JP7846902B2 - Gaming machine - Google Patents

Description

This invention relates to a gaming machine.

There are known gaming machines (so-called V-probability machines) in which the entry of a game ball into a special area (V-area) is a condition for transitioning to a high-probability state (probability variation state) (see, for example, Patent Document 1 below).

Japanese Patent Publication No. 2021-137074

The problem that this invention aims to solve is to improve the appeal of a gaming machine that has a special area.

The present invention, developed to solve the above problems, comprises: a display means; a lottery means that performs a win/loss lottery triggered by a game ball entering a starting area; a game state setting means that can set a low probability state and a high probability state, in which the probability of winning the win/loss lottery is higher than that of the low probability state, as game states in which game balls are launched toward the starting area; and a special area that is opened to allow game balls to enter during a special win game, which is performed when a win obtained through the win/loss lottery is a special win, and in which the entry of game balls is a condition for transitioning to the high probability state. The invention is characterized in that there are two or more special wins with different names, and a name image including the name of the special win is not displayed on the display means from the start of the special win game until a game ball enters the special area, and is displayed on the display means when a game ball enters the special area.

According to the present invention, it is possible to improve the appeal of a gaming machine that has a special area provided.

This is a front view of the gaming machine according to this embodiment. This diagram shows the decorative and reserved patterns displayed in the display area. This is a diagram to explain the game state (transitions between game states). This is a schematic diagram illustrating the overview of the V region. This is a diagram to explain the visual effects and presentation. This is a diagram (a continuation of Figure 5) used to explain the visual effects. This is a diagram (a continuation of Figure 6) used to explain the visual effects. This diagram illustrates the selection animation and subsequent Lee animation that are performed when the pattern animation results in a successful outcome. This is a diagram to explain specific example 1-1. This is a diagram to explain specific example 1-1 (an example different from Figure 9). This is a diagram to explain specific example 1-2. This is a diagram to explain specific examples 1-3. This is a diagram illustrating specific example 1-4 (the form of decorative patterns). This is a diagram illustrating specific example 1-4 (an example of a graphic display). This is a diagram illustrating Specific Example 1-4 (an example applying the content of Specific Example 1-2). This is a diagram illustrating Specific Example 1-4 (an example applying the content of Specific Example 1-3). This is a diagram to explain specific example 1-7. This is a diagram to explain the background effects. This is a diagram (a continuation of Figure 18) used to explain the background effects. This is a diagram illustrating specific example 2-1 (background animation when a winning combination is displayed). This is a diagram to explain specific example 2-1 (background animation when a chance symbol is displayed). This is a diagram to explain specific example 2-2. This is a diagram to explain specific example 2-3. This is a diagram to explain specific example 2-6. This is a diagram to explain specific example 2-7. This diagram illustrates the changes in the performance mode during the first special game state. (a) is a diagram showing how the displacement element is displaced as the number of remaining ST sessions decreases, and (b) is a diagram to explain the difference between progress image A and progress image B. This is a diagram to explain specific example 3-5. This diagram explains the timing of the display of various images during special jackpot games. This is a diagram (a continuation of Figure 29) that explains the timing of the display of various images during special jackpot games. This is a diagram to explain specific example 4-3. This is a diagram to explain specific example 4-4. This is a diagram to explain specific example 4-5. This is a diagram to explain specific example 4-6.

1) Basic Configuration of the Gaming Machine Below, an embodiment of the gaming machine 1 (pachinko gaming machine) according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. First, the overall configuration of the gaming machine 1 will be briefly described with reference to Figure 1. In the following description, images will include not only still images but also moving images unless otherwise specified. Also, unless otherwise specified, the following description is based on the premise that no abnormalities occur and the player plays the game as instructed (the player does not play any special games and plays the game normally). Furthermore, when it is said that "a game ball enters (wins a prize) in ○○", strictly speaking it means that a sensor installed in ○○ has detected the game ball that has entered.

The gaming machine 1 includes a game board 90. The game board 90 is formed from a nearly square piece of plywood, and guide rails 903, which form a path for guiding game balls launched by the operation of the launching device 908 (launching handle) into the game area 902, are provided in a roughly arc shape.

The game area 902 includes a display device 91, a starting area 904, a big prize area 906, and an out-out area. The display area 911 of the display device 91 is a portion visible through an opening 901 formed in the game board 90. Furthermore, the game area 902 is provided with multiple game pins, which act as obstacles that alter the flow of the game balls upon collision. The game balls flowing through the game area 902 change their behavior in various ways depending on the conditions of collision with the game pins.

