-winning variation pattern.

Specifically, in the case of a change presentation based on a normal non-winning change pattern, when the change display of the special pattern (losing pattern) starts while the indication of remaining in the chance zone is being given on the display unit 21a as described above, the change display of all the presentation patterns 50 starts in the center of the display unit 21a, and the change display of all the mini patterns MD starts in the lower right corner of the display unit 21a (see Figures 42 (a) to (b)).
As described above, in the variation presentation based on this normal non-winning variation pattern, no reach display is performed (see Figures 42 (c) to (d)).
Then, when the special symbol variation time has elapsed and a losing symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display device 30 or the second special symbol display device 31, all of the performance symbols 50 are stopped and displayed due to the non-winning mode, and the mini symbol MD at the position corresponding to each performance symbol 50 is stopped and displayed with the same number symbol as the performance symbol 50 (see FIG. 42(c)-(e)). After that, the performance symbols 50 and mini symbol MD are stopped and displayed until the stop display time (0.5 seconds) has elapsed.

In the variation performance by the reach variation pattern without development, as in the variation performance by the normal non-winning variation pattern described above, when the variation display of the special symbol (miss symbol) starts while the chance zone stay suggestion is being performed, the variation display of the performance symbol 50 and the mini symbol MD starts (see FIG. 43(a)-(b)). After that, the reach display is performed in the center of the display section 21a (see FIG. 43(c)).
In the variation presentation based on this no-development reach variation pattern, as described above, no reach development presentation is performed after the reach is displayed.
Then, similar to the above-mentioned normal non-winning variation pattern variation performance, when the variation time of the special symbols has passed and the losing symbols are stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display device 30 or the second special symbol display device 31, all the performance symbols 50 are stopped and displayed due to the non-winning mode, and the mini symbol MD at the position corresponding to each performance symbol 50 is stopped and displayed with the same number symbol as the performance symbol 50. After that, the performance symbols 50 and mini symbol MD are stopped and displayed until the stop display time (0.5 seconds) has passed.

In the change presentation based on the reach change pattern with development, similarly to the change presentation based on the reach change pattern without development described above, when the change display of the special pattern (missing pattern) starts while the suggestion of remaining in the chance zone is being made, the change display of the performance pattern 50 and the mini pattern MD starts, and then the reach display is made in the center of the display unit 21a (see Figures 43 (a) to (c)).
After the reach display is performed, a reach development effect is executed. In this reach development effect, various development effect images (such as the above-mentioned low expectation development effect image and high expectation development effect image) are displayed on a part or the entire surface of the display unit 21a (see FIG. 43(d)).
In addition, during the execution of the reach development performance, in order to prevent a decrease in visibility of the development performance image, the changing display of the performance pattern 50 (reach display using the first and second stopping patterns, and the changing display of the third stopping pattern) is performed in the upper right corner rather than in the center of the display unit 21a, and no suggestion of remaining in the chance zone is made (see Figure 43 (d)).
In addition, while the reach development performance is being executed, the display of the change in the performance pattern 50 may not be performed at all, and even when the reach development performance is being executed, a suggestion of staying in the chance zone may be given.
Then, in this reach development performance, a failure indication is given to indicate that the result of the winning/losing lottery is a failure (for example, a failure indication image is displayed to indicate that the result of the predetermined story shown by the development performance image is a failure), and the reach development performance ends. Note that this reach development performance ends just before the special symbol variation time has elapsed (the special symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display device 30 or the second special symbol display device 31).
After that, similar to the variation performance due to the above-mentioned reach variation pattern without development, when the variation time of the special symbols has passed and a losing symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display device 30 or the second special symbol display device 31, all the performance symbols 50 are stopped and displayed in a non-winning state in the center of the display section 21a, and the mini symbol MD in the position corresponding to each performance symbol 50 is stopped and displayed with the same number symbol as the performance symbol 50. After that, the display of these performance symbols 50 and mini symbol MD is stopped and displayed until the stop display time (0.5 seconds) has passed.

In the case of the special non-winning variation pattern, as in the case of the no-development reach variation pattern described above, when the indication of remaining in the chance zone is given and the display of the special pattern (missing pattern) begins to vary, the display of the performance pattern 50 and the mini pattern MD begins to vary (see Figures 44 (a) to (b)).
After that, a special provocation effect is executed to inspire whether or not a special reach development effect will be executed, which will be described later. In this special provocation effect, a special provocation image (for example, an image inciting whether or not a character used in the special reach development effect will appear (an image that builds up anticipation for the appearance of the character)) is displayed on the entire surface of the display unit 21a (see FIG. 44(c)).
In addition, during the execution of the special stimulating performance, in order to prevent a decrease in the visibility of the special stimulating image, the display of the variation of the performance pattern 50 (the variation of the first stop pattern, the second stop pattern, and the third stop pattern) is performed in the upper right corner, not in the center of the display unit 21a (see FIG. 44(c)). On the other hand, the suggestion of staying in the chance zone is continuously performed even during the execution of the special stimulating performance (see FIG. 44(c) to (d)).
In addition, while the special teasing effect is being executed, the display of the changing effect pattern 50 may not be performed at all, and no suggestion of remaining in the chance zone may be given.
Then, in this special provocative performance, as described above, a suggestion is made that the special reach development performance will not be executed (for example, a non-execution suggestion image is displayed to suggest that a character used in the special reach development performance has not appeared) (see Figure 44 (d)), and the special provocative performance ends. Note that this special provocative performance ends immediately before the special pattern variation time has elapsed (the losing pattern is displayed stationary on the first special pattern display device 30 or the second special pattern display device 31).
After that, similar to the above-mentioned variation performance due to the reach variation pattern without development and the reach variation pattern with development, when the variation time of the special symbols has passed and the losing symbols are stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display device 30 or the second special symbol display device 31, all the performance symbols 50 are stopped and displayed in the non-winning mode in the center of the display section 21a, and the mini symbol MD in the position corresponding to each performance symbol 50 is stopped and displayed with the same number symbol as the performance symbol 50. After that, the display of these performance symbols 50 and mini symbol MD is stopped and displayed until the stop display time (0.5 seconds) has passed.

(1-2) When the result of the win/lose lottery is a jackpot win: When the result of the win/lose lottery is a jackpot win during the normal presentation state (normal gaming state), a variation presentation can be executed using either a reach variation pattern without development or a reach variation pattern with development.

When the result of the winning/losing lottery is a winning jackpot, the variation performance by the no-development reach variation pattern is executed in the same manner as the variation performance by the no-development reach variation pattern in the case of a losing jackpot described above. When the variation time of the special pattern has elapsed and the jackpot pattern is stopped and displayed on the first special pattern display device 30 or the second special pattern display device 31, all the performance patterns 50 are stopped and displayed in the center of the display unit 21a according to the winning mode, and the mini pattern MD at the position corresponding to each performance pattern 50 is stopped and displayed with the same number pattern as the performance pattern 50 (see FIG. 43(e)). Also, on the display unit 21a, a winning notification image (for example, an image that says "BONUS!") that notifies the fact that a jackpot has been won is displayed (see FIG. 43(f)). Then, the performance patterns 50 and mini pattern MD are stopped and displayed until the stop display time (0.5 seconds) has elapsed, and the special game starts when the stop display time has elapsed.

When the result of the win/lose lottery is a jackpot, the change presentation due to the reach change pattern with development is executed in a manner similar to the change presentation due to the reach change pattern with development in the case of a miss described above, but in the reach development presentation, unlike the case of a miss, a jackpot suggestion is given that suggests that the result of the win/lose lottery is a jackpot (for example, the display of a jackpot suggestion image that indicates that the outcome of a specified story shown in the development presentation image has been successful).
Then, when the special pattern variation time has elapsed and the big win pattern is stopped and displayed on the first special pattern display device 30 or the second special pattern display device 31, all the performance patterns 50 are stopped and displayed in the center of the display unit 21a according to the winning mode, and the mini pattern MD at the position corresponding to each performance pattern 50 is stopped and displayed with the same number pattern as the performance pattern 50 (see FIG. 43(e)). Also, the above-mentioned winning notification image is displayed on the display unit 21a (see FIG. 43(f)). Then, the performance patterns 50 and the mini pattern MD are stopped and displayed until the stop display time (0.5 seconds) has elapsed, and the special game starts when the stop display time has elapsed.

(1-3) When the result of the lottery for whether or not a player is selected is a win for the time-saving feature and the time-saving pattern J2 has been determined: During the normal presentation state (normal gaming state), when the result of the lottery for whether or not a player is selected is a win for the time-saving feature and the time-saving pattern J2 has been determined, a special reach variation pattern is executed.

In the variation performance by the special reach variation pattern executed when the time-saving pattern J2 is determined, as in the variation performance by the special non-winning variation pattern when the result of the winning/losing lottery described above is a losing one, when the variation display of the special pattern (time-saving pattern J2) starts while the chance zone stay suggestion is being performed, the variation display of the performance pattern 50 and the mini pattern MD starts, and then the special stimulating performance is executed (see FIG. 45(a)-(c)). In addition, the variation display of the performance pattern 50 during the execution of the special stimulating performance and the aspect of the chance zone stay suggestion are also the same as the variation performance by the special non-winning variation pattern when the result of the winning/losing lottery described above is a losing one (see FIG. 45(c)).
Then, in this special provocative performance, as described above, a suggestion is made that a special reach development performance will be executed (for example, an execution suggestion image is displayed suggesting the appearance of a character used in the special reach development performance) (see FIG. 45(d)), and the special provocative performance ends. This special provocative performance ends just before the special pattern variation time has elapsed (the time-saving pattern J2 is displayed stopped on the first special pattern display device 30 or the second special pattern display device 31).
After that, when the time for changing the special symbol has passed and the time-saving symbol J2 is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display device 30 or the second special symbol display device 31, a reach display is performed in the upper right corner of the display unit 21a, and a special reach development performance (for example, display of an image of a showdown between an appeared character and an enemy character) is started on the entire surface of the display unit 21a (see FIG. 45(e)). At this time, the mini symbol MD at the position corresponding to the first stop symbol is stopped and displayed with the same number symbol as the performance symbol 50, the mini symbol MD at the position corresponding to the second stop symbol is stopped and displayed with the same number symbol as the performance symbol 50, and the mini symbol MD at the position corresponding to the third stop symbol is stopped and displayed with the number symbol "0" (see FIG. 45(e)). As a result, although it is difficult to see, the stop display mode of the mini symbol MD suggests that the time-saving grant will be won.
In this special reach development performance, a highly advantageous result is determined (for example, an image of "WIN!" is displayed, indicating that the character has won the battle), which indicates that the result of the winning/losing lottery is a winning for time-saving grant and the time-saving pattern J2 has been determined (i.e., the game will move to a low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 with 10,000 time-saving times), and in the upper right corner of the display unit 21a, the third stop pattern is stopped and displayed as a number pattern different from the first stop pattern and the second stop pattern (for example, a number pattern that is one number different from the first stop pattern and the second stop pattern), so that all the performance patterns 50 are stopped and displayed due to a non-winning mode, and the special reach development performance ends. This special reach development performance ends just before the stop display time (20 seconds) has elapsed. In other words, the special reach development performance is performed from the time when the time-saving pattern J2 is stopped and displayed until the stop display time (20 seconds) has elapsed.
After that, the stop display of the performance symbol 50 and the mini-pattern MD is performed until the stop display time (20 seconds) has elapsed, and when the stop display time has elapsed, a low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 with 10,000 time-saving times is set, and the performance state is set to the low-probability time-saving performance state B. At this time, the chance zone stay suggestion performed on the display unit 21a ends, and a third background image is displayed, a high-advantage state setting suggestion (for example, display of a high-advantage state setting suggestion image such as "Super time start!") suggesting that the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 with 10,000 time-saving times has been set, and a right hit suggestion (for example, display of a right hit suggestion image such as "→→→ right hit", lighting of the right hit lamp suggesting right hit, etc.) are also performed (see FIG. 45(g)).
In addition, this right-hit suggestion may be continuously executed during the above-mentioned low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 (low-probability time-saving presentation state B), or may be continuously executed from the time the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 (low-probability time-saving presentation state B) is set until a predetermined end point (for example, the time when a predetermined time (for example, 5 seconds) has elapsed since the first variable presentation was started).

(1-4) When the result of the win/loss lottery is a win for time-saving grant and the time-saving pattern J1 is determined: When, during the normal presentation state (normal game state), the result of the win/loss lottery is a win for time-saving grant and the time-saving pattern J1 is determined, a change presentation based on the special reach change pattern is executed, just as in the case where the time-saving pattern J2 is determined.

In the variation performance by the special reach variation pattern executed when the time-saving symbol J1 is determined, the aspect of the suggestion of staying in the chance zone, the aspect of the variation display of the performance symbol 50 and the mini symbol MD that starts with the start of the variation display of the special symbol (time-saving symbol J1), and the aspect of the special provocative performance are all the same as the variation performance by the special reach variation pattern executed when the above-mentioned time-saving symbol J2 is determined (see FIG. 46 (a) to (d)). Note that the special provocative performance ends just before the variation time of the special symbol elapses (the time-saving symbol J1 is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display device 30 or the second special symbol display device 31).
After that, similar to the variation performance by the special reach variation pattern executed when the time-saving pattern J2 is determined, when the variation time of the special pattern has elapsed and the time-saving pattern J1 is stopped and displayed on the first special pattern display device 30 or the second special pattern display device 31, a reach display is performed in the upper right corner of the display unit 21a, and a special reach development performance is started on the entire surface of the display unit 21a (see FIG. 46 (e)). Also, at this time, the mini pattern MD at the position corresponding to the first stop pattern is stopped and displayed with the same number pattern as the performance pattern 50, the mini pattern MD at the position corresponding to the second stop pattern is stopped and displayed with the same number pattern as the performance pattern 50, and the mini pattern MD at the position corresponding to the third stop pattern is stopped and displayed with the number pattern "0" (see FIG. 46 (e)). As a result, although it is difficult to see, the stop display mode of the mini pattern MD suggests that the time-saving grant has been won.
In this special reach development performance, a low-advantage result determination suggestion (for example, display of an image of "LOSE..." indicating that the character that appeared has lost the battle) is performed, which indicates that the result of the winning/losing lottery is a winning for time-saving grant and the time-saving pattern J1 has been determined (i.e., transition to a low-probability time-saving game state LJT1), and at the upper right corner of the display unit 21a, the third stop pattern is stopped and displayed as a number pattern different from the first stop pattern and the second stop pattern (for example, a number pattern that is one number different from the first stop pattern and the second stop pattern), so that all the performance patterns 50 are stopped and displayed due to a non-winning mode, and the special reach development performance ends. This special reach development performance ends just before the stop display time (20 seconds) has elapsed. In other words, the special reach development performance is performed from the time when the time-saving pattern J1 is stopped and displayed until the stop display time (20 seconds) has elapsed.
After that, the display symbols 50 and mini symbols MD are displayed until the stop display time (20 seconds) has elapsed, and when the stop display time has elapsed, the low probability time-saving game state LJT1 is set, and the display state is set to the low probability time-saving display state A1 (see FIG. 41). At this time, the suggestion of staying in the chance zone that was being performed on the display unit 21a ends, but the first background image that was displayed during the normal display state (normal game state) continues to be displayed (see FIG. 46(g)).

(2) During low probability time-saving performance state A1 (during low probability time-saving game state LJT1)
As described above, when the time-saving symbol J1 is determined by winning the time-saving award during the normal game state, the game state transitions to the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, and the presentation state is set to the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1. Also, when the time-saving award is won during the low-probability time-saving presentation state A2 (the presentation state that is set when the game returns from a power outage without performing the RAM clear process during the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1) and the time-saving symbol J1 or J2 is determined, the presentation state is set to the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1.
Then, when the normal game state is shifted to the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 and the presentation state is set to the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1, as described above, the suggestion of staying in the chance zone that was performed during the normal presentation state (normal game state) ends, while the display of the first background image continues (see FIG. 46(g)). Also, as described later, in the low-probability time-saving presentation state A2, the display of the first background image and the suggestion of staying in the chance zone are performed in the same way as during the normal presentation state, but when the presentation state is set to the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1, the suggestion of staying in the chance zone ends, while the display of the first background image continues.
In other words, during the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1, the same first background image as during the normal presentation state and the low-probability time-saving presentation state A2 is displayed, but no suggestion of staying in the chance zone is made.
In addition, when the presentation state is set to the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1, unlike when the presentation state is set to the normal presentation state (normal game play state), the above-mentioned left-hit suggestion is not made (see Figure 46 (g)).

Then, a change performance is executed in accordance with the change in the display of the special symbol.
(2-1) If the result of the win/loss lottery is a loss If the result of the win/loss lottery is a loss during the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1, unlike when the result of the win/loss lottery is a loss during the normal presentation state, a variation presentation based on a special non-winning variation pattern is not executed, and a variation presentation based on either a normal non-winning variation pattern, a no-development reach variation pattern or a development reach variation pattern can be executed.
And, except for the point that there is no indication of staying in the chance zone, the variation presentation by the normal non-winning variation pattern is executed in the same manner as the variation presentation by the normal non-winning variation pattern when the result of the win/lose lottery in the normal presentation state is a lose, the variation presentation by the no-development variation pattern is executed in the same manner as the variation presentation by the no-development variation pattern when the result of the win/lose lottery in the normal presentation state is a lose, and the variation presentation by the development variation pattern is executed in the same manner as the variation presentation by the development variation pattern when the result of the win/lose lottery in the normal presentation state is a lose.

(2-2) When the result of the win/lose lottery is a jackpot If the result of the win/lose lottery is a jackpot during the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1, a variation presentation can be executed using either a no-development reach variation pattern or a development reach variation pattern, in the same way as when the result of the win/lose lottery is a jackpot during the normal presentation state.
Except for the fact that no suggestion of staying in the chance zone is made, the variation presentation based on the no-development variation pattern is executed in the same manner as the variation presentation based on the no-development variation pattern when the result of the win/lose lottery in the normal presentation state is a jackpot win, and the variation presentation based on the development variation pattern is executed in the same manner as the variation presentation based on the development variation pattern when the result of the win/lose lottery in the normal presentation state is a jackpot win.

(2-3) When the result of the win/loss lottery is a win for time-saving grant and the time-saving pattern J1 or J2 is determined During the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1, when the result of the win/loss lottery is a win for time-saving grant and the time-saving pattern J1 or J2 is determined, a presentation based on a normal non-winning variation pattern is executed instead of a presentation based on a special reach variation pattern, unlike when the result of the win/loss lottery is a win for time-saving grant and the time-saving pattern J1 or J2 is determined in the normal presentation state.
As described above, during the low probability time-saving presentation state A1, unlike during the normal presentation state, no suggestion of staying in the chance zone is made, and the variation presentation based on the normal non-winning variation pattern is executed while the chance zone staying suggestion image is not displayed on the display unit 21a.
In the variation performance by this normal non-winning variation pattern, as in the normal performance state, when the variation display of the special symbol (time-saving symbol J1 or J2) starts, the variation display of all the performance symbols 50 starts in the center of the display section 21a, and the variation display of all the mini symbols MD starts in the lower right corner of the display section 21a. In the variation performance by this normal non-winning variation pattern, the reach display is not performed.
Then, when the time-saving pattern J1 or J2 is stopped and displayed on the first special pattern display device 30 or the second special pattern display device 31 after the variation time of the special pattern has elapsed, all the performance patterns 50 are stopped and displayed due to the non-winning mode, and the mini pattern MD at the position corresponding to each performance pattern 50 is stopped and displayed with the same number pattern as the performance pattern 50. After that, the performance patterns 50 and mini pattern MD are stopped and displayed until the stop display time (0.5 seconds) has elapsed.
In addition, since the game state being set is the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, even if the time-saving symbol J1 or J2 is determined, the game state is not changed even if the above-mentioned stop display time has elapsed, and the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 being set continues. Also, the presentation state continues as the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1 (see FIG. 41).

In the low-probability time-saving performance state A1, even if the time-saving award is won, the set game state remains the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1. Therefore, if a change performance based on a special reach change pattern is executed and the determination of the time-saving pattern J1 or the time-saving pattern J2 is suggested, as in the case where the time-saving award is won during the normal performance state, the player may get the impression that the game state has changed.
Therefore, in the low probability time-saving performance state A1, if the result of the win/lose lottery is a win for time-saving grant, a variation performance is performed using a normal non-winning variation pattern that can be executed if the result of the win/lose lottery is a loss, and the display of the performance pattern 50 in a non-winning state and the display of the mini pattern MD with the same number pattern as the performance pattern 50 are stopped.
As a result, in the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1, even if a player wins the time-saving award, the player cannot know that he or she has won from the execution mode of the variable presentation, the stopped display mode of the presentation pattern 50, and the stopped display mode of the mini pattern MD, giving the player the impression that the result of the win/lose lottery was a loss, and ultimately preventing the player from getting the impression that the game state has been changed.

(3) During low probability time-saving performance state A2 (during low probability time-saving game state LJT1)
As described above, when a power outage occurs during the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1 and the power is restored without the RAM clear process being performed (when the normal power outage recovery process is executed), the presentation state is set to the low-probability time-saving presentation state A2 while the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 remains unchanged.
Then, when the presentation state is set to the low-probability time-saving presentation state A2, the display unit 21a displays the first background image and suggests staying in the chance zone, as in the normal presentation state (see Figs. 42(a)-(e), 43(a)-(c), 44(a)-(e), 45(a)-(f), and 46(a)-(f)). The display of the first background image and the suggestion of staying in the chance zone are continuously executed in the low-probability time-saving presentation state A2, except for a certain period. In addition, if a power interruption occurs during the low-probability time-saving presentation state A2 (during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1) and normal power interruption return processing is executed, the state remains in the low-probability time-saving presentation state A2 (low-probability time-saving game state LJT1), so that the display of the first background image and the suggestion of staying in the chance zone are executed even after the power interruption return.
In addition, when the power is restored after a power outage and the game state is set to the low probability time-saving presentation state A2, the left hit suggestion may or may not be executed.

Then, a change performance is executed in accordance with the change in the display of the special symbol.
(3-1) If the result of the win/loss lottery is a loss If the result of the win/loss lottery is a loss during the low-probability time-saving presentation state A2, a variation presentation can be executed using any of the following variations: a normal non-winning variation pattern, a no-development reach variation pattern, a development reach variation pattern, or a special non-winning variation pattern, just as in the case where the result of the win/loss lottery is a loss during the normal presentation state.
The variation performance according to these execution modes is executed while the chance zone stay suggestion is performed, as in the normal performance state. The variation performance according to the normal non-winning variation pattern is executed in the same manner as the variation performance according to the normal non-winning variation pattern when the result of the winning/losing lottery is a loss in the normal performance state, the variation performance according to the non-development variation pattern is executed in the same manner as the variation performance according to the non-development variation pattern when the result of the winning/losing lottery is a loss in the normal performance state, the variation performance according to the development variation pattern is executed in the same manner as the variation performance according to the development variation pattern when the result of the winning/losing lottery is a loss in the normal performance state, and the variation performance according to the special non-winning variation pattern is executed in the same manner as the variation performance according to the special non-winning variation pattern when the result of the winning/losing lottery is a loss in the normal performance state (see FIG. 42, FIG. 44, etc.).

