JP7500464B2 - Gaming Machines - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to gaming machines, such as pachinko machines, that can be controlled to create advantageous conditions for players.

Some gaming machines use a launching device to launch gaming balls, which are the gaming medium, into a gaming area, and when the gaming balls enter a winning area, such as a winning slot, provided in the gaming area, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out to the player. In addition, some gaming machines are provided with a variable display device that can variably display (also called "variable") identification information, and are configured to change the gaming state (the state of the gaming machine; specifically, the state in which the gaming machine is controlled) and provide a predetermined gaming value to the player when the display result of the variable display of the identification information on the variable display device becomes a specific display result (so-called pachinko machines).

The gaming value refers to the state of the variable winning ball device installed in the gaming area of the gaming machine becoming advantageous to the player in terms of making it easier for the ball to win, generating rights that lead to advantageous conditions for the player, or making it easier for the conditions for the payout of winning balls to be met.

In a pachinko game machine, a "jackpot" occurs when a predetermined specific display mode is derived and displayed as a result of the variable display of a special pattern (identification information) that is started on the variable display device based on the entry of a game ball into the start winning hole. The derived display means that a pattern (final stop pattern) is finally stopped and displayed. When a jackpot occurs, for example, the big prize winning hole opens a predetermined number of times, and the game moves to a big prize game state in which the ball is more likely to win. Then, during each opening period, if a predetermined number (e.g., 10) of big prize winning holes are won, the big prize winning hole closes. The number of times the big prize winning hole opens is fixed to a predetermined number (e.g., 15 rounds). An opening time (e.g., 29 seconds) is determined for each opening, and the big prize winning hole closes when the opening time has elapsed even if the number of winning holes does not reach the predetermined number. Hereinafter, the opening period of each big prize winning hole may be called a round. Also, the game during a round may be called a round game.

In addition, in a state where a pattern other than the pattern that will be the final stop pattern (for example, the center pattern among the left, middle, and right patterns) on a variable display device continues for a predetermined time and stops, oscillates, expands and contracts, or changes shape while matching a specific display result, or where multiple patterns fluctuate synchronously with the same pattern, or the positions of the displayed patterns are swapped, and the possibility of a jackpot occurring continues before the final result is displayed (hereinafter, these states are referred to as reach states), a reach effect is called a reach effect. Also, a reach state and its appearance are referred to as a reach mode. Furthermore, a variable display that includes a reach effect is referred to as a reach variable display. If the display result of the pattern variably displayed on the variable display device is not a specific display result, it is a "miss" and the variable display state ends. The player plays while enjoying how to generate a jackpot.

Some of these gaming machines suggest that control will be performed in an advantageous state and can execute multiple types of suggestive effects with different degrees of expectation depending on the presentation mode, and use a displayed special image to change the suggestive effect to a presentation mode with a higher expectation. For example, Patent Document 1 describes that a pseudo consecutive prediction effect, a development prediction effect, or an active hold prediction effect is executed by a gift image displayed when the same type of gift box is opened. Also, for example, Patent Document 2 describes that information called "gimmick stock" is displayed on the screen to communicate to the player that a strong prediction effect in which a moving object falls will be executed later.

JP 2015-134097 A JP 2018-50980 A

However, the gaming machines described in Patent Documents 1 and 2 leave room for improvement in the presentation using special images.

Therefore, the present invention aims to provide a gaming machine that can increase the interest of the effects that use special images.

The gaming machine according to the present invention comprises:
A gaming machine that can be controlled to an advantageous state that is advantageous to a player,
A suggestion performance execution means for suggesting that the game will be controlled to the advantageous state and capable of executing a plurality of types of suggestion performances including at least a first suggestion performance and a second suggestion performance having different expectations depending on the performance mode;
A special image display effect execution means capable of displaying a special image;
and a special effect execution means capable of executing a special effect that changes the suggestive effect being executed in one performance mode to a performance mode having a higher expectation than the one performance mode by using the displayed special image,
The special image display effect execution means displays the special image in a manner that the special image moves so as to pass through a display position of the suggestion effect that is a target of the special effect during a period before the special effect is executed,
The special effect execution means is capable of executing the special effect by a predetermined pattern of executing the special effect by changing the presentation mode of the first suggestion effect after the special image is stopped at a specific position, and a specific pattern of executing the special effect by changing the presentation mode of the second suggestion effect after the special image passes the specific position without being stopped at the specific position,
The ratio of the special effect being controlled to the advantageous state when the special effect is executed according to the predetermined pattern is different from the ratio of the special effect being executed according to the specific pattern,
When the presentation mode is changed by the special presentation, the suggestion presentation has a longer execution time than when the presentation mode is not changed by the special presentation.
It is characterized by:
Such a configuration can increase the enjoyment of the game.
The other gaming machine is a gaming machine that can be controlled to an advantageous state (for example, a jackpot gaming state) that is advantageous to a player, and includes a suggestive performance execution means that suggests that the gaming machine is controlled to the advantageous state and is capable of executing a plurality of types of suggestive performances (for example, a performance that displays a title display in a predetermined mode, a performance that displays an active display in a predetermined mode, a dialogue performance that displays a dialogue display in a predetermined mode, a decorative pattern performance that displays a decorative pattern in a predetermined mode, etc.) having different degrees of expectation depending on the performance mode, and a special performance execution means that executes a special performance (for example, a chance-up performance that changes the display color of the active display from a normal color (white) to blue) that changes the suggestive performance executed in one performance mode to a performance mode with a higher expectation than the one performance mode, and the suggestive performance execution means executes a first suggestive performance (for example, a performance that displays a title display) and a second suggestive performance (for example, a performance that displays a dialogue display) having a smaller display size than the first suggestive performance, as the suggestive performance. and the special effect execution means is capable of executing a special effect in a manner in which, when a suggestive effect is being executed, a special corresponding image is displayed at a position where a performance image related to the suggestive effect is displayed (for example, a keyhole (entity) image 030IWG11 is displayed at a position where a title image 030IWG21 is displayed or a dialogue image 030IWG20 is displayed), and when the suggestive effect that is the target of the special effect is a first suggestive effect, the special corresponding image is displayed at a first display size corresponding to the display size of the first suggestive effect, and when the suggestive effect is a second suggestive effect, the special corresponding image is displayed at a second display size corresponding to the display size of the second suggestive effect, and the second display size is smaller than the first display size (for example, the keyhole (entity) image 030IWG11 displayed at the position of the dialogue image 030IWG20 shown in FIG. 8-20(3) has a smaller display size than the keyhole (entity) image 030IWG11 displayed at the position of the title image 030IWG21 shown in FIG. 8-20(1)). With such a configuration, interest can be increased by allowing the player to predict the target suggestive performance from the position where the special response image is displayed, and a natural performance can be created by displaying the special response image at a display size appropriate for the target performance.

FIG. 2 is a front view of the pachinko gaming machine according to this embodiment. 1 is a configuration diagram showing various control boards etc. installed in a pachinko gaming machine. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a game control main process. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a timer interrupt process for game control. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a special symbol process. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a performance control main process. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a performance control process. An explanatory diagram showing examples of a jackpot determination table and a fluctuation pattern table in feature section 030IW. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a configuration of a fluctuation pattern and a breakdown of a fluctuation time. FIG. This is a timing chart showing the execution timing of each performance during a super reach. An explanatory diagram showing the execution time of each performance in the first and second parts of the Super Reach. 13 is a flowchart showing a variable display start setting process. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a stock effect pattern determination table. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a chance-up effect pattern determination table. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a title display change pattern determination table, an active display change pattern determination table, a dialogue display change pattern determination table, and a decorative design change pattern determination table. FIG. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a stock effect. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a stock effect. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing another specific example of the stock effect. An explanatory diagram showing an overview of the first and second parts of a super reach. An explanatory diagram showing an overview of the first and second parts of a super reach. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a chance-up effect for an active display. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a chance-up effect for an active display. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a chance-up effect targeting decorative symbols. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a chance-up effect targeting decorative symbols. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a chance-up effect targeting decorative symbols. FIG. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a chance-up promotion effect (fake). 13 is an explanatory diagram showing specific examples of keyhole (suggested) images and keyhole (real) images for each effect that is the target of the chance-up effect. FIG.

(Basic explanation)
First, the basic configuration and control of the pachinko gaming machine 1 (which is also the configuration and control of a general pachinko gaming machine) will be described.

(Configuration of Pachinko Game Machine 1, etc.)
1 is a front view of a pachinko game machine 1, showing the layout of the main components. The pachinko game machine (game machine) 1 is broadly composed of a game board (gauge board) 2 that constitutes the game board surface, and a game machine frame (base frame) 3 that supports and fixes the game board 2. A game area is formed on the game board 2, and game balls as game media are shot into this game area by a predetermined ball shooting device.

At a predetermined position on the game board 2 (in the example shown in FIG. 1, to the right of the play area), a first special pattern display device 4A and a second special pattern display device 4B are provided that perform a variable display (also called a special pattern game) of special patterns (also called special patterns) as multiple types of special identification information. Each of these is made up of a 7-segment LED or the like. The special patterns are represented by numbers showing "0" to "9" or lighting patterns such as "-". The special patterns may include a pattern in which all LEDs are turned off.

Note that the "variable display" of special symbols means, for example, a variable display of multiple types of special symbols (the same applies to other symbols described below). Variations include updating the display of multiple symbols, scrolling the display of multiple symbols, transforming one or more symbols, and enlarging/reducing one or more symbols. In the variation of special symbols and normal symbols described below, multiple types of special symbols or normal symbols are updated and displayed. In the variation of decorative symbols described below, multiple types of decorative symbols are scrolled or updated, or one or more decorative symbols are transformed or enlarged/reduced. Note that variations also include a mode in which a certain symbol is displayed flashing. At the end of the variable display, a specified special symbol is displayed stationary (also called derived or derived display) as the display result (the same applies to the variable display of other symbols described below). Note that the variable display may be expressed as a variable display or variation.

The special pattern variably displayed on the first special pattern display device 4A is also called the "first special pattern," and the special pattern variably displayed on the second special pattern display device 4B is also called the "second special pattern." A special pattern game using the first special pattern is also called the "first special pattern game," and a special pattern game using the second special pattern is also called the "second special pattern game." There may be only one type of special pattern display device that variably displays the special patterns.

An image display device 5 is provided near the center of the play area on the game board 2. The image display device 5 is composed of, for example, an LCD (liquid crystal display device) or an organic EL (electro luminescence) device, and displays various presentation images. The image display device 5 may also be composed of a projector and a screen. Various presentation images are displayed on the image display device 5.

For example, on the screen of the image display device 5, in synchronization with the first special game or the second special game, multiple types of decorative patterns (such as patterns showing numbers, etc.) that are different from the special patterns are variably displayed as decorative identification information. Here, in synchronization with the first special game or the second special game, decorative patterns are variably displayed (for example, scrolled vertically or updated) in each of the "left", "middle", and "right" decorative pattern display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R. The special game and the variable display of decorative patterns that are executed in synchronization are collectively referred to as simply variable display.

The screen of the image display device 5 may be provided with a display area for displaying a pending display corresponding to a variable display whose execution is pending, and an active display corresponding to a variable display that is being executed. The pending display and the active display are collectively referred to as a variable display-compatible display corresponding to the variable display.

The number of reserved variable displays is also called the reserved memory number. The reserved memory number corresponding to the first special game is also called the first reserved memory number, and the reserved memory number corresponding to the second special game is also called the second reserved memory number. The sum of the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number is also called the total reserved memory number.

In addition, a first hold indicator 25A and a second hold indicator 25B, each of which includes a plurality of LEDs, are provided at predetermined positions on the game board 2. The first hold indicator 25A displays the first hold memory number by the number of lit LEDs, and the second hold indicator 25B displays the second hold memory number by the number of lit LEDs.

Below the image display device 5, a winning ball device 6A and a variable winning ball device 6B are provided.

The winning ball device 6A forms a first start winning hole that is always kept in a constant open state so that game balls can enter, for example, by a specified ball receiving member. When a game ball enters the first start winning hole, a specified number of prize balls (for example, three) are paid out and the first special game can be started.

The variable winning ball device 6B (normal electric device) forms a second start winning hole that changes between a closed state and an open state by a solenoid 81 (see FIG. 2). The variable winning ball device 6B is, for example, an electric tulip-type device having a pair of movable wings, and when the solenoid 81 is in the off state, the movable wings are in a vertical position, so that the tip of the movable wings approaches the winning ball device 6A, and the second start winning hole is in a closed state in which the game ball does not enter (also referred to as the second start winning hole being in a closed state). On the other hand, when the solenoid 81 is in the on state, the movable wings of the variable winning ball device 6B are in a tilted position, so that the second start winning hole is in an open state in which the game ball can enter (also referred to as the second start winning hole being in an open state). When a game ball enters the second start winning hole, a predetermined number of prize balls (for example, three) are paid out and the second special game can be started. The variable winning ball device 6B may be any device that can change between a closed state and an open state, and is not limited to devices that include an electric tulip-type device.

At predetermined positions on the game board 2 (in the example shown in FIG. 1, four positions are provided at the lower left and right of the game area), general winning openings 10 are provided which are always kept in a constant open state by a predetermined ball receiving member. In this case, when a game ball enters one of the general winning openings 10, a predetermined number of game balls (for example, 10 balls) are paid out as prize balls.

Below the winning ball device 6A and the variable winning ball device 6B, a special variable winning ball device 7 having a large winning opening is provided. The special variable winning ball device 7 has a large winning opening door that is driven to open and close by a solenoid 82 (see Figure 2), and the large winning opening door forms the large winning opening as a specific area that can be switched between an open state and a closed state.

As an example, in the special variable winning ball device 7, when the solenoid 82 for the large prize opening door (for the special electric device) is in the OFF state, the large prize opening door closes the large prize opening, and game balls cannot enter (pass through) the large prize opening. On the other hand, in the special variable winning ball device 7, when the solenoid 82 for the large prize opening door is in the ON state, the large prize opening door opens the large prize opening, and game balls can easily enter the large prize opening.

When a game ball enters the large prize opening, a predetermined number of game balls (for example, 14 balls) are paid out as prize balls. When a game ball enters the large prize opening, more prize balls are paid out than when a game ball enters the first start prize opening, the second start prize opening, or the general prize opening 10, for example.

The entry of a game ball into each winning port, including the general winning port 10, is also called a "winning". In particular, a winning ball into a starting port (first starting winning port, second starting winning port) is also called a starting winning.

A normal symbol display 20 is provided at a predetermined position on the game board 2 (to the left of the game area in the example shown in FIG. 1). As an example, the normal symbol display 20 is made up of a 7-segment LED or the like, and performs a variable display of normal symbols as multiple types of normal identification information different from the special symbols. The normal symbols are represented by numbers showing "0" to "9" or lighting patterns such as "-". The normal symbols may also include a pattern in which all LEDs are turned off. Such a variable display of normal symbols is also called a normal symbol game.

A pass gate 41 through which the game ball can pass is provided to the left of the image display device 5. When the game ball passes through the pass gate 41, a regular game is executed.

A normal symbol pending display 25C is provided above the normal symbol display 20. The normal symbol pending display 25C is configured to include, for example, four LEDs, and displays the normal symbol pending memory count, which is the number of normal symbol games that are pending execution, by the number of lit LEDs.

In addition to the above features, the surface of the game board 2 is provided with windmills that change the direction and speed of the game balls, as well as numerous obstacle nails. At the bottom of the game area, there is an outlet that takes in game balls that do not enter any of the winning holes.

Speakers 8L and 8R for playing and outputting sound effects and the like are provided at the upper left and right positions of the gaming machine frame 3, and gaming effect lamps 9 for gaming effects are provided around the periphery of the gaming area. The gaming effect lamps 9 are composed of LEDs.

A movable body 32 that moves according to the performance is provided at a predetermined position on the game board 2 (not shown in Figure 1).

At the lower right position of the gaming machine frame 3, a ball-hitting operation handle (operation knob) 30 is provided, which is operated by the player or the like to launch the gaming ball toward the gaming area using the ball-hitting device.

At a predetermined position of the gaming machine frame 3 below the playing area, a ball supply tray (upper tray) is provided to hold (store) gaming balls dispensed as prize balls or gaming balls loaned from a predetermined ball loaning machine so that they can be supplied to the ball launching device. Below the upper tray, a ball supply tray (lower tray) is provided from which prize balls are dispensed when the upper tray is full.

A stick controller 31A that can be held and tilted by the player is attached to a predetermined position on the gaming machine frame 3 below the playing area. The stick controller 31A is provided with a trigger button that can be pressed by the player. Operations on the stick controller 31A are detected by the controller sensor unit 35A (see FIG. 2).

At a predetermined position on the gaming machine frame 3 below the gaming area, a push button 31B is provided that the player can press to give a predetermined command. The operation of the push button 31B is detected by a push sensor 35B (see FIG. 2).

In the pachinko gaming machine 1, a stick controller 31A and a push button 31B are provided as detection means for detecting the player's actions (operations, etc.), but other detection means may also be provided.

(Outline of game progress)
The game ball is launched toward the game area by the player rotating the ball hitting operation handle 30 provided on the pachinko game machine 1. When the game ball passes through the passing gate 41, a normal game is started by the normal symbol display 20. If the game ball passes through the passing gate 41 during the period during which the previous normal game is being played (if the game ball passes through the passing gate 41 but the normal game based on the passing cannot be played immediately), the normal game based on the passing is put on hold up to a predetermined upper limit (for example, 4).

In this normal game, if a specific normal symbol (a normal winning symbol) is displayed as a fixed normal symbol, the display result of the normal symbol will be "normal winning". On the other hand, if a normal symbol other than a normal winning symbol (a normal losing symbol) is displayed as a fixed normal symbol, the display result of the normal symbol will be "normal losing". When a "normal winning" occurs, an opening control is performed to keep the variable winning ball device 6B in an open state for a predetermined period of time (the second starting winning port is opened).

When a game ball enters the first start winning hole formed in the winning ball device 6A, the first special symbol game is started by the first special symbol display device 4A.

When a game ball enters the second start winning hole formed in the variable winning ball device 6B, the second special symbol game is started by the second special symbol display device 4B.

In addition, if the game ball enters (wins) the start winning hole during the period when the special game is being played or during the period when the game is controlled to a big win game state or a small win game state (when a start winning occurs but the special game based on the start winning cannot be played immediately), the special game based on that entry will be put on hold until a specified upper limit number (for example, 4).

In special game, if a specific special symbol (a big win symbol, for example, "7"; the actual symbol varies depending on the type of big win, as described below) is displayed as the confirmed special symbol, it is a "big win", and if a specific special symbol different from the big win symbol (a small win symbol, for example, "2") is displayed as a "small win". Also, if a special symbol different from the big win or small win symbol (a losing symbol, for example, "-") is displayed as a "losing" symbol, it is a "losing".

After the display result in the special game becomes "big win", the game state is controlled to a big win game state, which is advantageous for the player. After the display result in the special game becomes "small win", the game state is controlled to a small win game state.

In the jackpot game state, the large prize opening formed by the special variable prize ball device 7 is opened in a predetermined manner. This open state continues until either a predetermined period (e.g., 29 seconds or 1.8 seconds) has elapsed or the number of game balls that have entered the large prize opening reaches a predetermined number (e.g., 9 balls), whichever comes first. The predetermined period is the maximum period during which the large prize opening can be opened in one round, and is hereinafter also referred to as the maximum opening period.
A cycle in which the big prize opening is open is called a round (round play).
In the jackpot game state, the round can be repeatedly executed until a predetermined upper limit number of times (15 times or 2 times) is reached.

In the jackpot gaming state, the player can get prize balls by making the gaming ball enter the big prize opening. Therefore, the jackpot gaming state is an advantageous state for the player. The more rounds there are in the jackpot gaming state, and the longer the upper limit opening period, the more advantageous it is for the player.

For example, there are multiple types of opening modes of the big prize entrance (number of rounds and maximum opening period) and game states after the big prize game state (normal state, time-saving state, probability variable state, etc., described later), and the big prize type is set according to these.
As the types of jackpots, there may be provided jackpot types in which many prize balls can be obtained, and jackpot types in which few or almost no prize balls can be obtained.