In this type of gaming machine 1, game balls are launched towards the game area 902 by operating the launching device 908. When game balls flowing down the game area 902 enter prize areas such as the starting area 904 or the big prize area 906, a predetermined number of prize balls are dispensed by the payout device.

Note that the frame of the gaming machine 1, the lower and upper trays for storing game balls, and other components of the gaming machine 1 that are not related to the present invention will not be described. These components can be those with the same structure as those of known gaming machines.

The jackpot lottery is performed by a win/loss lottery means provided on a control board (not shown) when a game ball enters the starting area 904. In this embodiment, the starting area 904 is provided as a first starting area 904a (the so-called "starting area of Special Figure 1") and a second starting area 904b (the so-called "starting area of Special Figure 2"). When a game ball enters the starting area 904, a numerical value (win/loss lottery information) is obtained from a random number source. If this numerical value is the same as a predetermined jackpot value, it is a jackpot; otherwise, it is a loss. In this embodiment, the notification of the win/loss lottery result begins in the order in which the numerical values are obtained (the in-game performance described later begins). However, if there is still win/loss lottery information for which the notification of the win/loss lottery result has not yet been completed, the newly obtained win/loss lottery information is stored as reserved information (more precisely, pre-reset information described later) in a storage means provided on a control board (not shown).

In this embodiment, the reserved symbols 70 include a reserved symbol 71 (a symbol indicating the existence of the so-called "reserved variable") corresponding to a winning/losing lottery information (hereinafter sometimes referred to as reserved variable information) where the in-spinning animation that notifies the winning/losing result (the animation from the start of the rotation of the decorative symbols 80 (group of decorative symbols 80g) until it completely stops with a combination indicating the winning/losing result, so-called animation for one spin; hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as "spinning") has started, but the notification of the winning/losing result has not been completed, and a reserved symbol 72 before spinning that corresponds to a reserved symbol 72 corresponding to a winning/losing lottery information (hereinafter sometimes referred to as reserved variable) where the in-spinning animation that notifies the winning/losing result has not started (see Figure 2). Although the reserved symbol 71 during spinning is not strictly speaking a "reserved" (reserved information), it is generally referred to as "the reserved variable," etc. (it is recognized as a type of reserved), and is therefore included in the concept of "reserved." Furthermore, the order in which the notification of the win/loss lottery result corresponding to the pre-reset reserve symbol 72 is completed (the so-called "reserve consumption order") is faster for symbols closer to the reel-reset reserve symbol 71.

The maximum number of pre-reserve information items that can be stored is limited. In this embodiment, the maximum number of first pre-reserve information items (special figure 1 reserve) obtained by entering the first starting area 904a is four, and the maximum number of second pre-reserve information items (special figure 2 reserve) obtained by entering the second starting area 904b is also four. Therefore, with respect to a reserve symbol 70 corresponding to either special figure 1 or special figure 2, one in-reserve symbol 71 and up to four pre-reserve symbols 72 may be displayed (see Figure 2). The pre-reserve symbols 72 are set so that if the game ball should be launched aiming at the first starting area 904a (normal game state described later), the first pre-reserve information (special figure 1 reserve) is displayed as the pre-reserve symbol 72, and if the game ball should be launched aiming at the second starting area 904b (special game state described later), the second pre-reserve information (special figure 2 reserve) is displayed as the pre-reserve symbol 72. Regardless of the game state, the pre-reset symbol 72 corresponding to either the first pre-reset information or the second pre-reset information stored in the memory means may be displayed (up to eight pre-reset symbols 72 may be displayed).

In this embodiment, similar to known gaming machines, the player is notified of the win/loss result by a combination of three decorative symbols 80 (see Figure 2) displayed in the display area 911 of the display device 91. Specifically, a group of decorative symbols 80g (left decorative symbol group 80gL, middle decorative symbol group 80gC, right decorative symbol group 80gR) containing multiple types of decorative symbols 80 begins to change, and finally, one decorative symbol 80 is selected and stopped from each decorative symbol group 80g. If a jackpot is won, the combination of decorative symbols 80 selected and stopped from each decorative symbol group 80g will be a predetermined combination (for example, three identical decorative symbols 80). If it is a loss, it will be a combination other than the combination that results in a jackpot. Note that setting the number of decorative symbols 80 (number of decorative symbol groups 80g) that constitute the combination indicating the win/loss result to three is merely an example, and unless otherwise specified, the number of decorative symbols 80 can be increased or decreased as appropriate.