(3-2) If the result of the win/lose lottery is a jackpot If the result of the win/lose lottery is a jackpot during the low-probability time-saving presentation state A2, a variation presentation can be executed using either a no-development reach variation pattern or a development reach variation pattern, just as in the case where the result of the win/lose lottery is a jackpot during the normal presentation state.
The variation performance according to these execution modes is executed while the chance zone stay suggestion is performed, as in the normal performance state. The variation performance according to the non-development variation pattern is executed in the same manner as the variation performance according to the non-development variation pattern when the result of the winning/losing lottery in the normal performance state is a big win, and the variation performance according to the development variation pattern is executed in the same manner as the variation performance according to the development variation pattern when the result of the winning/losing lottery in the normal performance state is a big win (see FIG. 43, etc.).

(3-3) When the result of the win/loss lottery is a win for time-saving grant and the time-saving pattern J1 or J2 is determined During the low-probability time-saving presentation state A2, in either case, the suggestion of remaining in the chance zone remains, and a variation presentation based on a special non-winning variation pattern is executed.
The special non-winning variation pattern based on the determination of the time-saving pattern J1 or J2 is executed in a manner substantially similar to the special non-winning variation pattern in the case of a miss in the normal performance state.
Specifically, when the varying display of the special pattern (time-saving pattern J1 or J2) begins, the varying display of the performance pattern 50 and the mini pattern MD begins, and then the special promotional performance is executed (see Figures 44 (a) to (d)).
In this special provocation performance, a suggestion is made that the special reach development performance will not be executed (see FIG. 44(d)), and the special provocation performance ends. Note that this special provocation performance ends just before the special symbol variation time elapses (when the losing symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display device 30 or the second special symbol display device 31).
After that, when the time-saving pattern J1 or J2 is stopped and displayed on the first special pattern display device 30 or the second special pattern display device 31 after the special pattern change time has elapsed, all the performance patterns 50 are stopped and displayed in a non-winning state in the center of the display section 21a, and the mini pattern MD in the position corresponding to each performance pattern 50 is stopped and displayed with the same number pattern as the performance pattern 50. After that, the performance patterns 50 and mini pattern MD are stopped and displayed until the stop display time (0.5 seconds) has elapsed.
Here, since the game state being set is the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, although the time-saving symbol J1 or J2 has been determined, the game state is not changed even after the above-mentioned stop display time has elapsed, and the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 being set continues. In contrast, the presentation state is set to the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1 (see FIG. 41). At this time, although the suggestion of staying in the chance zone that was being performed on the display unit 21a ends, the first background image that was displayed during the low-probability time-saving presentation state A2 (during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1) continues to be displayed (see FIG. 46(g)).

(4) During low probability time-saving performance state B (during low probability time-saving game state LJT2 with 10,000 time-saving times)
As described above, when a time-saving award is won during the normal game state and the time-saving pattern J2 is determined, the game state transitions to a low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 with 10,000 time-saving turns, and the presentation state is set to a low-probability time-saving presentation state B.
Then, when the game state transitions from the normal game state to a low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 with 10,000 time-saving repetitions and the presentation state is set to the low-probability time-saving presentation state B, as described above, the suggestion of staying in the chance zone that was given during the normal presentation state (normal game state) ends and the third background image is displayed (see Figure 45 (g)).

Then, a change performance is executed in accordance with the change in the display of the special symbol.
(4-1) If the result of the winning/losing lottery is a loss If the result of the winning/losing lottery is a loss during low-probability time-saving presentation state B (during low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 with 10,000 time-saving repetitions), although not specifically shown, it is possible to execute a variation presentation using either a normal non-winning variation pattern, a no-development reach variation pattern, or a development reach variation pattern, just as in the case where the result of the winning/losing lottery is a loss in low-probability time-saving presentation state A1.
The fluctuation presentation based on the normal non-winning fluctuation pattern is executed in the same manner as the fluctuation presentation based on the normal non-winning fluctuation pattern when the result of the winning/losing lottery in the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1 is a losing one, the fluctuation presentation based on the no-development fluctuation pattern is executed in the same manner as the fluctuation presentation based on the no-development fluctuation pattern when the result of the winning/losing lottery in the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1 is a losing one, and the fluctuation presentation based on the development fluctuation pattern is executed in the same manner as the fluctuation presentation based on the development fluctuation pattern when the result of the winning/losing lottery in the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1 is a losing one.

(4-2) If the result of the win/lose lottery is a jackpot If the result of the win/lose lottery is a jackpot during low-probability time-saving presentation state B (low-probability time-saving play state LJT2 with 10,000 time-saving repetitions), then, although not specifically shown, it is possible to execute a variation presentation using either a no-development reach variation pattern or a development reach variation pattern, just as in the case where the result of the win/lose lottery is a jackpot in low-probability time-saving presentation state A1.
The variation presentation based on the no-development variation pattern is executed in the same manner as the variation presentation based on the no-development variation pattern when the result of the win/lose lottery in the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1 is a jackpot win, and the variation presentation based on the development variation pattern is executed in the same manner as the variation presentation based on the development variation pattern when the result of the win/lose lottery in the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1 is a jackpot win.

(4-3) When the result of the win/loss lottery is a win for time-saving grant and the time-saving pattern J1 or J2 is determined During the low-probability time-saving presentation state B (during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 with 10,000 time-saving repetitions), if the result of the win/loss lottery is a win for time-saving grant and the time-saving pattern J1 or J2 is determined, although not specifically shown, it is possible to execute a variation presentation with either a normal non-winning variation pattern, a no-development reach variation pattern, or a development reach variation pattern, just as in the case when the result of the win/loss lottery in this low-probability time-saving presentation state B is a loss.
The fluctuation presentation based on the normal non-winning fluctuation pattern is executed in the same manner as the fluctuation presentation based on the normal non-winning fluctuation pattern when the result of the winning/losing lottery in the low-probability time-saving presentation state B is a losing result, the fluctuation presentation based on the no-development fluctuation pattern is executed in the same manner as the fluctuation presentation based on the no-development fluctuation pattern when the result of the winning/losing lottery in the low-probability time-saving presentation state B is a losing result, and the fluctuation presentation based on the development fluctuation pattern is executed in the same manner as the fluctuation presentation based on the development fluctuation pattern when the result of the winning/losing lottery in the low-probability time-saving presentation state B is a losing result.
In addition, since the currently set game state is the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2, even if the time-saving pattern J1 or J2 is determined, the game state does not change, and the currently set low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 continues.

In this way, in the low probability time-saving performance state B, if the result of the win/lose lottery is a win for time-saving grant, a performance change is performed using either a normal non-winning variation pattern, a no-development reach variation pattern, or a development reach variation pattern, which can be executed if the result of the win/lose lottery is a loss, and the performance pattern 50 is displayed stopped in a non-winning state, and a mini pattern MD with the same number pattern as the performance pattern 50 is displayed stopped.
As a result, in the low-probability time-saving presentation state B, even if a player wins the time-saving award, the player cannot know that he or she has won from the execution mode of the variable presentation, the stopped display mode of the presentation pattern 50, and the stopped display mode of the mini pattern MD, giving the player the impression that the result of the win/lose lottery was a loss, and ultimately making it possible to prevent the player from getting the impression that the game state will be changed by winning the time-saving award.

(5) In low probability time-saving performance state C (in low probability time-saving game state LJT2 with 100 time-saving times)
As described above, when a jackpot is won and the jackpot pattern X1 or X4 is determined, and a predetermined number of game balls do not enter the specific area 57 during the special game based on the determination, the game transitions to a low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 with 100 time-saving cycles, and the presentation state is set to a low-probability time-saving presentation state C.
Then, when the above-mentioned special game ends, the special game performance (for example, the display of a special game image to liven up the special game (see FIG. 47(a))) that was performed during the special game ends. Then, when the game transitions to a low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 with 100 time-saving times and the performance state is set to the low-probability time-saving performance state C, the second background image is displayed, a low-advantage state setting suggestion (for example, the display of a low-advantage state setting suggestion image such as "revenge time start!") that suggests that the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 with 100 time-saving times has been set, and a right-hit suggestion is performed (see FIG. 47(b)). Furthermore, in the lower left corner of the display unit 21a, a number suggestion is also performed that suggests the number of times the special pattern will change until the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 with 100 time-saving times ends (see FIG. 47(b)).

Then, a change performance is executed in accordance with the change in the display of the special symbol.
(5-1) If the result of the winning/losing lottery is a loss If the result of the winning/losing lottery is a loss during low-probability time-saving presentation state C (low-probability time-saving play state LJT2 with 100 time-saving cycles), then, although not specifically shown, a variation presentation can be executed using either the normal non-winning variation pattern, the no-development reach variation pattern, or the development reach variation pattern, just as in the case where the result of the winning/losing lottery is a loss during low-probability time-saving presentation state B (low-probability time-saving play state LJT2 with 10,000 time-saving cycles).
The fluctuation presentation based on the normal non-winning fluctuation pattern is executed in the same manner as the fluctuation presentation based on the normal non-winning fluctuation pattern when the result of the winning/losing lottery in the low-probability time-saving presentation state B is a losing result, the fluctuation presentation based on the no-development fluctuation pattern is executed in the same manner as the fluctuation presentation based on the no-development fluctuation pattern when the result of the winning/losing lottery in the low-probability time-saving presentation state B is a losing result, and the fluctuation presentation based on the development fluctuation pattern is executed in the same manner as the fluctuation presentation based on the development fluctuation pattern when the result of the winning/losing lottery in the low-probability time-saving presentation state B is a losing result.

(5-2) When the result of the win/lose lottery is a jackpot When the result of the win/lose lottery is a jackpot during low-probability time-saving presentation state C (low-probability time-saving play state LJT2 with 100 time-saving cycles), although not specifically shown, it is possible to execute a variation presentation using either a reach variation pattern with no development or a reach variation pattern with development, in the same way as when the result of the win/lose lottery is a jackpot during low-probability time-saving presentation state B (low-probability time-saving play state LJT2 with 10,000 time-saving cycles).
The variation presentation based on the no-development variation pattern is executed in the same manner as the variation presentation based on the no-development variation pattern when the result of the win/lose lottery in the low-probability time-saving presentation state B is a jackpot win, and the variation presentation based on the development variation pattern is executed in the same manner as the variation presentation based on the development variation pattern when the result of the win/lose lottery in the low-probability time-saving presentation state B is a jackpot win.

(5-3) When the result of the win/loss lottery is a win for time-saving grant and the time-saving pattern J1 or J2 is determined During the low-probability time-saving presentation state C (during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 with 10,000 time-saving repetitions), if the result of the win/loss lottery is a win for time-saving grant and the time-saving pattern J1 or J2 is determined, although not specifically shown, it is possible to execute a variation presentation with either a normal non-win variation pattern, a no-development reach variation pattern, or a development reach variation pattern, just as in the case where the result of the win/loss lottery in this low-probability time-saving presentation state C is a loss.
The fluctuation presentation based on the normal non-winning fluctuation pattern is executed in the same manner as the fluctuation presentation based on the normal non-winning fluctuation pattern when the result of the winning/losing lottery in the low-probability time-saving presentation state C is a losing result, the fluctuation presentation based on the no-development fluctuation pattern is executed in the same manner as the fluctuation presentation based on the no-development fluctuation pattern when the result of the winning/losing lottery in the low-probability time-saving presentation state C is a losing result, and the fluctuation presentation based on the development fluctuation pattern is executed in the same manner as the fluctuation presentation based on the development fluctuation pattern when the result of the winning/losing lottery in the low-probability time-saving presentation state C is a losing result.
In addition, since the currently set game state is the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2, even if the time-saving pattern J1 or J2 is determined, the game state does not change, and the currently set low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 continues.

In this way, in the low probability time-saving performance state C, if the result of the win/lose lottery is a win for time-saving grant, a performance change is performed in accordance with either a normal non-winning variation pattern, a no-development reach variation pattern, or a development reach variation pattern, which can be executed in the event that the result of the win/lose lottery is a loss, and the performance pattern 50 is displayed stopped in a non-winning state, and a mini pattern MD with the same number pattern as the performance pattern 50 is displayed stopped.
As a result, in low-probability time-saving presentation state C, just like low-probability time-saving presentation state B, etc., even if a player wins the time-saving award, he or she cannot know that he or she has won the time-saving award from the execution mode of the variable presentation, the stopped display mode of the presentation pattern 50, and the stopped display mode of the mini pattern MD, giving the player the impression that the result of the win/lose lottery was a loss, and ultimately preventing the player from getting the impression that the game state will be changed by winning the time-saving award.

(6) During high probability time-saving performance state (during high probability time-saving game state)
As described above, when a jackpot is won and the jackpot pattern X2, X3, X5 or X6 is determined, and a predetermined number of game balls enter the specific area 57 during the special game based on the determination, a transition is made to a high probability time-saving game state, and the presentation state is set to a high probability time-saving presentation state.
Then, when the special game ends, the special game effect that was being performed during the special game ends. Then, when the game transitions to a high probability time-saving game state and the effect state is set to the high probability time-saving effect state, the third background image is displayed, a high advantageous state setting suggestion, and a right hit suggestion are performed in the same manner as when the low probability time-saving effect state B (low probability time-saving game state LJT2 with 10,000 time-saving times) is set (see FIG. 45(g)).
That is, when the presentation state is set to the high probability time-saving presentation state, the same high-advantage state setting suggestion is made as when the presentation state is set to the low probability time-saving presentation state B, and during the high probability time-saving presentation state, the same background image is displayed as during the low probability time-saving presentation state B. As a result, it is not possible to know from the background image or the suggestion that a transition has been made to the above-mentioned game state (high-advantage state setting suggestion) whether the low probability time-saving game state LJT2 with 10,000 time-saving cycles or the high probability time-saving game state has been set, and the player can be given the impression that they have transitioned to the same game state.
In addition, when the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 with 10,000 time-saving times is set and when the high-probability time-saving game state is set, the background image displayed may be different, and the indication of the transition to these game states may be different. In this way, it is possible to understand whether the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 with 10,000 time-saving times or the high-probability time-saving game state has been set.

Then, a change performance is executed in accordance with the change in the display of the special symbol.
(6-1) If the result of the winning/losing lottery is a loss If the result of the winning/losing lottery is a loss during the high-probability time-saving presentation state (high-probability time-saving game state), although not specifically shown, it is possible to execute a variation presentation using either the normal non-winning variation pattern, the no-development reach variation pattern, or the development reach variation pattern, in the same way as when the result of the winning/losing lottery is a loss during the low-probability time-saving presentation state B (low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 with 10,000 time-saving cycles).
The fluctuation presentation based on the normal non-winning fluctuation pattern is executed in the same manner as the fluctuation presentation based on the normal non-winning fluctuation pattern when the result of the winning/losing lottery in the low-probability time-saving presentation state B is a losing result, the fluctuation presentation based on the no-development fluctuation pattern is executed in the same manner as the fluctuation presentation based on the no-development fluctuation pattern when the result of the winning/losing lottery in the low-probability time-saving presentation state B is a losing result, and the fluctuation presentation based on the development fluctuation pattern is executed in the same manner as the fluctuation presentation based on the development fluctuation pattern when the result of the winning/losing lottery in the low-probability time-saving presentation state B is a losing result.

(6-2) When the result of the win/lose lottery is a jackpot If the result of the win/lose lottery is a jackpot during the high-probability time-saving presentation state (high-probability time-saving play state), although not specifically shown, it is possible to execute a variation presentation using either a no-development reach variation pattern or a development reach variation pattern, in the same way as when the result of the win/lose lottery is a jackpot during the low-probability time-saving presentation state B (low-probability time-saving play state LJT2 with 10,000 time-saving repetitions).
The variation presentation based on the no-development variation pattern is executed in the same manner as the variation presentation based on the no-development variation pattern when the result of the win/lose lottery in the low-probability time-saving presentation state B is a jackpot win, and the variation presentation based on the development variation pattern is executed in the same manner as the variation presentation based on the development variation pattern when the result of the win/lose lottery in the low-probability time-saving presentation state B is a jackpot win.

(5-3) When the result of the win/loss lottery is a win for time-saving grant and the time-saving pattern J1 or J2 is determined During a high-probability time-saving presentation state (high-probability time-saving game state), when the result of the win/loss lottery is a win for time-saving grant and the time-saving pattern J1 or J2 is determined, although not specifically shown, it is possible to execute a variation presentation with either a normal non-winning variation pattern, a no-development reach variation pattern, or a development reach variation pattern, just as in the case when the result of the win/loss lottery is a loss in this high-probability time-saving presentation state.
The fluctuation presentation based on the normal non-winning fluctuation pattern is executed in the same manner as the fluctuation presentation based on the normal non-winning fluctuation pattern when the result of the winning/losing lottery in the high-probability time-saving presentation state is a losing result, the fluctuation presentation based on the no-development fluctuation pattern is executed in the same manner as the fluctuation presentation based on the no-development fluctuation pattern when the result of the winning/losing lottery in the high-probability time-saving presentation state is a losing result, and the fluctuation presentation based on the development fluctuation pattern is executed in the same manner as the fluctuation presentation based on the development fluctuation pattern when the result of the winning/losing lottery in the high-probability time-saving presentation state is a losing result.
In addition, since the currently set game state is a high probability time-saving game state, even if the time-saving pattern J1 or J2 is determined, the game state is not changed, and the currently set high probability time-saving game state continues.

In this way, in the high probability time-saving performance state, if the result of the win/lose lottery is a win for time-saving grant, a performance change is performed in accordance with either a normal non-winning variation pattern, a no-development reach variation pattern, or a development reach variation pattern, which can be executed in the event that the result of the win/lose lottery is a loss, and the performance pattern 50 is displayed stopped in a non-winning state, and a mini pattern MD with the same number pattern as the performance pattern 50 is displayed stopped.
As a result, in the high probability time-saving presentation state, just like in the low probability time-saving presentation state B and the low probability time-saving presentation state C, even if a player wins the time-saving presentation, the player cannot know that he or she has won the time-saving presentation from the execution mode of the variable presentation, the stopped display mode of the presentation pattern 50, and the stopped display mode of the mini pattern MD, giving the player the impression that the result of the win/lose lottery was a loss, and ultimately making it possible to prevent the player from getting the impression that the game state will be changed by winning the time-saving presentation.

(Determination of execution mode of variable performance)
Next, the determination of the execution mode of the above-mentioned variable performance will be explained.
The main ROM 302 of the sub-control board 300 stores a plurality of variable performance determination tables 119 for determining the execution mode of the variable performance.
In the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, as shown in Figures 48 and 49, the variable presentation decision table 119 includes a first variable presentation decision table 119a referenced in the normal presentation state, a second variable presentation decision table 119b referenced in the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1, a third variable presentation decision table 119c referenced in the low-probability time-saving presentation state A2, a fourth variable presentation decision table 119d referenced in the low-probability time-saving presentation state B or the low-probability time-saving presentation state C, and a fifth variable presentation decision table 119e referenced in the high-probability time-saving presentation state.

In each variable performance determination table 119, a variable performance execution mode is determined in association with each variable performance random number acquired within a predetermined numerical range (0 to 249 in this embodiment) and a variable pattern command that can be determined in the main control board 100. When the sub-CPU 301 of the sub-control board 300 receives a variable pattern command from the main control board 100, it acquires a variable performance random number of 1 from the predetermined numerical range (0 to 249). The sub-CPU 301 refers to the variable performance determination table 119 that corresponds to the performance state being set, and determines the execution mode of the variable performance based on the received variable pattern command and the acquired variable performance random number.
In addition, a performance data table is provided in the sub-ROM 302 of the sub-control board 300, and performance data defining the specific execution content of various performances is stored in this performance data table. Then, the sub-CPU 301 acquires performance data corresponding to the execution mode of the determined variable performance, and the variable performance according to the determined execution mode is executed based on the acquired performance data.

As shown in FIG. 48(a), according to the first variation performance determination table 119a, when the received variation pattern command is "00H" (when the result of the win/lose lottery is a miss), either a normal non-winning variation pattern or a special non-winning variation pattern is determined, when the received variation pattern command is "01H" (when the result of the win/lose lottery is a miss), a normal non-winning variation pattern is determined, when the received variation pattern command is "02H" (when the result of the win/lose lottery is a miss), a no-development reach variation pattern is determined, and when the received variation pattern command is "03H" (when the result of the win/lose lottery is a miss), a development reach variation pattern is determined.
In addition, if the received fluctuation pattern command is "0AH" (if the result of the win/lose lottery is a jackpot win), a reach fluctuation pattern without development is determined, and if the received fluctuation pattern command is "0BH" (if the result of the win/lose lottery is a jackpot win), a reach fluctuation pattern with development is determined.
In addition, if the received variation pattern command is "0EH" or "0FH" (if the result of the lottery is a win for the time-saving bonus), a special non-winning variation pattern is determined.

As shown in FIG. 48(b), according to the second variation performance determination table 119b, when the received variation pattern command is "10H" (when the result of the win/lose lottery is a miss), a normal non-winning variation pattern is determined, when the received variation pattern command is "11H" (when the result of the win/lose lottery is a miss), a normal non-winning variation pattern is determined, when the received variation pattern command is "12H" (when the result of the win/lose lottery is a miss), a no-development reach variation pattern is determined, and when the received variation pattern command is "13H" (when the result of the win/lose lottery is a miss), a development reach variation pattern is determined.
In addition, if the received fluctuation pattern command is "1AH" (if the result of the win/lose lottery is a jackpot win), a reach fluctuation pattern without development is determined, and if the received fluctuation pattern command is "1BH" (if the result of the win/lose lottery is a jackpot win), a reach fluctuation pattern with development is determined.
In addition, if the received variation pattern command is "1CH" (if the result of the lottery is a win for the time-saving bonus), a normal non-winning variation pattern is determined.

As shown in FIG. 48(c), according to the third variation performance determination table 119c, when the received variation pattern command is "10H" (when the result of the win/lose lottery is a miss), a normal non-winning variation pattern is determined, when the received variation pattern command is "11H" (when the result of the win/lose lottery is a miss), a normal non-winning variation pattern is determined, when the received variation pattern command is "12H" (when the result of the win/lose lottery is a miss), a no-development reach variation pattern is determined, and when the received variation pattern command is "13H" (when the result of the win/lose lottery is a miss), a development reach variation pattern is determined.
In addition, if the received fluctuation pattern command is "1AH" (if the result of the win/lose lottery is a jackpot win), a reach fluctuation pattern without development is determined, and if the received fluctuation pattern command is "1BH" (if the result of the win/lose lottery is a jackpot win), a reach fluctuation pattern with development is determined.
In addition, when the received variation pattern command is "1CH" (when the result of the lottery is a win for time-saving grant), a special non-winning variation pattern is determined.