In the small win game state, the large prize opening formed by the special variable winning ball device 7 is opened in a predetermined opening state. For example, in the small win game state, the large prize opening is opened in the same opening state as the large prize opening in the large prize game state for some large prize types (the number of times the large prize opening is opened is the same as the number of rounds, and the timing of closing the large prize opening is also the same, etc.). Note that, like the large prize types, small prize types may also be set for "small wins".

After the jackpot game state ends, the game may be controlled to a time-saving state or a special state depending on the type of jackpot mentioned above.

In the time-saving state, control (time-saving control) is executed to shorten the average special symbol fluctuation time (period during which the special symbol fluctuates) more than in the normal state. In the time-saving state, control (high opening control, high base control) is also executed to make it easier for the game ball to enter the second start winning hole by shortening the average regular symbol fluctuation time (period during which the regular symbol fluctuates) more than in the normal state and by improving the probability of a "regular symbol hit" in the regular symbol game more than in the normal state. The time-saving state is an advantageous state for the player because it is a state in which the fluctuation efficiency of special symbols (especially the second special symbol) is improved.

In the probability variable state (probability fluctuating state), in addition to time-saving control, probability variable control is executed, which increases the probability that the display result will be a "jackpot" compared to the normal state. The probability variable state is an even more advantageous state for the player, as it not only improves the efficiency of special symbol fluctuation, but also makes it easier to get a "jackpot."

The time-saving state or the probability of a special bonus state will continue until one of the end conditions is met first, such as the specified number of special games being played or the start of the next big win game state. The end condition of the state in which the specified number of special games have been played is also called a count-cut (count-cut time-saving state, count-cut probability of a special bonus state, etc.).

The normal state refers to a game state other than advantageous states such as a jackpot game state that is advantageous to the player, and special states such as a time-saving state and a probability-varying state, and is a state in which the pachinko game machine 1, such as the probability that the display result in the normal game will be a "normal hit" and the probability that the display result in the special game will be a "jackpot", is controlled in the same way as the initial setting state of the pachinko game machine 1 (for example, when a system reset is performed and the specified return process is not executed after the power is turned on).

The state in which probability variable control is being executed is also called a high probability state, and the state in which probability variable control is not being executed is also called a low probability state. The state in which time-saving control is being executed is also called a high base state, and the state in which time-saving control is not being executed is also called a low base state. Combining these, the time-saving state is also called a low probability high base state, the probability variable state is a high probability high base state, and the normal state is a low probability low base state. The high probability state and low base state are also called a high probability low base state.

After the small win game state ends, the game state is not changed, and the game state before the display result of the special game becomes "small win" is continued (however, if the special game when the "small win" occurs is the special game of the specified number of times in the number cut, the game state will naturally change). Note that the display result of the special game does not have to be "small win".

The game state may change based on the game ball passing through a specific area (e.g., a specific area within a big prize opening) during a big win game state. For example, when the game ball passes through a specific area, the game state may be controlled to a special probability state after the big win game state.

(Progression of the performance, etc.)
In the pachinko game machine 1, various effects (effects to notify the progress of the game or to liven up the game) are executed according to the progress of the game. The effects are described below. The effects are executed by displaying various effect images on the image display device 5, but in addition to or instead of the display, the effects may be executed by sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R, and/or by turning on/off the game effect lamp 9, operating the movable body 32, etc.

As an effect that is executed according to the progress of the game, in the "left", "middle" and "right" decorative pattern display areas 5L, 5C and 5R provided on the image display device 5, a variable display of decorative patterns begins in response to the start of the first or second special pattern game. At the timing when the display result (also called the determined special pattern) in the first or second special pattern game is displayed statically, the determined decorative pattern (a combination of three decorative patterns) which is the display result of the variable display of the decorative patterns is also displayed statically (derived).

During the period from when the variable display of the decorative symbols starts to when it ends, the state of the variable display of the decorative symbols may become a predetermined reach state (a reach is achieved). Here, a reach state refers to a state in which the decorative symbols that have not yet been stopped and displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 continue to be variable displayed when the decorative symbols that have not yet been stopped and displayed form part of a jackpot combination, which will be described later.

In addition, when the above-mentioned reach state occurs during the variable display of the decorative symbols, a reach effect is executed. In the pachinko gaming machine 1, multiple types of reach effects are executed with different rates (also called jackpot reliability or jackpot expectation) of the display result (the display result of the special game or the display result of the variable display of the decorative symbols) becoming a "jackpot" depending on the performance state. Reach effects include, for example, a normal reach and a super reach, which has a higher jackpot reliability than a normal reach.

When the display result of the special game is a "jackpot", a fixed decorative pattern that is a predetermined jackpot combination is derived as the display result of the variable display of decorative patterns on the screen of the image display device 5 (the display result of the variable display of decorative patterns is a "jackpot"). As an example, the same decorative patterns (for example, "7") are displayed stopped in line on a predetermined effective line in the "left", "center", and "right" decorative pattern display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R.

In the case of a "probability jackpot" that is controlled to a probability jackpot state after the end of the jackpot game state, odd decorative symbols (e.g., "7") are displayed in a line, and in the case of a "non-probability jackpot (normal jackpot)" that is not controlled to a probability jackpot state after the end of the jackpot game state, even decorative symbols (e.g., "6") may be displayed in a line. In this case, odd decorative symbols are also called probability jackpot symbols, and even decorative symbols are also called non-probability jackpot symbols (normal symbols). After a reach state is reached with non-probability jackpot symbols, a promotion effect may be executed that ultimately results in a "probability jackpot".

When the display result of the special game is a "small win", a fixed decorative pattern (for example, "1 3 5") that is a predetermined small win combination is derived on the screen of the image display device 5 as the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern (the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern is a "small win"). As an example, decorative patterns that constitute chance eyes are displayed stationary on a predetermined effective line in the "left", "middle", and "right" decorative pattern display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R. Note that a common fixed decorative pattern may be derived and displayed when the display result of the special game is a "big win" of some big win types (big win types in a big win game state that are the same as a small win game state) and when it is a "small win".

When the display result of the special game is a "miss," the state of the variable display of the decorative pattern does not become a reach state, and the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern may display a fixed decorative pattern of a non-reach combination (also called a "non-reach miss") as a "non-reach miss" (the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern may be a "non-reach miss"). Also, when the display result is a "miss," after the state of the variable display of the decorative pattern becomes a reach state, the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern may display a fixed decorative pattern of a predetermined reach combination (also called a "reach miss") that is not a jackpot combination as a "reach miss" (the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern may be a "reach miss").

The effects that the pachinko gaming machine 1 can execute include displaying the variable display compatible display (reserved display or active display) described above. In addition, as other effects, for example, a preview effect that predicts the jackpot reliability is executed during the variable display of the decorative pattern. Preview effects include a preview effect that predicts the jackpot reliability in the variable display currently being executed, and a look-ahead preview effect that predicts the jackpot reliability in the variable display before execution (variable display whose execution is on hold). As a look-ahead preview effect, an effect that changes the display mode of the variable display compatible display (reserved display or active display) to a mode different from normal may be executed.

In addition, in the image display device 5, a pseudo consecutive performance may be executed in which a single variable display appears to be multiple variable displays by temporarily pausing the decorative pattern during the variable display and then restarting the variable display.

During a jackpot game state, a jackpot performance is executed to notify the player of the jackpot game state. As a jackpot performance, a performance to notify the number of rounds or an upgrade performance to indicate that the value of the jackpot game state will increase may be executed. Also, during a small jackpot game state, a small jackpot performance to notify the player of the small jackpot game state is executed. In addition, a common performance may be executed during a small jackpot game state and a jackpot game state for some jackpot types (a jackpot type for a jackpot game state in the same manner as a small jackpot game state, for example, a jackpot type for which the game state after that is a high probability state), so that the player cannot know whether the current state is a small jackpot game state or a jackpot game state. In such a case, a common performance may be executed after the end of the small jackpot game state and after the end of the jackpot game state, so that the player cannot distinguish whether the current state is a high probability state or a low probability state.

In addition, for example, when a special game or the like is not being executed, a demo (demonstration) image is displayed on the image display device 5 (a customer waiting demo performance is executed).

(Board configuration)
2, a main board 11, a performance control board 12, a sound control board 13, a lamp control board 14, a relay board 15, etc. are mounted on the pachinko game machine 1. In addition, various boards such as a payout control board, an information terminal board, a launch control board, a power supply board, etc. are arranged on the back of the pachinko game machine 1.

The main board 11 is the main control board, and has the function of controlling the progress of the above-mentioned games in the pachinko game machine 1 (execution of the special game (including management of reserved balls), execution of the regular game (including management of reserved balls), big win game state, small win game state, game state, etc.). The main board 11 has a game control microcomputer 100, a switch circuit 110, a solenoid circuit 111, etc.

The game control microcomputer 100 mounted on the main board 11 is, for example, a one-chip microcomputer, and includes a ROM (Read Only Memory) 101, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 102, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 103, a random number circuit 104, and an I/O (Input/Output port) 105.

The CPU 103 executes the program stored in the ROM 101 to perform processes that control the progress of the game (processing that realizes the functions of the main board 11). At this time, various data stored in the ROM 101 (such as data on fluctuation patterns, performance control commands, and tables referenced when making various decisions) are used, and the RAM 102 is used as the main memory. The RAM 102 serves as a backup RAM in which the stored contents are preserved for a predetermined period of time even if the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is stopped in part or in whole. Note that all or part of the program stored in the ROM 101 may be deployed to the RAM 102 and executed on the RAM 102.

The random number circuit 104 counts updatable numerical data indicating various random numbers (gaming random numbers) used to control the progress of the game. The gaming random numbers may be updated by the CPU 103 executing a specific computer program (updated by software).

The I/O 105 is configured to include, for example, an input port to which various signals (detection signals described below) are input, and an output port for transmitting various signals (signals for controlling (driving) the first special pattern display device 4A, the second special pattern display device 4B, the normal pattern display device 20, the first hold display device 25A, the second hold display device 25B, the normal hold display device 25C, etc., solenoid drive signals).

The switch circuit 110 takes in detection signals (such as a detection signal indicating that a game ball has passed or entered and the switch has been turned on) from various switches for detecting game balls (gate switch 21, start port switch (first start port switch 22A and second start port switch 22B), count switch 23) and transmits them to the game control microcomputer 100. The transmission of the detection signal indicates that the game ball has passed or entered.

The solenoid circuit 111 transmits solenoid drive signals (such as signals to turn on solenoid 81 and solenoid 82) from the game control microcomputer 100 to the solenoid 81 for the normal electric device and the solenoid 82 for the large prize opening door.

As part of controlling the progress of the game, the main board 11 (game control microcomputer 100) supplies presentation control commands (commands that specify (notify) the progress of the game, etc.) to the presentation control board 12 according to the progress of the game. The presentation control commands output from the main board 11 are relayed by the relay board 15 and supplied to the presentation control board 12. The presentation control commands include, for example, commands that specify various determination results in the main board 11 (for example, the display results of the special game (including the type of jackpot), the variable pattern used when executing the special game (described in detail later)), the game status (for example, the start or end of the variable display, the opening status of the jackpot opening, the occurrence of a win, the number of reserved memories, the game status), the occurrence of an error, etc.

The performance control board 12 is a sub-control board independent of the main board 11, and has the function of receiving performance control commands and executing performances (various performances according to the progress of the game, including various notifications such as driving the movable body 32, notifying errors, and notifying of power outage recovery) based on the received performance control commands.

The performance control board 12 is equipped with a performance control CPU 120, a ROM 121, a RAM 122, a display control unit 123, a random number circuit 124, and an I/O 125.

The performance control CPU 120 executes the programs stored in the ROM 121 to perform processing for executing performances together with the display control unit 123 (processing for realizing the above-mentioned functions of the performance control board 12, including determining the performance to be executed). At this time, various data (data such as various tables) stored in the ROM 121 are used, and the RAM 122 is used as the main memory.

The presentation control CPU 120 may instruct the display control unit 123 to execute a presentation based on detection signals from the controller sensor unit 35A and the push sensor 35B (signals that are output when an operation by the player is detected and that appropriately indicate the content of the operation).

The display control unit 123 includes a VDP (Video Display Processor), CGROM (Character Generator ROM), VRAM (Video RAM), etc., and executes the performance based on instructions to execute the performance from the performance control CPU 120.

The display control unit 123 displays a performance image on the image display unit 5 by supplying a video signal corresponding to the performance to be executed to the image display unit 5 based on an instruction to execute the performance from the performance control CPU 120. The display control unit 123 further supplies a sound designation signal (a signal designating the sound to be output) to the sound control board 13 and a lamp signal (a signal designating the on/off state of the lamp) to the lamp control board 14 in order to output sound synchronized with the display of the performance image and to turn on/off the game effect lamp 9. The display control unit 123 also supplies a signal to operate the movable body 32 to the movable body 32 or to a drive circuit that drives the movable body 32.

The audio control board 13 is equipped with various circuits that drive the speakers 8L and 8R, and drives the speakers 8L and 8R based on the sound designation signal, causing the speakers 8L and 8R to output the sound designated by the sound designation signal.

The lamp control board 14 is equipped with various circuits that drive the game effect lamp 9, and drives the game effect lamp 9 based on the lamp signal, turning the game effect lamp 9 on and off in the manner specified by the lamp signal. In this way, the display control unit 123 controls the sound output and the turning on and off of the lamp.

The performance control CPU 120 may be configured to execute control of audio output, turning on/off the lamp (such as supplying a sound designation signal or a lamp signal), and controlling the movable body 32 (such as supplying a signal to operate the movable body 32).

The random number circuit 124 counts updatable numerical data indicating various random number values (random numbers for performance) used to execute various performances. The random numbers for performance may be updated by the performance control CPU 120 executing a specific computer program (updated by software).

The I/O 125 mounted on the performance control board 12 includes an input port for taking in performance control commands transmitted from, for example, the main board 11, and an output port for transmitting various signals (video signals, sound designation signals, lamp signals).

The boards other than the main board 11, such as the performance control board 12, the sound control board 13, and the lamp control board 14, are also called sub-boards. As with the pachinko game machine 1, multiple sub-boards may be provided for different functions, or one sub-board may be configured to have multiple functions.

(motion)
Next, the operation (function) of the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be described.

(Main Operations of Main Board 11)
First, a description will be given of the main operations of the main board 11. When power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is started, the game control microcomputer 100 is started, and a game control main process is executed by the CPU 103. Fig. 3 is a flowchart showing the game control main process executed by the CPU 103 on the main board 11.

In the game control main process shown in FIG. 3, the CPU 103 first sets interrupts to be prohibited (step S1). Then, it performs the necessary initial settings (step S2). The initial settings include setting the stack pointer, register settings for built-in devices (CTC (counter/timer circuit), parallel input/output port, etc.), and setting the RAM 102 to be accessible.

Next, it is determined whether the output signal from the clear switch is on or not (step S3). The clear switch is mounted on, for example, a power supply board. When the power is turned on with the clear switch in the on state, the output signal (clear signal) is input to the game control microcomputer 100 via the input port. If the output signal from the clear switch is on (step S3; Yes), an initialization process (step S8) is executed. In the initialization process, the CPU 103 executes a RAM clear process that clears flags, counters, and buffers stored in the RAM 102, and sets initial values in the working area.

The CPU 103 also transmits a presentation control command to the presentation control board 12 to instruct initialization (step S9). When the presentation control CPU 120 receives the presentation control command, it displays a screen on the image display device 5, for example, to notify the user that the control of the gaming machine has been initialized.

If the output signal from the clear switch is not on (step S3; No), it is determined whether backup data is stored in the RAM 102 (backup RAM) (step S4). When the power supply to the pachinko game machine 1 is stopped due to an unexpected power outage or the like (power interruption), the CPU 103 executes a power supply stop processing immediately before the machine becomes unable to operate due to the power supply being stopped. In this power supply stop processing, a process of turning on a backup flag indicating that data is to be backed up in the RAM 102, a data protection process for the RAM 102, etc. are executed. The data protection process includes the addition of an error detection code (checksum, parity bit, etc.) and a process of backing up various data. The backed up data includes various data for progressing the game (including various flags, the status of various timers, etc.), as well as the status of the backup flag and the error detection code. In step S4, it is determined whether the backup flag is on. If the backup flag is off and no backup data is stored in the RAM 102 (step S4; No), an initialization process (step S8) is executed.

If backup data is stored in RAM 102 (step S4; Yes), CPU 103 performs a data check of the backed up data (using an error detection code) and determines whether the data is normal (step S5). In step S5, for example, a parity bit or a checksum is used to determine whether the data in RAM 102 matches the data at the time the power supply was stopped. If it is determined that they match, it is determined that the data in RAM 102 is normal.

If it is determined that the data in RAM 102 is not normal (step S5; No), the internal state cannot be restored to the state it was in when the power supply was stopped, so an initialization process (step S8) is performed.

If it is determined that the data in RAM 102 is normal (Step S5; Yes), the CPU 103 performs a recovery process (Step S6) to return the internal state of the main board 11 to the state it was in when the power supply was stopped. In the recovery process, the CPU 103 sets a working area based on the memory contents of RAM 102 (the contents of the backed-up data). This restores the game state to the state it was in when the power supply was stopped, and if the special symbols were changing, the change of the special symbols will be resumed from the state before the recovery by executing the game control timer interrupt process described below.

Then, the CPU 103 transmits a presentation control command to the presentation control board 12 to instruct recovery from the power outage (step S7). In conjunction with this, a presentation control command specifying the backed-up game state before the power outage, or, if a special symbol game was being played, a presentation control command specifying the display result of the special symbol game being played may be transmitted. These commands can be the same as the commands transmitted and set in the special symbol process processing described below. When the presentation control CPU 120 receives a presentation control command specifying the time of recovery from the power outage, it displays a screen on the image display device 5, for example, to notify the user that recovery from the power outage has been achieved or that recovery from the power outage is in progress. The presentation control CPU 120 may display an appropriate screen based on the presentation control command.

After completing the recovery or initialization process and sending a performance control command to the performance control board 12, the CPU 103 executes a random number circuit setting process to initialize the random number circuit 104 (step S10). Then, the register of the CTC built into the game control microcomputer 100 is set so that a timer interrupt occurs periodically at a predetermined time (e.g., every 2 ms) (step S11), and the interrupt is permitted (step S12). After that, a loop process is entered. After that, an interrupt request signal is sent from the CTC to the CPU 103 at predetermined time intervals (e.g., every 2 ms), and the CPU 103 can periodically execute the timer interrupt process.

After executing such game control main processing, the CPU 103 receives an interrupt request signal from the CTC and accepts the interrupt request, and then executes the game control timer interrupt processing shown in the flowchart of FIG. 4. When the game control timer interrupt processing shown in FIG. 4 is started, the CPU 103 first executes a predetermined switch processing to determine whether or not detection signals have been received from various switches such as the gate switch 21, the first start port switch 22A, the second start port switch 22B, and the count switch 23 via the switch circuit 110 (step S21). Next, by executing a predetermined main side error processing, an abnormality diagnosis of the pachinko game machine 1 is performed, and a warning can be generated if necessary according to the diagnosis result (step S22). After this, by executing a predetermined information output processing, data such as jackpot information (information indicating the number of jackpots), start information (information indicating the number of start winnings), and probability fluctuation information (information indicating the number of times the probability fluctuation state has occurred) supplied to a hall management computer installed outside the pachinko game machine 1 is output (step S23).

Following the information output process, a game random number update process is executed to update at least a portion of the game random numbers used on the main board 11 side by software (step S24). After this, the CPU 103 executes a special symbol process process (step S25). By the CPU 103 executing the special symbol process process at each timer interrupt, the execution and reservation management of the special symbol game, control of the big win game state and small win game state, control of the game state, etc. are realized (described in detail later).

Following the special symbol process, the normal symbol process is executed (step S26). The CPU 103 executes the normal symbol process at each timer interrupt, enabling the execution and reservation management of the normal symbol game based on the detection signal from the gate switch 21 (based on the game ball passing through the passing gate 41), and the opening control of the variable winning ball device 6B based on a "normal symbol hit". The normal symbol game is executed by driving the normal symbol display 20, and the number of reserved normal symbols is displayed by lighting the normal symbol reservation display 25C.