Images showing various information (so-called "small symbols," etc.) may be displayed inconspicuously near the outer edge of the display area 911 (the illustration of such images is omitted in each figure). Players can enjoy the game without being aware of these types of images. In other words, they can basically understand the result of the draw by looking at the decorative symbols 80. If the draw result is a jackpot, a jackpot game is executed, and the large prize area 906 is opened (the "bonus" of a jackpot game is granted to the player).

2) Game State, etc. The game state in which a player plays with the aim of winning a jackpot can be broadly divided into a normal game state and a special game state (see Figure 3(a)). The special game state is a game state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal game state. The normal game state is a low probability state in which the probability of winning a jackpot is low, and a low base state (low probability, no time reduction) in which it is difficult for the game ball to enter the starting area 904. There are two special game states: the first special game state and the second special game state. The first special game state is a high probability state (probability fluctuation state) in which the probability of winning a jackpot is high, and a high base state (high probability, with time reduction) in which it is easy for the game ball to enter the starting area 904. The second special game state is a low probability state in which the probability of winning a jackpot is low, and a high base state (low probability, with time reduction) in which it is easy for the game ball to enter the starting area 904.

In normal gameplay, the player aims to launch the game ball towards the first starting area 904a (the so-called starting area of Special Figure 1). In this embodiment, the player performs what is known as "left-handed shooting." Since the first win/loss lottery information is acquired when the game ball enters the first starting area 904a, the normal gameplay state is a gameplay state in which the player aims to win a jackpot through a win/loss lottery based on the first win/loss lottery information (the so-called Special Figure 1 lottery; hereinafter sometimes referred to as the first win/loss lottery). On the other hand, in special gameplay, the player aims to launch the game ball towards the second starting area 904b (the so-called starting area of Special Figure 2). In this embodiment, the player performs what is known as "right-handed shooting." Since the second win/loss lottery information is acquired when the game ball enters the second starting area 904b, the special gameplay state is a gameplay state in which the player aims to win a jackpot through a win/loss lottery based on the second win/loss lottery information (the so-called Special Figure 2 lottery; hereinafter sometimes referred to as the second win/loss lottery). The special game state is one in which the opening lottery for the second starting area 904b, triggered by the game ball entering the normal starting area 905, is more likely to be won. Therefore, the game ball enters the second starting area 904b relatively easily. Note that the settings for transitioning between game states can be anything, so the explanation is omitted. Also, the above game state setting is merely an example.

In this embodiment, the game machine 1 is a so-called "V-probability type" "ST machine." There are two types of jackpots: a regular jackpot and a special jackpot. After winning a regular jackpot, the game transitions to a second special game state (low probability, with time reduction) after the jackpot game ends. The second special game state continues for a predetermined number of consecutive times until the win/loss lottery result is a loss (in the following description, the number of losses from the start of a game state until the end of that game state without winning a jackpot may be referred to as the "number of consecutive wins"). In this embodiment, the number of consecutive wins in the second special game state (so-called time reduction wins) is 100. After winning a special jackpot, subject to a V-entry (described later), the game transitions to a first special game state (high probability, with time reduction) after the jackpot game ends. In this embodiment, the number of consecutive wins in the first special game state (so-called ST wins) is 150.

In the first draw (Special Figure 1 draw), 50% of the winning jackpots (jackpot distribution) are regular jackpots, and 50% are special jackpots (the so-called probability of entering a bonus round is 50%). In the second draw (Special Figure 2), 100% of the winning jackpots (jackpot distribution) are special jackpots (the so-called probability of entering a bonus round is 100%) (see Figure 3(b)).

As described above, the gaming machine 1 according to this embodiment is a so-called "V-probability variation machine." Since the "V-probability variation machine" itself is well-known (and can be modified as appropriate within the scope of known "V-probability variation machines"), its configuration and other details will be briefly explained below.

If a special jackpot is won, the V-area 10 (special area) is opened during that jackpot game. In this embodiment, the V-area 10 is located within the jackpot area 906. However, the V-area 10 may be located outside the jackpot area 906. The letter "V" is attached to the V-area 10, clearly indicating its location to the player (see Figure 1). The V-area 10 is an area that is normally closed (impossible to enter). In this embodiment, the opening/closing member 11 is positioned in the closed position, closing the entrance to the V-area 10 (see Figure 4(a)), making it virtually impossible to enter the V-area 10 under normal circumstances (impossible unless there is a malfunction or fraudulent activity).