As shown in FIG. 49(a), according to the fourth variation performance determination table 119d, when the received variation pattern command is "20H" (when the result of the win/lose lottery is a miss), a normal non-winning variation pattern is determined, when the received variation pattern command is "21H" (when the result of the win/lose lottery is a miss), a normal non-winning variation pattern is determined, when the received variation pattern command is "22H" (when the result of the win/lose lottery is a miss), a no-development reach variation pattern is determined, and when the received variation pattern command is "23H" (when the result of the win/lose lottery is a miss), a development reach variation pattern is determined.
In addition, if the received fluctuation pattern command is "2AH" (if the result of the win/lose lottery is a jackpot win), a reach fluctuation pattern without development is determined, and if the received fluctuation pattern command is "2BH" (if the result of the win/lose lottery is a jackpot win), a reach fluctuation pattern with development is determined.
In addition, if the received fluctuation pattern command is "2CH" (if the result of the win/lose lottery is a win for the time-saving grant), a normal non-winning fluctuation pattern is determined, if the received fluctuation pattern command is "2DH" (if the result of the win/lose lottery is a win for the time-saving grant), a normal non-winning fluctuation pattern is determined, if the received fluctuation pattern command is "2EH" (if the result of the win/lose lottery is a win for the time-saving grant), a no-development reach fluctuation pattern is determined, and if the received fluctuation pattern command is "2FH" (if the result of the win/lose lottery is a win for the time-saving grant), a development reach fluctuation pattern is determined.

As shown in FIG. 49(b), according to the fifth variation performance determination table 119e, when the received variation pattern command is "30H" (when the result of the win/lose lottery is a miss), a normal non-winning variation pattern is determined, when the received variation pattern command is "31H" (when the result of the win/lose lottery is a miss), a normal non-winning variation pattern is determined, when the received variation pattern command is "32H" (when the result of the win/lose lottery is a miss), a no-development reach variation pattern is determined, and when the received variation pattern command is "33H" (when the result of the win/lose lottery is a miss), a development reach variation pattern is determined.
In addition, if the received fluctuation pattern command is "3AH" (if the result of the win/lose lottery is a jackpot win), a reach fluctuation pattern without development is determined, and if the received fluctuation pattern command is "3BH" (if the result of the win/lose lottery is a jackpot win), a reach fluctuation pattern with development is determined.
In addition, if the received fluctuation pattern command is "3CH" (if the result of the win/lose lottery is a win for the time-saving grant), a normal non-winning fluctuation pattern is determined, if the received fluctuation pattern command is "3DH" (if the result of the win/lose lottery is a win for the time-saving grant), a normal non-winning fluctuation pattern is determined, if the received fluctuation pattern command is "3EH" (if the result of the win/lose lottery is a win for the time-saving grant), a no-development reach fluctuation pattern is determined, and if the received fluctuation pattern command is "3FH" (if the result of the win/lose lottery is a win for the time-saving grant), a development reach fluctuation pattern is determined.

In addition, in Figures 48 and 49, the numbers shown in each area where a variation pattern command and a variation performance execution mode correspond to each other indicate the range of variation performance random numbers allocated to that area, i.e., the selection ratio (determination ratio) of that area.
In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, the selection ratios for the execution mode of the variable presentation are set separately for the cases where the result of the winning/losing lottery is a losing one, where a jackpot is won, and where a time-saving bonus is awarded.

In addition, the effects that can be executed on the pachinko machine P of this embodiment are not limited to the variable effects described above, and for example, a pre-reading effect may be provided that gives a suggestion regarding the hold stored in the hold memory area before a variable effect related to the hold is executed.
Specifically, the look-ahead performance may include a hold look-ahead performance in which, when a new hold is stored, the hold is displayed in one of a number of modes including a normal mode and a special mode in which the expectation of winning a jackpot is higher than the normal mode; a hold change look-ahead performance in which, at any time from when the hold is stored to when the variable performance based on the hold ends, the hold display being displayed in a predetermined mode is changed to a mode in which the expectation of winning a jackpot or winning a time-saving bonus is higher; and a look-ahead zone performance in which, when a new hold is stored, during the variable performance based on the hold or across multiple variable performances from a variable performance based on a hold stored earlier than the hold to a variable performance based on the hold, a high expectation suggestive image (for example, a background image, etc.) is displayed suggesting that the expectation of winning a jackpot is high.

Next, the control process in the sub-control board 300 for executing the various processes described above will be described.
First, the main processing of the sub-control board 300 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.
In step 10000, in response to power-on, the main processing program is read from the sub-ROM 302, and initialization and setting processes of flags and the like stored in the sub-RAM 303 are executed.
In step 10001, the sub-CPU 301 executes a process of updating each effect random number (variable effect random number), and thereafter, repeats the process of step 10001 until an interrupt process is performed. Here, each effect random number is updated asynchronously.

Next, the timer interrupt processing of the sub-control board 300 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.
The sub-control board 300 is provided with a reset clock pulse generating circuit (not shown) that generates a clock pulse at a predetermined cycle (4 milliseconds). When this reset clock pulse generating circuit generates a clock pulse, the sub-CPU 301 reads a timer interrupt processing program and starts the timer interrupt processing shown in FIG.

In step 10100, the sub-CPU 301 executes an update process for various timer counters used in the sub-control board 300. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 10101.
In addition, the pachinko machine P in this embodiment employs a countdown timer, and the timer counter is decremented by one each time the timer interrupt process of the sub-control board 300 is executed, and the countdown stops when it reaches 0.
In step 10101, the sub-CPU 301 analyzes the command stored in the receive buffer of the sub-RAM 303, and executes various processes according to the received command. Specifically, when a command is transmitted from the main control board 100, the sub-control board 300 performs a command reception interrupt process, and the command transmitted from the main control board 100 is stored in the receive buffer. The sub-CPU 301 then analyzes the command stored in the receive buffer by the command reception interrupt process. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 10102.

In step 10102, the sub-CPU 301 judges whether the operation of the performance operation device 9 is acceptable or not according to the progress of the variable performance being executed, and judges whether the operation signal is input from the rotation operation detection sensor 9c and the press operation detection sensor 9d. If the operation of the performance operation device 9 is being accepted when the operation signal is input from the rotation operation detection sensor 9c or the press operation detection sensor 9d, the command is stored in the transmission buffer to transmit the fact that the performance operation device 9 has been operated to various control boards such as an image control board (not shown), a sound control board (not shown), and an illumination control board (not shown). Then, proceed to the next step 10103.
In step 10103, the sub-CPU 301 transmits the commands set in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 303 to various control boards such as the image control board, the audio control board, the illumination control board, etc. Then, the timer interrupt process of the sub-control board 300 is terminated.

Next, the game status setting related command receiving process executed when various commands related to the setting of the game status are received from the command analysis process of step 10101 described above will be described with reference to the flowchart of Fig. 52. Specifically, the game status setting related command receiving process is executed when the main control board 100 receives a RAM clear command stored in step 137 of the power interruption evacuation process and transmitted to the sub-control board 300, a game status command stored in step 1115 of the post-stop process and transmitted to the sub-control board 300, or a game status designation command stored in step 1306 of the special game end process and transmitted to the sub-control board 300.
In step 10200, the sub-CPU 301 executes a game status storage process to store the game status indicated by the above-mentioned command received from the main control board 100 as the current game status in a specified memory area of the sub-RAM 303.
Specifically, when a RAM clear command is received, the normal game state is stored as the current game state. Also, when a game state command is received, if the current game state stored in the specified memory area is different from the game state indicated by the game state command, the game state indicated by the game state command is stored as the current game state, and if the current game state stored in the specified memory area is the same as the game state indicated by the game state command, no processing is performed here. Also, when a game state designation command is received, the game state indicated by the game state designation command is stored as the current game state.
Then, proceed to the next step 10201.

In step 10201, when the game state is stored in the above-mentioned step 10200, the sub-CPU 301 executes a presentation state setting process to set the presentation state by storing the presentation state corresponding to the stored game state as the current presentation state in a specified memory area of the sub-RAM 303.
Specifically, when a normal game state is stored as the current game state, a normal presentation state is stored as the current presentation state, and the presentation state is set to the normal presentation state. When a low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 is stored as the current game state, a low-probability time-saving presentation state A1 is stored as the current presentation state, and the presentation state is set to the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1. When a low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 with 10,000 time-saving times is stored as the current game state, a low-probability time-saving presentation state B is stored as the current presentation state, and the presentation state is set to the low-probability time-saving presentation state B. When a low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 with 100 time-saving times is stored as the current game state, a low-probability time-saving presentation state C is stored as the current presentation state, and the presentation state is set to the low-probability time-saving presentation state C. When a high probability time-shortening game state is stored as the current game state, a high probability time-shortening presentation state is stored as the current presentation state, and the presentation state is thereby set to the high probability time-shortening presentation state.
In addition, when the presentation state is set as described above, the sub-CPU 301 performs control to execute various presentations according to the setting of the presentation state. Specifically, when the presentation state is set to the normal game presentation state, the display unit 21a displays a first background image, and controls to execute a left hit suggestion and a chance zone stay suggestion. When the presentation state is set to the low probability time-saving presentation state A1, the display unit 21a displays a third background image, and controls to execute a high-advantage state setting suggestion and a right hit suggestion. When the presentation state is set to the low probability time-saving presentation state C, the display unit 21a displays a second background image, and controls to execute a low-advantage state setting suggestion and a right hit suggestion. When the presentation state is set to the high probability time-saving presentation state, the display unit 21a displays a third background image, and controls to execute a high-advantage state setting suggestion and a right hit suggestion.
Then, the game status setting related command receiving process is terminated.

Next, the power interruption recovery command reception process executed when a power interruption recovery command is received among the command analysis processes in step 10101 described above will be described with reference to the flowchart in Fig. 53. As described above, the power interruption recovery command is stored in the main control board 100 in step 139 of the initialization process, and then transmitted to the sub-control board 300 by the output control process in step 208.
In step 10300, the sub-CPU 301 judges whether the set presentation state (the presentation state stored in the specified memory area) is the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1 or not. If it is judged that it is not the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1, the power interruption recovery command reception process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is judged that it is the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1, the process proceeds to the next step 10301.
In step 10301, the sub-CPU 301 stores the low-probability time-saving presentation state A2 in a predetermined storage area as the current presentation state, thereby setting the presentation state to the low-probability time-saving presentation state A2, and controls the execution of various presentations according to this low-probability time-saving presentation state A2. Specifically, the display unit 21a displays the first background image, and when a left-hit suggestion is made, the left-hit suggestion and the chance zone stay suggestion are executed. Then, the power interruption recovery command reception process is terminated.

Next, the stop display end command reception process executed when a stop display end command is received among the command analysis processes in step 10101 described above will be described with reference to the flowchart in Fig. 54. As described above, the stop display end command is stored in the main control board 100 in step 1102 of the post-stop process, and then transmitted to the sub-control board 300 by the output control process in step 208.
In step 10400, the sub-CPU 301 judges whether the set presentation state (the presentation state stored in the predetermined memory area) is the low-probability time-saving presentation state A2 or not. If it is judged that it is not the low-probability time-saving presentation state A2, it ends the stop display end command reception process. On the other hand, if it is judged that it is the low-probability time-saving presentation state A2, it proceeds to the next step 10401.
In step 10401, the sub-CPU 301 judges whether the special symbol that was stopped before the stop display time elapsed was the time-saving symbol J1 or J2. If it is judged that the special symbol was neither the time-saving symbol J1 nor the time-saving symbol J2, the sub-CPU 301 ends the stop display end command reception process. On the other hand, if it is judged that the special symbol was the time-saving symbol J1 or J2, the process proceeds to the next step 10402.
In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, the symbol determination command stored in step 808 of the special symbol variation start process and transmitted to the sub-control board 300 includes information on the special symbol determined based on the result of the win/lose lottery, and when the symbol determination command is received, the above-mentioned special symbol is stored in a predetermined memory area of the sub-RAM 303. This allows the sub-CPU 301 to determine the special symbol that has been stopped and displayed.

In step 10402, the sub-CPU 301 stores the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1 in a specified memory area as the current presentation state, thereby setting the presentation state to the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1, and controls the execution of various presentations according to this low-probability time-saving presentation state A1. Specifically, control is performed to end the suggestion to stay in the chance zone. Then, the stop display end command reception process is terminated.

Next, the variation pattern command reception process executed when a variation pattern command is received among the command analysis processes in step 10101 described above will be described with reference to the flowchart in Fig. 55. As described above, the variation pattern command is stored in the main control board 100 in step 903 of the variation pattern determination process, and then transmitted to the sub-control board 300 by the output control process in step 208.
In step 10500, the sub-CPU 301 acquires the variable performance random number updated in the above-mentioned step 10001. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 10501.
In step 10501, the sub-CPU 301 selects the variable presentation determination table 119 corresponding to the presentation state that has been set. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 10502.

In step 10502, the sub-CPU 301 refers to the variable performance determination table 119 selected in the above-mentioned step 10501, and determines the execution mode of the variable performance based on the variable performance random number acquired in the above-mentioned step 10500 and the received variable pattern command. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 10503.
In step 10503, the sub-CPU 301 sets a variable performance execution command corresponding to the determined execution mode of the variable performance in the transmission buffer. The variable performance execution command set here is transmitted to various control boards in the above-mentioned step 10103, and these control boards control the execution of the variable performance based on the received variable performance execution command. Then, the variable pattern command reception process is terminated.

As described above, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, in the normal presentation state (normal game state), the first background image is displayed and the chance zone stay suggestion is performed, and when the time-saving award is won and the time-saving pattern J1 is determined during the normal presentation state (normal game state), the state transitions to the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, the presentation state is set to the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1, and the display of the first background image and the chance zone stay suggestion are terminated. Also, when a power interruption occurs during the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1 or the low-probability time-saving presentation state A2 (during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1) and the normal power interruption return process is executed, the presentation state is set to the low-probability time-saving presentation state A2 while remaining in the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, and the first background image is displayed and the chance zone stay suggestion is performed.
That is, when the RAM clear process is executed and the normal game state is set (when the presentation state is set to the normal presentation state), and when the normal power interruption return process is executed during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 and the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 continues (when the presentation state is set to the low-probability time-saving presentation state A2), the same background image is displayed and the chance zone stay suggestion is performed, so that it is not possible to know whether the normal game state or the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 is set from these presentations. This makes it possible to make the player have the expectation that the RAM clear process is executed and the normal game state, which is more advantageous than the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, is set, and thus the operation of the pachinko machine P can be improved.

In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, in the normal performance state (normal game state), the stop display time when a miss occurs and a miss pattern is determined, and the stop display time when a jackpot is won and a jackpot pattern is determined are both 0.5 seconds, but the stop display time when a time-saving grant is won and the time-saving pattern J1 or J2 is determined is 20 seconds, which is longer than the stop display time when a miss occurs and when a jackpot is won. During the stop display time when a miss occurs, the display unit 21a displays the stop display of the performance pattern 50 according to the non-winning mode, and during the stop display time when a jackpot is won, the display unit 21a displays the stop display of the performance pattern 50 according to the winning mode. On the other hand, during the stop display time when a time-saving grant is won, the display unit 21a displays the special reach development performance that suggests the game state (low probability time-saving game state LJT1 or low probability time-saving game state LJT2 with 10,000 time-saving times) that is set after the stop display time has elapsed.
This makes it possible to prevent a situation in which, when the time-saving symbol J1 or J2 is determined during a normal game state, the game state is switched immediately after the variable display of the time-saving symbol J1 or J2 ends, causing a player to feel uncomfortable. In addition, since the stop display time is longer when the time-saving symbol J1 or J2 is determined than when a losing symbol is determined, it is easier to check the time-saving symbol J1 or J2 that is stopped and displayed, making it easier to grasp the change in the game state thereafter. Furthermore, during the stop display time that is longer than the stop display time when a losing symbol is determined, a special reach development effect that suggests the set game state is performed, so that this special reach development effect also makes it easier to grasp the change in the game state thereafter.

(Modifications of the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment)
In the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, although it is possible to transition from the normal game state to a low-probability time-shortened game state LJT2 with 10,000 time-shortened counts, it is not possible to transition from the low-probability time-shortened game state LJT1, which is more likely to be transitioned to from the normal game state and in which the player is more likely to remain in the state longer than the normal game state, to the above-mentioned low-probability time-shortened game state LJT2 with 10,000 time-shortened counts. This makes the normal game state more advantageous than the low-probability time-shortened game state LJT1, but the setting for making the normal game state more advantageous than the low-probability time-shortened game state LJT1 is not limited to this.

For example, in both cases where a jackpot is won during a normal game state and where a jackpot is won during a low-probability time-shortened game state LJT1, it may be set so that a transition to a low-probability time-shortened game state LJT2 is possible after the end of a special game based on the winning, and it may also be set so that the number of time-shortened times in the low-probability time-shortened game state LJT2 to which the game is transitioned after the end of a special game based on a jackpot win during the low-probability time-shortened game state LJT1 is greater than the number of time-shortened times in the low-probability time-shortened game state LJT2 to which the game is transitioned after the end of a special game based on a jackpot win during the low-probability time-shortened game state LJT1.
Even in this case, the normal gaming state is more advantageous than the low-probability time-saving gaming state LJT1.

Also, for example, the average of the variable time that can be determined in the game state set after the end of the special game based on the winning of the jackpot during the normal game state may be set to be shorter than the average of the variable time that can be determined in the game state set after the end of the special game based on the winning of the jackpot during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1. In other words, in the game state that is set when a jackpot is won during the normal game state, the ratio of selecting a short variable time may be set to be higher than in the game state that is set when a jackpot is won during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1.
More specifically, for example, when a jackpot is won during the normal game state and when a jackpot is won during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, it is possible to set the game state to be able to transition to the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 or the high-probability time-saving game state, and the average of the variable time (e.g., 3.5 seconds, etc.) that can be determined when a miss occurs in the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 or the high-probability time-saving game state that is set based on the winning of a jackpot during the normal game state may be set to be shorter than the average of the variable time (e.g., 5.5 seconds, etc.) that can be determined when a miss occurs in the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 or the high-probability time-saving game state that is set based on the winning of a jackpot during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1. The variable time that can be determined when a jackpot is won may also be set to be the same as described above.
In this case, the game state set when a jackpot is won during the normal game state has more win/lose lotteries performed in the same time period than the game state set when a jackpot is won during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, so the chances of winning a jackpot earlier are higher. Therefore, the normal game state is more advantageous than the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1.

Also, for example, the opening time of a special game executed based on winning a jackpot during a normal game state, or a special game executed based on winning a jackpot during a low-probability time-shortened game state LJT2 or a high-probability time-shortened game state transitioned from a normal game state, may be set to be shorter than the opening time of a special game executed based on winning a jackpot during a low-probability time-shortened game state LJT1, or a special game executed based on winning a jackpot during a low-probability time-shortened game state LJT2 or a high-probability time-shortened game state transitioned from the low-probability time-shortened game state LJT1. In addition, the ending time of a special game executed based on winning a jackpot during a normal game state, or a special game executed based on winning a jackpot during a low-probability time-shortened game state LJT2 or a high-probability time-shortened game state transitioned from a normal game state, may be set to be shorter than the ending time of a special game executed based on winning a jackpot during a low-probability time-shortened game state LJT1, or a special game executed based on winning a jackpot during a low-probability time-shortened game state LJT2 or a high-probability time-shortened game state transitioned from the low-probability time-shortened game state LJT1.
In this case, when a jackpot is won during the normal game state, the time from the start to the end of the special game is shorter than when a jackpot is won during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, and the number of win/loss lotteries that can be executed is increased accordingly, so that the possibility of winning a jackpot earlier increases. Therefore, the normal game state is more advantageous than the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1.

In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, the same background image (first background image) is displayed during the normal presentation state and during the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1, but by suggesting staying in the chance zone only during the normal presentation state, it is possible to know whether the normal game state or the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 is set from the presentation mode during both presentation states, but this is not limited to this.

For example, the same background image may be displayed during the normal presentation state and during the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1, but no indication of remaining in the chance zone as described above may be given during either presentation state, so that it is not possible to know from the presentation patterns during both presentation states whether the normal game state or the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 has been set.
Also, for example, the same background image may be displayed during the normal presentation state and during the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1, but the above-mentioned suggestion of staying in the chance zone may not be performed during either presentation state, and a specific presentation (such as displaying an image of a shooting star) whose execution probability is set higher during the normal presentation state than during the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1 may be executed. In this way, whether the normal game state or the low-probability time-saving presentation state LJT1 is set can be inferred from the frequency of execution of the specific presentation, while it cannot be ascertained from the display of the background image or the presence or absence of the suggestion of staying in the chance zone.

In addition, for example, the same background image may be displayed during the normal presentation state and during the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1, but the above-mentioned suggestion of staying in the chance zone may not be performed during either presentation state, and a specific presentation may be executed that is not executed during the normal game state and is executed with a predetermined execution probability only during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1. By doing this, it is possible to know that the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 has been set by executing the specific presentation, while making it impossible to know whether the normal game state or the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 has been set from the display of the background image or the presence or absence of the suggestion of staying in the chance zone.

In the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, when a transition is made to the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, the number of time-saving times (10,000 times) is set so that the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 will continue until a jackpot is won, but the number of time-saving times when this game state is set is not limited to this.
For example, the number of time-saving times (for example, 200 times, 500 times) may be set so that a jackpot is not necessarily won during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1. In other words, the number of time-saving times may be set so that the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 may end and the normal game state may be set by the number of times that the variable display of the special symbol reaches the time-saving times without winning a jackpot.
In this case, when the number of times the special symbol changes display reaches the number of times for time-saving without winning the jackpot, the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 ends, and then the game transitions again to a normal game state which is positioned as a chance zone, thereby increasing the interest of the player.
In addition, in the case described above, a countdown display of the remaining number of time-saving times until the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 ends may be executed, and when the number of time-saving times is reached and the game state transitions to the normal game state, a presentation celebrating the return to the normal game state (for example, the display of a congratulatory image saying "Congratulations!! The Chance Zone is back!!") may be executed.

In the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, one type of time-saving symbol is provided which corresponds to a transition from the normal game state to the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, and one type of time-saving symbol is provided which corresponds to a transition from the normal game state to the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 with 10,000 time-saving cycles, but the types of time-saving symbols are not limited to this.
For example, a plurality of types of time-saving symbols may be provided, each of which corresponds to a transition from a normal game state to a low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, and a plurality of types of time-saving symbols may be provided, each of which corresponds to a transition from a normal game state to a low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 with a time-saving count of 10,000. A different stop display time may be determined according to each time-saving symbol.
In this case, the variation in the stop display time is wide, and the special reach development performance executed during the passage of this stop display time can be performed in various forms.