After executing the normal symbol process processing, as part of the game control timer interrupt processing, processing when a power outage occurs, processing for paying out prize balls, etc. may be performed. Then, the CPU 103 executes a command control processing (step S27). The CPU 103 may set a performance control command for transmission in each of the above processes. In the command control processing of step S27, a process is performed to transmit the performance control command set for transmission to a sub-side control board such as the performance control board 12. After executing the command control processing, the interrupt is permitted and then the game control timer interrupt processing is terminated.

Figure 5 is a flow chart showing an example of the special symbol process executed in step S25 shown in Figure 4. In this special symbol process, the CPU 103 first executes a start winning determination process (step S101).

In the start winning judgment process, a process is executed to detect the occurrence of a start winning, store the reserved information in a specified area of the RAM 102, and update the reserved memory number. When a start winning occurs, a random number value for determining the display result (including the type of big win) and the variation pattern is extracted and stored as reserved information. In addition, a process for predicting and judging the display result and the variation pattern based on the extracted random number value may be executed. After the reserved information and the reserved memory number are stored, a transmission setting is performed to transmit a performance control command to the performance control board 12 to specify the judgment results such as the occurrence of a start winning, the reserved memory number, and the predictive judgment. The performance control command at the time of the start winning that has been transmitted and set in this way is transmitted from the main board 11 to the performance control board 12, for example, after the special pattern process is completed, by executing the command control process of step S27 shown in FIG. 4.

After executing the start winning determination process in S101, the CPU 103 selects and executes one of the processes in steps S110 to S120 depending on the value of the special symbol process flag provided in the RAM 102. Note that in each step of the special symbol process (steps S110 to S120), a transmission setting is made to transmit a performance control command corresponding to each step to the performance control board 12.

The normal special pattern processing in step S110 is executed when the value of the special pattern process flag is "0" (initial value). In this normal special pattern processing, a determination is made as to whether or not to start the first special pattern game or the second special pattern game based on the presence or absence of reserved information. In addition, in the normal special pattern processing, based on a random number value for determining the display result, whether or not the display result of the special pattern or the decorative pattern is to be a "big win" or a "small win", and if it is a "big win", the type of big win is determined (pre-determined) before the display result is derived and displayed. Furthermore, in the normal special pattern processing, a determined special pattern (either a big win pattern, a small win pattern, or a losing pattern) to be stopped and displayed in the special pattern game is set in response to the determined display result. After that, the value of the special pattern process flag is updated to "1", and the normal special pattern processing is terminated. Note that the special pattern game using the second special pattern may be executed in preference to the special pattern game using the first special pattern (also called special pattern 2 priority consumption). Also, the order in which the game balls enter the first start winning slot and the second start winning slot may be stored, and the conditions for starting the special game may be met in the order in which the balls enter (also known as winning order consumption).

When making various decisions based on random number values, various tables stored in ROM 101 (tables in which decision values compared with random number values are assigned to decision results) are referenced. The same applies to other decisions on the main board 11 and various decisions on the performance control board 12. On the performance control board 12, various tables are stored in ROM 121.

The fluctuation pattern setting process of step S111 is executed when the value of the special chart process flag is "1". This fluctuation pattern setting process includes a process of determining the fluctuation pattern to one of multiple types using a random number value for determining the fluctuation pattern based on a pre-determined result of whether the display result is a "big hit" or a "small hit". In the fluctuation pattern setting process, when the fluctuation pattern is determined, the value of the special chart process flag is updated to "2" and the fluctuation pattern setting process ends.

The variation pattern specifies the execution time of the special game (special game variation time) (which is also the execution time of the variable display of the decorative symbols), the manner of the variable display of the decorative symbols (whether or not there is a reach, etc.), and the content of the presentation during the variable display of the decorative symbols (type of reach presentation, etc.), and is also called the variable display pattern.

The special pattern change process of step S112 is executed when the value of the special pattern process flag is "2". This special pattern change process includes a process for making settings to change the special pattern in the first special pattern display device 4A and the second special pattern display device 4B, and a process for measuring the elapsed time since the special pattern started to change. It also determines whether the measured elapsed time has reached the special pattern change time corresponding to the change pattern. Then, when the elapsed time since the special pattern started to change reaches the special pattern change time, the value of the special pattern process flag is updated to "3", and the special pattern change process ends.

The special pattern stop process of step S113 is executed when the value of the special pattern process flag is "3". This special pattern stop process includes a process for setting the first special pattern display device 4A or the second special pattern display device 4B to stop the fluctuation of the special pattern and to stop displaying (deriving) the confirmed special pattern that is the display result of the special pattern. If the display result is a "big win", the value of the special pattern process flag is updated to "4". On the other hand, if the big win flag is off and the display result is a "small win", the value of the special pattern process flag is updated to "8". If the display result is a "miss", the value of the special pattern process flag is updated to "0". If the display result is a "small win" or "miss", when the time-saving state or the probability change state is controlled and the end of the number of times is established, the game state is also updated. When the value of the special pattern process flag is updated, the special pattern stop process ends.

The pre-opening process for the jackpot in step S114 is executed when the value of the special chart process flag is "4". This pre-opening process for the jackpot includes a process for starting the execution of a round in the jackpot game state and setting the jackpot opening port to an open state, based on the display result being "jackpot", etc. When the jackpot opening port is opened, a process for supplying a solenoid drive signal to the solenoid 82 for the jackpot opening port is executed. At this time, for example, depending on the type of jackpot, the maximum open period for the jackpot opening port and the maximum number of rounds to be executed are set. When these settings are completed, the value of the special chart process flag is updated to "5", and the pre-opening process for the jackpot is completed.

The jackpot opening process of step S115 is executed when the value of the special chart process flag is "5". This jackpot opening process includes a process for measuring the time that has elapsed since the jackpot opening was opened, and a process for determining whether or not it is time to return the jackpot opening from an open state to a closed state based on the measured elapsed time and the number of game balls detected by the count switch 23. When the jackpot opening is to be returned to a closed state, a process for stopping the supply of a solenoid drive signal to the solenoid 82 for the jackpot opening door is executed, and then the value of the special chart process flag is updated to "6", and the jackpot opening process is terminated.

The post-jackpot release process of step S116 is executed when the value of the special chart process flag is "6". This post-jackpot release process includes a process for determining whether the number of times the round that opens the big prize opening has been executed has reached a set upper limit, and a process for making settings to end the jackpot game state when the upper limit has been reached. When the number of times the round has been executed has not reached the upper limit, the value of the special chart process flag is updated to "5", whereas when the number of times the round has been executed has reached the upper limit, the value of the special chart process flag is updated to "7". When the value of the special chart process flag is updated, the post-jackpot release process ends.

The jackpot end process of step S117 is executed when the value of the special chart process flag is "7". This jackpot end process includes a process of waiting until a waiting time corresponding to the period during which an ending presentation is executed as a presentation operation that notifies the end of the jackpot game state has elapsed, and a process of making various settings for starting special rate control or time-saving control in response to the end of the jackpot game state. When such settings are made, the value of the special chart process flag is updated to "0", and the jackpot end process ends.

The small win pre-opening process in step S118 is executed when the value of the special chart process flag is "8". This small win pre-opening process includes a process for setting the large prize opening to an open state in the small win game state based on the display result being "small win". At this time, the value of the special chart process flag is updated to "9", and the small win pre-opening process ends.

The small win open processing of step S119 is executed when the value of the special chart process flag is "9". This small win open processing includes a process for measuring the time that has elapsed since the large prize opening was opened, and a process for determining whether or not it is time to return the large prize opening from an open state to a closed state based on the measured elapsed time. When the large prize opening is returned to a closed state and it is time to end the small win game state, the value of the special chart process flag is updated to "10" and the small win open processing ends.

The small win end process of step S120 is executed when the value of the special chart process flag is "10". This small win end process includes a process of waiting until a waiting time corresponding to the period during which the presentation operation that notifies the end of the small win game state is executed has elapsed. Here, when the small win game state ends, the game state in the pachinko game machine 1 before the small win game state is entered is continued. When the waiting time at the end of the small win game state has elapsed, the value of the special chart process flag is updated to "0", and the small win end process ends.

(Main operations of the performance control board 12)
Next, the main operations of the performance control board 12 will be described. When the performance control board 12 receives a power supply voltage from a power supply board or the like, the performance control CPU 120 starts up and executes the performance control main process as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 6. When the performance control main process shown in FIG. 6 starts, the performance control CPU 120 first executes a predetermined initialization process (step S71), clears the RAM 122, sets various initial values, and sets the registers of the CTC (counter/timer circuit) mounted on the performance control board 12. In addition, it executes an initial operation control process (step S72). In the initial operation control process, control is executed to perform the initial operation of the movable body 32, such as control to drive the movable body 32 to return it to its initial position and control to perform a predetermined operation check.

Then, it is determined whether the timer interrupt flag is on or not (step S73). The timer interrupt flag is set to the on state every time a predetermined time (e.g., 2 milliseconds) elapses, for example based on the register setting of the CTC. At this time, if the timer interrupt flag is off (step S73; No), the process of step S73 is repeatedly executed and the system waits.

In addition, on the performance control board 12 side, an interrupt occurs to receive a performance control command from the main board 11, in addition to a timer interrupt that occurs every time a predetermined time has elapsed. This interrupt occurs, for example, when the performance control INT signal from the main board 11 becomes ON. When an interrupt occurs due to the performance control INT signal becoming ON, the performance control CPU 120 automatically sets the interrupt to be prohibited, but if a CPU that does not automatically become interrupt prohibited is used, it is desirable to issue an interrupt prohibition command (DI command). In response to an interrupt due to the performance control INT signal becoming ON, the performance control CPU 120 executes, for example, a predetermined command reception interrupt process. In this command reception interrupt process, a performance control command is taken in from a predetermined input port that receives a control signal transmitted from the main board 11 via the relay board 15, among the input ports included in the I/O 125. The performance control command taken in at this time is stored in a performance control command reception buffer provided in, for example, the RAM 122. The performance control CPU 120 then sets the interrupt to permitted and ends the command reception interrupt process.

If the timer interrupt flag is on in step S73 (step S73; Yes), the timer interrupt flag is cleared to an off state (step S74), and a command analysis process is executed (step S75). In the command analysis process, for example, various presentation control commands transmitted from the game control microcomputer 100 of the main board 11 and stored in the presentation control command reception buffer are read, and then settings and controls corresponding to the read presentation control commands are performed. For example, the read presentation control command is stored in a specified area of the RAM 122, or a reception flag provided in the RAM 122 is turned on so that which presentation control command was received and the contents specified by the presentation control command can be confirmed by the presentation control process process, etc. In addition, if the presentation control command specifies the game state, the display control unit 123 may be instructed to display a background corresponding to the game state.

After executing the command analysis process in step S75, the performance control process is executed (step S76). In the performance control process, for example, control is performed to operate various performance devices, such as the display operation of the performance image in the display area of the image display device 5, the sound output operation from the speakers 8L and 8R, the lighting operation of the decorative light-emitting elements such as the game effect lamp 9 and the decorative LEDs, and the driving operation of the movable body 32. In addition, judgments, decisions, settings, etc. are made regarding the control contents of the performance operations using the various performance devices in accordance with the performance control commands, etc. transmitted from the main board 11.

Following the performance control process processing of step S76, a performance random number update process is executed (step S77), and at least a portion of the performance random numbers used on the performance control board 12 side is updated by software. Then, the process returns to step S73. Before returning to step S73, other processes may be executed.

Figure 7 is a flow chart showing an example of the processing executed in step S76 of Figure 6 as the performance control process. In the performance control process shown in Figure 7, the performance control CPU 120 first executes a look-ahead preview setting process (step S161). In the look-ahead preview setting process, for example, judgments, decisions, settings, etc. for executing a look-ahead preview performance are made based on the performance control command sent from the main board 11 at the time of the start winning. In addition, processing is executed to display a hold display based on the number of hold memories identified from the performance control command.

After executing the processing of step S161, the performance control CPU 120 selects and executes one of the processing of steps S170 to S177 as described below, depending on the value of a performance process flag provided in, for example, RAM 122.

The variable display start waiting process of step S170 is executed when the value of the presentation process flag is "0" (initial value). This variable display start waiting process includes a process of determining whether or not to start the variable display of the decorative pattern on the image display device 5 based on whether or not a command specifying the start of variable display has been received from the main board 11. If it is determined that the variable display of the decorative pattern on the image display device 5 should be started, the value of the presentation process flag is updated to "1" and the variable display start waiting process ends.

The variable display start setting process of step S171 is a process executed when the value of the performance process flag is "1". In this variable display start setting process, the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern (determined decorative pattern), the mode of the variable display of the decorative pattern, whether or not various performances such as reach performances and various advance notice performances are executed, and the mode and execution start timing are determined based on the display result and the change pattern specified by the performance control command. Then, a performance control pattern (a collection of control data for instructing the display control unit 123 to execute a performance) that reflects the determined result is set. After that, based on the set performance control pattern, the display control unit 123 is instructed to start the execution of the variable display of the decorative pattern, the value of the performance process flag is updated to "2", and the variable display start setting process is terminated. In response to the instruction to start the execution of the variable display of the decorative pattern, the display control unit 123 starts the variable display of the decorative pattern on the image display device 5.

The variable display performance process of step S172 is a process executed when the performance process flag is "2". In this variable display performance process, the performance control CPU 120 instructs the display control unit 123 to display a performance image based on the performance control pattern set in step S171 on the display screen of the image display device 5, to drive the movable body 32, to output voice and sound effects from the speakers 8L and 8R by outputting a command (sound effect signal) to the voice control board 13, and to turn on/off/blink the game effect lamp 9 and the decorative LED by outputting a command (illumination signal) to the lamp control board 14, thereby executing various performance controls during the variable display of the decorative pattern. After performing such performance control, for example, in response to the reading of an end code indicating the end of the variable display of the decorative pattern from the performance control pattern, or the reception of a command specifying the stop display of the fixed decorative pattern from the main board 11, the fixed decorative pattern, which is the display result of the decorative pattern, is stopped. When the final decorative pattern is displayed in a stopped state, the value of the performance process flag is updated to "3" and the performance process during variable display ends.

The special winning waiting process of step S173 is a process executed when the value of the performance process flag is "3". In this special winning waiting process, the performance control CPU 120 judges whether or not a performance control command specifying the start of a big win game state or a small win game state has been received from the main board 11. Then, when a performance control command specifying the start of a big win game state or a small win game state is received, if the command specifies the start of a big win game state, the value of the performance process flag is updated to "6". On the other hand, if the command specifies the start of a small win game state, the value of the performance process flag is updated to "4", which is a value corresponding to the small win performance process. Also, if a command specifying the start of a big win game state or a small win game state has not been received and the waiting time for receiving the command has elapsed, it is judged that the display result in the special game was "miss", and the value of the performance process flag is updated to the initial value "0". When the value of the performance process flag is updated, the special winning waiting process is terminated.

The small win presentation process of step S174 is executed when the presentation control process flag value is "4". In this small win presentation process, the presentation control CPU 120 sets, for example, a presentation control pattern corresponding to the presentation content in the small win game state, and executes various presentation controls in the small win game state based on the set content. In addition, in the small win presentation process, for example, in response to receiving a command from the main board 11 specifying that the small win game state is to be ended, the value of the presentation process flag is updated to "5", which is a value corresponding to the small win end presentation, and the small win presentation process is ended.

The small win end presentation process in step S175 is executed when the value of the presentation control process flag is "5". In this small win end presentation process, the presentation control CPU 120 sets a presentation control pattern corresponding to, for example, the end of a small win game state, and executes various presentation controls at the end of the small win game state based on the settings. After that, the value of the presentation process flag is updated to the initial value "0", and the small win end presentation process ends.

The jackpot performance process of step S176 is executed when the performance process flag value is "6". In this jackpot performance process, the performance control CPU 120 sets, for example, a performance control pattern corresponding to the performance content in the jackpot gaming state, and executes various performance controls in the jackpot gaming state based on the set content. In addition, in the jackpot performance process, for example, in response to receiving a command from the main board 11 specifying that the jackpot gaming state is to end, the value of the performance control process flag is updated to "7", which is a value corresponding to the ending performance process, and the jackpot performance process ends.

The ending presentation process of step S177 is executed when the value of the presentation process flag is "7". In this ending presentation process, the presentation control CPU 120 sets a presentation control pattern corresponding to, for example, the end of a jackpot gaming state, and executes various presentation controls for the ending presentation at the end of the jackpot gaming state based on the set contents. After that, the value of the presentation process flag is updated to the initial value "0", and the ending presentation process is terminated.

(Modification of the basic explanation)
This invention is not limited to the pachinko gaming machine 1 described in the basic description above, and various modifications and applications are possible without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

The pachinko gaming machine 1 described above is a payout type gaming machine that pays out a predetermined number of gaming media as prizes when a prize is won, but it may also be an enclosed type gaming machine that encloses gaming media and awards points when a prize is won.

Only one type of pattern (for example, a symbol showing "- ") may be displayed during the variable display of the special pattern, and the variable display may be achieved by repeatedly displaying and extinguishing the pattern. Furthermore, even if the pattern is displayed during the variable display, the pattern may not be displayed when the variable display is stopped (the display result may not include the symbol showing "- ").

In the above basic explanation, a pachinko gaming machine 1 was shown as the gaming machine, but the present invention can also be applied to slot machines (e.g., slot machines equipped with one or more of big bonus, regular bonus, RT, AT, ART, CZ (hereinafter, bonus, etc.)) that can play a game in which medals are inserted and a predetermined bet amount is set, multiple types of symbols are rotated in response to the player's operation of the control lever, and when the symbols are stopped in response to the player's operation of the stop button, a specific combination of symbols is formed, and a predetermined number of medals is paid out to the player.

The programs and data for implementing the present invention are not limited to being distributed or provided to the computer device included in the pachinko gaming machine 1 by a removable recording medium, but may be distributed by being pre-installed in a storage device of the computer device or the like. Furthermore, the programs and data for implementing the present invention may be distributed by being downloaded from another device on a network connected via a communication line or the like by providing a communication processing unit.

The game can be executed not only by inserting a removable recording medium, but also by temporarily storing a program and data downloaded via a communication line or the like in an internal memory, or by directly executing the game using the hardware resources of another device on a network connected via a communication line or the like. Furthermore, the game can be executed by exchanging data with another computer device or the like via a network.

In this specification, expressions of comparison of various percentages such as the execution percentage of effects (such as "high", "low", "different", etc.) may include one being a "0%" percentage. For example, they also include one being a "0%" percentage and the other being a "100%" percentage or a percentage less than "100%".

(Explanation regarding characteristic part 030IW)
Next, the characteristic feature 030IW of this embodiment will be described.

(Big hit determination table)
FIG. 8-1 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a jackpot determination table and a variation pattern table. Among these, FIG. 8-1(A) is an example of a jackpot determination table used in this feature unit 030IW. As shown in FIG. 8-1(A), in this example, based on the hit determination random number, it is determined that the probability of a jackpot is about 1/300 in a low probability state, and that the probability of a jackpot is about 1/30 in a high probability state.

In addition, the configuration is not limited to that shown in FIG. 8-1(A), and the probability of a jackpot may be different depending on whether the display of the first special pattern is changed or the display of the second special pattern is changed.

In addition, for example, if the setting can be set to one of a number of setting values with different degrees of advantage for the player, and a setting confirmation process or setting change process is executed when the power is turned on to the pachinko gaming machine 1, making it possible to confirm the current setting value or change the setting value, the probability of winning may differ depending on which setting value is set.

In addition, multiple types of jackpots may be provided, each with a different degree of advantage. Specifically, the number of rounds in the jackpot game and the game state after the jackpot game may be different depending on the jackpot type. In this case, when it is decided that a jackpot has occurred based on the hit determination random number, the type of jackpot is determined based on the type determination random number.

(Fluctuation pattern table)
8-1(B) and (C) are explanatory diagrams showing specific examples of the fluctuation pattern table in the feature part 030IW. Of these, FIG. 8-1(B) shows a specific example of a fluctuation pattern table for misses. Also, FIG. 8-1(C) shows a specific example of a fluctuation pattern table for big wins. Note that the fluctuation pattern tables shown in FIG. 8-1(B) and (C) are both used in a low probability state. In a high probability state or a high base state, a fluctuation pattern table (not shown) with a different ratio of judgment values may be used.