In the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, the special reach development performance in the special reach variation pattern is started from the time when the special symbol is displayed stopped (the time when the stopped display time starts to elapse), but this is not limited to this, and it may be started from a predetermined time before the special symbol is displayed stopped.
Even in this case, the same effect as that of the pachinko machine P of this embodiment can be achieved, and the special reach development presentation can be made more varied.

In the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 into which a transition occurs from a normal game state based on the determination of the time-saving pattern J2, and the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 set after the end of a special game based on the determination of the jackpot pattern X1 or X4, have different advantageous degrees due to the different number of time-saving times set (the former is 10,000 times, the latter is 100 times), but the same number of time-saving times may be set in both game states (for example, 100 times) to give the same advantageous degree.
In addition, although the performance of the normal game is the same in both game states, the performance of the normal game in one of the game states may be set to be higher than the other.

In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, it is possible to win the time-saving award by a winning/losing lottery, and if the time-saving award is won, a time-saving symbol is determined and the time-saving game state can be set, but it is also possible to make it so that the lottery result of winning the time-saving award is not derived in the winning/losing lottery, and to determine whether or not the time-saving game state is set according to the type of the determined losing symbol by determining one of a plurality of losing symbols. In other words, instead of setting the time-saving award winning and the time-saving symbol to set the time-saving game state, a specific losing symbol that can be determined in the case of a losing prize may be used as the time-saving symbol, and the time-saving game state may be set when the specific losing symbol is determined.
Specifically, for example, losing symbols ZA1, ZA2, ZA3, etc. may be provided as losing symbols that are determined when a winning/losing lottery based on the first special symbol random number results in a losing combination, and when losing symbol ZA1 is determined, a time-saving game state JT1 is set, when losing symbol ZA2 is determined, a time-saving game state JT2 is set, and when losing symbol ZA3 is determined, none of the time-saving game states is set.
In addition, the timing for setting the time-saving game state may be any time from the time a loss occurs (when the losing symbol is determined) to the time when the fluctuation based on the loss ends (for example, the time when the losing lottery result is derived, when the losing symbol starts to fluctuate, when the fluctuation of the losing symbol ends (when the next special symbol starts to fluctuate), etc.).
Even in this case, the same effect as that of the pachinko machine P of this embodiment can be achieved, and since data regarding the time-saving patterns is not required, the load on hardware resources such as the main ROM 102 can be reduced.

In the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, when a jackpot is won by a win/lose lottery, a low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 or a high-probability time-saving game state can be set after the special game based on the winning is completed; however, this is not limited to this, and it may be possible that after the special game based on the winning of the jackpot is completed, the high-probability time-saving game state is not set, and a normal game state or a low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 is set.
In addition, the machine may be set up so that a small prize can be won in addition to a big prize by a winning/losing lottery, and a special game may be executed not only when a big prize is won, but also when a game ball enters a special area provided in a big prize opening in a small prize game based on a small prize win (configured as a so-called type 1/type 2 mixed pachinko machine), and after the special game ends, a normal game state or a low probability time-saving game state LJT2 may be set.
Even in the above case, as with the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, it is possible to transition from the normal game state to a low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 based on winning the time-saving grant, and it is possible to transition from the normal game state to a relatively more advantageous low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 (for example, 10,000 time-saving rounds), but it is not possible to transition from the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 to the relatively more advantageous low-probability time-saving game state LJT2, thereby providing a gameplay in which the normal game state set after the RAM is cleared, etc., is positioned as a chance zone.

(Second Form)
Hereinafter, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In this description, the same components as those in the first embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted or simplified.
The pachinko machine P of this embodiment is a so-called type 1/type 2 mixed pachinko machine, and is configured so that a special game is executed when a big win is won, or when a game ball enters a special area, which will be described later, during a small win game based on a small win.

The configuration of the game board 11 of the pachinko machine P in this embodiment, and the devices and members installed on the game board 11, are the same as those in the first embodiment, except for the attacker device 17.
The attacker device 17 of this form differs from the attacker device 17 of the first form in that, instead of the specific area 57 in the first form, it is provided with a special area which has the same structure and installation position as the specific area 57 but a different function; otherwise, it has the same structure as the attacker device 17 of the first form (including a transfer road 51, an upper passage 52, a lower passage 53, a general area 58, a distribution member 59, etc.).

During a special game based on winning a big prize or during a small prize game based on winning a small prize, the big prize opening 18 opens and game balls can enter the big prize opening 18. However, during a special game, the allocating member 59 stays at the first position, and game balls that enter the big prize opening 18 do not enter the special area, but all enter the general area 58. Similarly, during a small prize game based on the determination of a small prize pattern other than the predetermined small prize patterns (Y5, Y6, Y7, Y8, and Y9 described below), the allocating member 59 stays at the first position, and game balls that enter the big prize opening 18 do not enter the special area, but all enter the general area 58. In contrast, during a small prize game based on the determination of a predetermined small prize pattern, the distribution member 59 is stopped at the second position, and the game ball that enters the large prize opening 18 does not enter the general area 58, but all enters the special area.
That is, game balls can enter the special area only during a small win game based on the determination of a predetermined small win symbol, and thus a predetermined number of game balls (one in this embodiment) enter the special area during the small win game. Then, a special game is executed based on the predetermined number of game balls entering the special area during the small win game.

In addition, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, the game state after the end of the special game executed based on the determination of the jackpot pattern or the small prize pattern is set according to the jackpot pattern determined when the jackpot is won or the small prize pattern determined when the small prize is won.
In the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, the settable game states include a normal game state which combines a low-probability game state and a non-time-saving game state, a low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 which combines a low-probability game state and a time-saving game state JT1, and a low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 which combines a low-probability game state and a time-saving game state JT2, and the game progresses by setting one of the game states.
In this way, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, the low probability game state is always set in any game state. Therefore, in any game state, the probability of winning the jackpot in the win/lose lottery does not change and is always the same.
In addition, the frequency of balls entering the second start winning hole 16 in the non-time-saving game state, the time-saving game state JT1, and the time-saving game state JT2 is the same as in the first form. That is, the probability of winning in the lottery for the normal symbols, the fluctuation time of the normal symbols, and the operation time of the movable piece 16b in the non-time-saving game state, the time-saving game state JT1, and the time-saving game state JT2 are all set in the same way as in the first form (see Figures 14 to 16).
In addition, immediately after shipment from the factory or in the initial state after a reset, the normal game mode is set.

During the normal game state and the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, the player is made to shoot (hit left) the game ball toward the first game area 12a so that the game ball enters the first start winning hole 15, and during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2, the special game, and the small win game, the player is made to shoot (hit right) the game ball toward the second game area 12b so that the game ball enters the big winning hole 18 or passes through the gate 20 and enters the second start winning hole 16. That is, during the normal game state and the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, the player is made to play mainly in the first game area 12a, and during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2, the player is made to play mainly in the second game area 12b.

Here, in this embodiment, the reserved memory area of the main RAM 103 is composed of a total of eight memory sections, from the first memory section to the eighth memory section, and is capable of storing a total of eight sets of first special chart random numbers and second special chart random numbers.
The first special random number and the second special random number are stored from the first storage unit in the order of ball entry into each start winning hole. For example, when no random numbers are stored in any storage unit, if game balls enter the first start winning hole 15 → the first start winning hole 15 → the second start winning hole 16 in that order, the first special random number related to the ball entering the first first winning hole 15 is stored in the first storage unit, the first special random number related to the ball entering the second first winning hole 15 is stored in the second storage unit, and the second special random number related to the ball entering the third second winning hole 16 is stored in the third storage unit. If the above-mentioned random numbers have already been stored in several storage units, the above-mentioned random number is stored in the storage unit with the smallest number among the empty storage units.
However, the number of sets of first special random numbers and the number of sets of second special random numbers that can be stored in the reserved memory area are each limited to four sets. Therefore, when four sets of first special random numbers are already stored in the reserved memory area, even if a game ball enters the first start winning hole 15, the first special random number related to this ball entry is not stored in the reserved memory area. Similarly, when four sets of second special random numbers are already stored in the reserved memory area, even if a game ball enters the second start winning hole 16, the second special random number related to this ball entry is not stored in the reserved memory area.

In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, unlike the first embodiment, when both the first special random number and the second special random number are stored, they are processed in the order in which they were stored in the reserved memory area. For example, if both the first special random number and the second special random number are stored when the display of the special pattern changes is started, and the first special random number is stored in the reserved memory area before the second special random number, a winning/losing lottery based on the first special random number and the display of the special pattern changes are performed first, and when the display of the special pattern changes is completed, a winning/losing lottery based on the second special random number and the display of the special pattern changes are performed next.

As shown in FIG. 56, the pachinko machine P of this embodiment is equipped with a win/lose random number determination table 110, which includes a first low probability determination table 110c that is referenced in the win/lose lottery based on the first special random number (a random number obtained by the entry of a gaming ball into the first start winning port 15) and a second low probability determination table 110d that is referenced in the win/lose lottery based on the second special random number (a random number obtained by the entry of a gaming ball into the second start winning port 16).

As shown in FIG. 56(a), according to the first low probability judgment table 110c, if the win/loss random number is between 1000 and 1328, it is determined that a jackpot has been won, if the win/loss random number is between 2000 and 6368, it is determined that a small jackpot has been won, if the win/loss random number is between 12000 and 14183, it is determined that a time-saving bonus has been won, and if the win/loss random number is any other number (0-999, 1329-1999, 6369-11999, 14184-65535), it is determined that a loss has been won. Therefore, in this first low probability judgment table 110c, the probability of winning a jackpot is approximately 1/199, the probability of winning a small jackpot is approximately 1/15, and the probability of winning a time-saving bonus is approximately 1/30.

As shown in FIG. 56(b), according to the second low probability judgment table 110d, if the win/loss random number is between 1000 and 1328, it is determined that a jackpot has been won, if the win/loss random number is between 2000 and 11361, it is determined that a small jackpot has been won, if the win/loss random number is between 12000 and 14183, it is determined that a time-saving bonus has been won, and if the win/loss random number is any other number (0-999, 1329-1999, 11362-11999, 14184-65535), it is determined that a loss has been won. Therefore, in this second low probability judgment table 110d, the probability of winning a jackpot is approximately 1/199, the probability of winning a small jackpot is approximately 1/7, and the probability of winning a time-saving bonus is approximately 1/30.

In this form of lottery, first, a judgment is made as to whether or not the winner has won the big prize, and if the judgment result is that the winner has not won the big prize, then a judgment is made as to whether or not the winner has won the small prize, and if the judgment result is that the winner has not won the small prize (hereinafter also referred to as not winning the small prize), then a judgment is made as to whether or not the winner has won the time-saving bonus, and if the judgment result is that the winner has not won the time-saving bonus, then the winner has lost.

In addition, as shown in Figure 57, the pachinko machine P of this embodiment is equipped with a first start winning port judgment table 111c, which is referenced when a win/loss lottery is conducted based on a first special pattern random number, and a second start winning port judgment table 111d, which is referenced when a win/loss lottery is conducted based on a second special pattern random number, as special pattern random number judgment tables 111.
In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, 12 kinds of big win symbols (X1, X2, X3, X4, X5, X6, X7, X8, X9, X10, X11, X12), 9 kinds of small win symbols (Y1, Y2, Y3, Y4, Y5, Y6, Y7, Y8, Y9) as special symbols determined when a small win is won (hereinafter also referred to as small win symbols), and 3 kinds of time-saving symbols (J1, J2, J3) are provided. Also, as in the first embodiment, 2 kinds of losing symbols (Z1, Z2) are provided.

57(a), according to the first start winning gate judgment table 111c, in the case where a jackpot is won by the above-mentioned winning/losing lottery, when the special pattern random number is 0 to 31, the jackpot pattern X1 is determined, when the special pattern random number is 32 to 63, the jackpot pattern X2 is determined, when the special pattern random number is 64 to 98, the jackpot pattern X3 is determined, when the special pattern random number is 99 to 130, the jackpot pattern X4 is determined, when the special pattern random number is 131 to 163, the jackpot pattern X5 is determined, and when the special pattern random number is 164 to 199, the jackpot pattern X6 is determined. In this first start winning gate judgment table 111c, when a jackpot is won, the probability that the jackpot pattern X1, X2, or X3 is determined is 49%, and the probability that the jackpot pattern X4, X5, or X6 is determined is 51%.
In addition, in the case where a small prize is won by the above-mentioned winning/losing lottery, the small prize pattern Y1 is determined when the special pattern random number is 0 to 49, the small prize pattern Y2 is determined when the special pattern random number is 50 to 99, the small prize pattern Y3 is determined when the special pattern random number is 100 to 149, and the small prize pattern Y4 is determined when the special pattern random number is 150 to 199. In this first start winning port judgment table 111c, in the case where a small prize is won, the probability that the small prize pattern Y1 or Y2 is determined is 50%, and the probability that the small prize pattern Y3 or Y4 is determined is 50%.
In addition, in the case where the time-saving bonus is awarded by the above-mentioned winning/losing lottery, the time-saving bonus J1 is determined when the special bonus random number is between 0 and 179, and the time-saving bonus J2 is determined when the special bonus random number is between 180 and 199. In this first start winning port determination table 111c, in the case where the time-saving bonus is awarded, the probability that the time-saving bonus J1 is determined is 90%, and the probability that the time-saving bonus J2 is determined is 10%.
Furthermore, if the above-mentioned winning/losing lottery results in a losing result, a losing symbol Z1 is determined.

As shown in Fig. 57(b), according to the second start winning gate judgment table 111d, in the case where a jackpot is won by the above-mentioned winning/losing lottery, when the special pattern random number is 0 to 31, the jackpot pattern X7 is determined, when the special pattern random number is 32 to 63, the jackpot pattern X8 is determined, when the special pattern random number is 64 to 98, the jackpot pattern X9 is determined, when the special pattern random number is 99 to 130, the jackpot pattern X10 is determined, when the special pattern random number is 131 to 163, the jackpot pattern X11 is determined, and when the special pattern random number is 164 to 199, the jackpot pattern X12 is determined. In this second start winning gate judgment table 111d, when a jackpot is won, the probability that the jackpot pattern X7, X8, or X9 is determined is 49%, and the probability that the jackpot pattern X10, X11, or X12 is determined is 51%.
In addition, in the case where a small prize is won by the above-mentioned winning/losing lottery, the small prize pattern Y5 is determined when the special pattern random number is 0 to 49, the small prize pattern Y6 is determined when the special pattern random number is 50 to 99, the small prize pattern Y7 is determined when the special pattern random number is 100 to 149, the small prize pattern Y8 is determined when the special pattern random number is 150 to 179, and the small prize pattern Y9 is determined when the special pattern random number is 180 to 199. In this second start winning port judgment table 111d, in the case where a small prize is won, the probability that the small prize pattern Y5 or Y6 is determined is 50%, and the probability that the small prize pattern Y7, Y8, or Y9 is determined is 50%.
In addition, in the case where the time-saving bonus is awarded by the above-mentioned winning/losing lottery, the time-saving bonus J3 is determined when the special bonus random number is between 0 and 199. In this second start winning port determination table 111d, in the case where the time-saving bonus is awarded, the probability that the time-saving bonus J3 is determined is 100%.
Furthermore, if the above-mentioned winning/losing lottery results in a losing result, a losing symbol Z2 is determined.

In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, as in the first embodiment, when a special symbol is determined, a change pattern command is determined based on the result of the determination, which corresponds to a change pattern that specifies the change time of the special symbol and the manner of change presentation, and the stop display time (so-called symbol determination time), which is the time during which the special symbol is displayed stationary after the display of the special symbol change has ended, is also determined.

As shown in FIG. 58, the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment is provided with the following special electric device operation tables 112: a first operation table 112d referred to in a special game based on the determination of the big win symbol X1, X2, X3, X4, X5 or X6; a second operation table 112e referred to in a special game based on the determination of the big win symbol X7, X8, X9, X10, X11 or X12, or a small win game based on the determination of the small win symbol Y5, Y6, Y7, Y8 or Y9; a third operation table 112f referred to in a small win game based on the determination of the small win symbol Y1, Y2, Y3 or Y4; and a fourth operation table 112g referred to in a small win game based on the determination of the small win symbol Y5, Y6, Y7, Y8 or Y9.

As shown in FIG. 58(a), according to the first operation table 112d, in the special game that is executed when the jackpot is won in the lottery based on the first special random number and the jackpot pattern X1, X2, X3, X4, X5 or X6 is determined, a total of three round games are executed, which end when either the jackpot opening 18 is open for 29.0 seconds or 10 game balls enter the jackpot opening 18. In addition, in each round game, the jackpot opening 18 is opened only once (one opening for 29.0 seconds is executed), and the interval time between each round game is set to 2.0 seconds. Furthermore, the distribution member 59 remains at the first position during each round game.

As shown in FIG. 58(b), according to the second operation table 112e, in the special game that is executed when a big win is won in the winning/losing lottery based on the second special random number and the big win pattern X7, X8, X9, X10, X11 or X12 is determined, or in the special game that is executed when a small win is won in the winning/losing lottery based on the second special random number and a predetermined number (one ball) of game balls enter the special area during the small win game based on the determination of the small win pattern Y5, Y6, Y7, Y8 or Y9, a round game that ends under the same conditions as the above-mentioned first operation table 112d is set to be executed a total of 10 times. The opening/closing pattern of the opening/closing door 18b during the round game, the operation mode of the distribution member 59, and the interval time are also set to the same contents as the first operation table 112d.

58(c), according to the third operation table 112e, the small prize game that is executed when the small prize is won in the win/lose lottery based on the first special symbol random number and the small prize symbol Y1, Y2, Y3 or Y4 is determined is set to end when either the large prize opening 18 is opened once for 0.05 seconds or 10 game balls enter the open large prize opening 18. Also, while the large prize opening 18 is open, the distribution member 59 stays at the first position.
That is, when a small prize is won based on the entry of a game ball into the first start winning hole 15, the large prize hole 18 is opened for only 0.05 seconds during the small prize game, regardless of which small prize symbol is determined. Therefore, even if a so-called right hit is performed during this small prize game, it is extremely difficult to get the game ball to enter the large prize hole 18. Also, since the distribution member 59 stays at the first position during this small prize game, even if the game ball enters the large prize hole 18, the game ball will not enter the special area.

As shown in Fig. 58(d), according to the fourth operation table 112f, the small prize game that is executed by winning the small prize in the winning/losing lottery based on the second special random number and determining the small prize pattern Y5, Y6, Y7, Y8 or Y9 is set to end when either the large prize opening 18 is opened twice for 0.9 seconds or 10 game balls enter the large prize opening 18 during the opening is established. In addition, the closing time of the large prize opening 18 from the end of the first opening to the start of the second opening is set to 0.6 seconds. Furthermore, while the large prize opening 18 is open, the distribution member 59 stops at the second position.
That is, when a small prize is won based on the entry of a gaming ball into the second start winning hole 16, the large winning hole 18 is opened for a total of 1.8 seconds during the small prize game, regardless of which small prize symbol is determined. Therefore, if a so-called right hit is performed during this small prize game, the gaming ball can be made to enter the large winning hole 18. Also, since the distribution member 59 is stopped at the second position during this small prize game, the gaming ball that enters the large winning hole 18 always enters the special area.
Therefore, when a small prize is won based on the entry of a game ball into the second start winning port 16, if a so-called right hit is performed, a predetermined number (one) of game balls will enter the special area during the small prize game based on the winning, and the above-mentioned special game (see Figure 58 (b)) will be executed based on the entry.

(Overview of game state to be set)
In the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, when a special game is executed based on the determination of a jackpot pattern (winning a jackpot), the game state after the special game ends is set according to the type of jackpot pattern that has been determined.

In addition, when a small win game is executed based on the determination of a small win symbol (winning a small win), and a special game is executed based on a predetermined number (one) of game balls entering a special area during the small win game, the game state after the special game ends is set according to the type of the determined small win symbol. In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, game balls can enter the special area during a small win game based on the determination of the small win symbol Y5, Y6, Y7, Y8, or Y9, so when a predetermined number of game balls enter the special area during these small win games and a special game is executed, the game state after the special game ends is set according to the type of the determined small win symbol.
In addition, if the predetermined number of game balls do not enter the special area during the small win game and the special game is not executed, the above-mentioned processing is not performed. In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, the game balls cannot enter the special area during the small win game based on the determination of the small win pattern Y1, Y2, Y3, or Y4, and the predetermined number of game balls do not enter the special area during these small win games, and the special game is not executed. Also, if the game ball does not enter the large prize opening 18 during the small win game based on the determination of the small win pattern Y5, Y6, Y7, Y8, or Y9, for example, because the right hit is not performed, the predetermined number of game balls do not enter the special area, and the special game is not executed. In these cases, the above-mentioned processing is not performed.

In addition, in a non-time-saving game state (normal game state), when a time-saving symbol is determined (a player has won the time-saving bonus) and the time-saving symbol is displayed stationary, the game state after the time-saving symbol is displayed stationary (after the variable display of the time-saving symbol has ended) is set according to the type of time-saving symbol determined. In contrast, in a time-saving game state (low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 (time-saving game state JT1), low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 (time-saving game state JT2)), when a time-saving symbol is determined and the time-saving symbol is displayed stationary, no new game state based on the determination of the time-saving symbol is set after the time-saving symbol is displayed stationary, and the game state that was set when the time-saving symbol was determined (when the win/lose lottery was held) is maintained. In other words, even if a time-saving symbol is displayed as a stopped symbol when a time-saving award is won during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 or low-probability time-saving game state LJT2, the time-saving game state based on the winning is not reset, and the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 or low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 that is currently set continues.

As shown in FIG. 59, the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment has, as the game state setting table 113, a first game state setting table 113e that specifies the setting contents of the game state after the end of a special game based on winning a jackpot based on the first special random number and determining the jackpot pattern X1, X2 or X3, or after the end of a special game based on winning a jackpot based on the second special random number and determining the jackpot pattern X7, X8 or X9, and a second game state setting table 113f that specifies the setting contents of the game state after the end of a special game based on winning a jackpot based on the first special random number and determining the jackpot pattern X4, X5 or X6, after the end of a special game based on winning a jackpot based on the first special random number and determining the jackpot pattern X10, X11 or X12, or after the end of a special game based on winning a small jackpot based on the second special random number and determining the small jackpot pattern Y5, Y6, Y7, The second game state setting table 113f defines the game state setting contents after the end of the special game executed through the small win game based on the determination of Y8 or Y9, the third game state setting table 113g defines the game state setting contents set based on the fact that the time-saving award is won by the first special random number in the non-time-saving game state, the time-saving pattern J1 is determined, and the time-saving pattern J1 is stopped and displayed, and the fourth game state setting table 113h defines the game state setting contents set based on the fact that the time-saving award is won by the first special random number in the non-time-saving game state, the time-saving pattern J2 is determined, and the time-saving pattern J2 is stopped and displayed, or the time-saving award is won by the second special random number in the non-time-saving game state, the time-saving pattern J3 is determined, and the time-saving pattern J3 is stopped and displayed.