In this example, as shown in Figure 8-1 (B), in the event of a miss, the fluctuation pattern is determined to be one of the following: fluctuation pattern PA1-1 (normal fluctuation), fluctuation pattern PA1-2 (shortened fluctuation), fluctuation pattern PA2-1 (normal reach), fluctuation pattern PA2-2 (super reach A), fluctuation pattern PA2-3 (super reach B), fluctuation pattern PA2-4 (super reach A (with chance up)), and fluctuation pattern PA2-5 (super reach B (with chance up)).

In this example, as shown in FIG. 8-1(C), when a jackpot occurs, the fluctuation pattern is determined to be one of the following: fluctuation pattern PB2-1 (normal reach), fluctuation pattern PB2-2 (super reach A), fluctuation pattern PB2-3 (super reach B), fluctuation pattern PB2-4 (super reach A (with chance up)), and fluctuation pattern PB2-5 (super reach B (with chance up)).

In this example, during a super reach after a reach is achieved, a stock effect in which an item (in this example, a key) is stocked, and a chance up effect in which the stocked item (key) is used to change the presentation mode of other effects (i.e., to increase the likelihood of a jackpot suggested by other effects) can be executed. This configuration can increase interest during a super reach, and can also heighten the sense of anticipation for the stock effect and chance up effect. Hereinafter, executing a chance up effect using a stocked item (key) is also referred to as releasing the stocked item (key).

In this example, the super reach is a series of effects that unfold after the reach is established. When the effect control is performed based on the variation patterns PA2-2, PA2-3, PB2-2, and PB2-3 in which the chance up effect (and the stock effect) are not performed, there are two parts during the super reach: the first half part A of the super reach in which the prelude effect that is the prelude to the battle effect is performed, and the second half part of the super reach in which the battle effect is performed. When the effect control is performed based on the variation patterns PA2-4, PA2-5, PB2-4, and PB2-5 in which the chance up effect (and the stock effect) are performed, there are three parts during the super reach: the super reach introduction part in which the stock effect is performed, the first half part B of the super reach in which the prelude effect and the chance up effect are performed, and the second half part of the super reach in which the battle effect is performed. With this configuration, the stock effect and the chance up effect are performed in the period before the battle effect, which is the climax of the super reach, so that the effect can be gradually heightened and the effect of the effect can be enhanced.

In this example, as shown in Figures 8-1 (B) and (C), a Super Reach in which a Chance Up effect (and a Stock effect) is executed is configured to have a higher chance of winning than a Super Reach in which a Chance Up effect (and a Stock effect) is not executed, and furthermore, a Super Reach B is configured to have a higher chance of winning than a Super Reach A. This configuration creates anticipation as to whether a Chance Up effect (and a Stock effect) will be executed and in which Super Reach it will be executed.

In addition, the example shown in FIG. 8-1 is not limited to this, and for example, a variation pattern may be set in which a pseudo consecutive performance is executed once or multiple times before a super reach, and the expected probability of a jackpot may differ depending on the number of pseudo consecutive performances.

Next, the configuration of each fluctuation pattern will be described. Figure 8-2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the configuration of the fluctuation pattern and the breakdown of the fluctuation time. In this example, as shown in Figure 8-2, the elements that make up the fluctuation pattern (which can also be said to be the performances executed in the fluctuation pattern) are "normal fluctuation" which performs a fluctuation display in a normal manner, "shortened fluctuation" which performs a fluctuation display in a manner that is shorter than the normal fluctuation, "normal reach" which performs a normal reach as a reach performance, "super reach introduction (stock performance)" which performs a stock performance in the super reach introduction part as a reach performance, "super reach first half A (no chance up performance)" which performs a pre-outpost performance in the super reach first half part A, "super reach first half B (with chance up performance)" which performs a pre-outpost performance and a chance up performance in the super reach first half part B, "super reach second half (battle performance)" which performs a battle performance in the super reach second half part, and "win celebration performance" which performs a win celebration performance to celebrate the big win. Note that the examples shown in Figure 8-2 are not limited to those shown, and other elements such as an element that performs a pseudo consecutive performance may be provided.

As shown in Figure 8-2, fluctuation pattern PA1-1 is a fluctuation pattern that deviates from normal fluctuation, includes "normal fluctuation" (15 seconds) as an element that constitutes the fluctuation pattern, and has a total fluctuation time of 15 seconds. Fluctuation pattern PA1-2 is a fluctuation pattern that deviates from shortening fluctuation, includes "shortening fluctuation" (5 seconds) as an element that constitutes the fluctuation pattern, and has a total fluctuation time of 5 seconds.

Fluctuation pattern PA2-1 is a fluctuation pattern that goes through a normal reach and then a miss, and includes a "normal reach" (20 seconds) as an element that constitutes the fluctuation pattern, with a total fluctuation time of 20 seconds.

Furthermore, the fluctuation patterns PA2-2 and PA2-3 are fluctuation patterns that go through the first half part A of the super reach where no chance up effect is executed, and the second half part of the super reach, resulting in a miss. The elements that make up the fluctuation patterns include "first half A of the super reach (no chance up effect)" (30 seconds) and "second half of the super reach (battle effect)" (40 seconds), and the total fluctuation time is 70 seconds.

Fluctuating patterns PA2-4 and PA2-5 are fluctuation patterns that go through the Super Reach introduction part, the Super Reach first half part B where the chance up effect is executed, and the Super Reach second half part, before ending in a miss. The elements that make up the fluctuation patterns include "Super Reach introduction (stock effect)" (30 seconds), "Super Reach first half B (with chance up effect)" (40 seconds), and "Super Reach second half (battle effect)" (40 seconds), with a total fluctuation time of 110 seconds.

Fluctuating pattern PB2-1 is a fluctuation pattern in which a normal reach leads to a jackpot, and the elements that make up the fluctuation pattern include a "normal reach" (20 seconds) and a "celebration effect when a win occurs" (20 seconds), with a total fluctuation time of 40 seconds.

Furthermore, the fluctuation patterns PB2-2 and PB2-3 are fluctuation patterns that go through the first half part A of the super reach where no chance up effect is executed, and the second half part of the super reach, leading to a jackpot. The elements that make up the fluctuation patterns include the "first half A of the super reach (no chance up effect)" (30 seconds), the "second half of the super reach (battle effect)" (40 seconds), and the "celebration effect when a hit occurs" (20 seconds), and the total fluctuation time is 90 seconds.

Furthermore, the fluctuation patterns PB2-4 and PB2-5 are fluctuation patterns that go through the Super Reach introduction part, the Super Reach first half part B where the chance up effect is executed, and the Super Reach second half part, leading to a jackpot, and the elements that make up the fluctuation patterns include "Super Reach introduction (stock effect)" (30 seconds), "Super Reach first half B (with chance up effect)" (40 seconds), "Super Reach second half (battle effect)" (40 seconds), and "Hit celebration effect" (20 seconds), with a total fluctuation time of 130 seconds.

In the example shown in Figure 8-2, the performance times of the first half and second half of the Super Reach are the same for Super Reach A and Super Reach B, but this configuration is not limited to this, and the performance times may differ depending on the type of Super Reach.

(The timing of each performance during the Super Reach)
Next, the execution timing of the stock effect and the chance-up effect will be described. FIG. 8-3 is a timing chart showing an example of the execution timing of each effect.

In this example, the fluctuation time (which can also be said to be the total performance execution time) is determined by the fluctuation pattern determined on the main board 11 side, and the execution timing and performance execution time of the stock performance and chance up performance are determined based on the fluctuation pattern on the performance control board 12 side. However, as will be described in detail later, depending on the type of performance, the execution timing may be predetermined corresponding to the fluctuation pattern. Note that, without being limited to the configuration of this example, a fluctuation pattern may be set in which the execution timing and performance execution time of the stock performance and chance up performance are predetermined, and one of the fluctuation patterns may be determined on the main board 11 side.

Figure 8-3 (A) shows a case where a super reach without chance up is executed. In this case, as shown in Figure 8-3 (A), a pre-outpost performance is executed in the first half part A of the super reach, and a battle performance is executed in the second half part of the super reach.

Figure 8-3 (B) shows a case where a super reach with chance up is executed. In this case, a stock effect is executed first in the super reach introductory part. Then, in the first half part B of the super reach, a chance up effect is executed together with an outpost effect. Then, in the second half part of the super reach, a battle effect is executed.

As shown in FIG. 8-3(B), in this example, there are three opportunities to stock items (keys) at maximum, A to C during the stock effect (timings (A) to (C) shown in FIG. 8-3(B)). Note that in this example, there are three opportunities to stock items (keys) during the stock effect, but this is not limited to the above configuration, and there may be a maximum of two or less, or four or more.

In addition, in this example, the title display (a presentation that displays a title display), active display (a presentation that displays an active display), dialogue display (a dialogue presentation that displays a dialogue display), and decorative pattern (a decorative pattern presentation that displays a decorative pattern) in the first half of the Super Reach each suggest different odds of a jackpot depending on the presentation mode, and are configured so that when the corresponding chance-up presentation is executed, the presentation mode changes (i.e., the suggested odds of a jackpot increase).

Specifically, when one item (key) is stocked in the stock performance, a chance-up performance is executed once for any of the title display (performance that displays the title display), active display (performance that displays the active display), dialogue display (speech performance that displays the dialogue display), and decorative pattern (decorative pattern performance that displays the decorative pattern); when two items (keys) are stocked in the stock performance, a chance-up performance is executed once for each of two of the title display (performance that displays the title display), active display (performance that displays the active display), dialogue display (speech performance that displays the dialogue display), and decorative pattern (decorative pattern performance that displays the decorative pattern); when three items (keys) are stocked in the stock performance, a chance-up performance is executed once for each of three of the title display (performance that displays the title display), active display (performance that displays the active display), dialogue display (speech performance that displays the dialogue display), and decorative pattern (decorative pattern performance that displays the decorative pattern). Note that this is not limited to the configuration of this example, and chance-up performance may be executed multiple times for one performance. In this case, each time a chance-up effect is performed, a stocked item (key) is released.

As shown in FIG. 8-3(B), in this example, first to fifth timings (timings (1) to (5) shown in FIG. 8-3(B)) are provided as timings at which chance-up effects can be executed in the first half of the super reach. Note that in this example, the first to fifth timings in the first half of the super reach are determined for each variation pattern (or each type of super reach), but they may be common timings for all variation patterns (or types of super reach).

In addition, in this example, as shown in FIG. 8-3 (C), the chance-up effect targeting the title display (the effect that displays the title display) can be executed at the first timing, the chance-up effect targeting the active display (the effect that displays the active display) can be executed at the second or fourth timing, the chance-up effect targeting the dialogue display (the dialogue effect that displays the dialogue display) can be executed at the third timing, and the chance-up effect targeting the decorative pattern (the decorative pattern effect that displays the decorative pattern) can be executed at the fifth timing.

Whether the chance-up effect for the active display (effect that displays the active display) is executed at the second timing or the fourth timing is determined by lottery. On the other hand, the timing at which the chance-up effect for the title display (effect that displays the title display), the dialogue display (dialogue effect that displays the dialogue display), or the decorative pattern (decorative pattern effect that displays the decorative pattern) is executed is fixedly determined for each variation pattern. Note that this configuration is not limited to this, and the timing at which the chance-up effect for the active display (effect that displays the active display) is executed may be fixedly determined, or the timing at which the chance-up effect for the title display (effect that displays the title display), the dialogue display (dialogue effect that displays the dialogue display), or the decorative pattern (decorative pattern effect that displays the decorative pattern) is executed may be determined by lottery to be one of multiple timings.

The execution order of the effects that are the subject of the Chance Up Effects is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 8-3, and may be other orders. However, it is desirable that the later the order that the effect is the subject of the Chance Up Effects, the more likely it is that the Chance Up Effects will increase the likelihood of a jackpot (for example, the more likely it is that the effect will change to one with a higher chance of a jackpot). This configuration makes it possible to draw attention to the timing at which the Chance Up Effects will be executed, and prevents players who have high hopes for the timing of the change (for example, their hopes grow as the first half of the Super Reach progresses) from being disappointed.

In this example, when the chance-up effect is executed during a super reach, the stock effect is always executed, but the present invention is not limited to this configuration, and a pattern in which the chance-up effect is executed without the stock effect may also exist. In this case, for example, a variation pattern including the stock effect and the chance-up effect and a variation pattern including the chance-up effect without the stock effect are provided in advance, and when the main board 11 side determines the former variation pattern, the performance control board 12 side determines the performance contents of the stock effect and the chance-up effect according to the modes shown in Figures 8-5 to 8-8, which will be described later, based on the determined variation pattern, and when the main board 11 side determines the latter variation pattern, the performance control board 12 side determines whether or not to execute the chance-up effect and the type of chance-up effect to be executed based on the determined variation pattern. In this way, by providing a pattern in which the chance-up effect is executed without the stock effect being executed, the presence of the chance-up effect is increased, and the player can enjoy the performance with a sense of superiority in a situation in which the chance-up effect is visualized as being executed in the future. Furthermore, in such cases, the system can be configured so that the probability of a large number of chance-up effects being executed is higher when the stock effect is executed in advance than when it is not executed (i.e., the chance-up effect can be configured to increase the likelihood of a big win), giving priority to the execution of the stock effect and creating anticipation for the execution of the stock effect.

In addition, in this example, in a super reach, there is always a first half part of the super reach and a second half part of the super reach, but this is not limited to the configuration. For example, when a stock effect is executed, the first half part of the super reach can be omitted, and the second half part of the super reach can follow the super reach introduction part, and a chance-up effect can be executed in the second half part. This configuration can prevent the total effect execution time of a reach with high expectations from becoming too long.

When providing an exceptional pattern in which the first half of the super reach is omitted, in the basic pattern that is not omitted, it is desirable that when the first half of the super reach develops into the second half of the super reach, other performance images are displayed in a manner that covers all the performance images related to the super reach at the boundary between the first and second halves, or that the performance contents are clearly divided between the first and second halves. For example, at the boundary between the first and second halves, an effect image or character related to the chance up performance shown in FIG. 8-15 (13) described later, or an image such as the text display of "Pending Rank Up" may be displayed in a manner that covers all the performance images related to the super reach. Also, for example, the performance contents may be divided by executing an outpost performance in the first half and executing a battle performance in the second half, or the performance contents may be divided by displaying a battle scene in the first half and a conclusion scene such as a character unleashing a special move in the second half. By doing so, even when the first half of the super reach is omitted, the flow of the performance can be made natural.

In the example shown in FIG. 8-3, for convenience, the intervals between the timing of stocking and the timing of the chance-up effect are uniform, but they do not have to be uniform and can be any timing within the period.

(Execution time of each performance in Super Reach)
Next, the execution time of each effect in the super reach will be described. FIG. 8-4 is an explanatory diagram showing the execution time of each effect in the first half and the second half of the super reach.

Of the examples shown in Figure 8-4, Figure 8-4 (A) shows an example in which a chance-up effect is executed for the title display (a performance that displays the title display) at the first timing (timing (1) shown in Figure 8-4) of the first half of the super reach, a chance-up effect is executed for the dialogue display (a dialogue performance that displays the dialogue display) at the third timing (timing (3) shown in Figure 8-4), and a chance-up effect is executed for the decorative pattern (a decorative pattern performance that displays a decorative pattern) at the fifth timing (timing (5) shown in Figure 8-4) (corresponding to the eighth performance pattern of the chance-up effect described below).

In addition, Figure 8-4 (B) shows an example in which a chance-up effect is executed for the title display (a performance that displays the title display) at the first timing of the first half of the super reach, and a chance-up effect is executed for the decorative pattern (a decorative pattern performance that displays a decorative pattern) at the fifth timing (corresponding to the seventh performance pattern of the chance-up effect described below).

In the example shown in FIG. 8-4, in the latter part of the super reach, a moving body effect is executed in which the moving body 32 operates before the fluctuation ends (for example, when announcing that control is being given to a jackpot).

In this example, as shown in the case where a dialogue effect without a chance-up effect is executed as shown in FIG. 8-4(A) and the case where a dialogue effect with a chance-up effect is executed as shown in FIG. 8-4(B), the effect that is the target of the chance-up effect is configured to have a longer execution time when the effect mode changes due to the chance-up effect than when the effect mode does not change due to the chance-up effect. Specifically, the effect execution time T11 of the dialogue effect shown in FIG. 8-4(A) is longer than the effect execution time T12 of the dialogue effect shown in FIG. 8-4(B). With this configuration, when the chance-up effect is executed, a period for executing the chance-up effect and its target effect (for example, a period for announcing the change and the effect mode after the change) can be secured.

If the performance execution time of a performance were to change depending on whether or not a Chance Up performance is present, this would affect the execution timing of other performances, which could increase the amount of data related to performance control and complicate processing. Also, because the variable time (i.e. the total performance execution time) is fixedly determined in advance for each variable pattern, there is a risk that the performance will not fit within the time limit, or that there will be excess time. Therefore, in this example, the execution period of the movable body performance is made different depending on whether or not a Chance Up performance is present, thereby minimizing the impact on other performances and ensuring that all performances fit within the time limit without feeling unnatural.

In other words, in this example, the performance execution time T11 of the dialogue performance shown in FIG. 8-4(A) is longer than the performance execution time T12 of the dialogue performance shown in FIG. 8-4(B), while the performance execution time T21 of the movable body performance shown in FIG. 8-4(A) is shorter than the performance execution time T12 of the movable body performance shown in FIG. 8-4(B). And, the performance execution time of the chance-up performance targeting the decorative pattern (decorative pattern performance that displays decorative patterns) is the same.

For example, the movable body performance is controlled by moving the movable body 32 from the initial position to a performance position in front of the display area of the image display device 5 and keeping it at that performance position for a predetermined period of time, and controlling the image display device 5 to display an effect image or the like during the predetermined period to emphasize the movable body performance (at this time, the movable body 32 itself may be made to operate at the performance position), and then controlling the movable body 32 to move from the performance position to the initial position. In this way, the performance execution time of the movable body performance can be adjusted by lengthening or shortening the period during which the movable body 32 is at the performance position. By adjusting the performance execution time of the movable body performance in this way, it is possible to respond to small changes in the performance time depending on whether or not there is a chance up. With this configuration, while the performance execution time of the performance changes depending on whether or not there is a chance up performance, it is possible to prevent the amount of data related to the performance control from increasing and the processing from becoming complicated, and to fit all the performances within the time without any sense of incongruity.

The adjustment of the presentation time may be performed, for example, in a presentation other than the moving body presentation. For example, if the variable display result is a miss and the moving body presentation is not executed before the end of the variation, the presentation image related to the super reach may be returned to the normal background image before the end of the variation, and then the time for which the decorative pattern indicating a miss is temporarily stopped may be lengthened or shortened for adjustment.

In this example, the chance-up effect can be executed multiple times, and the execution time is configured to differ depending on the chance-up effect being executed. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 8-4 (A), chance-up effects that target decorative symbols have a longer execution time than chance-up effects that target title displays or dialogue displays. Although details will be described later, chance-up effects that target decorative symbols have a higher chance of winning than chance-up effects that target title displays or dialogue displays, so the effect of the effect can be enhanced by extending the execution time. With this configuration, various chance-up effects can be executed with suitable execution times, and the effect of the effect can be enhanced.

In addition, in this example, when one chance-up effect targeting one effect is being executed, other chance-up effects targeting other effects are not executed. For example, as shown in FIG. 8-4, chance-up effects with different targets are executed after a predetermined period of time has elapsed. This configuration makes it possible to draw attention to the chance-up effect being executed.