As shown in FIG. 59(a), regardless of the game state being set, if a jackpot is won by a win/lose lottery based on the first special random number and the jackpot pattern X1, X2, or X3 is determined, or if a jackpot is won by a win/lose lottery based on the second special random number and the jackpot pattern X7, X8, or X9 is determined, the game state after the special game based on that determination is completed is set to a low probability game state and a non-time-saving game state. In other words, the normal game state is set after the special game is completed.

As shown in Fig. 59(b), regardless of the game state being set, if a big win is won by the winning/losing lottery based on the first special random number and the big win pattern X4, X5 or X6 is determined, if a big win is won by the winning/losing lottery based on the second special random number and the big win pattern X10, X11 or X12 is determined, or if a small win is won by the winning/losing lottery based on the second special random number and a predetermined number of game balls enter the special area during a small win game based on the small win pattern Y5, Y6, Y7, Y8 or Y9 is determined, the game state after the end of the special game based on these is set to a low probability game state and a time-saving game state JT2. That is, after the end of the special game, a low probability time-saving game state LJT2 is set.
In addition, in the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, two types of time-saving number of times are set, a first time-saving number of times and a second time-saving number of times, and when the above-mentioned low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 is set, the first time-saving number of times is set to 6 times and the second time-saving number of times is set to 11 times.
In the following, the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 (the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 in which the first time-saving number is set to 6 and the second time-saving number is set to 11) that is set after the end of the above-mentioned special game will also be referred to as the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A.

When the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A is set, after the game state is set, (1) the number of times the special pattern (hereinafter also referred to as the second special pattern) based on the game ball entering the second start winning hole 16 has changed has reached the first time-saving number (6 times) without the special game being played (the result of the winning/losing lottery using the second special pattern random number has been derived 6 times), or (2) the number of times the special pattern (hereinafter also referred to as the first special pattern) based on the game ball entering the first start winning hole 15 has changed has reached the first time-saving number (6 times) without the special game being played. The low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A continues until one of the following time-saving end conditions is met: (1) the total number of times the ...

Here, in the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, a first time-saving number memory area and a second time-saving number memory area are provided as time-saving number memory areas provided in the main RAM 103, and the first time-saving number memory area stores the remaining number of times the special pattern will change until the above-mentioned first time-saving number becomes 0 (hereinafter also referred to as the first remaining number of changes), and the second time-saving number memory area stores the remaining number of times the special pattern will change until the above-mentioned second time-saving number becomes 0 (hereinafter also referred to as the second remaining number of changes).
In addition, in the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, an end determination count memory area is provided in the main RAM 103, and this end determination count memory area stores the remaining number of times that small win patterns will be determined until the above-mentioned end determination count becomes 0 (hereinafter also referred to as the remaining small win determination count).
During the low probability time-saving game state LJT2-A, when a special symbol is displayed based on a game ball entering the second start winning port 16, both the first remaining number of changes stored in the first time-saving number storage area and the first remaining number of changes stored in the second time-saving number storage area are updated at the time when the display of the special symbol is completed, and when a special symbol is displayed based on a game ball entering the first start winning port 15, only the second remaining number of changes stored in the second time-saving number storage area is updated at the time when the display of the special symbol is completed. Also, when a small winning symbol Y1 or Y2 is determined, the remaining small winning determination number stored in the end determination number storage area is updated at the time when the display of the special symbol is completed.
Then, when any of the above-mentioned time-saving end conditions is met as a result of these processes, the low-probability game state is left as it is, and the game state is changed to the normal game state by changing the time-saving game state JT2 to a non-time-saving game state.

As shown in Fig. 59(c), in the non-time-saving game state (normal game state), if the time-saving symbol J1 is selected by a lottery based on the first special symbol random number and the time-saving symbol J1 is displayed in a stopped state, the non-time-saving game state is changed to the time-saving game state JT1 while the low-probability game state remains as it is when the variable display of the time-saving symbol J1 as the special symbol ends (when the time-saving symbol J1 is displayed in a stopped state). In other words, when the variable display of the time-saving symbol J1 ends, the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 is set at this end point (i.e., before the stopped display time has elapsed).
In addition, when the above-mentioned low probability time-saving game state LJT1 is set, the first time-saving number of times is set to 300 times, and the second time-saving number of times is set to 305 times.

When the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 is set, after the game state is set, the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 continues until one of the following time-saving end conditions is met: (1) the number of times the first special chart changes reaches the first time-saving number (300 times) without a special game being played (the result of the win/lose lottery based on the first special chart random number has been derived 300 times), (2) the total number of times the first special chart changes and the number of times the second special chart changes reaches the second time-saving number (305 times) without a special game being played (the result of the win/lose lottery based on the first special chart random number and the result of the win/lose lottery based on the second special chart random number have been derived a total of 305 times), or (3) the number of times the small winning pattern Y1 or Y2, which can be determined based on the entry of the game ball into the first start winning hole 15, has reached the end determination number without a special game being played. In addition, in the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, the number of times the above-mentioned termination decision is made is set to one, which is less than the upper limit of the first reserved number (four).

In addition, during the low probability time-saving game state LJT1, when a special symbol is displayed based on a game ball entering the first start winning hole 15, both the first remaining number of changes stored in the first time-saving number storage area and the second remaining number of changes stored in the second time-saving number storage area are updated at the time when the display of the special symbol is completed, and when a special symbol is displayed based on a game ball entering the second start winning hole 16, only the second remaining number of changes stored in the second time-saving number storage area is updated at the time when the display of the special symbol is completed. In addition, when a small win symbol Y1 or Y2 is determined, the remaining small win determination number stored in the end determination number storage area is updated at the time when the display of the special symbol is completed.
Then, when any of the above-mentioned time-saving end conditions is met as a result of these processes, the low-probability game state is left as it is, and the time-saving game state JT1 is changed to a non-time-saving game state, thereby changing the game state to a normal game state.

As shown in Fig. 59(d), in the non-time-saving game state (normal game state), if the player wins the time-saving lottery based on the first special random number and the time-saving symbol J2 is determined and the time-saving symbol J2 is stopped and displayed, or if the player wins the time-saving lottery based on the second special random number and the time-saving symbol J3 is determined and the time-saving symbol J3 is stopped and displayed, the non-time-saving game state is changed to the time-saving game state JT2 while the low-probability game state remains as it is when the variable display of the time-saving symbol J2 or J3 as the special symbol ends (when the time-saving symbol J2 or J3 is stopped and displayed). In other words, when the variable display of the time-saving symbol J2 or J3 ends, the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 is set at this end (before the stopped display time has elapsed).
In addition, when the above-mentioned low probability time-saving game state LJT2 is set, the first time-saving number of times is set to 1 time, and the second time-saving number of times is set to 6 times.
In the following, the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 (the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 in which the first time-saving number is set to 1 and the second time-saving number is set to 6) that is set after the above-mentioned time-saving pattern is stopped and displayed will also be referred to as the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B.

When the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B is set, after the game state is set, the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B continues until one of the following time-saving end conditions is met: (1) the number of times the second special chart changes reaches the first time-saving number (1 time) without a special game being played (the result of the win/lose lottery using the second special chart random number has been derived 1 time), (2) the total number of times the first special chart changes and the number of times the second special chart changes reaches the second time-saving number (6 times) without a special game being played (the result of the win/lose lottery using the first special chart random number and the result of the win/lose lottery using the second special chart random number have been derived a total of 6 times), or (3) the number of times the small win pattern Y1 or Y2, which can be determined based on the entry of the game ball into the first start winning port 15, has reached the end determination number without a special game being played. In addition, in the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B, the number of times the above-mentioned termination decision is made is set to 5 times, which is more than the upper limit of the first reserved number (4).

In addition, during the low probability time-saving game state LJT2-B, when a special symbol is displayed based on a game ball entering the second start winning hole 16, both the first remaining number of changes stored in the first time-saving number storage area and the second remaining number of changes stored in the second time-saving number storage area are updated at the time when the display of the special symbol is completed, and when a special symbol is displayed based on a game ball entering the first start winning hole 15, only the second remaining number of changes stored in the second time-saving number storage area is updated at the time when the display of the special symbol is completed. In addition, when a small winning symbol Y1 or Y2 is determined, the remaining small winning determination number stored in the end determination number storage area is updated at the time when the display of the special symbol is completed.
Then, when any of the above-mentioned time-saving end conditions is met as a result of these processes, the low-probability game state is left as it is, and the game state is changed to the normal game state by changing the time-saving game state JT2 to a non-time-saving game state.

In the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, in the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 in which left-handed play is performed, it is possible that a time-saving award will be won in a win/loss lottery based on the first special chart random number, and, although this is less likely, it is also possible that a time-saving award will be won in a win/loss lottery based on the second special chart random number.
In addition, in the low probability time-saving game state LJT2-A or the low probability time-saving game state LJT2-B where right-hand play is performed, a win or loss lottery for the time-saving award may be performed based on the second special chart random number, and a win or loss lottery for the time-saving award may be performed based on the first special chart random number.
In this way, even in game states other than the normal game state (low probability time-saving game state LJT1, low probability time-saving game state LJT2-A, low probability time-saving game state LJT2-B), a win or loss lottery based on the first special chart random number or the second special chart random number may result in a time-saving award being selected and the time-saving pattern J1, J2 or J3 may be determined and these time-saving patterns may be displayed in a stopped state, but in this case the game state currently set will continue as is.

(About the conditions for ending the time-saving game mode (time-saving end conditions))
In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, the probability of winning a jackpot is the same during both the normal game state and the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, and even if a game ball is shot toward the second game state 12b, the game ball will not enter the second start winning hole 16. During these game states, the player is made to play in the first game area 12a, and there is a possibility that the game ball will enter the first start winning hole 15.
If a jackpot is won based on a win/lose lottery using the first special chart random number (a random number obtained by the entry of a game ball into the first start winning port 15) during the normal game state or the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, a special game in which three rounds of play are played is executed, and a low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A can be set after the special game ends.
In addition, in the normal game state, if the player wins the time-saving award based on the winning/losing lottery using the first special random number and the time-saving symbol is stopped and displayed, the game state thereafter is set to either the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 or the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B. On the other hand, even if the player wins the time-saving award based on the winning/losing lottery using the first special random number and the time-saving symbol is stopped and displayed during the low-probability time-saving game state LTJ1, the game state is not changed and the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 continues thereafter.

During the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A and the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B, the probability of winning a jackpot is the same as during the normal game state and the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, but when a game ball is shot toward the second game area 12b, the game ball can enter the second start winning hole 16 with a high frequency. During these game states, the player is made to play in the second game area 12b, and as long as the game ball is shot toward the second game area 12b, there is a possibility that the game ball will enter the second start winning hole 16.
If a big win is won based on a winning/losing lottery using the second special random number (a random number obtained by the entry of a game ball into the second start winning hole 16), a special game in which 10 rounds of play are played is executed, and a low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A can be set after the special game ends. Also, if a small win is won, a special game in which 10 rounds of play are played can be executed via the small win game, and a low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A can be set after the special game ends.
In other words, during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A and the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B, the loss of game balls as the game progresses can be suppressed more than during the normal game state and the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 due to the prize balls based on the game ball entering the second start winning port 16, and special games can be executed based on not only winning a jackpot but also winning a small jackpot. Furthermore, in the special game, more rounds of play are played than during special games when a jackpot is won during the normal game state or the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, making it a more advantageous game state than the normal game state and the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1.
As described above, when the time-saving symbol is displayed in a stopped state during the normal game state, either the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 or the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B is set, but after the normal game state is switched to the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B is not set even if the time-saving symbol is displayed in a stopped state during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1. Therefore, the normal game state in which the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B can be set by the time-saving symbol and the stopped display is a more advantageous game state than the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1. As a result, as in the first form, a novel game feature can be provided in which the normal game state before the transition to the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 becomes a chance zone, and the player's interest can be enhanced.

Here, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, the low probability time-saving game state LJT1, the low probability time-saving game state LJT2-A, and the low probability time-saving game state LJT2-B are terminated not only by the number of times the first special symbol changes or the number of times the second special symbol changes, but also by the number of times the small winning symbol Y1 or Y2 is determined, which can be determined based on the entry of the game ball into the first start winning hole 15. In other words, the number of times the small winning symbol Y1 or Y2 is determined is set as the termination condition of the time-saving game state (time-saving termination condition).
This ends the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A, and the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B, and increases the opportunities for a normal game state positioned as a chance zone to be set, thereby improving the player's interest.

In addition, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, the number of times the small winning symbol Y1 or Y2 is determined (end determination number: 1 time) that ends the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 is set to be different from the number of times the small winning symbol Y1 or Y2 is determined (end determination number: 5 times) that ends the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A and the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B. Specifically, the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A and the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B are not terminated even if the time-saving termination condition related to the number of times the small winning symbol Y1 or Y2 is determined (end determination number) that ends the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 is satisfied.
This makes it possible to differentiate the trigger for ending the low-probability time-shortened game state LJT1, the low-probability time-shortened game state LJT2-A, and the low-probability time-shortened game state LJT2-B based on the determination of the small winning pattern Y1 or Y2, thereby improving gameplay and increasing the player's interest.

In addition, in the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, the number of times that the small winning pattern Y1 or Y2 is determined (number of ending determinations: 5 times), which will end the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A and the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B, is set to be greater than the upper limit number (4) of the first reserved number.
As described above, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, when both the first special random number and the second special random number are stored, they are processed in the order in which they were stored in the reserved memory area. Therefore, for example, when a jackpot is won during a normal game state in which a left shot is performed or during a low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, and a low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A is set after the special game based on the winning is completed, or when a time-saving grant is won during a normal game state, a time-saving pattern J2 is determined, and the time-saving pattern J2 is stopped and displayed, and a low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B is set based on the fact that the time-saving pattern J2 is stopped and displayed, if the first special random number obtained during the normal game state or during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 before the setting is stored when these game states are set, the stored first special random number is processed before the second special random number newly obtained during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A or the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B. Then, during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A or the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B, a small jackpot is won by a win/lose lottery based on the first special chart random number, and the small jackpot pattern Y1 or Y2 may be determined.

Here, for example, if the low probability time-saving game state LJT2-A or the low probability time-saving game state LJT2-B is set to end by determining the small winning pattern Y1 or Y2 only a number of times equal to or less than the upper limit number (4) of the first reserved number, there is a possibility that the low probability time-saving game state LJT2-A or the low probability time-saving game state LJT2-B will end before the player starts shooting the game ball toward the second game area 12b. Then, even though the low probability time-saving game state LJT2-A or the low probability time-saving game state LJT2-B, which are more advantageous than the normal game state or the low probability time-saving game state LJT1, is set, the game ball cannot be entered into the second start winning hole 16 (without receiving the winning/losing lottery based on the second special pattern random number), and these advantageous game states may end, which may reduce the interest of the player.
Therefore, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, as described above, the number of times (number of times of ending determination) of the small winning symbol Y1 or Y2 that will end the low probability time-saving game state LJT2-A and the low probability time-saving game state LJT2-B is set to be greater than the upper limit number (4) of the first reserved number. As a result, even if all the first special symbol random numbers stored before the low probability time-saving game state LJT2-A or the low probability time-saving game state LJT2-B are set, the low probability time-saving game state LJT2-A or the low probability time-saving game state LJT2-B will not end. Therefore, even after all the winning/losing lotteries based on the above-mentioned first special chart random numbers have been completed, the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A or the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B continues, so that the player can enter the second start winning port 16 and take part in the winning/losing lottery based on the second special chart random number, thereby preventing a decline in the player's interest.

In the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, the time-saving game state (low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A, low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B) is ended based on the number of times a specific small win pattern (Y1 or Y2) is determined among all small win patterns that can be determined, but this is not limited to this, and the time-saving game state may be ended based on the number of times all small win patterns are determined (i.e., the number of times a small win is won).
In addition, various conditions for the time-saving end of the small win may be adopted. For example, the time-saving game state may be ended when the number of times each of a plurality of small win symbols is determined reaches a predetermined number of times for the end (for example, when the number of times the small win symbol Y1 is determined reaches two (number of times for the end) and the number of times the small win symbol Y2 is determined reaches three (number of times for the end)). In addition, the time-saving game state may be ended when the small win symbols are determined in a predetermined order (for example, when the small win symbols are determined in the order of small win symbol Y1 → small win symbol Y2 → small win symbol Y1). In addition, the time-saving game state may be ended when the small win symbols are determined a predetermined number of times within a predetermined period (for example, when the number of times the small win symbol Y1 is determined reaches three (number of times for the end) during the period from when the time-saving game state is set until the variable display of the special symbol is performed 30 times).
In addition, the time-saving end condition for the small win may be set only in some of the time-saving game states, rather than being set in all of the time-saving game states. For example, the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 may be set to end based on the condition for determining a small win, but the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A and the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B may be set not to end based on the condition for determining a small win.
In the above-mentioned case, the trigger for ending the time-saving game state can be varied, improving gameplay and increasing the interest of the player.

(Processing when you win the time-saving bonus when the time-saving game mode ends)
As described above, the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 ends when the first remaining number of changes or the second remaining number of changes is updated at the time when the display of the special symbol changes, for example, when the number of changes of the first special symbol reaches the first time-saving number, and a normal game state is set. Also, the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A and the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B end when the first remaining number of changes or the second remaining number of changes is updated at the time when the display of the special symbol changes, for example, when the number of changes of the second special symbol reaches the first time-saving number, and a normal game state is set. In the following, the process of updating the first remaining number of changes or the second remaining number of changes is also referred to as the "remaining number of changes update process."
On the other hand, in the normal game state, when a time-saving bonus is awarded and a time-saving pattern is determined and displayed stationary, at the time when the time-saving pattern is displayed stationary (at the time when the variable display of the time-saving pattern has ended), a low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 or a low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B is set according to the type of the time-saving pattern determined.

Here, in the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, there are cases where a player wins the time-saving award in a win/lose lottery when the number of times the first special chart changes reaches the first time-saving number, and in the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A or the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B, there are cases where a player wins the time-saving award in a win/lose lottery when the number of times the second special chart changes reaches the first time-saving number.
The processing for setting the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 or the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B based on the stopped display of the time-saving pattern (processing for setting the time-saving game state based on the stopped display of the time-saving pattern), and the remaining change count update processing are both performed at the time when the changing display of the time-saving pattern ends (at the time when the time-saving pattern is stopped), but it is assumed that the processing for setting the time-saving game state based on the stopped display of the time-saving pattern is performed after the remaining change count update processing is performed.
Then, in the above-mentioned case, when the remaining variation count update process is performed, the normal game state is set, so that at the time when the process for setting the time-saving game state based on the stopped display of the time-saving pattern is executed, the time-saving pattern is stopped and displayed in the normal game state, and the time-saving game state (low probability time-saving game state LJT1 or low probability time-saving game state LJT2-B) is set again. In other words, if the process for setting the time-saving game state based on the stopped display of the time-saving pattern is executed after the remaining variation count update process is performed, in the above-mentioned case, a situation occurs in which multiple time-saving game states are set consecutively, and the division of the time-saving game state and the setting trigger become unclear, which may cause a sense of discomfort in the game.

Therefore, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, after performing processing related to setting the time-saving game state based on the stopped display of the time-saving symbol, a remaining variation number update processing is performed.
As a result, in the above-mentioned case, at the time of executing the process related to the setting of the time-saving game state based on the stopped display of the time-saving symbol, the remaining variation number update process has not been performed, the time-saving game state (low probability time-saving game state LJT1, low probability time-saving game state LJT2-A, low probability time-saving game state LJT2-B) remains set, and the time-saving symbol is stopped and displayed in the time-saving game state. Therefore, the setting of a new time-saving game state based on the stopped display of the time-saving symbol is not performed. Then, the remaining variation number update process is performed, and the normal game state is set. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the division of the time-saving game state and the setting trigger become unclear, and it is possible to prevent the possibility of an uncomfortable feeling occurring in the game.

As described above, the device may be configured to perform processing related to setting the time-saving game state based on the stopped display of the time-saving symbol after the remaining variation count update processing has been performed, and in the above-mentioned case, multiple time-saving game states may be set consecutively.

(Overview of fluctuation pattern table 114)
As shown in FIG. 60, the pachinko machine P of this embodiment is provided with, as the fluctuation pattern table 114, a table MP11 which is referenced during a normal game state, a table MP21 which is referenced during a low-probability time-shortened game state LJT1, and a table MP31 which is referenced during a low-probability time-shortened game state LJT2 (during a low-probability time-shortened game state LJT2-A, during a low-probability time-shortened game state LJT2-B).
In these fluctuation pattern tables 114, as in the first form, fluctuation pattern commands corresponding to a fluctuation pattern with a predetermined fluctuation time are determined according to the determined special symbols (losing symbols Z1, Z2; big win symbols X1, X2, X3, X4, X5, X6, X7, X8, X9, X10, X11, X12; small win symbols Y1, Y2, Y3, Y4, Y5, Y6, Y7, Y8, Y9; time-saving symbols J1, J2, J3), the current reserved numbers (first reserved number, second reserved number at the time when the fluctuation pattern command is determined (time when the win/lose lottery is executed)), and the fluctuation pattern random number.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 60(a), in table MP11 (variation pattern table 114 referenced during normal game mode), when the winning/losing lottery based on the first special chart random number results in a loss and a losing symbol Z1 is determined, a variation pattern command (variation pattern) is determined that is the same as when a losing symbol Z1 is determined during normal game mode in the first form.
In addition, when a jackpot is won by a lottery based on the first special random number and the jackpot pattern X1, X2, X3, X4, X5 or X6 is determined, a variation pattern command is determined similarly to when the jackpot pattern X1, X2 or X3 is determined during the normal game state in the first form.
In addition, if a small prize is won by a win/lose lottery based on the first special chart random number and the small prize pattern Y1, Y2, Y3 or Y4 is determined, the fluctuation pattern command "05H" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "13-second fluctuation" is determined regardless of the current number of reserved numbers or the value of the fluctuation pattern random number.
In addition, if the time-saving symbol J1 is determined by the win/loss lottery based on the first special symbol random number, a variation pattern command is determined similar to that in the case where the time-saving symbol J1 is determined during normal game play in the first form, and if the time-saving symbol J2 is determined by the win/loss lottery based on the first special symbol random number, a variation pattern command is determined similar to that in the case where the time-saving symbol J2 is determined during normal game play in the first form.