(Variable display start setting process)
FIG. 8-5 is a flow chart showing the variable display start setting process (step S171) in the performance control process shown in FIG. 7. In the variable display start setting process, the performance control CPU 120 first reads out the variable pattern command from the variable pattern command storage area (step 030IWS801). Next, the performance control CPU 120 determines the display result (stop pattern) of the decorative pattern according to the variable pattern command read out in step 030IWS801 and the data stored in the display result designation command storage area (i.e., the received display result designation command) (step 030IWS802). That is, the performance control CPU 120 executes the process of step 030IWS802, thereby realizing a display result determination means that determines the display result of the variable display of the identification information (the stop pattern of the decorative pattern) according to the variable display pattern (variable pattern) determined by the variable display pattern determination means. In addition, when a pseudo-series is specified by the variation pattern command, the performance control CPU 120 also determines, in step 030IWS802, a chance eye pattern (for example, a combination of patterns that is one pattern away from the jackpot pattern, such as "223" or "445", which is not a reach but is not a jackpot pattern, or a pattern combination in which the middle pattern is a special pattern exclusive to pseudo-series (a character such as "NEXT" is written, but no numbers are written, and it cannot form a jackpot combination)) as a provisional stopping pattern during the pseudo-series. In addition, the performance control CPU 120 stores data indicating the stopping pattern of the determined decorative pattern in the decorative pattern display result storage area. In addition, in step 030IWS802, the performance control CPU 120 may determine whether or not it is a jackpot based on the received variation pattern command, and determine the stopping pattern of the decorative pattern based only on the variation pattern command.

In the case of a "miss", a combination of decorative symbols other than those mentioned above is determined. However, in the case of a reach effect, a combination of decorative symbols in which the two symbols on the left and right are aligned is determined.
In addition, even if it is a miss, if it is a "time-saving miss", a combination of decorative symbols of the losing symbols including a special symbol (e.g., a star symbol) is determined. Note that it may be configured to determine a combination of decorative symbols of the losing symbols including different special symbols (e.g., a heart-shaped symbol or a diamond-shaped symbol) according to the type of time-saving.

The performance control CPU 120, for example, extracts a random number for determining the stopping pattern, and determines the stopping pattern of the decorative pattern using a stopping pattern determination table in which data indicating the combination of decorative patterns is associated with a numerical value. In other words, the stopping pattern is determined by selecting data indicating the combination of decorative patterns that corresponds to the numerical value that matches the extracted random number.

Next, the performance control CPU 120 checks whether the variation pattern includes a Super Reach (with Chance Up) (step 030IWS803). If the variation pattern does not include a Super Reach (with Chance Up), the process proceeds to step 030IWS811.

If the variation pattern includes a super reach (with chance up), the performance control CPU 120 determines the performance pattern of the stock performance (step 030IWS804). Next, the performance control CPU 120 determines the performance pattern of the chance up performance (step 030IWS805). Next, the performance control CPU 120 determines the performance mode after the change of the performance that is the target of the chance up performance (step 030IWS806).
Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S030IWS811. Details of steps S030IWS804, S805, and S806 will be described later.

In step 030IWS811, the performance control CPU 120 selects a process table according to the variation pattern and the determined content of the performance (step 030IWS811).

Then, the performance control CPU 120 starts the process timer for process data 1 of the selected process table (step 030IWS812).

The process table is a table in which process data is set that the performance control CPU 120 refers to when controlling the performance device. That is, the performance control CPU 120 controls the performance device (performance parts) such as the image display device 5 according to the process data set in the process table. The process table is composed of data that is a collection of multiple combinations of process timer setting values, display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data. The display control execution data includes data indicating the manner of change that constitutes the change manner during the variable display time (variation time) of the variable display of the decorative pattern. Specifically, data related to the change of the display screen of the image display device 5 is included. In addition, the process timer setting value is set to the change time for that change manner. The performance control CPU 120 refers to the process table and controls the display of the decorative pattern in the change manner set in the display control execution data for the time set in the process timer setting value. In addition, the process table is stored in the ROM in the performance control board 80. In addition, a process table is prepared according to each change pattern.

The process table used when controlling the performance of a variation pattern involving a reach performance has process data set therein which indicates that the left pattern is to be stopped and displayed when a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the variation, and that the right pattern is to be stopped and displayed when a further predetermined time has elapsed. In addition, instead of setting the pattern to be stopped and displayed in the process table, an image for displaying the pattern may be generated by synthesizing according to the determined stopping pattern, or the provisional stopping pattern in the pseudo consecutive or sliding performance.

In addition, the performance control CPU 120 executes control of the performance devices (the image display device 5 as a performance component, various lamps as performance components, and the speakers 8L, 8R as performance components) according to the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1) (step 030IWS813). For example, it outputs a command to the display control unit 123 to display an image corresponding to the fluctuation pattern on the image display device 5.
In addition, in order to control the turning on and off of various lamps, a control signal (lamp control execution data) is output to the lamp control board 14. In addition, in order to output sounds from the speakers 8L and 8R, a control signal (sound number data) is output to the sound control board 13.

Step 030: By executing the processing of IWS813, a performance is realized according to the variation pattern and the contents decided to be executed.

Next, the performance control CPU 120 sets the variable time timer to a value equivalent to the variable time specified by the variable pattern command (step 030IWS814).

Then, the performance control CPU 120 sets the value of the performance control process flag to a value corresponding to the performance processing during variable display (step S172) (step 030IWS815).

Next, we will explain the details of the process for determining the presentation pattern of the stock presentation in the variable display start setting process (step 030IWS804).

In step 030IWS804, the stock effect pattern is determined, for example, by referring to the stock effect pattern determination table shown in Figures 8-6 (A) to (B).

Specifically, when the fluctuation pattern is Super Reach A (with chance up) fluctuation pattern PA2-4 or PB2-4, the first stock performance pattern determination table (Super Reach A) shown in Figure 8-6 (A) is referenced to determine the first performance pattern in which one item (key) is stocked as the performance result, or one of the second and third performance patterns in which two items (keys) are stocked as the performance result.

In addition, when the fluctuation pattern is the fluctuation pattern PA2-5 or PB2-5 of Super Reach B (with chance up), the second stock effect pattern determination table (Super Reach B) shown in Figure 8-6 (B) is referenced to determine the first effect pattern in which one item (key) is stocked as the effect result, the second or third effect pattern in which two items (keys) are stocked as the effect result, or the fourth or fifth effect pattern in which three items (keys) are stocked as the effect result.

In this example, as shown in Figures 8-3 and 8-6, there are opportunities to stock items (keys) at timing A, timing B, and timing C during the stock performance. For example, in the first performance pattern, one item (key) is stocked at timing A, and no items (keys) are stocked at timing B and timing C. Also, for example, in the fifth performance pattern, one item (key) is stocked at timing A, no items (keys) are stocked at timing B, and two items (keys) are stocked at timing C. In this way, in this example, there are opportunities to stock one or multiple items (keys) at each timing.

In addition, in this example, as shown in Figures 8-6 (A) to (B), each performance pattern of the stock performance is configured to have a different probability of being determined at the time of a jackpot. In other words, the expected probability of a jackpot is configured to differ depending on the number of items (keys) stocked and the timing of stocking. This configuration makes it possible to draw attention to the performance patterns of the stock performance.

In this example, as shown in Figures 8-6 (A) to (B), the presentation patterns of the stock presentation that can be determined for Super Reach A and Super Reach B are configured to be different.
Specifically, a maximum of two items (keys) can be stocked during Super Reach A, and a maximum of three items (keys) can be stocked during Super Reach B. This configuration allows players to pay attention to which type of Super Reach will result in the stock effect being executed.

In addition, in this example, as shown in Figures 8-6 (A) to (B), the game is configured so that an item (key) is stocked at timing A regardless of the presentation pattern (in other words, when the stock presentation is executed, at least one item (key) is stocked). This configuration can prevent the player from losing all expectations for the stock presentation or losing interest in the stock presentation due to cases where an item is not stocked even when the stock presentation is executed.

In this example, the probability of a big win is higher when the stock effect is executed than when it is not executed, so the player is likely to expect the stock effect to occur. Therefore, for example, in the normal reach before the start of the super reach (the state in which the left and right symbols are ready and the middle symbol is changing on the image display device 5), a symbol that suggests that the stock effect will be executed or a symbol that teases whether it will be executed or not may be executed. For example, when the stock effect is executed, in the normal reach state, a special symbol such as a "key stock time symbol" may be stopped as the middle symbol to transition to the stock effect. Also, for example, when the stock effect is executed, in the normal reach state, the middle symbol may start to change at high speed, and after the screen is switched to the super reach (covering the display area of the image display device 5 by whiteout, etc.), the transition may be made to the stock effect instead of the first half part of the super reach (the outpost effect).

Next, we will explain the details of the process (step 030IWS805) that determines the presentation pattern for the chance-up presentation in the variable display start setting process.

In step 030IWS805, for example, the chance-up effect pattern determination table shown in Figures 8-7 (A) to (E) is referenced to determine the chance-up effect pattern.

Specifically, if the fluctuation pattern is one of the fluctuation patterns PA2-4 or PB2-4 of Super Reach A (with Chance Up) and the number of items stocked determined in step 030IWS804 is 1, the first chance up performance pattern determination table (Super Reach A: 1 chance up) shown in Figure 8-7 (A) is referenced to determine one of the first to third performance patterns that will perform the chance up performance once.

In addition, if the fluctuation pattern is one of the fluctuation patterns PA2-4 or PB2-4 of Super Reach A (with Chance Up) and the number of items stocked determined in step 030IWS804 is 2, the second chance up performance pattern determination table (Super Reach A: Chance Up 2 times) shown in Figure 8-7 (B) is referenced to determine one of the fifth to sixth performance patterns in which the chance up performance is performed twice.

In addition, if the fluctuation pattern is one of the fluctuation patterns PA2-5 or PB2-5 of Super Reach B (with Chance Up) and the number of items stocked determined in step 030IWS804 is 1, the third chance up performance pattern determination table (Super Reach B: 1 chance up) shown in Figure 8-7 (C) is referenced to determine one of the first to fourth performance patterns that will perform the chance up performance once.

In addition, if the fluctuation pattern is one of the fluctuation patterns PA2-5 or PB2-5 of Super Reach B (with Chance Up) and the number of items stocked determined in step 030IWS804 is 2, the fourth chance up performance pattern determination table (Super Reach B: Chance Up twice) shown in Figure 8-7 (D) is referenced to determine one of the fifth to seventh performance patterns in which the chance up performance is performed twice.

In addition, if the fluctuation pattern is either of the fluctuation patterns PA2-5 or PB2-5 of Super Reach B (with Chance Up) and the number of items stocked determined in step 030IWS804 is 3, the 5th chance up performance pattern determination table (Super Reach B: Chance Up 3 times) shown in Figure 8-7 (E) is referenced to determine the 8th performance pattern in which the chance up performance is performed 3 times.

For example, in the first presentation pattern of the chance-up presentation, a chance-up presentation that changes the presentation mode of the title display (presentation that displays the title display) is executed once. Also, for example, in the eighth presentation pattern of the chance-up presentation, a chance-up presentation that changes the presentation mode of the title display (presentation that displays the title display), a chance-up presentation that changes the presentation mode of the dialogue display (dialogue presentation that displays the dialogue display), and a chance-up presentation that changes the presentation mode of the decorative pattern (decorative pattern presentation that displays a decorative pattern) are each executed.

In this example, before the chance-up effect is executed, a chance-up prompting effect is executed to prompt whether or not the chance-up effect will be executed. There are chance-up prompting effects in which the chance-up effect is executed after the effect and those in which it is not executed, and when distinguishing between the two, the former are also called chance-up prompting effects (true) and the latter chance-up prompting effects (false).

In the chance-up teasing performance (true), an image suggesting a keyhole corresponding to the stocked item (key) (e.g., keyhole (suggested) image 030IWG13) is displayed, and then an image showing a keyhole (e.g., keyhole (real) image 030IWG11) is displayed. On the other hand, in the chance-up teasing performance (false), an image suggesting a keyhole corresponding to the stocked item (key) (e.g., keyhole (suggested) image 030IWG13) is displayed, and then an image showing a keyhole (e.g., keyhole (real) image 030IWG11) is not displayed, and the image suggesting a keyhole (e.g., keyhole (suggested) image 030IWG13) is erased.

In this example, a chance-up teasing effect (true) is always executed before a chance-up effect is executed. Then, as shown in FIG. 8-7, for example, in the fourth and seventh chance-up effect patterns, a chance-up teasing effect (false) is executed that teases whether or not a chance-up effect targeting a dialogue display (a dialogue effect that displays a dialogue display) will be executed, but which ultimately will not be executed. This configuration allows the player to pay attention to which effect the chance-up effect will be executed. Note that, not limited to the example shown in FIG. 8-7, a chance-up teasing effect (false) may be executed when a chance-up effect is not executed and there are still stocked items (keys) remaining.

In this example, as shown in Figures 8-7 (A) to (E), each presentation pattern of the chance-up effects is configured to have a different probability of being determined at the time of a jackpot (i.e., different jackpot expectation). This configuration allows players to focus on the presentation pattern of the chance-up effects. In particular, the later the timing of the change that is the subject of the chance-up effects (i.e., in the order of decorative pattern change > dialogue display change > title display change), the higher the jackpot expectation. This configuration allows players to focus on which chance-up effects are executed at which timing.

In addition, in this example, the chance-up effect, which changes the presentation mode of the decorative pattern (decorative pattern presentation that displays decorative patterns), is not executed during Super Reach A, but is configured to be executable only during Super Reach B. This configuration allows you to pay attention to which type of Super Reach the chance-up effect is executed during.

Note that, in addition to the example shown in Figure 8-7, a chance-up effect that changes the presentation mode of the decorative pattern (decorative pattern presentation that displays decorative patterns) may be configured to be executable in any type of super reach. In addition, in this example, the chance-up effect is configured to be executed up to three times, but the present invention is not limited to this configuration, and up to four chance-up effects may be executed corresponding to all possible target effects, and further, a chance-up effect targeting the active display may be executed at both the second timing and the fourth timing, so that up to five chance-up effects may be executed.

Next, we will explain the details of the process (step 030IWS806) that determines the presentation mode after the change in the presentation that is the target of the chance-up presentation in the variable display start setting process.

In step 030IWS806, if it is determined to execute a chance-up effect that changes the presentation mode of the title display (presentation that displays the title display), the change pattern is determined by referring to the title display change pattern determination table shown in FIG. 8-8(A). Also, if it is determined to execute a chance-up effect that changes the presentation mode of the active display (presentation that displays the active display), the change pattern is determined by referring to the active display change pattern determination table shown in FIG. 8-8(B). Also, if it is determined to execute a chance-up effect that changes the presentation mode of the dialogue display (dialogue presentation that displays the dialogue display), the change pattern is determined by referring to the dialogue display change pattern determination table shown in FIG. 8-8(C). Also, if it is determined to execute a chance-up effect that changes the presentation mode of the decorative pattern (decorative pattern presentation that displays a decorative pattern), the change pattern is determined by referring to the decorative pattern change pattern determination table shown in FIG. 8-8(D).

In this example, the title display (a presentation that displays the title display), active display (a presentation that displays the active display), dialogue display (a dialogue presentation that displays the dialogue display) and decorative pattern (a decorative pattern presentation that displays a decorative pattern) are configured so that the color tone of the presentation image related to the presentation suggests the likelihood of a jackpot. For example, the following colors are configured to suggest that the likelihood of a jackpot increases in the order of gold > red > green > blue > normal color (white).

When the first change pattern is selected as the title display change pattern, the title display changes from the normal color (white) to blue, and when the second change pattern is selected, the title display changes from the normal color (white) to green.

In addition, if the first change pattern is determined as the active display change pattern, the active display changes from the normal color (white) to blue at the first timing of the first half of the super reach, if the second change pattern is determined, the active display changes from the normal color (white) to green at the first timing, if the third change pattern is determined, the active display changes from the normal color (white) to green at the third timing, and if the fourth change pattern is determined, the active display changes from the normal color (white) to red at the third timing.

In addition, if it is possible to execute a look-ahead preview effect that changes the pending display (and the active display), a chance-up effect targeting the active display may be executed according to the performance pattern (for example, the timing of the change and the display state after the change are determined) that is determined as the look-ahead preview effect at the time of the initial winning.

When the first change pattern is determined as the change pattern for the dialogue display, the dialogue display changes from the normal color (white) to blue, when the second change pattern is determined, the dialogue display changes from the normal color (white) to green, and when the third change pattern is determined, the dialogue display changes from the normal color (white) to red.

In addition, if the change pattern of the decorative design is determined to be the first change pattern, the decorative design will change from the normal color (white) to green, if the second change pattern is determined, the decorative design will change from the normal color (white) to red, and if the third change pattern is determined, the decorative design will change from the normal color (white) to gold.

In this example, when the presentation mode of the target presentation changes due to the chance-up presentation, the tendency of the presentation mode after the change is configured to differ depending on the timing of the change. Specifically, the chance-up presentation targeted at the active display is configured to be more likely to change to a presentation mode with a higher expectation at the third timing, which is later than the first timing. Also, the chance-up presentation targeted at the decorative pattern is configured to be executed later and to be more likely to change to a presentation mode with a higher expectation than the chance-up presentation targeted at the title display, active display, or dialogue display. This configuration makes it possible to draw attention to the timing at which the chance-up presentation will be executed, and to prevent disappointment for players who have high expectations for the timing of the change (for example, expectations grow as the first half of the super reach progresses).

In addition, if the color displayed after the change at an earlier timing suggests a higher expectation level than the color displayed after the change at a later timing, the presentation mode (color) displayed after the change at the later timing may be re-determined so as not to cause a drop in expectation level.

(Example of performance)
Next, a specific example of the Super Reach effect including the stock effect and the chance up effect will be described. Figures 8-9 to 8-10 are explanatory diagrams showing a specific example of the stock effect. In Figures 8-9 to 8-10, the effect screen transitions in the order of (1), (2), and (3).

(Stock effect (fifth effect pattern))
Figures 8-9 to 8-10 show the stock presentation of the fifth presentation pattern, in which one item (key) is stocked at timing A, no item (key) is stocked at timing B, and two items (keys) are stocked at timing C.

Specifically, when the variable display starts and a reach is achieved, a decorative pattern showing "6" is displayed in the left decorative pattern display area 5L and the right decorative pattern display area 5R of the image display device 5. Then, when the stock performance starts, the title display of the stock performance, "Key Stock" and "TIME", is displayed on the image display device 5 as shown in FIG. 8-9 (1). Note that the display mode of the title display may suggest the number of items (keys) to be stocked in the stock performance that starts later, or that a large number of items (keys) will be stocked. For example, the title display is generally displayed in a normal color (white), but when it is displayed in red, it may suggest that a larger number of items (keys) will be stocked than when it is displayed in a normal color (white).

In this example, as shown in FIG. 8-9 (1), except during special effects, the active display AH is displayed as the active display in the lower left part of the display area of the image display device 5, and the small symbol KZ corresponding to the special symbol and the reserved memory number HS indicating the number of reserved memories are displayed in the center right part of the display area of the image display device 5.

Next, when the stock effect starts, as shown in FIG. 8-9 (2), a timer image 030IWG01 indicating the remaining time of the stock effect and a "Key Stock Time" display 030IWG02 indicating that the stock effect is in progress are displayed. Furthermore, when timing A of the stock effect arrives, as shown in FIG. 8-9 (2), character A prompting the user to press push button 31B, the valid operation period, and an image resembling push button 31B are displayed.

In the stock effect of the fifth effect pattern, one key is stocked at timing A, so when a press of push button 31B is detected during the valid operation period (or when the valid operation period has elapsed), the text display "Stock x 1," indicating that one key has been stocked as an item, an image resembling a key, and an effect image emphasizing them are displayed in a manner that covers the background image, as shown in Figure 8-9 (3).

Next, as shown in FIG. 8-9 (4), a visual effect is displayed in which one key moves from the top left to the bottom right of the screen of the image display device and is stored (for example, a display in which it appears as if the key is flying in from the back left of the screen and being stored in the front right of the screen).

When the display showing the keys being stocked ends, a display showing the progress of the stock display is displayed, as shown in FIG. 8-9 (5). Specifically, a display showing character A riding a swing is displayed in the center of the display area of the image display device 5, and the remaining time shown in the timer image 030IWG01 is displayed decreasing. At this time, a stock key image 030G03 is also displayed, showing the number of keys currently stocked.

Next, at timing B of the stock effect, as shown in FIG. 8-9 (6), character A is displayed to prompt the player to press push button 31B, along with an image of the valid operation period and push button 31B. Note that in this example, a display prompting the player to press push button 31B is displayed at timings A, B, and C of the stock effect, and character A's pose is configured to be different for each. Therefore, even if the display prompting the player to press the push button is displayed multiple times, the player's interest can be increased at each timing without becoming bored.