Also, as shown in FIG. 60(a), in table MP11, when the winning/losing lottery based on the second special pattern random number results in a losing draw and the losing pattern Z2 is determined, regardless of the number of reserved numbers at the current time and regardless of the value of the fluctuation pattern random number, the fluctuation pattern command "04H" is determined, which is associated with a fluctuation pattern of "10 second fluctuation" (a fluctuation pattern in which the fluctuation time for the first half is set to 0 seconds and the fluctuation time for the second half is set to 10 seconds).
In addition, when a jackpot is won by a lottery based on the second special chart random number and the jackpot pattern X7, X8, X9, X10, X11 or X12 is determined, the fluctuation pattern command "09H" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "10-second fluctuation" is determined regardless of the current number of reserved numbers or the value of the fluctuation pattern random number.
In addition, if a small prize is won by the lottery based on the second special chart random number and the small prize pattern Y5, Y6, Y7, Y8 or Y9 is determined, the fluctuation pattern command "06H" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "10 second fluctuation" is determined regardless of the current number of reserved numbers or the value of the fluctuation pattern random number.
In addition, in the case where a time-saving symbol J3 is selected by a lottery based on the second special symbol random number, when the time-saving symbol J3 is selected, the fluctuation pattern command "0CH" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "10-second fluctuation" is selected regardless of the number of reserved symbols at the current time and regardless of the value of the fluctuation pattern random number.

As shown in FIG. 60(b), in table MP21 (variation pattern table 114 referenced during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1), when the winning/losing lottery based on the first special chart random number results in a loss and a losing symbol Z1 is determined, a variation pattern command is determined that is the same as when a losing symbol Z1 is determined during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 in the first form.
In addition, when a jackpot is won by a lottery based on the first special chart random number and the jackpot pattern X1, X2, X3, X4, X5 or X6 is determined, the same variation pattern command as when the jackpot pattern X1, X2 or X3 is determined during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 in the first form is determined.
In addition, in the case where a small prize is won by a win/lose lottery based on the first special chart random number, when the small prize pattern Y1 or Y2 is determined, regardless of the current number of reserved numbers and whatever the value of the fluctuation pattern random number, a fluctuation pattern command "15H" associated with a fluctuation pattern of "15-second fluctuation" (a fluctuation pattern in which the fluctuation time of the first half is set to 0 seconds and the fluctuation time of the second half is set to 15 seconds) is determined, and when the small prize pattern Y3 or Y4 is determined, regardless of the current number of reserved numbers and whatever the value of the fluctuation pattern random number, a fluctuation pattern command "16H" associated with a fluctuation pattern of "15-second fluctuation" is determined.
In addition, when the time-saving symbol J1 is determined by the win/loss lottery based on the first special symbol random number, a variation pattern command is determined similar to that in the case where the time-saving symbol J1 is determined during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 in the first form, and when the time-saving symbol J2 is determined by the win/loss lottery based on the first special symbol random number, a variation pattern command is determined similar to that in the case where the time-saving symbol J2 is determined during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 in the first form.

Also, as shown in Figure 60 (b), in table MP21, if the winning/losing lottery based on the second special pattern random number results in a losing result and the losing pattern Z2 is determined, regardless of the current number of reserved numbers and the value of the fluctuation pattern random number, the fluctuation pattern command "14H" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "10 second fluctuation" is determined.
In addition, when a jackpot is won by the lottery based on the second special chart random number and the jackpot pattern X7, X8, X9, X10, X11 or X12 is determined, the fluctuation pattern command "19H" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "10-second fluctuation" is determined regardless of the current number of reserved numbers or the value of the fluctuation pattern random number.
In addition, if a small prize is won by the lottery based on the second special chart random number and the small prize pattern Y5, Y6, Y7, Y8 or Y9 is determined, regardless of the current number of reserved numbers or the value of the fluctuation pattern random number, the fluctuation pattern command "17H" corresponding to the fluctuation pattern of "10 second fluctuation" is determined.
In addition, in the case where a time-saving symbol J3 is selected by a lottery based on the second special symbol random number, when the time-saving symbol J3 is selected, the fluctuation pattern command "1DH" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "10-second fluctuation" is selected regardless of the number of pending symbols at the current time and regardless of the value of the fluctuation pattern random number.

As shown in FIG. 60 (c), in table MP31 (the fluctuation pattern table 114 referenced during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2), when the winning/losing lottery based on the first special pattern random number results in a losing draw and the losing pattern Z1 is determined, the fluctuation pattern command "50H" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "2-second fluctuation" is determined regardless of the current number of reserved numbers or the value of the fluctuation pattern random number.
In addition, when a jackpot is won by a lottery based on the first special chart random number and the jackpot pattern X1, X2, X3, X4, X5 or X6 is determined, regardless of the number of reserved numbers at the current time or the value of the fluctuation pattern random number, the fluctuation pattern command "5AH" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "2-second fluctuation" is determined.
In addition, if a small prize is won by a win/lose lottery based on the first special chart random number and the small prize pattern Y1, Y2, Y3 or Y4 is determined, regardless of the current number of reserved numbers or the value of the fluctuation pattern random number, the fluctuation pattern command "55H" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "2-second fluctuation" is determined.
In addition, if the time-saving symbol J1 or J2 is determined as a result of a lottery based on the first special symbol random number, the fluctuation pattern command "5DH" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "2-second fluctuation" will be determined regardless of the current number of reserved symbols or the value of the fluctuation pattern random number.
In addition, if the result of the lottery based on the second special pattern random number is a loss and the losing pattern Z2 is determined, regardless of the current number of reserved numbers or the value of the fluctuation pattern random number, the fluctuation pattern command "51H" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "10 second fluctuation" is determined.
In addition, if a jackpot is won by a lottery based on the second special chart random number and the jackpot pattern X7, X8, X9, X10, X11 or X12 is determined, regardless of the current number of reserved numbers or the value of the fluctuation pattern random number, the fluctuation pattern command "59H" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "10 second fluctuation" is determined.
In addition, if a small prize is won by the lottery based on the second special chart random number and the small prize pattern Y5, Y6, Y7, Y8 or Y9 is determined, regardless of the current number of reserved numbers or the value of the fluctuation pattern random number, the fluctuation pattern command "56H" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "10 second fluctuation" is determined.
In addition, if the time-saving symbol J3 is selected as a winner based on the second special symbol random number, the fluctuation pattern command "5EH" associated with the fluctuation pattern of "10-second fluctuation" will be determined regardless of the current number of reserved symbols or the value of the fluctuation pattern random number.

(Summary of stop display time)
In the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the stop display time table 115 has the stop display time determined according to the current game state (the game state at the time when the win/lose lottery is executed) and the type of special pattern.
As shown in FIG. 61, according to the stop display time table 115, in the case where the current game state is the normal game state, when a losing symbol Z1 or Z2 is determined, a stop display time of 0.5 seconds is determined, when a big win symbol X1, X2, X3, X4, X5, X6, X7, X8, X9, X10, X11 or X12 is determined, a stop display time of 0.5 seconds is determined, when a small win symbol Y1, Y2, Y3, Y4, Y5, Y6, Y7, Y8 or Y9 is determined, a stop display time of 0.5 seconds is determined, when a time-saving symbol J1 or J2 is determined, a stop display time of 20 seconds is determined, and when a time-saving symbol J3 is determined, a stop display time of 0.5 seconds is determined.
In addition, when the current game state is the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 or the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2, when a losing symbol Z1 or Z2 is determined, when a big win symbol X1, X2, X3, X4, X5, X6, X7, X8, X9, X10, X11 or X12 is determined, when a small win symbol Y1, Y2, Y3, Y4, Y5, Y6, Y7, Y8 or Y9 is determined, or when a time-saving symbol J1, J2 or J3 is determined, a stop display time of 0.5 seconds is determined.

(Outline of special symbol stop display)
Although not specifically shown, both the first special pattern display device 30 and the second special pattern display device 31 are composed of multiple LEDs, and different lighting patterns for the LEDs are determined for each type of special pattern.
Then, when a special symbol (first special symbol) is determined based on the ball entering the first start winning hole 15, the LED of the first special symbol display device 30 starts blinking (i.e., the variable display of the special symbol starts), and after the variable time has elapsed, the LED stops blinking (i.e., the variable display of the special symbol ends), and the LED lights up in a lighting pattern corresponding to the determined first special symbol. This causes the first special symbol to stop being displayed.
In addition, when a special symbol (second special symbol) is determined based on the entry of a game ball into the second start winning hole 16, the above-mentioned LED of the second special symbol display device 31 starts blinking, and after the variable time has elapsed, the blinking of the LED ends and the above-mentioned LED is lit up in a lighting pattern corresponding to the determined second special symbol. This causes the stop display of the second special symbol.

Here, as described above, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, when a special game is executed based on the winning of a big win, after the special game ends, a game state is set according to the type of big win symbol determined based on the winning of the big win. Also, when a special game is executed through a small win game based on the winning of a small win, after the special game ends, a game state is set according to the type of small win symbol determined based on the winning of the small win. Also, when a time-saving bonus is won during a normal game state, after the variable display of the special symbol based on the winning ends, a game state is set according to the type of time-saving symbol determined based on the winning of the time-saving bonus.
In this way, a new game state may be set depending on the type of special symbol determined based on the winning/losing lottery, and when a new game state is set, the type of this game state is determined, so players are very interested in the type of special symbol that has been determined. Therefore, many players check the lighting patterns of the LEDs of the first special symbol display device 30 and the second special symbol display device 31 to determine the type of special symbol that has been stopped and displayed.

Incidentally, the big win pattern, small win pattern and time-saving pattern are all displayed in a stopped state on the first special pattern display device 30 or the second special pattern display device 31 until the above-mentioned stopped display time has elapsed and the variable display of the next special pattern begins.
When a jackpot symbol (any of X1 to X12) is determined, a special game based on the determination is executed after the above-mentioned stop display time has elapsed, and if the first special symbol random number or the second special symbol random number is stored when the special game ends, the variable display of the next special symbol begins. Therefore, the jackpot symbol will be displayed in a stopped state even after the above-mentioned stop display time has elapsed until the above-mentioned special game ends.
Similarly, for example, when a small win symbol (any of Y5 to Y9) is determined, a small win game based on the determination is executed after the above-mentioned stop display time has elapsed, and further, when a special game is executed through the small win game, if the first special symbol random number or the second special symbol random number is stored when the special game ends, the variable display of the next special symbol is started. Therefore, when a special game is executed through a small win game, the small win symbol will be displayed in a stopped state even after the above-mentioned stop display time has elapsed until the special game executed through the small win game ends.
In contrast, when a time-saving symbol (any of J1 to J3) is determined during the normal game state, if the first or second special symbol random number is stored when the above-mentioned stop display time has elapsed, the variable display of the next special symbol will begin. Here, since players often continue to shoot game balls as long as the reserved number (first reserved number, second reserved number) has not reached the upper limit, it is highly likely that the first or second special symbol random number will be stored when the above-mentioned stop display time has elapsed. Therefore, when a time-saving symbol is determined during the normal game state, it is highly likely that the time-saving symbol will be displayed in a stopped state only until the above-mentioned stop display time has elapsed.

Then, when a time-saving symbol is determined by winning the time-saving bonus during normal game mode, the time-saving symbol is displayed in a stopped state for 0.5 seconds or 20 seconds (see FIG. 61), which is the stopped display time.
On the other hand, when a big win is won and a big win symbol is determined, the big win symbol is displayed stationary for a predetermined stop display time of 0.5 seconds (see FIG. 61), as well as for the period from when the special game starts to when it ends (opening time (10 seconds in this embodiment), execution time of all rounds of the game (at least about 30 seconds in the case of 4 rounds, at least about 80 seconds in the case of 10 rounds), ending time (10 seconds in this embodiment)). Also, when a small win is won and the above-mentioned small win symbol (any of Y5 to Y9) is determined, the small win symbol is displayed stationary for a predetermined stop display time of 0.5 seconds (see FIG. 61), as well as for the period from when the small win game starts to when it ends (opening time (3 seconds in this embodiment), execution time of the small win game (about 2.5 seconds), ending time (0.5 seconds in this embodiment)), and for the period from when the special game starts to when it ends.
That is, when a time-saving symbol is determined during a normal game state, the period during which the time-saving symbol is displayed is shorter than the period during which the big win symbol or the small win symbol is displayed when the big win symbol or the small win symbol is determined. Therefore, it is more difficult to determine the type of the time-saving symbol determined during a normal game state by checking the lighting patterns of the LEDs on the first special symbol display device 30 and the second special symbol display device 31 than it is to determine the type of the big win symbol or the small win symbol, which may reduce the player's interest.

Therefore, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, the number of types of time-saving symbols that can be determined when a time-saving bonus is awarded (three types of time-saving symbols J1 to J3) is set to be fewer than the number of types of jackpot symbols that can be determined when a jackpot is awarded (12 types of jackpot symbols X1 to X12) and the number of small win symbols that can be determined when a small win is awarded (nine types of small win symbols Y1 to Y9).
As a result, the number of types of lighting patterns of the LEDs displayed on the first special pattern display device 30 and the second special pattern display device 31 when a time-saving award is won is fewer than the number of types of lighting patterns of the LEDs displayed on the first special pattern display device 30 and the second special pattern display device 31 when a big win or small win is won. Therefore, it is easier to determine the type of time-saving pattern from the lighting pattern of the LEDs than the type of big win pattern or small win pattern, thereby preventing a decrease in the player's interest.

In addition, in the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, the types of special patterns stopped and displayed on each special pattern display device are set so that the types of time-saving patterns that can be determined when a time-saving award is won are fewer than the types of big win patterns that can be determined when a big win is won and the types of small win patterns that can be determined when a small win is won.
Specifically, in the first special symbol display device 30, when a big win is won, six types (X1 to X6) of big win symbols can be displayed, when a small win is won, four types (Y1 to Y4) of small win symbols can be displayed, and when a time-saving grant is won, two types (J1, J2) of time-saving symbols can be displayed. In addition, in the second special symbol display device 31, when a big win is won, six types (X7 to X12) of big win symbols can be displayed, when a small win is won, five types (Y5 to Y9) of small win symbols can be displayed, and when a time-saving grant is won, one type (J3) of time-saving symbol can be displayed.
As a result, in both the first special symbol display device 30 and the second special symbol display device 31, the types of lighting patterns of the LEDs that are lit when a time-saving bonus is awarded are fewer than the types of lighting patterns of the LEDs that are lit when a big win or small win is awarded. Therefore, in both special symbol display devices, it is easier to determine the type of time-saving symbol from the lighting patterns of the LEDs than to determine the type of big win symbol or small win symbol, so that it is possible to prevent a decrease in the interest of the player.

In addition, in the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, the types of special symbols associated with each setting content (set game state) based on the determination of the special symbols are set so that the types of time-saving symbols that can be determined when a time-saving award is won are fewer than the types of jackpot symbols that can be determined when a jackpot is won and the types of small win symbols that can be determined when a small win is won.
Specifically, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, six types of jackpot symbols (X1 to X3, X7 to X9) are provided so that a normal game state is set after the special game ends, six types of jackpot symbols (X4 to X6, X10 to X12) are provided so that a low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A is set after the special game ends, and four types of small jackpot symbols (Y1 to Y4) are provided so that a special game is not executed via a small jackpot game. A special game is executed through the game, and five types of small winning symbols (Y5 to Y9) are provided which are determined so that a low-probability time-shortened game state LJT2-A is set after the special game ends, one type of time-shortened symbol (J1) is provided which is determined so that a low-probability time-shortened game state LJT1 is set when the special game is determined during a normal game state, and two types of time-shortened symbols (J2, J3) are provided which are determined so that a low-probability time-shortened game state LJT2-B is set when the special game is determined during a normal game state.
As a result, it becomes easier to determine the type of time-saving pattern than the type of big win pattern or small win pattern by the lighting pattern of the LEDs, and also it becomes easier to determine the setting contents based on the determination of the special pattern for the time-saving pattern than for the big win pattern or small win pattern, so that it is possible to prevent the player's interest from decreasing.

In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, multiple types of big win symbols are provided for each game state that is set after the special game ends, and multiple types of small win symbols are provided depending on whether or not the special game can be executed. However, for example, multiple types of big win symbols and small win symbols may be provided for each number of round games executed during the special game.
Specifically, multiple types of jackpot symbols that are determined to execute three rounds of play during a special play may be provided, and multiple types of jackpot symbols that are determined to execute ten rounds of play during a special play may be provided. Also, multiple types of small win symbols that are determined to execute three rounds of play during a special play via a small win play may be provided, and multiple types of small win symbols that are determined to execute ten rounds of play during a special play via a small win play may be provided.
Even when set as described above, the number of types of time-saving symbols that can be determined when a time-saving award is won may be set to be fewer than the number of types of big win symbols that can be determined when a big win is won, or the number of types of small win symbols that can be determined when a small win is won.

(Outline of processing in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment)
Next, the outline of the processing executed by the main control board 100 as the special game, normal game, small win game, and special game progress will be explained using a flowchart, focusing on the differences from the first embodiment. Note that the same processing as the first embodiment or processing that is almost the same as the first embodiment and that a person skilled in the art would understand how to implement (apply to) this embodiment will be given the same step number as the first embodiment, and explanations will be omitted in principle.

First, the special area detection process for carrying out a predetermined process based on the game ball entering the special area will be described with reference to the flowchart of Fig. 62. This special area detection process is executed instead of the specific area detection process of the first embodiment (see Fig. 26).
In step 670-1, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not a small win game is being played. If it is judged that a small win game is not being played, the special area detection process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is judged that a small win game is being played, the process proceeds to the next step 671-1.
In step 671-1, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not a detection signal has been input a predetermined number of times (in this embodiment, once) from a special area detection sensor (not shown) that is connected to the main control board 100 and detects the entry of the game ball into the special area. If it is determined that the detection signal from the special area detection sensor has not been input the predetermined number of times, the special area detection process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the detection signal from the special area detection sensor has been input the predetermined number of times, the process proceeds to the next step 672-2.
In step 672-2, the main CPU 101 turns on an entry flag indicating that a predetermined number of gaming balls have entered the special area, and then ends the special area detection process.

Next, the special pattern variation start processing (step 701 of the special pattern related control processing (see FIG. 27)) will be explained with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
In step 801-1, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not the first special random number or the second special random number is stored in the reserved memory area, that is, whether or not the first reserved number counter is "1" or more, or the second reserved number counter is "1" or more. If it is judged that either is stored, the process proceeds to step 803-1. On the other hand, if it is judged that neither is stored, the process proceeds to step 812, where a customer waiting judgment process is performed.
In step 803-1, the main CPU 101 executes a shift process of the reserved memory area. Specifically, the random numbers stored in the first memory unit are stored in a predetermined processing area provided in the main RAM 103, and the random numbers stored in the second to eighth memory units are shifted to a memory unit with a smaller number by one. This allows the random numbers stored in the reserved memory area to be used in the win/lose determination process on a so-called first-in, first-out (FIFO) basis. Then, the process proceeds to step 805, where processing related to the fluctuation count counter is performed.

Next, the win/loss determination process (step 806 of the special symbol pattern change start process (see Figures 28 and 63)) will be explained with reference to the flowchart in Figure 64.
In the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, when it is determined that a jackpot has not been won, a small jackpot win determination process is executed to determine whether or not a small jackpot has been won before executing a time-saving grant win/loss determination process (step 853) to determine whether or not a time-saving grant has been won.

Specifically, if it is determined in step 851 that the jackpot has not been won, the process proceeds to step 852-1.
In step 852-1, the main CPU 101 executes a small win determination process to determine whether or not a small win will be won (i.e., to determine whether or not a small win will be won) based on the selected win/loss random number determination table 110 and the win/loss random number stored in a predetermined processing area in step 803-1 (the same win/loss random number as the win/loss random number that was the subject of determination in the big win win/loss determination process). Specifically, the main CPU 101 obtains information on the numerical range that will result in a small win from the above table, and determines whether or not the above-mentioned win/loss random number falls within this obtained numerical range. Then, if the above-mentioned win/loss random number falls within the above-mentioned numerical range, it is determined that a small win has been won, and if the above-mentioned win/loss random number does not fall within the above-mentioned numerical range, it is determined that a small win has not been won. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 852-2.
In step 852-2, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not the result of the small win judgment process executed in the above-mentioned step 852-1 was a small win (i.e., whether or not a small win was won). If it is judged that a small win was not won (a small win was not won), the process proceeds to step 853, where a time-saving award judgment process is performed. On the other hand, if it is judged that a small win was won, the process proceeds to the next step 852-3.
In step 852-3, the main 101 stores the fact that a small win has been won in a predetermined storage area of the main RAM 103. Then, the win/loss determination process ends.

Next, the special symbol variation stop processing (step 702 of the special symbol related control processing (see FIG. 27)) will be explained with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
In step 1003-1, the main CPU 101 executes a game state setting process for setting the game state when the reel is stopped, and then proceeds to step 1003-2.
In step 1003-2, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not the time-saving gaming state (low-probability time-saving gaming state LJT1, low-probability time-saving gaming state LJT2-B) has been set in the above-mentioned step 1003-1. If it is judged that the time-saving gaming state has been set, the process proceeds to step 1004. On the other hand, if it is judged that the time-saving gaming state has not been set, the process proceeds to the next step 1003-3.

In step 1003-3, the main CPU 101 executes a remaining change count update process for updating the first remaining change count and the second remaining change count.
Specifically, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not a first time-saving game flag indicating that the current game state is the time-saving game state JT1 (low-probability time-saving game state LJT1), or a second time-saving game flag indicating that the current game state is the time-saving game state JT2 (low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A, low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B) is on. When it is judged that the first time-saving game flag is on, when the first special chart is stopped and displayed, both the first remaining change number and the second remaining change number are decremented by 1, and when the second special chart is stopped and displayed, only the second remaining change number is decremented by 1. On the other hand, when it is judged that the second time-saving game flag is on, when the second special chart is stopped and displayed, both the first remaining change number and the second remaining change number are decremented by 1, and when the first special chart is stopped and displayed, only the second remaining change number is decremented by 1. Furthermore, when either the first remaining number of fluctuations or the second remaining number of fluctuations becomes "0" as a result of updating (i.e., when the time-saving end condition for ending the time-saving game state is met), a process is executed to turn off the first time-saving game flag or the second time-saving game flag that was on. This ends the currently set time-saving game state JT1 or time-saving game state JT2, and a non-time-saving game state (normal game state) is set. Note that if neither the first time-saving game flag nor the second time-saving game flag is on, the main CPU 101 does not perform any process here. Then, the process proceeds to step 1004 in which the stop display time is determined and set.

Next, the game state setting process at the time of the stopped display in step 1003-1 described above will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG.
In step 1050, the main CPU 101 judges whether the special symbol displayed as stopped is a time-saving symbol. If it is judged that the special symbol displayed as stopped is not a time-saving symbol (i.e., a big win symbol, a small win symbol, or a losing symbol), the process proceeds to step 1053. On the other hand, if it is judged that the special symbol displayed as stopped is a time-saving symbol, the process proceeds to the next step 1051.
In step 1051, the main CPU 101 judges whether the current gaming state is the normal gaming state or not. If it is judged that the current gaming state is not the normal gaming state (i.e., the current gaming state is the low-probability time-saving gaming state LJT1, the low-probability time-saving gaming state LJT2-A, or the low-probability time-saving gaming state LJT2-B), the main CPU 101 ends the game state setting process at the time of the stop display. On the other hand, if it is judged that the current gaming state is the normal gaming state, the process proceeds to the next step 1052.

In step 1052, the main CPU 101 executes a time-saving game state setting process for setting a game state according to the time-saving symbol that has been stopped and displayed.
Specifically, when the time-saving symbol displayed in the stopped state is J1, the main CPU 101 turns on the first time-saving game flag, sets the first time-saving number of times "300" in the first time-saving number of times memory area, sets the second time-saving number of times "305" in the second time-saving number of times memory area, and sets the end determination number of times "1" in the end determination number of times memory area. This sets the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1.
In addition, when the time-saving symbol displayed in the stopped state is J2 or J3, the main CPU 101 turns on the second time-saving game flag, sets the first time-saving number of times "1" in the first time-saving number of times memory area, sets the second time-saving number of times "6" in the second time-saving number of times memory area, and sets the end determination number of times "5" in the end determination number of times memory area. This sets the low probability game state LJT2-B.
Then, the game status setting process at the time of stop display is terminated.

In step 1053, which is reached when it is determined in step 1050 that the special symbol displayed as stopped is not a time-saving symbol, the main CPU 101 determines whether the special symbol displayed as stopped is a small win symbol Y1 or Y2. If it is determined that the special symbol displayed as stopped is neither the small win symbol Y1 nor Y2, the game state setting process at the time of stopped display is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the special symbol displayed as stopped is the small win symbol Y1 or Y2, the process proceeds to the next step 1054.
In step 1054, the main CPU 101 executes a process of updating the number of times that a small amount win has been determined to be a remaining win. Specifically, if the number of times that a small amount win has been determined to be a remaining win is 1 or more, the main CPU 101 decrements the number of times that a small amount win has been determined to be a remaining win by 1. On the other hand, if the number of times that a small amount win has been determined to be a remaining win is 0, the main CPU 101 does not perform any process here. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 1055.

In step 1055, the main CPU 101 judges whether the current gaming state is a time-shortened gaming state (low-probability time-shortened gaming state LJT1, low-probability time-shortened gaming state LJT2-A, or low-probability time-shortened gaming state LJT2-B). If it is judged that the current gaming state is not a time-shortened gaming state (i.e., a normal gaming state), the main CPU 101 ends the gaming state setting process at the time of the stopped display. On the other hand, if it is judged that the current gaming state is a time-shortened gaming state, the process proceeds to the next step 1056.
In step 1056, the main CPU 101 judges whether the number of remaining win determinations has become 0 (i.e., whether the number of determinations of the small win symbol Y1 or Y2 has reached the end determination number) due to the decrement of the number of remaining win determinations by 1 in the above-mentioned step 1054. If it is judged that the number of remaining win determinations is not 0, the game state setting process at the time of the stopped display is terminated. On the other hand, if it is judged that the number of remaining win determinations has become 0, the process proceeds to the next step 1057.

In step 1057, the main CPU 101 executes a normal game state setting process to end the currently set time-saving game state and set the normal game state. Specifically, it turns off both the first time-saving game flag and the second time-saving game flag, and clears the first time-saving count storage area, the second time-saving count storage area, and the end determination count storage area. This ends the currently set low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A, or the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B, and sets the normal game state (non-time-saving game state). Then, it ends the game state setting process when the stop display is on.

Next, the post-stop processing (step 703 of the special chart related control processing (see FIG. 27)) will be explained with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 67.
In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, when it is determined that the special symbol displayed in a stopped state is not a big win symbol, it is determined whether or not the special symbol displayed in a stopped state is a small win symbol.

Specifically, if it is determined in step 1105 that the special symbol displayed in a stopped state is not a big win symbol, the process proceeds to step 1111-1.
In step 1111-1, the main CPU 101 judges whether the special symbol displayed as stopped is a small win symbol or not. If it is judged that the special symbol displayed as stopped is not a small win symbol (i.e., it is a time-saving symbol or a losing symbol), the main CPU 101 proceeds to step 1115 where the game status command is stored in the performance transmission data storage area. On the other hand, if it is judged that the special symbol displayed as stopped is a small win symbol, the main CPU 101 proceeds to the next step 1111-2.
In step 1111-2, the main CPU 101 sets the small win opening time, which is the waiting time set at the start of the small win game, in the small win opening time timer counter, and stores a small win opening command indicating that the opening process in the small win game is to start in the performance transmission data storage area. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 1111-3.

In step 111-3, the main CPU 101 sets the execution phase data to "05" so that the small win game control process is executed in the special chart-related control process. Although not specifically shown, the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment has a small win game control process that controls the small win game as a functional module that constitutes the special chart-related control process, and the execution phase data indicating the execution of this small win game control process is "05". By setting the execution phase data to "05" as described above, the small win game control process is executed. Then, the post-stop process is terminated.

Next, the small win game control processing (functional module (not specifically shown) that constitutes the special chart related control processing) will be explained with reference to the flowchart of Figure 68.
In step 1250, the main CPU 101 judges whether the execution phase data is "05" indicating the execution of the small win game control process. If it is judged that the execution phase data is not "05", the small win game control process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is judged that the execution phase data is "05", the process proceeds to the next step 1251.
In step 1251, the main CPU 101 judges whether the small win opening time set in the small win opening time timer counter in the above-mentioned step 1111-2 has elapsed. If it is judged that the small win opening time has not elapsed, the small win game control process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is judged that the small win opening time has elapsed, the process proceeds to the next step 1252.

In step 1252, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not the small win ending process, which is a waiting process performed after the opening and closing of the large prize opening 18 in this small win game control process, is in progress. If it is judged that the small win ending process is in progress, the process proceeds to step 1256. On the other hand, if it is judged that the small win ending process is not in progress, the process proceeds to the next step 1253.
In step 1253, the main CPU 101 performs a large prize opening opening/closing control process for opening and closing the large prize opening 18 based on the special electric role operation table 112 (the third operation table 112f or the fourth operation table 112g) corresponding to the type of the small prize symbol stopped and displayed. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 1254.

In step 1254, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not the opening and closing of the large prize opening 18 has been completed. If it is judged that the opening and closing of the large prize opening 18 has not been completed, the small prize game control process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is judged that the opening and closing of the large prize opening 18 has been completed, the process proceeds to the next step 1255.
In step 1255, the main CPU 101 sets the small win ending time, which is the waiting time set at the end of the small win game, in the small win ending time timer counter, and stores a small win ending command indicating that the small win ending process is to start in the performance transmission data storage area. Then, the small win game control process is terminated.

In step 1256, which is performed when it is determined in step 1252 that the small win ending process is in progress, the main CPU 101 determines whether the small win ending time set in the small win ending time timer counter in step 1255 has elapsed. If it is determined that the small win ending time has not elapsed, the small win game control process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the small win ending time has elapsed, the process proceeds to the next step 1257.
In step 1257, the main CPU 101 judges whether or not the entry flag is on. If it is judged that the entry flag is not on (i.e., is off), the process proceeds to step 1264. On the other hand, if it is judged that the entry flag is on, the process proceeds to the next step 1259.

In step 1259, the main CPU 101 turns off the entry flag, and then proceeds to the next step 1260.
In step 1260, the main CPU 101 resets the current game state. Then, the process proceeds to step 1261.

In step 1261, the main CPU 101 sets an opening time, which is a waiting time set at the start of a special game, in an opening time timer counter, and stores an opening command indicating that an opening process is to be started in a performance transmission data storage area. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 1262.
In step 1262, the main CPU 101 sets the number of rounds in the main RAM 103 based on the type of small win symbol that is stopped and displayed. In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, when the small win symbol that is stopped and displayed is Y5, Y6, Y7, Y8, or Y9, a predetermined number of game balls can enter the special area during the small win game, and the entry flag can be turned on. In this case, the main CPU 101 sets "10" as the number of rounds. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 1263.
In step 1263, the main CPU 101 sets the execution phase data to "03" so that the special game control process is executed in the special chart related control process. Then, the small win game control process is terminated.

In step 1264, which is reached when it is determined in step 1258 that the entry flag is not on, the main CPU 101 checks the set game state and stores a game state command indicating that game state in the performance transmission data storage area. The main CPU 101 also sets the execution phase data to "00" so that the special symbol variation process is executed in the special symbol related control process. Then, the small win game control process is terminated.

Next, the special game processing (step 706 of the special chart related control processing (see FIG. 27)) will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
In step 1301-1, which is reached when the execution phase data in step 1300 is data "04" indicating the execution of special game end processing, the main CPU 101 judges whether the special symbol displayed as stopped is a predetermined big win symbol (big win symbol X4, X5, X6, X10, X11, X12) or a predetermined small win symbol (small win symbol Y5, Y6, Y7, Y9). If it is determined that the special symbol displayed as stopped is neither a predetermined big win symbol nor a predetermined small win symbol, the process proceeds to step 1304-2. On the other hand, if it is determined that the special symbol displayed as stopped is a predetermined big win symbol or small win symbol, the process proceeds to the next step 1304-1.
In step 1304-1, the main CPU 101 executes a time-saving game state setting process for setting a time-saving game state. Specifically, the main CPU 101 turns on the second time-saving game flag, sets the first time-saving number of times to "6" in the first time-saving number of times storage area, sets the second time-saving number of times to "11" in the second time-saving number of times storage area, and sets the end determination number to "5" in the end determination number of times storage area. This sets the low probability game state LJT2-A. Then, the process proceeds to step 1306 in which the game state designation command is stored in the performance transmission data storage area.

In step 1304-2, which is reached when it is determined that the special symbol stopped and displayed in step 1301-1 is neither the specified big win symbol nor the specified small win symbol, the main CPU 101 executes a normal game state setting process to set the normal game state. Specifically, it turns off both the first time-saving game flag and the second time-saving game flag, and clears the first time-saving number storage area, the second time-saving number storage area, and the end determination number storage area. This sets the normal game state (non-time-saving game state). Then it proceeds to step 1306, where a game state designation command is stored in the performance transmission data storage area.

(Outline of the variable effects in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment)
Next, the variable presentation executed in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment will be explained, focusing on the differences from the first embodiment.

(1) During the normal game state In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, when the RAM is cleared, a jackpot is won and the jackpot pattern X1, X2, X3, X7, X8 or X9 is determined and the special game based on the determination is ended, or when a time-saving end condition for ending the time-saving game state is met during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A or the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B, the normal game state is set and the presentation state is set to the normal presentation state similar to that of the first embodiment.

When the RAM is cleared and the normal game state is set, and when a jackpot is won and the jackpot pattern X1, X2, X3, X7, X8 or X9 is determined and the special game based on that determination ends, the same presentation control (display of the first background image, execution of the suggestion to stay in the chance zone, execution of the suggestion to hit to the left, etc.) is performed as when the normal game state is set in the first form.

When the time-saving end condition is met during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 ends, and the normal game state is set, the first background image is displayed during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 as in the first form, as described below, and this first background image continues to be displayed. Also, during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, the game ball is shot toward the first game area 12a as in the normal game state, so no left-hit suggestion is made. Also, as in the first form, during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, there are both times when the chance zone stay suggestion is made and times when it is not made, but when the normal game state is set as described above, the chance zone stay suggestion is executed.

Incidentally, during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A or the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B, the game ball is shot toward the second game area 12b and enters the second start winning port 16 with high frequency, so when the time-saving end condition is met and the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A or the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B ends and the normal game state is set, there is a high possibility that the second special chart random number will be reserved and stored.
Therefore, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, when the time-saving end condition is satisfied during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A or the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B, and the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A or the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B ends and the normal game state is set, until the display of the variation of the special symbol based on the second special symbol random number (hereinafter also referred to as the second special symbol remaining reservation) stored at the time of this setting ends, the same presentation control (display of the third background image, execution of the chance zone stay suggestion, execution of the left hit suggestion, etc.) as that in the case where the normal game state is set in the first embodiment is performed. Then, when the display of the variation of the special symbol based on the second special symbol remaining reservation ends, the same presentation control (display of the first background image, execution of the chance zone stay suggestion, execution of the left hit suggestion, etc.) as that in the case where the normal game state is set in the first embodiment is performed.

In addition, if a losing symbol Z1 is determined during the normal game state (if the winning/losing lottery based on the first special random number results in a losing result), the variable presentation is executed in the same control and manner as when the winning/losing lottery results in a losing result during the normal game state in the first form. If a jackpot symbol X1, X2, X3, X4, X5, or X6 is determined during the normal game state (if the winning/losing lottery based on the first special random number results in a winning jackpot), the variable presentation is executed in the same control and manner as when the winning/losing lottery results in a winning jackpot during the normal game state in the first form. If a time-saving symbol J1 or J2 is determined during the normal game state (if the winning/losing lottery based on the first special random number results in a winning time-saving lottery), the variable presentation is executed in the same control and manner as when the winning/losing lottery results in a winning time-saving lottery during the normal game state in the first form and the time-saving symbol J1 or J2 is determined.

Also, although not specifically shown, when the small win pattern Y1, Y2, Y3 or Y4 is determined during normal game mode (when a small win is won by the win/lose lottery based on the first special pattern random number), a variation presentation is executed according to the normal non-winning variation pattern which is executed when the result of the win/lose lottery during normal game mode in the first form is a miss.
In addition, when a small winning pattern is determined in the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, the stopping display mode of the performance pattern 50 is set to be the non-winning mode of the first embodiment, but this is not limited to this, and the stopping display mode may be different from the non-winning mode and the winning mode.

In addition, when a win/loss lottery based on the second special chart random number (second special chart remaining reserve) is conducted during the normal game state (i.e., when a win/loss lottery based on the second special chart random number during the normal game state results in a loss and loss symbol Z2 is determined, when a win/loss lottery based on the second special chart random number during the normal game state results in a big win and big win symbol X7, X8, X9, X10, X11 or X12 is determined, when a win/loss lottery based on the second special chart random number during the normal game state results in a small win and small win symbol Y5, Y6, Y8 or Y9 is determined, and when a win/loss lottery based on the second special chart random number during the normal game state results in a time-saving bonus and time-saving symbol J3 is determined), a variable presentation using special pattern A is performed in all of these cases.

This special pattern A is a mode in which the display of all the performance symbols 50 changes as the display of the special symbol starts, and when the change time has elapsed, the display of all the performance symbols 50 changes ends at the same time (all the performance symbols 50 are displayed stopped at the same time). In the change display by this special pattern A, in conjunction with the display of the change of the performance symbols 50, a button press operation display is executed on the entire surface of the display unit 21a, which suggests the result of the win/lose lottery based on the player pressing the operation button 9b.

Specifically, in the button press operation performance, when the display of the performance pattern 50 starts to change, a press operation performance execution image (for example, a text image saying "One hit chance") indicating that the button press operation performance will be executed and a press operation performance explanation image (for example, a text image saying "Press the button and decide with one hit!!") explaining the contents of the button press operation performance are displayed (see FIG. 70(b)). After that, a press operation suggestion image encouraging the pressing of the operation button 9b is displayed (see FIG. 70(c)). Then, if the operation button 9b is pressed before the valid press operation time (for example, 3 seconds) during which the pressing operation of the operation button 9b becomes valid has elapsed, or if the valid press operation time has elapsed without the operation button 9b being pressed, then if the result of the win/lose lottery is a big win or a small win, a special medium win indication is made to suggest that fact (for example, display of a special medium win indication image such as "BONUS!!"), if the result of the win/lose lottery is a win for a time-saving grant, a special medium time-saving grant indication is made to suggest that fact (for example, display of a special medium time-saving grant winning indication image such as "SUPER TIME!!"), and if the result of the win/lose lottery is a loss, a special loss indication is made to suggest that fact (for example, display of a special loss indication image such as "LOSE...") (see Figures 70(d) to (f)).
In addition, in the button press operation presentation, it is set up so that the same type of special medium win suggestion is made regardless of whether the result of the win/lose lottery is a big win or a small win, but this is not limited to this, and different types of special medium win suggestions may be made depending on whether a small win is won or a big win.

(2) During the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, when the time-saving grant is won by the winning/losing lottery based on the first special random number during the normal game state and the time-saving symbol J1 is determined, the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 is set, and the presentation state is set to the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1 similar to the first embodiment. Also, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, when the power is restored from a power outage without RAM clearing during the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1, the presentation state is set to the low-probability time-saving presentation state A2 similar to the first embodiment. Then, during the low-probability time-saving presentation state A2, when the time-saving grant is won by the winning/losing lottery based on the first special random number and the time-saving symbol J1 or J2 is determined, or when the time-saving grant is won by the winning/losing lottery based on the second special random number and the time-saving symbol J3 is determined, the presentation state is set to the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1.
In addition, in the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, even if a game ball is shot toward the second game area 12b, the game ball will not enter the second start winning port 16, so basically, a win/loss lottery based on the second special chart random number is not held during this low-probability time-saving game state LJT1. However, for example, in a case where, during a low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A or during a low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B, a game ball enters the first start winning port 15 and the first special chart random number is reserved and stored, and further, a game ball enters the second start winning port 16 and the second special chart random number is reserved and stored, after the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A or the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B ends and the normal game state is set, a win/lose lottery is held based on the above-mentioned reserved and stored first special chart random number, and when the time-saving award is won and the time-saving pattern J1 is determined, a low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 is then set, so that during the set low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, a win/lose lottery may be held based on the second special chart random number reserved and stored during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A or during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B.

(2-1) During the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1 As described above, by determining the time-saving pattern J1 during the normal game state, a low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 is set, and when the presentation state is set to the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1 similar to the first form, the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 is set in the first form, and presentation control is performed similar to when the presentation state is set to the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1 (ending the suggestion to stay in the chance zone, continuing to display the first background image, not executing the suggestion to hit left, etc.).

In addition, if a losing symbol Z1 is determined during the low-probability time-saving performance state A1 (if the winning/losing lottery based on the first special random number results in a losing result), the variable performance is executed in the same control and manner as when the winning/losing lottery results in a losing result during the low-probability time-saving performance state A1 in the first form. If a winning symbol X1, X2, X3, X4, X5, or X6 is determined during the low-probability time-saving performance state A1 (if the winning/losing lottery based on the first special random number results in a winning jackpot), the variable performance is executed in the same control and manner as when the winning/losing lottery results in a winning jackpot during the low-probability time-saving performance state A1 in the first form. If the time-saving pattern J1 or J2 is determined during the low-probability time-saving performance state A1 (if the time-saving grant is won by the win/lose lottery based on the first special pattern random number), the variable performance is executed with the same control and manner as when the win/lose lottery results in a win for the time-saving grant during the low-probability time-saving performance state A1 in the first form and the time-saving pattern J1 or J2 is determined.

In addition, although not specifically shown, if the small win pattern Y1, Y2, Y3 or Y4 is determined during the low-probability time-saving performance state A1 (if the small win is won by the win/lose lottery based on the first special pattern random number), a variation performance is executed according to the normal non-winning variation pattern executed during the low-probability time-saving performance state A1 in the first form.

In addition, in the case where a winning/losing lottery based on the second special chart random number (second special chart remaining reserve) is conducted during the low-probability time-saving performance state A1 (i.e., when a winning/losing lottery based on the second special chart random number during the low-probability time-saving performance state A1 results in a losing result and a losing symbol Z2 is determined, when a winning/losing lottery based on the second special chart random number during the low-probability time-saving performance state A1 results in a winning/losing result and a winning symbol X7, X8, X9, X10, X11 or X12 is determined, when a winning/losing lottery based on the second special chart random number during the low-probability time-saving performance state A1 results in a small winning result and a small winning symbol Y5, Y6, Y8 or Y9 is determined, and when a winning/losing lottery based on the second special chart random number during the low-probability time-saving performance state A1 results in a time-saving grant winning result and a time-saving symbol J3 is determined), in all of these cases, a variable performance based on the special pattern A is conducted in the same manner as during the normal game state.
Also, in the same way as in the normal game state, in the button press operation presentation, if there is a miss, a special miss suggestion is made, and if there is a big win or a small win, a special win suggestion is made. In contrast, even if a time-saving grant is won during the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1 (low-probability time-saving game state LJT1), a new time-saving game state is not set, so if a time-saving grant is won, a special time-saving grant suggestion is not made, and a special miss suggestion is made.

(2-2) During low-probability time-saving presentation state A2 If a power outage occurs during low-probability time-saving presentation state A1 and the power is restored without RAM clear processing (normal power outage restoration processing is executed), the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 remains as it is and the presentation state is set to low-probability time-saving presentation state A2, presentation control (execution of a suggestion to stay in the chance zone, display of the first background image, etc.) is performed in the same manner as when the presentation state is set to the low-probability time-saving presentation state A2 in the first form.

In addition, if a losing symbol Z1 is determined during the low-probability time-saving performance state A2 (if the winning/losing lottery based on the first special random number results in a losing result), the variable performance is executed in the same control and manner as when the winning/losing lottery results in a losing result during the low-probability time-saving performance state A2 in the first form. If a winning symbol X1, X2, X3, X4, X5, or X6 is determined during the low-probability time-saving performance state A2 (if the winning/losing lottery based on the first special random number results in a winning jackpot), the variable performance is executed in the same control and manner as when the winning/losing lottery results in a winning jackpot during the low-probability time-saving performance state A2 in the first form. If the time-saving pattern J1 or J2 is determined during the low-probability time-saving performance state A2 (if the time-saving grant is won by the win/lose lottery based on the first special pattern random number), the variable performance is executed with the same control and manner as when the win/lose lottery results in a win for the time-saving grant during the low-probability time-saving performance state A2 in the first form and the time-saving pattern J1 or J2 is determined.

In addition, although not specifically shown, if the small win pattern Y1, Y2, Y3 or Y4 is determined during the low-probability time-saving performance state A2 (if the small win is won by the win/lose lottery based on the first special pattern random number), a variation performance is executed according to the normal non-winning variation pattern executed during the low-probability time-saving performance state A2 in the first form.

In addition, in the case where a winning/losing lottery based on the second special chart random number (second special chart remaining reserve) is conducted during the low-probability time-saving performance state A2 (i.e., when a winning/losing lottery based on the second special chart random number during the low-probability time-saving performance state A2 results in a losing result and a losing symbol Z2 is determined, when a winning/losing lottery based on the second special chart random number during the low-probability time-saving performance state A2 results in a big winning result and a big winning symbol X7, X8, X9, X10, X11 or X12 is determined, when a winning/losing lottery based on the second special chart random number during the low-probability time-saving performance state A2 results in a small winning result and a small winning symbol Y5, Y6, Y8 or Y9 is determined, and when a winning/losing lottery based on the second special chart random number during the low-probability time-saving performance state A2 results in a time-saving grant winning result and a time-saving symbol J3 is determined), a variable performance based on the special pattern A is conducted in the same manner as during the normal game state and during the low-probability time-saving performance state A1.
Also, in the same manner as during the normal game state and during the low-probability time-saving performance state A1, in the button press operation performance, if there is a miss, a special miss suggestion is made, and if there is a big win or a small win, a special win suggestion is made. In contrast, even if a time-saving award is won during the low-probability time-saving performance state A2 (during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1), a new time-saving game state is not set, so that in the case of a time-saving award win, as during the low-probability time-saving performance state A1, a special time-saving award suggestion is not made, and a special miss suggestion is made.