In the stock presentation of the fifth presentation pattern, keys are not stocked at timing B, so when a press of push button 31B is detected during the valid operation period (or when the valid operation period has elapsed), as shown in FIG. 8-9 (7), an image of a close-up of character A's face, the character "!?", and an effect image that emphasizes them are displayed in a manner that covers the background image, and no image indicating that keys will be stocked is displayed.

In this way, by executing an effect in which a character image is displayed instead of a key when no keys are stocked, the disappointment of not being able to stock a key can be reduced. In addition, in the stock effect of this example, even if only one key is stocked, the effect execution time is the same as when three keys are stocked. Therefore, if there is a period of time when no keys are stocked even when the button is pressed, the effect becomes redundant and there is a risk of losing interest. Therefore, by displaying a character image instead of a key when no keys are stocked in this way to liven up the effect, the stock effect does not lose excitement even when the number of keys stocked is small. Note that the character image displayed when no keys are stocked does not have to be of one type, but may be different depending on the type of super reach being executed. In this way, future developments can be predicted by the displayed character image, and the character image can be given a dramatic meaning.

The effect display shown in FIG. 8-9(7) is performed when no keys are stocked (i.e., indicates that no keys are stocked), so after the image displayed in the effect display shown in FIG. 8-9(7) is erased, the effect display shown in FIG. 8-9(8) in which the stock effect progresses is displayed, but the number of stocked keys indicated by the stock key image 030G03 does not increase. Note that the display period for the effect display when an item is stocked shown in FIG. 8-9(3) is set shorter than the display period for the effect display when an item is not stocked shown in FIG. 8-9(7). This configuration makes it possible to prevent players from feeling annoyed or losing interest by displaying undesirable effects for a long time without the effect of increasing the number of stocks.

Next, as shown in FIG. 8-10 (9), a display showing the progress of the stock effect is displayed, and when timing C of the stock effect arrives, as shown in FIG. 8-10 (10), character A prompting the player to press push button 31B, the valid operation period, and an image resembling push button 31B are displayed.

In the stock effect of the fifth effect pattern, two keys are stocked at timing C, so when a press of push button 31B is detected during the valid operation period (or when the valid operation period has elapsed), as shown in Figure 8-10 (11), the text display "Stock x 2" indicating that two keys have been stocked as items, an image resembling a key, and an effect image emphasizing them are displayed in a manner that covers the background image.

Next, as shown in FIG. 8-10 (12), an effect display is performed in which two keys move from the top left to the bottom right of the screen of the image display device and are stored (for example, a display in which the keys appear to fly in from the back left of the screen and be stored in the front right of the screen).

When the display showing the stocking of keys ends, a display showing the progress of the stocking display is displayed, as shown in FIG. 8-10 (13). Then, when the remaining time shown in timer image 030IWG01 reaches 0, as shown in FIG. 8-10 (14), a display prompting the user to press push button 31B is displayed, as shown in FIG. 8-10 (15).

When a press of the push button 31B is detected during the valid operation period (or when the valid operation period has elapsed), as shown in FIG. 8-10 (16), the text display "Character A VS Enemy Character B" indicating the battle cards in the battle performance, as well as Character A and Enemy Character B, are displayed, and the stock performance ends.

In this example, when a super reach with chance up is executed, a stock effect is first executed in the super reach introductory part. Then, in the first half of the super reach, a prelude effect such as a dialogue effect in which character A and enemy character B face each other and talk is executed primarily, and a chance up effect is executed incidentally. After that, in the second half of the super reach, a battle effect in which character A and enemy character B cross swords is executed. Note that, when a super reach without chance up is executed, a prelude effect such as a dialogue effect in which character A and enemy character B face each other and talk is executed in the first half of the super reach, and a battle effect in which character A and enemy character B cross swords is executed in the second half of the super reach.

In the example shown in FIG. 8-10 (16), the match card for the battle performance is "character A vs. enemy character B", but in reality, multiple types of match cards (different types of friendly and enemy characters) are provided, and the match card is determined according to the type of super reach. That is, the pressing of the push button 31B triggers the display of the match card for the battle performance, thereby announcing the type of super reach. With this configuration, it is possible to increase the sense of expectation and tension when the push button 31B is pressed at the timing shown in FIG. 8-10 (15). For example, in addition to or instead of the type of super reach, the types of friendly and enemy characters may be different depending on the expectation of a jackpot. Also, for example, if the performance stage is configured to transition depending on the game period or game state, such as the number of changes, a character previously associated with the performance stage may be made to fight against one of the enemy characters (which may be one of multiple enemy characters previously associated with the performance stage, or may be an enemy character determined by lottery).

(Stock effect (first effect pattern))
Next, we will explain the stock presentation of the first presentation pattern in which one item (key) is stocked at timing A, and no item (key) is stocked at timing B and timing C, resulting in one key being stocked.

When the stock effect of the first effect pattern is executed, after the screen transitions of Figures 8-9 (1) to (8), a stock key image 030G03 indicating that one key is stocked is displayed as shown in Figure 8-11 (9), and an effect display showing the progress of the stock effect is displayed. Then, as shown in Figure 8-11 (10), when the remaining time shown in the timer image 030IWG01 reaches 0, a display is displayed encouraging the user to press the push button 31B as shown in Figure 8-11 (11).

When a press of the push button 31B is detected during the valid operation period (or when the valid operation period has elapsed), as shown in FIG. 8-11 (12), the text display "Character A VS Enemy Character B" indicating the battle cards in the battle performance, as well as Character A and Enemy Character B, are displayed, and the stock performance ends.

(Overview of the first and second half of Super Reach)
Next, an overview of the effects in the first and second parts of the Super Reach will be explained. Figures 8-12 to 8-13 are explanatory diagrams showing an overview of the effects in the first and second parts of the Super Reach. In Figures 8-12 to 8-13, the effects screen transitions in the order of (1), (2), and (3).

When the Super Reach introductory part (stock effect) ends and the first half of the Super Reach begins, the title of Super Reach B, "A Deadly Battle Between Two People," is displayed, as shown in Figure 8-12 (1).

Also, as shown in FIG. 8-12 (1), a mini character A image 030IWC10 and a mini key image 030IWG10 of the number of keys stocked in the stock effect are displayed in the lower right of the display area of the image display device 5. In this example, it is assumed that three keys have been stocked in advance in the stock effect, and the three keys are displayed in a manner that moves around the mini character A. Note that in this example, the keys stocked in the stock effect of the super reach introduction part are displayed as a mini key image 030IWG10 or a key image 030IWG12 in the first half of the super reach.

In addition, a decorative pattern indicating "6" is displayed in the left decorative pattern display area 5L and the right decorative pattern display area 5R of the image display device 5, and an active display AH is displayed at the lower left side of the display area of the image display device 5 as an active display, and a small pattern KZ corresponding to the special pattern and a reserved memory number HS indicating the number of reserved memories are displayed at the center right side of the display area of the image display device 5.

Next, as a prelude, as shown in FIG. 8-12(2), character A image 030IWC01 and enemy character A image 030IWC02 face each other, and after that, as shown in FIG. 8-12(3), line image 030IWG20 is displayed saying "I'll kill you!"

Next, as shown in FIG. 8-12 (4), character A image 030IWC01 is displayed alone, along with a line image 030IWG20 saying "I won't go easy on you."

As shown in Figures 8-12 (2) to (4), when the chance-up effect is not being executed during the execution of the prelude effect, an effect display is performed in which the mini key image 030IWG10 and the mini character A image 030IWC10 move around the edge of the display area of the image display device 5. At this time, an effect display is performed in which the mini key image 030IWG10 moves around the mini character A image 030IWC10.

When a chance-up effect targeting a dialogue effect is executed, as shown in FIG. 8-12 (5), a keyhole (actual) image 030IWG11 resembling a keyhole is displayed overlapping the dialogue image 030IWG20. Also at this time, a mini-character A image 030IWC10 holding a key is displayed next to the keyhole (actual) image 030IWG11. This type of effect display indicates that the target of the chance-up effect is a dialogue effect.

Next, to display the effect of the key being inserted into the keyhole, the key image 030IWG12 and keyhole (actual) image 030IWG11 are displayed as shown in FIG. 8-12 (6), and then, to display the effect of the key turning in the keyhole (i.e., the lock being opened), the key image 030IWG12 rotated in the keyhole (actual) image 030IWG11 is displayed as shown in FIG. 8-12 (7).

When the key turns in the keyhole (i.e., the lock is opened), the dialogue image 030IWG20 changes from the normal color (white) to blue, as shown in FIG. 8-12 (8). This type of dialogue display changes the dialogue presentation as a result of the chance-up presentation.

After that, when the first half of the Super Reach (the outpost effect and the chance up effect) ends and the second half of the Super Reach begins, a battle effect begins in which character A image 030IWC01 and enemy character A image 030IWC02 cross swords, as shown in FIG. 8-13 (9).

When character A wins against enemy character A, the word "Victory" is displayed as shown in FIG. 8-13 (10), and then the combination of "666" decorative symbols, which is the jackpot symbol, is displayed as shown in FIG. 8-13 (11).

(Chance Up Production)
Next, the chance-up effect outlined in Fig. 8-12 will be described in detail with reference to Fig. 8-14 to Fig. 8-18. Fig. 8-14 to Fig. 8-18 also show the part of the chance-up effect that is omitted in Fig. 8-12.

Figures 8-14 to 8-15 are explanatory diagrams showing specific examples of chance-up effects that target active displays. Note that in Figures 8-14 to 8-15, the effect screen transitions in the order of (1), (2), and (3).

In the first half of the super reach, as shown in FIG. 8-14(1), an outpost display is executed in which the character A image 030IWC01 and the enemy character A image 030IWC02 face off against each other. Also, as shown in FIG. 8-14(1), a display is executed in which the mini key image 030IWG10 and the mini character A image 030IWC10 move around the edge of the display area of the image display device 5. Also, at this time, a display is executed in which the mini key image 030IWG10 moves around the mini character A image 030IWC10.

Note that the performance images related to the outpost performance (e.g., character A image 030IWC01 and enemy character A image 030IWC02, etc.) are also displayed in Fig. 8-14 (1) and onwards, but are omitted from the illustration for simplicity. In this example, the performance images related to the outpost performance have a lower display priority than performance images related to the chance-up performance (e.g., key image, keyhole image, mini character image, etc.) and performance images related to the performance that is the target of the chance-up performance (e.g., title display, active display, dialogue display, decorative pattern), and are displayed in a layer lower than those images.
Although details will be described later, the presentation image relating to the prelude presentation is covered by the presentation image relating to the chance-up presentation at the timings of (13) to (14) in FIG. 8-15.

Next, when the chance-up teasing performance (true) is executed, as shown in FIG. 8-14 (2), a keyhole (suggestion) image 030IWG13, which suggests that a keyhole will appear, is displayed in the center of the display area. At this time, the mini key image 030IWG10 and mini character A image 030IWC10 stop moving around the edge of the display area of the image display device 5, and the mini key image 030IWG10 stops moving around the mini character A image 030IWC10. In addition, an "!" is displayed next to the mini key image 030IWG10 and mini character A image 030IWC10 to indicate the presence of the keyhole (suggestion) image 030IWG13.

Next, as shown in FIG. 8-14 (3), a display effect begins in which the keyhole (suggestion) image 030IWG13 gradually shrinks. Then, as shown in FIG. 8-14 (4), the gradually shrinking keyhole (suggestion) image 030IWG13 approaches the active display AH that is the target of the chance-up effect, and eventually, as shown in FIG. 8-14 (5), a display effect is performed in which the keyhole (suggestion) image 030IWG13 overlaps the active display AH. At this time, triangular marks are displayed around the keyhole (suggestion) image 030IWG13 to indicate that it is shrinking.

Also, as shown in Figures 8-14 (2) to (5), the mini key image 030IWG10 and the mini character A image 030IWC10 move to follow the keyhole (suggestion) image 030IWG13 approaching the active display AH. This configuration makes it possible to draw attention to the chance-up teasing effect and the effect that is the target of the chance-up effect.

Next, as shown in FIG. 8-14 (6), the keyhole (suggested) image 030IWG13 becomes a silhouette on the active display AH, and a performance display is performed in which a glowing effect image is displayed around it. At this time, the mini key image 030IWG10 and the mini character A image 030IWC10 also become a silhouette, and a performance display is performed in which a glowing effect image is displayed around it.

Next, as shown in FIG. 8-14 (7), a keyhole (actual) image 030IWG11 that resembles a keyhole is displayed on the active display AH. This type of effect display makes it clear that the chance-up promotion effect being executed is a chance-up promotion effect (true), and also makes it clear that the target of the chance-up promotion effect is the active display.

Next, as shown in FIG. 8-14(8), a performance display is performed in which character A, located at the front of the screen, throws a key into the keyhole (actual) image 030IWG11, located at the back of the screen. Then, as shown in FIG. 8-15(9), a performance display is performed in which the key image 030IWG12 appears to move from the front of the screen toward the keyhole (actual) image 030IWG11 at the back. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 8-15(9), the key image 030IWG12 is initially displayed at a display size larger than the keyhole (actual) image 030IWG11, and then, as shown in FIG. 8-15(10), it is displayed as if it is moving toward the keyhole (actual) image 030IWG11 while shrinking (becoming gradually smaller to represent moving away). This configuration allows attention to be drawn to the key image 030IWG12 acting on the keyhole (actual) image 030IWG11, and the performance effect of the chance-up performance can be enhanced.

Then, to display the effect of the key being inserted into the keyhole, a key image 030IWG12 and a keyhole (actual) image 030IWG11 are displayed as shown in FIG. 8-15 (11), and to display the effect of the key turning in the keyhole (i.e., the lock being opened), a key image 030IWG12 rotated in the keyhole (actual) image 030IWG11 is displayed as shown in FIG. 8-15 (12).

When the effect of the key turning in the keyhole (i.e., the lock being opened) is displayed, as shown in FIG. 8-15 (13), character A and the text "Pending Rank Up" are displayed along with an effect image that covers the image related to the outpost effect. In this example, as shown in FIG. 8-15 (13), by displaying a close-up of character A along with an effect image that covers the image related to the outpost effect, the awkward feeling of a chance-up effect being executed in the middle of the outpost effect is reduced.

Then, as shown in FIG. 8-15 (14), character A and the text display "Pending Rank Up" are erased while the effect image covering the image related to the outpost effect is still displayed, the active display AH becomes a silhouette, and an effect display is performed in which a glowing effect image is displayed around it. At this time, the mini key image 030IWG10 and mini character A image 030IWC10 are displayed again, and an effect display is performed in which a glowing effect image is displayed around it.

In this example, when a chance-up effect targeting an active display is executed, as shown in FIG. 8-15 (14), the image display device 5 displays in the upper layers in the following order: decorative pattern > mini key image 030IWG10 and mini character A image 030IWC10 > effect image covering the image related to the outpost effect > active display AH > image related to the outpost effect.

After that, as shown in FIG. 8-15 (15), the effect image covering the image related to the outpost performance is erased, and the active display AH is displayed in a color that has changed from the normal color (white) to blue. Also, because one of the stocks has been released and an item (key) has been consumed due to the chance-up performance targeting the active display, the number of mini key images 030IWG10 moving around the mini character A image 030IWC10 has decreased by one.

In this example, when a performance that is the target of the chance-up performance is being performed, a keyhole (entity) image 030IWG11 is displayed, and the chance-up performance is performed in a manner in which the key image 030IWG12 acts on the keyhole (entity) image 030IWG11. Specifically, as shown in Figs. 8-14 to 8-15, a keyhole (entity) image 030IWG11 corresponding to the active display AH is displayed, and the chance-up performance is performed in a manner in which the key image 030IWG12 is inserted into the keyhole (entity) image 030IWG11 and rotates. With this configuration, when a chance-up performance using the key image 030IWG12 is performed, the performance effect can be enhanced by providing a story-like element in which the key image 030IWG12 is inserted into the keyhole (entity) image 030IWG11 and rotates (i.e., the key is opened), and the interest can be increased.

In addition, in this example, the keyhole (entity) image 030IWG11 is displayed approximately in the center of the effect image related to the effect that is the target of the chance-up effect (see, for example, FIG. 8-14 (7)), and when the keyhole (entity) image 030IWG11 is displayed, a chance-up effect that targets other effects is not executed. For example, when the keyhole (entity) image 030IWG11 corresponding to the active display AH is displayed, a chance-up effect that targets the dialogue display is not executed. This configuration makes it easier to understand the suggestive effect that is the target of the chance-up effect, and also draws attention to the timing at which the keyhole (entity) image 030IWG11 is displayed.

In this example, as shown in Fig. 8-14 (1) to (8), the stored key image and character image (i.e., mini key image 030IWG10 and mini character A image 030IWC10) are displayed moving, and when the chance-up effect is executed, an effect is displayed in which the character throws a key into the keyhole. This configuration makes it possible to draw attention to the key image and to enhance the effect of the chance-up effect.

In this example, as shown in Fig. 8-14 (1) to (6), the mini key image 030IWG10 moves in a manner that revolves around the mini character A image 030IWC10, and stops moving when the chance-up effect is executed. This configuration makes it possible to draw attention to the key image and to enhance the effect of the chance-up effect.

In this example, the key is configured to look different when it is stocked and when it is used. For example, as shown in FIG. 8-9(8), when the key image is displayed in the lower right corner of the display area in the stock performance, the key image is displayed smaller in the latter case than when the key image is displayed to move around the character in the outpost performance as shown in FIG. 8-12(1). With this configuration, the key image can be easily recognized in the stock performance in which the key is the main focus, and the key can be made not to stand out too much when the outpost performance is the main focus. For example, the key image may be displayed larger when the key is stocked in the stock performance than when the character throws the key into the keyhole in the chance-up performance (in the initial most enlarged state).
With this configuration, it is possible to create more impact when opening the stock than when the keys are stocked. Also, by creating an impact, even if the effect that is the target of the chance-up effect has a low expectation, the player can be impressed that it is a favorable effect.

Next, we will explain a specific example of a chance-up effect that targets decorative symbols. Figures 8-16 to 8-18 are explanatory diagrams showing a specific example of a chance-up effect that targets decorative symbols. Note that in Figures 8-16 to 8-18, the effect screen transitions in the order of (1), (2), and (3).

In the first half of the super reach, as shown in FIG. 8-16(1), an outpost performance is executed in which the character A image 030IWC01 and the enemy character A image 030IWC02 face off against each other. Also, as shown in FIG. 8-16(1), a performance display is executed in which the mini key image 030IWG10 and the mini character A image 030IWC10 move around the edge of the display area of the image display device 5. At this time, the mini key image 030IWG10 moves as if circling the mini character A image 030IWC10.

Also, as shown in FIG. 8-16 (1), the movable body 32 is located in an initial position that covers a portion of the upper part of the display area of the image display device 5.

Note that the performance images related to the outpost performance (e.g., character A image 030IWC01 and enemy character A image 030IWC02, etc.) are also displayed in Figure 8-16 (1) and onwards, but are omitted from the illustration for simplicity. In this example, the performance images related to the outpost performance have a lower display priority than performance images related to the chance-up performance (e.g., key images, keyhole images, mini-character images, etc.) and performance images related to the performance that is the target of the chance-up performance (e.g., title display, active display, dialogue display, decorative pattern), and are displayed on a lower layer than those images.

Next, when the chance-up teasing performance (true) is executed, as shown in FIG. 8-16 (2), a keyhole (suggestion) image 030IWG13, which suggests that a keyhole will appear, is displayed in the center of the display area. At this time, the mini key image 030IWG10 and the mini character A image 030IWC10 stop moving around the edge of the display area of the image display device 5, and the mini key image 030IWG10 stops moving around the mini character A image 030IWC10. In addition, an "!" is displayed next to the mini key image 030IWG10 and the mini character A image 030IWC10, indicating the presence of the keyhole (suggestion) image 030IWG13.
In addition, the keyhole (suggestion) image 030IWG13 displayed in the chance up teasing performance is represented by a dotted line as shown in Figure 8-16 in this example, but in reality it has a transparency that allows the performance images in the lower layer (for example, performance images related to the outpost performance) to be visible, and is designed to minimize the interference with the content of the super reach (i.e., the outpost performance) even while the chance up teasing performance is being executed.