In addition, in the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, although not specifically shown, when the variable presentation executed at the time when the time-saving end condition is satisfied during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 ends, a normal game state setting suggestion presentation (for example, display of a specific character image, etc.) is executed to suggest that the normal game state will be set.
This allows the player to understand that the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 has ended and the normal game state has been set, even if the player is unable to know whether the game is in the normal game state or the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 because the player is in the low-probability time-saving presentation state A2.

(3) During low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 (during low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A, during low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B)
In the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, when the time-saving symbol J2 is selected by the winning/losing lottery based on the first special symbol random number during the normal game state, or when the time-saving symbol J3 is selected by the winning/losing lottery based on the second special symbol random number during the normal game state, the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B is set, and the presentation state is set to the low-probability time-saving presentation state B-1. Also, when the big win is won, the big win symbol X4, X5, X6, X10, X11 or X12 is determined, and the special game based on the determination is terminated, or when the small win is won, the small win symbol Y5, Y6, Y7 or Y8 is determined, and the special game executed through the small win game based on the determination is terminated, the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A is set, and the presentation state is set to the low-probability time-saving presentation state B-1 similar to the case where the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B is set.

As described above, when the low probability time-saving game state LJT2-A or low probability time-saving game state LJT2-B is set and the presentation state is set to the low probability time-saving presentation state B-1, the same presentation control as when the low probability time-saving presentation state B is set in the first form is performed (if a suggestion of staying in the chance zone has been performed, the suggestion of staying in the chance zone is ended, the third background image is displayed, a suggestion of setting a highly advantageous state is executed, a suggestion of hitting to the right is executed, etc.) (see FIG. 70(a)).

Here, as described above, in the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, the first special chart random number that is reserved and stored before the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A or the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B is set may be processed (a win/loss lottery and a variable display of the first special chart are executed) after the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A or the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B is set.
Then, when a losing symbol Z1 is determined during the low probability time-saving game state LJT2-A or the low probability time-saving game state LJT2-B (when a losing symbol is determined by a winning/losing lottery based on the first special random number), when a winning symbol X1, X2, X3, X4, X5 or X6 is determined during the low probability time-saving game state LJT2-A or the low probability time-saving game state LJT2-B (when a winning/losing lottery based on the first special random number is determined), the low probability time-saving game state LJT2 When the small win pattern Y1, Y2, Y3 or Y4 is determined during -A or the low-probability time-saving play state LJT2-B (when a small win is won by a win/lose lottery based on the first special chart random number), and when the time-saving pattern J1 or J2 is determined during the low-probability time-saving play state LJT2-A or the low-probability time-saving play state LJT2-B (when a time-saving grant is won by a win/lose lottery based on the first special chart random number), a variable performance using special pattern B is performed.

In this special pattern B, like special pattern A, the display of the special pattern begins and the display of all the performance patterns 50 begins, and when the display time has elapsed, the display of all the performance patterns 50 ends at the same time (all the performance patterns 50 are displayed stopped at the same time). However, in the display of the change by special pattern B, the button press operation display is not executed. And, if the result of the winning/losing lottery is a loss without the button press operation display being executed, the above-mentioned special mid-time loss suggestion is executed, and if the big win is won, the special mid-time win suggestion is executed. In contrast, even if the time-saving grant is won during the low probability time-saving game state LJT2-A or low probability time-saving game state LJT2-B, a new time-saving game state is not set, so if the result of the winning/losing lottery is a win for the time-saving grant, the special mid-time time-saving grant suggestion is not executed, and the special mid-time loss suggestion is executed. Also, if the result of the winning/losing lottery is a win for the small win, the special mid-time win suggestion is not executed, and the special mid-time loss suggestion is executed.

In addition, when a lottery for determining whether a winning or losing symbol is selected based on the second special random number during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A or the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B (i.e., when a lottery for determining whether a winning or losing symbol is selected based on the second special random number during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A or the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B results in a loss and the losing symbol Z2 is determined, when a lottery for determining whether a winning or losing symbol is selected based on the second special random number during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A or the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B results in a winning or losing symbol X7, X8, X9, X10, X11, or X12 is determined) In all of the following cases, when a small jackpot is won by a win/lose lottery based on the second special chart random number during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A or the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B and the small jackpot pattern Y5, Y6, Y8 or Y9 is determined, and when a time-saving award is won by a win/lose lottery based on the second special chart random number during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A or the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B and the time-saving pattern J3 is determined, a variable presentation using special pattern A is performed, just like during the normal game state, the low-probability time-saving presentation state A1 or the low-probability time-saving presentation state A2.
Also, in the normal game state, as in the low probability time-saving presentation state A1 and the low probability time-saving presentation state A2, in the button press operation presentation, if there is a miss, a special miss suggestion is made, and if there is a big win or a small win, a special win suggestion is made. On the other hand, if there is a win for time-saving award, as in the low probability time-saving presentation state A1 and the low probability time-saving presentation state A2, no special time-saving award suggestion is made, and a special miss suggestion is made.

(Modifications of the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment)
In the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, the time-saving end conditions for terminating the time-saving game state are set as the time-saving end conditions for special patterns such as the number of times the special pattern changes (the number of times the special pattern changes) and the number of times the small winning pattern is determined, but this is not limited to this, and time-saving end conditions for normal patterns such as the number of times the normal pattern changes (the number of times the normal pattern changes) may also be set.

Specifically, for example, the low probability time-saving game state LJT2-A, the low probability time-saving game state LJT2-B, and the low probability time-saving game state LJT2-B may be set to end when the time-saving end condition of the number of times of fluctuation of the first special pattern or the second special pattern described above is satisfied, as well as when the time-saving end condition of the number of times of fluctuation of the normal pattern reaches a predetermined number of times of time-saving of the normal pattern (for example, 5 times, etc.) is satisfied. In addition, when set in this way, a gate through which the game ball can pass and the lottery of the normal pattern and the variable display of the normal pattern are executed when the game ball passes is provided not only in the second game area 12b but also in the first game area 12a. Note that, instead of the gate, the first game area 12a may be provided with a normal pattern start winning hole through which the game ball can enter and the lottery of the normal pattern and the variable display of the normal pattern are executed when the game ball enters.
In this manner, in the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A and the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B in which the player mainly plays in the second game area 12b, the currently set low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A and the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B end and the normal game state is set not only when a time-saving end condition is met regarding the number of times the special pattern (second special pattern) is displayed in a variable manner, which is mainly caused by the game ball entering the second start winning port 16, but also when a time-saving end condition is met regarding the number of times the normal pattern is displayed in a variable manner, which is mainly caused by the game ball passing through the gate 20 provided in the second game area 12b.
In addition, in the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 in which the player mainly plays in the first game area 12a, the currently set low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 ends and the normal game state is set not only when a time-saving end condition is met regarding the number of times the special pattern (first special pattern) changes, which is mainly caused by the game ball entering the first start winning port 15, but also when a time-saving end condition is met regarding the number of times the normal pattern changes, which is mainly caused by the game ball passing through a gate provided in the first game area 12a (or by the game ball entering the normal pattern start winning port).
By doing as described above, the variety of triggers for ending the time-saving gaming state is increased, improving gameplay and increasing the player's interest.

Furthermore, when a time-saving termination condition is set not only regarding the number of times the special pattern changes, as described above, but also regarding the number of times the normal pattern changes, an indication of the remaining number of times the special pattern changes until the set time-saving game state ends (first remaining number of times, second remaining number of times, etc.) and an indication that the set time-saving game state has ended and the normal game state has been set when the remaining number of times the special pattern changes has reached 0 may be given, but an indication of the remaining number of times the normal pattern changes until the set time-saving game state ends and the normal game state has been set when the remaining number of times the normal pattern changes has reached 0 may not be given.
In other words, while the success or failure of the time-saving termination condition for the special pattern and the termination of the time-saving game state based on the time-saving termination condition are not kept secret, the success or failure of the time-saving termination condition for the normal pattern and the termination of the time-saving game state based on the time-saving termination condition may be kept secret.
In this case, it is possible to make it difficult for the player to know when the currently set time-saving game state will end and when it has ended, thereby improving gameplay and increasing the player's interest.

Also, in the above-mentioned cases, no indication may be given of the remaining number of times the special pattern will change until the set time-shortened game state ends, and no indication may be given that the set time-shortened game state has ended and the normal game state has been set because the remaining number of times the special pattern will change has reached 0, and further no indication may be given of the remaining number of times the normal pattern will change until the set time-shortened game state ends, and no indication may be given that the remaining number of times the normal pattern will change until the set time-shortened game state ends and the normal game state has been set because the remaining number of times the normal pattern will change has reached 0.
In other words, it is possible to keep confidential all of the following: whether the time-saving end condition for the special pattern is met and the end of the time-saving game state based on that time-saving end condition, and whether the time-saving end condition for the normal pattern is met and the end of the time-saving game state based on that time-saving end condition.

In addition, rather than defining both a time-saving end condition for special symbols and a time-saving end condition for normal symbols in all time-saving game states that can be set, it is possible to define both a time-saving end condition for special symbols and a time-saving end condition for normal symbols only in some time-saving game states, and to define only a time-saving end condition for special symbols in other time-saving game states.
For example, in the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, both a time-saving end condition related to the number of times the special pattern changes and a time-saving end condition related to the number of times the normal pattern changes may be set, and in the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A and the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B, only a time-saving end condition related to the number of times the special pattern changes may be set.
Also, for example, in the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-A and the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B, both a time-saving end condition related to the number of times the special pattern changes and a time-saving end condition related to the number of times the normal pattern changes may be set, and in the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, only a time-saving end condition related to the number of times the special pattern changes may be set.
In this case, the trigger for ending the time-saving gaming state differs depending on the type of the time-saving gaming state, improving gameplay and increasing the interest of the player.

In addition, in the same time-saving game state, multiple time-saving end conditions for normal symbols may be set.
For example, time-saving patterns J1-1 and J1-2 are provided as time-saving patterns for setting the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, and the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, which is set based on the determination of the time-saving pattern J1-1 in the normal game state, may be set to end when the number of times the normal pattern changes reaches a first normal time-saving number (for example, 5 times), and the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1, which is set based on the determination of the time-saving pattern J1-2 in the normal game state, may be set to end when the number of times the normal pattern changes reaches a second normal time-saving number (for example, 10 times).
In this case, the same time-saving game state will end depending on the time-saving ending conditions related to different normal symbols, improving gameplay and increasing the player's interest.

In addition, even when both the time-saving end condition for the special pattern and the time-saving end condition for the normal pattern are defined, the time-saving end condition for the special pattern may be defined not only by the number of times the special pattern is displayed in a variable manner, but also by the number of times the small winning pattern is determined, as in the second form.
In addition, the conditions for ending the time-saving feature regarding the normal symbols may be determined not only by the number of times the normal symbols are displayed in a variable manner, but also by the number of times that the lottery result in a winning normal symbol has reached a predetermined number, the number of times that the lottery result in a losing normal symbol has reached a predetermined number, or, when the lottery result in a losing normal symbol is set so that one of a plurality of normal symbols is selected, the number of times a predetermined normal symbol has been selected may reach a predetermined number, etc.

In the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, the winning/losing lottery based on the first special chart random number derives either a big win, a small win, a win for the time-saving bonus, or a loss, and the probability of winning the time-saving bonus is set to approximately 1/30, but is not limited to this.
For example, it may be set so that the lottery result of either the big win, the small win, or the time-saving award is derived without deriving a miss lottery result, and all the numbers other than the win/no win random numbers that are determined to be the big win or the small win are determined to be the time-saving award. In other words, it may be set so that if the big win or the small win is not won, the time-saving award is always won.
In this case, since there is an extremely high probability of winning the time-saving grant, when the normal game state is set, the player will almost always win the time-saving grant by the first winning/losing lottery based on the first special pattern random number after the setting, and the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 will be set based on the determination of the time-saving pattern J1, or the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B will be set based on the determination of the time-saving pattern J2. In other words, only in the first winning/losing lottery after the setting of the normal game state, the expectation of the lottery result of winning the time-saving grant, which allows the setting of the advantageous low-probability time-saving game state LJT2-B, is high, so that the playability can be improved.

In addition, the winning/losing lottery based on the second special chart random number may also be set in the same manner as described above.
Also, in the case of a pachinko machine where the lottery result of the small prize is not derived, and only the lottery result of the big prize and the time-saving grant is derived, the same setting may be made. Specifically, in the lottery, the lottery result of the loss is not derived, and the lottery result of either the big prize or the time-saving grant is derived, and all the numbers other than the random numbers determined to be the big prize are determined to be the time-saving grant. In other words, if the big prize is not won, it may be set to always be the time-saving grant.

In the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, when the varying display of the special pattern has finished, processing is performed to set the time-saving play state based on the stopped display of the time-saving pattern, and then a remaining variation count update process is executed so that the time-saving pattern is displayed stopped in the time-saving play state, but this is not limited to this.
For example, when the variable display of the special symbol starts, information such as the game state set at the start time, the first remaining number of changes, the second remaining number of changes, etc. is stored in a predetermined reserve area of the main RAM 103, and when the variable display of the special symbol ends, the information stored in this reserve area is stored in a predetermined memory area. Then, if the special symbol displayed in a stopped state is a time-saving symbol, information on the game state set at the start time of the variable display of the special symbol is referenced from among the information stored in this predetermined memory area, and if the game state is a time-saving game state, processing may be performed so that the time-saving symbol is displayed in a stopped state in the time-saving game state.
Even in this case, the same effects as those of the pachinko machine P of this embodiment can be achieved.

In the pachinko machine P of this embodiment, when the varying display of the special pattern ends (when the special pattern is displayed stopped), processing is executed to set the time-saving game state based on the stopped display of the time-saving pattern, and processing is executed to update the remaining number of variations, but this is not limited to this.
For example, when the variable display of the special symbol ends and the stop display time has elapsed, a process for setting the time-saving game state based on the stopped display of the time-saving symbol and a process for updating the remaining number of changes may be executed. Even in this case, when the above-mentioned stop display time has elapsed, a process for setting the time-saving game state based on the stopped display of the time-saving symbol is executed, and then a process for updating the remaining number of changes may be executed, so that the time-saving symbol is stopped and displayed in the time-saving game state.
Even in this case, the same effects as those of the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment can be achieved.

(others)
(1) If multiple setting values are set, the probability of winning the time-saving award may be the same for all setting values, or the probability of winning the time-saving award may be different depending on the setting value.
Also, it may be set so that the time-saving award is won in either the win/lose lottery based on the game ball entering the first start winning port 15 or the win/lose lottery based on the game ball entering the second start winning port 16, or it may be set so that the time-saving award is won in only one of the win/lose lotteries. The probability of winning the time-saving award in the win/lose lottery based on the game ball entering the first start winning port 15 and the probability of winning the time-saving award in the win/lose lottery based on the game ball entering the second start winning port 16 may be the same or different.
Also, the number of time-saving times may be set to be different depending on the set game state and the type of time-saving symbol that is determined when the time-saving award is won. Also, the number of time-saving times determined depending on the set game state and the type of time-saving symbol that is determined when the time-saving award is won may be 0 times, or may be always 1 time or more.
In addition, when setting a different number of time-saving times for each time-saving pattern that is determined, the number of time-saving times and the probability of determining the time-saving pattern may be determined in relation to the probability of winning a jackpot in the win/lose lottery, and may be set to a value within a range that does not make it too gambling-oriented (for example, if the probability of winning a jackpot in a low-probability game state (in a pachinko machine with multiple setting values, the lowest probability of winning a jackpot in a low-probability game state) is 1/P, then the number of time-saving times ≦ P × specific coefficient A, and the probability of determining the time-saving pattern ≦ P × specific coefficient B).
In addition, a plurality of conditions may be set for ending the time-saving game state that is set based on the determination of the time-saving symbol. For example, the time-saving game state may be set to end when either the number of times of the variable display of the special symbol based on the entry of the game ball into the first start winning hole 15 and the number of times of the variable display of the special symbol based on the entry of the game ball into the second start winning hole 16 reaches a predetermined number (time-saving number C1), or the number of times of the variable display of the special symbol based on the entry of the game ball into the second start winning hole 16 reaches a predetermined number (time-saving number C2) is satisfied. In addition, when set in this way, the larger of the time-saving number C1 and the time-saving number C2 may be set to a value that is determined in relation to the probability of winning the jackpot in the win/lose lottery as described above and is within a range that does not make the game too gambling-oriented.

(2) It may be set up so that both the winning or losing of the time-saving grant and the number of times the time-saving grant is to be applied can be determined by a winning or losing lottery using a winning or losing random number. In other words, the winning or losing of the time-saving grant and the number of times the time-saving grant is to be applied can be determined by the same random number and the same process, rather than by separate random numbers and separate processes.

(3) When a time-saving award is won during the low-probability time-saving game state LJT1 or the low-probability time-saving game state LJT2 that is set based on the winning of the time-saving award, the time-saving game state may be reset based on the winning, and the number of time-saving times associated with the determined time-saving pattern may be reset. Also, instead of resetting the number of time-saving times associated with the time-saving pattern, the number of time-saving times may be added to the number of time-saving times remaining at that time.
In addition, the number of time-saving times, which is set based on the winning of the time-saving symbol, may be determined in advance for each type of time-saving symbol, or may be determined in advance for each type of time-saving symbol and the set game state.

(4) In the case where a game state that combines a high probability game state and a non-time-saving game state can be set, when a time-saving bonus is awarded and a time-saving symbol is determined during that game state, the time-saving game state may be set based on that determination.

(5) In a pachinko machine in which the game state after the end of a special game based on winning a jackpot can be set to a high-probability game state, the probability A1 that the game state after the end of a special game based on winning a jackpot during a low-probability game state will be set to a high-probability game state, and the probability A2 that the game state after the end of a special game based on winning a jackpot during a high-probability game state will be set to a high-probability game state may be set to the same value or to different values.
The above-mentioned probabilities A1 and A2 may be set to be the same regardless of the type of special random number (first special random number, second special random number) used in the winning/losing lottery, or may be set to be different values depending on the type of special random number. The above-mentioned probabilities A1 and A2 may be set to be the same regardless of the type of special pattern determined when a jackpot is won, or may be set to be different values depending on the type of special pattern. The above-mentioned probabilities A1 and A2 may be set to be different values depending on the type of special random number used in the winning/losing lottery and the type of special pattern determined when a jackpot is won.
When set in this manner, there is a wide variation in the probability that a high probability game state is set from a low probability game state through the execution of a special game, and that a high probability game state is set again from a high probability game state through the execution of a special game, and therefore the gameplay that can be provided to the player can be made more varied.

(6) In a pachinko machine that can end a high-probability game state and set a low-probability game state through a fall-out lottery, the determination probability B of ending the high-probability game state and setting a low-probability game state may be set to only one value or to multiple values.
If only one value is set, the fall-out lottery is always conducted using that value, and if multiple values are set, the fall-out lottery may be conducted using any of the values depending on the situation (for example, depending on the number of times the special pattern has changed since the high probability game state was set, the type of starting winning hole into which the game ball entered, etc.).
The determination probability B may be set to be the same regardless of the set game state (high probability time-saving game state, high probability non-time-saving game state combining the high probability game state and the non-time-saving game state). The determination probability B may be set to be the same regardless of the type of special random number (first special random number, second special random number) used in the winning/losing lottery, or may be set to be different depending on the type of special random number. The determination probability B may be set to be the same regardless of the type of special pattern (losing pattern) determined in the case of a loss, or may be set to be different depending on the type of special pattern. The determination probability B may be set to be different depending on the set game state, the type of special random number used in the winning/losing lottery, and the type of special pattern determined in the case of a loss.
When set in this manner, the probability that a high probability game state ends and a low probability game state is set can be varied, and the gameplay that can be provided to the player can be made more varied.

The various settings and controls of the above-described embodiments and modified examples may be combined with each other within a range that does not cause contradictions.
Moreover, the big win symbol in the second form corresponds to the specific symbol of the present invention. Moreover, the time-saving symbol J2 in the second form corresponds to the special symbol of the present invention. Moreover, the main CPU 101 which executes the process of step 807 in the second form corresponds to the special symbol determination means of the present invention. Moreover, the first special symbol display device 30 or the second special symbol display device 31 in the second form corresponds to the special symbol display means of the present invention. Moreover, the normal game state in the second form corresponds to the first game state of the present invention. Moreover, the low probability time-saving game state LJT2-B in the second form corresponds to the second game state of the present invention. Moreover, the main CPU 101 which executes the process of the game state setting process at the time of stop display, the process of step 1304-1, step 1304-2, etc. in the second form corresponds to the setting means of the present invention. Moreover, the pachinko machine P in the above-mentioned form corresponds to the game machine of the present invention.

P Pachinko machine 100 Main control board 101 Main CPU
102 Main ROM
103 Main RAM
300 Sub-control board 301 Sub-CPU
302 Sub ROM
303 Sub RAM

Claims (1)

A special symbol determination means for determining, based on the establishment of a predetermined condition, a specific symbol associated with the execution of a special game advantageous to a player, and a plurality of special symbols including a special symbol different from the specific symbol;
A special symbol display means capable of displaying the special symbol in a stopped state;
A setting means capable of setting any one of a plurality of game states including a first game state , a second game state having a higher advantage than the first game state, and a third game state having a lower advantage than the first game state ;
A performance execution means capable of executing a variable performance that executes a notification regarding the determination by the special symbol determination means,
The special symbols include at least a first special symbol and a second special symbol,
the setting means sets the third game state when the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in the first game state, sets the second game state when the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in the first game state, maintains the second game state when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the second game state, and maintains the third game state when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the third game state;
The second gaming state is ended when the number of times the special symbol is determined by the special symbol determination means reaches a predetermined number of times.
when the special symbol is determined by the special symbol determination means for the predetermined number of times in the second game state, the second game state is maintained by determining that the special symbol has been stopped and displayed in the second game state, and then the second game state is ended by determining that the number of times the special symbol has been determined has reached a predetermined number ;
a stop display time of the special symbol when the special symbol is determined in the third gaming state is shorter than a stop display time of the special symbol when the special symbol is determined in the first gaming state;
The performance execution means includes:
In both the first case in which the setting of the second game state is determined by determining the first special symbol in the first game state, and the second case in which the setting of the third game state is determined by determining the second special symbol in the first game state, the variable presentation can be executed in a common manner;
A gaming machine characterized in that , in the first case, a notification according to a first pattern is executed in the variable presentation, and, in the second case, a notification according to a second pattern is executed in the variable presentation .

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