Next, as shown in FIG. 8-16(3), a display starts in which the keyhole (suggestion) image 030IWG13 gradually shrinks. Then, as shown in FIG. 8-16(4), the gradually shrinking keyhole (suggestion) image 030IWG13 approaches the decorative pattern display area that is the target of the chance-up display, and eventually, as shown in FIG. 8-16(5), a display is performed in which the keyhole (suggestion) image 030IWG13 reaches the center position (corresponding to the center decorative pattern display area 5C) between the left decorative pattern display area 5L and the right decorative pattern display area 5R. At this time, a triangular mark indicating that the keyhole (suggestion) image 030IWG13 is shrinking is displayed around the keyhole (suggestion) image 030IWG13. Also, a display is performed in which the mini key image 030IWG10 and the mini character A image 030IWC10 move to follow the keyhole (suggestion) image 030IWG13 approaching the active display AH.

Next, as shown in FIG. 8-16(6), the keyhole (suggestion) image 030IWG13 becomes a silhouette, and a glowing effect image is displayed around it. At this time, the mini key image 030IWG10 and the mini character A image 030IWC10 also become a silhouette, and a glowing effect image is displayed around it. In this example, as shown in FIG. 8-16(5) to FIG. 8-16(6), when changing the pose of the mini character A, a silhouette image is first displayed, and then the mini character A image in the changed pose is displayed from the silhouette image. In this way, by switching images between silhouette images rather than using material data that causes the mini character to move and change its pose, the material data can be simplified and the man-hours and costs involved in production can be reduced.

Next, as shown in FIG. 8-16 (7), a keyhole (actual) image 030IWG11 is displayed near the center position (the position corresponding to the middle decorative pattern display area 5C) between the left decorative pattern display area 5L and the right decorative pattern display area 5R. This type of effect display makes it clear that the chance up teasing effect being executed is a chance up teasing effect (true), and that the target of the chance up effect is a decorative pattern.

In this example, when executing a chance-up effect that targets a dialogue effect, the keyhole (actual) image 030IWG11 is displayed approximately at the center of the dialogue image 030IWG20 as shown in FIG. 8-12 (5), while when executing a chance-up effect that targets a decorative pattern, the keyhole (actual) image 030IWG11 is displayed at a position shifted toward the center of the display area from the center position (corresponding to the center decorative pattern display area 5C) between the left decorative pattern display area 5L and the right decorative pattern display area 5R as shown in FIG. 8-16 (7). This configuration makes it possible to prevent the keyhole (actual) image 030IWG11 from being covered by the movable body 32 and becoming difficult to see, and allows the keyhole (actual) image 030IWG11 to be displayed appropriately according to the characteristics of the target effect.

Next, as shown in FIG. 8-16(8), an effect is displayed in which character A, located at the front of the screen, throws a key into the keyhole (actual) image 030IWG11, located at the back of the screen. Then, as shown in FIG. 8-17(9), an effect is displayed in which the key image 030IWG12 appears to move from the front of the screen toward the keyhole (actual) image 030IWG11 at the back. For this reason, as shown in FIG. 8-17(9), the key image 030IWG12 is initially displayed at a size larger than the keyhole (actual) image 030IWG11, and then, as shown in FIG. 8-17(10), it is displayed as if it is moving toward the keyhole (actual) image 030IWG11 while shrinking (gradually becoming smaller to represent moving away).

Then, to display the effect of the key being inserted into the keyhole, a key image 30IWG12 and a keyhole (actual) image 030IWG11 are displayed as shown in FIG. 8-17 (11), and to display the effect of the key turning in the keyhole (i.e., the lock being opened), a key image 030IWG12 rotated in the keyhole (actual) image 030IWG11 is displayed as shown in FIG. 8-17 (12).

When the effect of the key turning in the keyhole (i.e., the lock being opened) is displayed, as shown in FIG. 8-17 (13), character A and the text display "Pattern Rank Up" are displayed. Then, as shown in FIG. 8-17 (14), while character A and the text display of "Pattern Rank Up" are still displayed, an effect is displayed in which the left decorative pattern begins to rotate in the left decorative pattern display area 5L, and the right decorative pattern begins to rotate in the right decorative pattern display area 5R. In this example, as shown in FIG. 8-17 (13) to (14), by displaying character A in close-up, the effect image related to the outpost effect is obscured, reducing the sense of incongruity caused by the chance-up effect being executed in the middle of the outpost effect.

Next, as shown in FIG. 8-17 (15), an image of Character A and Character B standing side by side is displayed near the center of the display area of the image display device 5, and a performance display is performed in which the rotating left and right decorative patterns move to a position superimposed on the image. Then, as shown in FIG. 8-17 (16), a glowing effect image is displayed around the rotating left and right decorative patterns.

Next, as shown in FIG. 8-17 (17), the glowing effect image around the left and right decorative patterns is erased, and the left and right decorative patterns change from the normal color (white) to gold and are displayed with the word "GOLD" written on them, and the left and right decorative patterns stop rotating.

After that, as shown in FIG. 8-17 (18), the gold right and left decorative patterns are displayed in the left and right decorative pattern display areas 5L and 5R, respectively, and the remaining prelude effects are executed. Since all stocked keys have been used due to the chance-up effect targeting the decorative patterns being executed, the mini-character A image 030IWC10 and mini key image 030IWG10 are no longer displayed, but no special effects are executed to indicate that they will not be displayed. This configuration makes it possible to prevent the mini key image 030IWG10, which is no longer in use, from standing out.

In this example, regardless of where the keyhole (actual) image 030IWG11 is displayed (i.e., regardless of which effect is the target of the chance-up effect), at least a part of the chance-up teasing effect is executed in a common manner. Specifically, as shown in Figures 8-14 (2) to (5) and 8-16 (2) to (5), even if the effects that are the target of the chance-up effect are different, the keyhole (suggestion) image 030IWG13 is initially displayed in a close-up across the entire screen, and is then displayed in a common manner that is gradually reduced. This configuration makes it possible to draw attention to whether the keyhole (actual) image 030IWG11 is displayed, i.e., whether the chance-up effect is executed, as well as which effect is the target of the chance-up effect.

In this example, in the chance-up effect, regardless of the position where the keyhole (actual) image 030IWG11 is displayed (i.e., regardless of the type of the target effect), an image is displayed in a common display position to notify that the performance mode of the target effect will change. Specifically, as shown in Fig. 8-15 (13) and Fig. 8-17 (13), a character and the text display of "Reserved rank up" or "Pattern rank up" are displayed to notify that the performance mode will change.
This configuration makes it easier to recognize that the presentation mode of the target presentation will change due to the chance-up presentation.

In addition, in this example, the keyhole (actual) image 030IWG11 is not displayed at the timing when the presentation mode of the target presentation changes in the chance-up presentation. Specifically, as shown in Figures 8-15 (13) to (15) and Figures 8-17 (13) to 8-18 (17), the keyhole (actual) image 030IWG11 is not displayed at the timing when the active display or decorative pattern mode changes. This configuration makes it possible to draw attention to the change in presentation mode of the target presentation due to the chance-up presentation.

In this example, the effect images for at least some of the effects among the multiple types of effects that are the target of the chance-up effect have a higher display priority than the key image, even when the key image acts on the keyhole image. Specifically, the decorative pattern has a higher display priority than the key image, even when the key image acts on the keyhole image. With this configuration, it is possible to ensure visibility for some effects in any situation. Furthermore, for effect images for the other effects (for example, images that are not information related to the progress of the game, such as dialogue displays or title displays), the display priority is set lower than that of the key image when the key image acts on the keyhole image, thereby realizing a realistic effect and enhancing the effect of the effect.

In this example, as shown in Fig. 8-15 (13) and Fig. 8-17 (13), when executing the chance-up effect, it is possible to display notification images such as effect images and characters covering the effect image related to the outpost effect, and text displays such as "reserved rank up" and "pattern rank up". Then, it is possible to execute the chance-up effect by using a presentation pattern that changes the presentation mode of the effect that is the target of the chance-up effect when the notification images are displayed (for example, as shown in Fig. 8-17 (13) to Fig. 8-18 (17), a pattern in which the appearance of the decorative pattern changes while the character or text display of "pattern rank up" remains), and a presentation pattern that changes the presentation mode of the target effect at a time other than when the notification image is displayed (for example, as shown in Fig. 8-15 (13) to (15), a pattern in which the appearance of the active display changes after the effect image, character, or text display of "reserved rank up" is erased). With this configuration, it is possible to make the player aware that the presentation mode of the target effect will change by displaying the notification image, and it is possible to execute the chance-up effect suitably by using a presentation pattern according to the target effect. In particular, with the former, the effect can be made more spectacular by seamlessly increasing the chance (i.e., changing the presentation mode of the target effect) while the notification image is displayed, and with the latter, the chance is increased (i.e., changing the presentation mode of the target effect) after the notification image is erased, preventing an increase in the amount of data related to effect control.

In addition, in this example, a presentation pattern that changes the presentation mode of the effect that is the target of the chance-up effect when the notification image is displayed has a higher expectation of a jackpot than a presentation pattern that changes the presentation mode of the target effect at a time other than when the notification image is displayed. Specifically, a chance-up effect in which the mode of the decorative pattern changes has a higher expectation of a jackpot than a chance-up effect in which the mode of the active display changes (see Figure 8-7). With this configuration, the expectation can be varied depending on the flashiness of the presentation pattern, increasing interest.

In this example, the notification image can identify which effect's presentation mode has changed, and an image different from the presentation image related to that effect is used. For example, as shown in FIG. 8-15 (13) and FIG. 8-17 (13), the text display "Pending Rank Up" or "Pattern Rank Up" is displayed. Such a configuration makes it easy to recognize which effect's presentation mode has changed.

In this example, the notification image displayed during the execution of the chance-up effect is displayed in a manner that covers the effect image related to the super reach (outpost effect), but the effects that are the subject of the chance-up effect include those in which the effect image is covered by the notification image and those in which it is not covered, and the latter have a higher probability of winning than the former. Specifically, as shown in Fig. 8-15 (13) and Fig. 8-17 (13), the notification image displays a character and the text display "Reserved rank up" or "Pattern rank up" along with an effect image that covers the effect image related to the outpost effect, and this notification image covers the active display AH but does not cover the decorative pattern. And the chance-up effect in which the state of the decorative pattern changes has a higher probability of winning than the chance-up effect in which the state of the active display changes (see Fig. 8-7). With this configuration, the expectation level can be made different depending on the flashiness of the chance-up effect, and interest can be increased.

In addition, in this example, the effects that are the subject of the chance-up effect include those in which the effect image is covered by the notification image and those in which it is not covered, with the latter being more likely to be executed at a later timing within one variable display period than the former. Specifically, chance-up effects in which the state of the decorative pattern changes are executed later than chance-up effects in which the state of the active display changes (see Figure 8-3). With this configuration, it is possible to execute chance-up effects according to the time when the player's expectations are highest.

In this example, the effects that are the target of the chance-up effect include those in which the effect image is covered by the notification image and those in which it is not covered. In the latter case, one notification image is switched to another and displayed. Specifically, when a chance-up effect that targets a decorative pattern is executed, an image of character A is displayed as shown in Figures 8-17 (13) to (14), and then an image of character A and character B standing side by side is displayed as shown in Figures 8-17 (15) to 8-18 (17). This configuration can enhance the effect of the chance-up effect, which has a high expectation.

Next, a specific example of the chance-up teasing effect (fake) will be described. Figure 8-19 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of the chance-up teasing effect (fake). Note that in Figure 8-19, the transition of the effect screen takes place in the order of (1), (2), and (3).

Figure 8-19 (1) shows the state immediately after the prelude performance in the first half of the Super Reach has started and the chance-up performance targeting the active display has been executed. In this example, as shown in Figure 8-19 (1), the mini key image 030IWG10 and the mini character A image 030IWC10 are redisplayed in their initial positions at the bottom right of the display area of the image display device 5 after the chance-up performance has been executed.

As shown in FIG. 8-19(2), the mini key image 030IWG10 and the mini character A image 030IWC10 move along the edge of the display area of the image display device 5 so as to pass through the display position of the effect (e.g., title display, active display, dialogue display, decorative pattern) that is the target of the chance-up effect. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 8-19(1) and (2), before the dialogue effect starts, the effect display is performed such that the mini key image 030IWG10 and the mini character A image 030IWC10 move so as to pass through the display position (or the position where it is scheduled to be displayed) of the dialogue image 030IWG20. With this configuration, when the mini key image 030IWG10 and the mini character A image 030IWC10 are displayed in a moving manner, the player's expectations for the chance-up effect targeting the effect at the displayed position can be increased, and the interest can be improved.

In this example, the effects that are the target of the chance-up effect are displayed in various positions such as the top, bottom, and bottom right of the display area of the image display device 5, and the mini key image 030IWG10 and mini character A image 030IWC10 move to pass through these positions. This configuration allows players to focus on the positions to which the mini key image 030IWG10 and mini character A image 030IWC10 move and whether the effect displayed at those positions is the target of the chance-up effect.

In this example, when one chance up effect targeting one effect is executed and then another chance up effect targeting another effect is executed, the one chance up effect is executed and a predetermined period of time has elapsed before the other chance up effect is executed (see Figure 8-4).
With this configuration, it is possible to space out one chance-up effect and another chance-up effect to make each stand out, and it is also possible to ensure a period of time during which the mini key image 030IWG10 and the mini character A image 030IWC10 are displayed in a moving manner, as shown in Figures 8-19 (1) to (2).

Also, as shown in FIG. 8-19 (2), when the mini key image 030IWG10 and the mini character A image 030IWC10 are moving along the edge of the display area of the image display device 5, the mini key image 030IWG10 and the mini character A image 030IWC10 have a lower display priority than the effect images (e.g., active display, dialogue display, decorative pattern, etc.) related to the effects that may be the target of the chance-up effect, and are displayed on a lower layer than them. This configuration allows attention to be drawn to the effects that may be the target of the chance-up effect. Note that, without being limited to this configuration, the mini key image 030IWG10 and the mini character A image 030IWC10 may be displayed on a lower layer than the effect images (e.g., decorative pattern) related to some of the effects that may be the target of the chance-up effect, and displayed on a higher layer than the effect images (e.g., active display and dialogue display) related to the other effects when moving along the edge of the display area of the image display device 5.

Also, as shown in FIG. 8-19 (2), the mini key image 030IWG10 and the mini character A image 030IWC10 are displayed during the execution of a super reach, and are displayed with a higher display priority than the performance images related to the super reach (for example, the character images related to the outpost performance), but when the chance-up performance is not being executed, they are displayed so as not to obstruct the visibility of at least the central part of the performance image related to the super reach. Specifically, the mini key image 030IWG10 and the mini character A image 030IWC10 are displayed so as to move around the edge of the display area of the image display device 5, rather than moving in the center of the display area, and are not displayed superimposed on the face part, etc., of the character image related to the outpost performance. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the mini key image 030IWG10 and the mini character A image 030IWC10 from obstructing the super reach (outpost performance) while still displaying them.

Next, when the chance-up teasing performance (fake) is executed, as shown in FIG. 8-19 (3), a keyhole (suggestion) image 030IWG13, which suggests that a keyhole will appear, is displayed in the center of the display area. At this time, the mini key image 030IWG10 and mini character A image 030IWC10 stop moving around the edge of the display area of the image display device 5, and the mini key image 030IWG10 stops moving around the mini character A image 030IWC10. In addition, an "!" is displayed next to the mini key image 030IWG10 and mini character A image 030IWC10 to indicate the presence of the keyhole (suggestion) image 030IWG13.

Also, as shown in FIG. 8-19 (3), when the keyhole (suggested) image 030IWG13 is displayed, the mini-key image 030IWG10 and the mini-character A image 030IWC10 move closer to the keyhole (suggested) image 030IWG13.

In this example, as shown in Figures 8-19 (2) and (3), the mini character A image 030IWC10 and the mini key image 030IWG10 move at a slow speed when the effect to be used has not been specified (or when the chance up teasing effect is not being executed), and at a high speed when it has been specified (or when the chance up teasing effect is being executed). This configuration makes it possible to draw attention to the chance up teasing effect or the effect that is the target of the chance up effect.

Next, an effect display begins in which the keyhole (suggested) image 030IWG13 gradually shrinks, but as shown in FIG. 8-19 (4), the keyhole (actual) image 030IWG11) is not displayed and the keyhole (suggested) image 030IWG13 is erased. At this time, a "?" is displayed next to the mini-key image 030IWG10 and mini-character A image 030IWC10 to indicate that the keyhole (suggested) image 030IWG13 has been erased. With this configuration, it becomes clear that the executed chance-up teasing effect is a chance-up teasing effect (fake).

When the chance up teasing performance (fake) ends, as shown in FIG. 8-19 (5), the mini key image 030IWG10 and the mini character A image 030IWC10 are displayed again in their initial positions at the bottom right of the display area of the image display device 5. In this example, they are displayed in the same initial position after the chance up performance is executed as shown in FIG. 8-19 (1) and after the chance up teasing performance (fake) is executed as shown in FIG. 8-19 (5). This configuration makes it easy to understand that the chance up teasing performance (fake) has ended, and expresses the meaning of starting afresh. Also, by displaying them again in their initial positions, it is possible to prevent the amount of data related to performance control from increasing.

In this example, the keyhole (suggestive) image 030IWG13 and the keyhole (real) image 030IWG11 can only be displayed once in response to the same effect. For example, if a chance-up teasing effect (or chance-up teasing effect (false)), which teases whether or not a chance-up effect targeting the dialogue display will be executed, has been executed once, the chance-up teasing effect targeting the dialogue display will not be executed again even if the dialogue display is displayed thereafter. This configuration makes it easy to understand the suggestive effect that is the target of the chance-up effect.

The mini key image 030IWG10 and the mini character A image 030IWC10 may be configured so that a portion of them extends outside the display area (i.e., a portion of them is not displayed) when they are moved along the edge of the display area of the image display device 5. With this configuration, the mini key image 030IWG10 and the mini character A image 030IWC10 can be flexibly moved and displayed in accordance with the performance images related to other performances.

For example, when the mini key image 030IWG10 and the mini character A image 030IWC10 are moving along the edge of the display area of the image display device 5, effects that are not subject to the chance-up effect may not be executed. With this configuration, attention can be drawn to the effects that are executed when the mini key image 030IWG10 and the mini character A image 030IWC10 are moving along the edge of the display area of the image display device 5.

In addition, in this example, since the chance up effect can be executed multiple times, it may be possible to make it possible to recognize the number of times it has been executed. For example, when the first chance up effect is executed, an effect image resembling a blue flame may be displayed at the end of the display area of the image display device 5, when the second chance up effect is executed, the effect image may change to green, and when the third chance up effect is executed, the effect image may change to red. With this configuration, it is possible to recognize that a chance up has occurred even after the chance up effect has ended and the effect image has been erased.

Next, we will explain the keyhole (suggested) image and keyhole (real) image for each effect that is the target of the chance-up effect. Figure 8-20 is an explanatory diagram showing specific examples of keyhole (real) images for each effect that is the target of the chance-up effect.

As shown in FIG. 8-20, in this example, there are multiple types of effects that are the target of the chance-up effect, and the display size of the effect image for each effect is different. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 8-20 (1) and (3), the dialogue display has a smaller display size than the title display. In this example, the chance-up effect is executed in a manner in which a keyhole (real) image is displayed in the position where the effect that is the target of the chance-up effect is displayed. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 8-20, the display size of the keyhole (real) image is configured to differ depending on the effect that is the target.

For example, the keyhole (real) image 030IWG11 displayed at the position of the dialogue image 030IWG20 shown in FIG. 8-20(3) has a smaller display size than the keyhole (real) image 030IWG11 displayed at the position of the title image 030IWG21 shown in FIG. 8-20(1). This configuration allows the player to predict the effect that will be the target of the chance-up effect from the position where the keyhole (real) image 030IWG11 is displayed, thereby increasing interest, and by displaying the keyhole (real) image 030IWG11 at a display size appropriate for the effect that will be targeted, a natural effect can be achieved.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 8-20, when the keyhole image is materialized, the silhouette of the keyhole (suggestion) image 030IWG13 is displayed at a common size regardless of the type of effect that is the target of the chance-up effect. Then, the keyhole (actual) image 030IWG11 is displayed at a display size that corresponds to the type of effect that is the target of the chance-up effect. By configuring it in this way, it is possible to standardize the animation until the keyhole is materialized, and to prevent the amount of data related to effect control from increasing.

As explained above, this feature section 030IW discloses the gaming machine configurations shown in means 1 to means 29 below.

(Means 1) A gaming machine that can be controlled to a favorable state (e.g., a jackpot gaming state) that is advantageous to the player, and includes a suggestion performance execution means that suggests that the machine is controlled to the favorable state and is capable of executing multiple types of suggestion performances that differ in degree of expectation depending on the performance mode (e.g., a performance that displays a title display in a predetermined mode, a performance that displays an active display in a predetermined mode, a dialogue performance that displays a dialogue display in a predetermined mode, a decorative pattern performance that displays a decorative pattern in a predetermined mode, etc.), and a special image display performance execution means that can display a special image (e.g., a mini key image 030IWG10 or a key image 030IWG12), and by using the displayed special image, a suggestion performance that is being executed in one performance mode can be changed to a different performance mode. and a special effect execution means capable of executing a special effect (for example, a chance-up effect in which the display color of the active display is changed from a normal color (white) to blue) that changes the display mode to a performance mode with a higher expectation than the normal color (white). The special effect execution means displays a special corresponding image (for example, a keyhole (substance) image 030IWG11) when a suggestion effect is being executed, and executes a special effect in a manner in which the special image acts on the special corresponding image (for example, displays a keyhole (substance) image 030IWG11 corresponding to the active display AH or a decorative pattern, and executes a chance-up effect in a manner in which the key image 030IWG12 is inserted into the keyhole (substance) image 030IWG11 and rotates. See Figs. 8-15(9) to (15), Figs. 8-17(9) to 8-18(17), etc.). With such a configuration, when a special effect using a special image is executed, it is possible to enhance the performance effect by providing a story related to the special image, and to increase interest.

(Means 2) The special response image is displayed in the approximate center of the performance image related to the suggested performance being executed (for example, see FIG. 8-12 (5) and FIG. 8-14 (7)). At the timing when the special response image is displayed, a special performance targeting a suggested performance other than the suggested performance corresponding to the special response image is not executed (for example, at the timing when the keyhole (entity) image 030IWG11 corresponding to the active display AH is displayed, a chance-up performance targeting the dialogue display is not executed). With such a configuration, it is possible to easily understand the suggested performance that is the target of the special performance, and to draw attention to the timing at which the special response image is displayed.

(Means 3) The special response image can be displayed only once in response to the same suggestive effect (for example, if a chance-up teasing effect (or chance-up teasing effect (false)) that teases whether or not a chance-up effect targeting the dialogue display will be executed has been executed once, the chance-up teasing effect targeting the dialogue display will not be executed again even if the dialogue display is displayed thereafter). Such a configuration makes it easy to understand the suggestive effect that is the target of the special effect.

(Means 4) When the presentation mode of the suggestive effect changes due to a special effect, the presentation mode after the change differs depending on the timing of the change (for example, the later the timing of the execution of the chance-up effect, the more likely it is that the presentation mode will change to one with a higher advantage. See Figures 8-3 and 8-8). With such a configuration, it is possible to draw attention to the timing at which the special effect will be executed, and to prevent players who had high hopes for the timing of the change from being disappointed.

(Means 5) A display teasing effect execution means is provided that can execute a display teasing effect (e.g., a chance-up teasing effect) that teases whether or not a special corresponding image will be displayed, and the display teasing effect execution means can execute the display teasing effect in a common manner regardless of where the special corresponding image is displayed (for example, as shown in Figs. 8-14 (2) to (5) and Fig. 8-16 (2) to (5), even if the target effects are different, the keyhole (suggestion) image 030IWG13 is initially displayed in a close-up across the entire screen and then displayed in a common manner that is reduced). With such a configuration, it is possible to draw attention to whether or not a special corresponding image will be displayed, i.e., whether or not a special effect will be executed, and to draw attention to which suggestion effect will be the target of the chance-up effect.

(Means 6) When a special image is used in a special effect, it is displayed at a larger display size than the special corresponding image, and then displayed so as to act on the special corresponding image while shrinking (for example, as shown in Figs. 8-15 (9) to (12) and Fig. 8-17 (9) to (12), the key image 030IWG12 is displayed moving from the front side of the screen toward the keyhole (actual) image 030IWG11 at the back, so it is initially displayed at a larger display size than the keyhole (actual) image 030IWG11, and then displayed so as to rotate while shrinking (gradually becoming smaller to represent moving away).) With such a configuration, it is possible to draw attention to the special image acting on the special corresponding image, and the effect of the special effect can be enhanced.

(Means 7) The special effect execution means can execute a special effect multiple times, and can vary the execution time depending on the special effect being executed (for example, as shown in FIG. 8-4 (A), a chance-up effect that targets a decorative pattern has a longer execution time than a dialogue display or a chance-up effect that targets a dialogue display. With such a configuration, various special effects can be executed at an appropriate execution time, thereby enhancing the presentation effect.

(Means 8) When the presentation mode is changed by a special effect, the suggestive effect takes a longer time to execute than when the presentation mode is not changed by the special effect (for example, as shown in Figures 8-4 (A) and (B), the presentation execution time T11 of a dialogue effect whose presentation mode is changed by a chance-up effect is longer than the presentation execution time T12 of a dialogue effect whose presentation mode is not changed by a chance-up effect). With such a configuration, when a special effect is executed, a period for executing the special effect and its corresponding suggestive effect can be secured.

(Means 9) The suggestive performance execution means is capable of executing a first suggestive performance (e.g., a performance that displays a title display) and a second suggestive performance (e.g., a performance that displays a dialogue display) that is smaller in display size than the first suggestive performance, and the special performance execution means is capable of executing a special performance in a manner in which a special corresponding image is displayed at a position where a performance image related to the suggestive performance is displayed when the suggestive performance is being executed (e.g., a keyhole (entity) image 030IWG11 is displayed at a position where the title image 030IWG21 is displayed or where the dialogue image 030IWG20 is displayed), and When the target suggestive effect is the first suggestive effect, the special corresponding image is displayed in a first display size corresponding to the display size of the first suggestive effect, and when the target suggestive effect is the second suggestive effect, the special corresponding image is displayed in a second display size corresponding to the display size of the second suggestive effect, the second display size being smaller than the first display size (for example, the keyhole (entity) image 030IWG11 displayed at the position of the dialogue image 030IWG20 shown in FIG. 8-20(3) has a smaller display size than the keyhole (entity) image 030IWG11 displayed at the position of the title image 030IWG21 shown in FIG. 8-20(1)). With such a configuration, it is possible to increase interest by allowing the player to predict the target suggestive effect from the position where the special corresponding image is displayed, and it is possible to create a natural effect by displaying the special corresponding image in a display size suitable for the target effect.

(Means 10) The suggestion performance execution means is capable of executing a specific suggestion performance (e.g., a performance that displays a dialogue display) in which a performance image is displayed at a first position, and a special suggestion performance (e.g., a performance that displays a decorative pattern) in which a performance image is displayed at a second position (e.g., a position closer to the top end of the display area of the image display device 5) that is closer to the edge of the display area of the display means than the first position, and when the specific suggestion performance is executed, the special performance execution means displays a special corresponding image at approximately the center of the performance image displayed at the first position (e.g., the As shown in FIG. 8-16(7), the keyhole (actual) image 030IWG11 is displayed at approximately the center of the dialogue image 030IWG20, and when a special suggestion effect is executed, the special response image is displayed at a position shifted toward the center of the display area of the display means from the center position of the effect image displayed in the second position (for example, as shown in FIG. 8-16(7), the keyhole (actual) image 030IWG11 is displayed at a position shifted toward the center of the display area from the center position (the position corresponding to the middle decorative pattern display area 5C) between the left decorative pattern display area 5L and the right decorative pattern display area 5R). With such a configuration, the special response image can be displayed appropriately according to the characteristics of the target suggestion effect.

(Means 11) The special effects include notification effects that notify the player that the presentation mode of the target suggestive effect will change by displaying a special image in a common display position regardless of the position where the special corresponding image is displayed (for example, as shown in FIG. 8-15 (13) and FIG. 8-17 (13), a character and the text display of "Pending rank up" or "Pattern rank up" are displayed). Such a configuration makes it easier to recognize that the presentation mode of the target suggestive effect will change due to the special effect.

(Means 12) The special response image is not displayed when the presentation mode of the target suggestive effect in the special effect changes (for example, as shown in Fig. 8-15 (13) to (15) and Fig. 8-17 (13) to Fig. 8-18 (17), the keyhole (entity) image 030IWG11 is not displayed when the active display or decorative pattern mode changes). With such a configuration, it is possible to draw attention to the change in presentation mode of the suggestive effect.

(Means 13) The special image display means displays the special image in a manner that moves so as to pass through the display position of the suggestive effect that is the target of the special effect during the period before the special effect is executed (for example, as shown in Fig. 8-12 (1) to (4) and Fig. 8-19 (1) to (2), during the period before the chance-up effect that targets the dialogue effect is executed, the mini-character A image 030IWC10 and the mini-key image 030IWG10 move so as to pass through the position where the dialogue image related to the dialogue effect is displayed (or the position where it is scheduled to be displayed). With such a configuration, when the special image is displayed in a moving manner, the player's expectations for the execution of a special effect that targets the suggestive effect at the position where the special image is displayed can be increased, and interest can be improved.

(Means 14) When a special image is used, the special image display means moves and displays the special image to the display position of the target suggestive effect (for example, as shown in FIG. 8-14 (5) and FIG. 8-16 (5), the mini character A image 030IWC10 and the mini key image 030IWG10 move to the display position of the active display AH that is the target of the chance-up effect or to the decorative pattern display area). With such a configuration, it is possible to draw attention to the special effect and the target suggestive effect.

(Means 15) The special image has a lower display priority than the effect image related to the suggestive effect that is the target of the special effect (for example, as shown in FIG. 8-15 (14) and FIG. 8-19 (2), the mini character A image 030IWC10 and the mini key image 030IWG10 have a lower display priority than the title display, active display, dialogue display, and decorative pattern, and are displayed in a lower layer than those). With such a configuration, it is possible to draw attention to the suggestive effect.

(Means 16) The special effect execution means can execute one special effect targeted at one suggestion effect, and then execute another special effect targeted at another suggestion effect, and the other special effect is executed after the first special effect has been executed and a predetermined period of time has elapsed (for example, as shown in FIG. 8-4, a chance-up effect targeted at a different target is executed after a predetermined period of time has elapsed). With such a configuration, it is possible to set an interval between the one special effect and the other special effect to make them stand out, and also to ensure a period of time during which the special image is displayed in a moving manner.

(Means 17) The speed at which the special image moves is faster when the suggestive effect to be used is specified than when it is not specified (for example, as shown in Figures 8-19 (2) and (3), the mini character A image 030IWC10 and the mini key image 030IWG10 move at a slow speed when the effect to be used is not specified, and at a high speed when it is specified). With such a configuration, it is possible to draw attention to the suggestive effect to be used.

(Means 18) When the special image is displayed and moved, an additional image is added, and the additional image is also displayed and moved, and when a special effect is executed, the additional image operates (for example, as shown in Fig. 8-14 (1) to (8), Fig. 8-16 (1) to (8), Fig. 8-19 (2), the mini character A image 030IWC10 is displayed and moved together with the mini key image 030IWG10, and when a chance-up effect is executed, the character A image 030IWC10 throws the key image 030IWG12 into the keyhole (entity) image 030IWG11). With such a configuration, it is possible to draw attention to the special image and to enhance the effect of the special effect.

(Means 19) The special image is displayed in a manner that moves around the additional image, and the movement stops when the special effect is executed (for example, as shown in Fig. 8-14 (1) to (6), Fig. 8-16 (1) to (6), and Fig. 8-19 (2), the mini key image 030IWG10 moves in a manner that moves around the mini character A image 030IWC10, and stops its movement when the chance-up effect is executed). With such a configuration, it is possible to draw attention to the special image and to enhance the effect of the special effect.

(Means 20) The special image and additional image are displayed during the execution of a specific effect (e.g., a super reach) that suggests that the player will be controlled to an advantageous state, and are displayed with a higher display priority than the effect images related to the specific effect (e.g., as shown in Fig. 8-12 (1) to (4), the mini key image 030IWG10 and the mini character A image 030IWC10 are displayed with a higher display priority than the character images related to the outpost effect of the first half of the super reach), and are displayed so as not to obstruct the visibility of at least the central part of the effect image related to the specific effect when the specific effect is being executed but the special effect is not being executed (e.g., as shown in Fig. 8-12 (1) to (4) and Fig. 8-19 (2), the mini key image 030IWG10 and the mini character A image 030IWC10 are displayed so as to move around the edge of the display area of the image display device 5, rather than moving around the center of the display area, and are not displayed superimposed on the face part, etc., of the character image related to the outpost effect). With such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the special image and additional image from obstructing the specific effect while still displaying them.

(Means 21) A special suggestion effect execution means is provided that can execute a first special suggestion effect (for example, a chance up teasing effect (true)) that suggests that a special effect will be executed and that the special effect will be executed after the effect, and a second special suggestion effect (for example, a chance up teasing effect (false)) that suggests that a special effect will be executed and that the special effect will not be executed after the effect, and the special image is displayed again at the initial position after the second special suggestion effect is executed (for example, the special image is displayed at a common initial position after the chance up effect is executed as shown in FIG. 8-19 (1) and after the chance up teasing effect (false) is executed as shown in FIG. 8-19 (5)). With such a configuration, it is possible to easily understand that the second special suggestion effect has ended, and it is possible to express the meaning of starting afresh. In addition, by displaying it again at the initial position, it is possible to prevent the amount of data related to the effect control from increasing.

(Means 22) The special effect execution means can execute a special effect multiple times, and when executing one special effect targeting one suggestion effect, does not execute other special effects targeting other suggestion effects (for example, as shown in FIG. 8-4, a chance-up effect with a different target is executed after a predetermined period has elapsed). With such a configuration, it is possible to draw attention to the special effect being executed.

(Means 23) The effect images (e.g., decorative patterns) related to at least some of the suggestive effects among the multiple types of suggestive effects have a higher display priority than the special images, even when the special images act on the special corresponding images (see, for example, FIG. 8-15 (9)). With such a configuration, it is possible to ensure visibility of some suggestive effects in any situation. In addition, for effect images related to other suggestive effects (e.g., images that are not information related to the progress of the game, such as dialogue or title displays), a lower display priority than the special images when the special images act on the special corresponding images can be used to realize realistic effects and enhance the presentation effect.

(Means 24) The special effect execution means can display a specific image when executing a special effect (for example, as shown in Fig. 8-15 (13) and Fig. 8-17 (13), a character and the text display of "Pending Rank Up" or "Pattern Rank Up" are displayed together with an effect image covering the performance image related to the outpost performance), and can execute a special effect by a first performance pattern that changes the performance mode of the target suggestive effect when the specific image is displayed (for example, as shown in Fig. 8-17 (13) to Fig. 8-18 (17), a pattern in which the appearance of the decorative pattern changes while the character and "Pattern Rank Up" display remain), and a second performance pattern that changes the performance mode of the target suggestive effect at a time other than when the specific image is displayed (for example, as shown in Fig. 8-15 (13) to (15), a pattern in which the appearance of the active display changes after the character and "Pending Rank Up" display are erased). With such a configuration, it is possible to make the player aware that the performance mode of the suggestive effect changes by displaying a specific image, and it is possible to execute a special effect suitably by a performance pattern according to the target suggestive effect.

(Means 25) When a special effect is executed by the first effect pattern, the expectation of being controlled to an advantageous state is higher than when a special effect is executed by the second effect pattern (for example, a chance-up effect in which the appearance of the decorative pattern changes has a higher expectation of a jackpot than a chance-up effect in which the appearance of the active display changes. See FIG. 8-7). With such a configuration, the expectation can be varied depending on the flashiness of the effect pattern, thereby increasing interest.

(Means 26) As the specific image, it is possible to identify which suggestive performance has changed in its presentation mode, and an image different from the presentation image related to the suggestive performance is displayed (for example, as shown in FIG. 8-15 (13) and FIG. 8-17 (13), the text display "Pending Rank Up" or "Pattern Rank Up" is displayed). With such a configuration, it is easy to recognize which suggestive performance has changed in its presentation mode.

(Means 27) The special effect is executed during the execution of a specific effect (e.g., a super reach) that suggests whether or not the game will be controlled to an advantageous state, and the specific image displayed during the execution of the special effect is displayed in a manner that covers the effect image related to the specific effect (for example, as shown in FIG. 8-15 (13) and FIG. 8-17 (13), a character and the text display of "Hold rank up" or "Pattern rank up" are displayed together with an effect image that covers the effect image related to the outpost effect), and the suggestive effect includes a suggestive effect that is covered by a specific image and a suggestive effect that is not covered by a specific image (for example, as shown in FIG. 8-15 (13), the active display AH is covered, while as shown in FIG. 8-17 (13), the decorative pattern is not covered), and the suggestive effect that is not covered by a specific image has a higher expectation of being controlled to an advantageous state than the suggestive effect that is covered by a specific image (for example, a chance up effect in which the state of the decorative pattern changes has a higher expectation of a jackpot than a chance up effect in which the state of the active display changes. See FIG. 8-7). This configuration allows the level of expectation to vary depending on the extravagance of the special effects, increasing interest.

(Means 28) The special effects of the first presentation pattern are more likely to be executed later in one variable display period than the special effects of the second presentation pattern (for example, a chance-up effect in which the appearance of the decorative pattern changes is executed later than a chance-up effect in which the appearance of the active display changes. See FIG. 8-3). With such a configuration, it is possible to execute special effects according to the period when the player's expectations are high.

(Means 29) When a special effect is being executed by the first effect pattern, one specific image is switched to another specific image for display (for example, after an image of character A is displayed as shown in Fig. 8-17 (13) to (14), an image of character A and character B standing side by side is displayed as shown in Fig. 8-17 (15) to Fig. 8-18 (17)). With such a configuration, it is possible to enhance the effect of a highly anticipated special effect.

LIST OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Pachinko game machine 2 ... Game board 3 ... Game machine frame 4A, 4B ... Special pattern display device 5 ... Image display device 6A ... Winning ball device 6B ... Variable winning ball device 7 ... Special variable winning ball device 8L, 8R ... Speaker 9 ... Game effect lamp 10 ... General winning port 11 ... Main board 12 ... Performance control board 13 ... Sound control board 14 ... Lamp control board 15 ... Relay board 20 ... Normal pattern display device 21 ... Gate switch 22A, 22B ... Start port switch 23 ... Count switch 30 ... Ball hitting operation handle 31A ... Stick controller 31B ... Push button 32 ... Movable body 100 ... Game control microcomputer 101, 121 ... ROM
102, 122...RAM
103 ... CPU
104, 124 ... Random number circuit 105, 125 ... I/O
120 ... Performance control CPU
123 ... Display control unit

Claims (1)

A gaming machine that can be controlled to an advantageous state that is advantageous to a player,
A suggestion performance execution means for suggesting that the game will be controlled to the advantageous state and capable of executing a plurality of types of suggestion performances including at least a first suggestion performance and a second suggestion performance having different expectations depending on the performance mode;
A special image display effect execution means capable of displaying a special image;
and a special effect execution means capable of executing a special effect that changes the suggestive effect being executed in one performance mode to a performance mode with a higher expectation than the one performance mode by using the displayed special image ,
The special image display effect execution means displays the special image in a manner that the special image moves so as to pass through a display position of the suggestion effect that is a target of the special effect during a period before the special effect is executed,
The special effect execution means is capable of executing the special effect by a predetermined pattern of executing the special effect by changing the presentation mode of the first suggestion effect after the special image is stopped at a specific position, and a specific pattern of executing the special effect by changing the presentation mode of the second suggestion effect after the special image passes the specific position without being stopped at the specific position ,
The ratio of the special effect being controlled to the advantageous state when the special effect is executed according to the predetermined pattern is different from the ratio of the special effect being executed according to the specific pattern,
When the presentation mode is changed by the special presentation, the suggestion presentation has a longer execution time than when the presentation mode is not changed by the special presentation.
A gaming machine characterized by:

Images