In the jackpot game, which is executed when a special jackpot is won, the opening/closing member 11 is displaced to an open position that opens the entrance to the V-area 10 (see Figure 4(b)), thereby opening the area. The unit game (V-round) in which the V-area 10 is opened is predetermined. The V-area 10 is opened for a time when the game ball is almost certainly able to enter the V-area 10 (jackpot area 906) if the game ball is launched with the aim of the V-area 10 (by continuously shooting to the right). In other words, the player can easily get the game ball into the V-area 10 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as V-entry). The game state after the jackpot game ends becomes the first special game state, conditional on the game ball entering the V-area 10. In other words, in a V-probability variation machine, V-entry is the condition for transitioning to a high-probability state (probability variation state). During the V-Round, an image (for example, an image containing the words "Aim for V") is displayed to indicate to the player that they should aim for area V 10.

On the other hand, in a normal jackpot game, the V-area 10 is not opened during any round of play (as shown in Figure 4(a)), or it is opened only to the extent that it is virtually impossible for the game ball to enter. Therefore, the game ball does not enter the V-area 10 (it is impossible to hit the V-area unless there is an abnormality or fraudulent activity), and the game state after the jackpot game ends returns to the normal game state.

In this embodiment, the probability of winning a jackpot in the low-probability state (normal game state, second special game state) is approximately 1/319, and the probability of winning a jackpot in the high-probability state (first special game state) is approximately 1/100. Unless otherwise specified, the specific values of these jackpot probabilities can be changed as appropriate.

The jackpot game, which is executed when the result of the draw is a jackpot, is a round game (unit game) in which the normally closed jackpot area 906 is opened until a predetermined closing condition is met, repeated one or more times. The closing condition is met when either a predetermined time has elapsed since the jackpot area 906 was opened (time condition), or a predetermined number of game balls have entered the jackpot area 906 since it was opened (winning condition) occurs (when either the time condition or the winning condition is met). However, if the game balls are continuously aimed at the jackpot area 906 (in this embodiment, if the player is shooting to the right), the predetermined number of game balls will enter the jackpot area 906 before the predetermined time has elapsed (before time runs out). In other words, if the player plays as instructed, the winning condition will be met before the time condition, thus meeting the closing condition. This predetermined number is called the "count," and in this embodiment, the count is set to 10. Furthermore, the number of prize balls paid out when a single game ball enters the large prize area 906 is set at 15. Therefore, if you continuously aim for the large prize area 906 when launching game balls, you can obtain at least 10 x 15 = 150 prize balls in one unit of gameplay (one round) (more if an over-winning occurs). Naturally, the more rounds a jackpot game has, the more prize balls you will receive, making it advantageous for the player. Note that game balls that enter the V area 10 are also treated as having entered the large prize area 906 (the sensor that detects V-entries also serves as the sensor that detects entries into the large prize area 906).

As explained earlier, in the first draw (Special Figure 1 draw), 50% of the jackpots won are regular jackpots and 50% are special jackpots. Both of these are 5-round (R) jackpots (the so-called initial wins are all 5 rounds). In other words, 50% are 5-round regular jackpots, and the remaining 50% are 5-round special jackpots. Furthermore, as explained earlier, in the second draw (Special Figure 2), 100% of the jackpots won (jackpot distribution) are special jackpots. 50% are 5-round special jackpots, and the remaining 50% are 10-round special jackpots.

Furthermore, the matters described below can be applied to gameplay (specifications) other than those described above, except for those that assume the aforementioned gameplay (specifications).

3) The following describes the effects and other features that can be performed by the gaming machine 1 according to this embodiment. Note that the configuration may be such that only some of the effects and other features described below are possible. Also, in some of the drawings illustrating these effects and other features, the illustration of the reserved symbols 70 and decorative symbols 80 may be omitted.

3-1) Symbol Effects The gaming machine 1 according to this embodiment is capable of executing symbol effects as effects that constitute the effects during reel spins. In the following description of symbol effects, the effects during reel spins that include symbol effects will be referred to as the target reel spin effect (target spin), and the win/loss lottery result corresponding to the target spin (the win/loss lottery result announced by the target spin) will be referred to as the target win/loss lottery result.

The symbol display is a "symbol stop display (preview)" in which, during the target variation display, a specific image 20 may be displayed at the timing when the variation of each of the multiple (N) decorative symbol groups 80g stops or pseudo-stops (hereinafter, this timing may also be referred to as a predetermined trigger). In other words, it is a display in which a specific image 20 may be displayed when one of the multiple types of decorative symbols 80 contained in each decorative symbol group 80g is selected and shown. As described above, in this embodiment, three decorative symbol groups 80g are displayed in variation (N=3), so a maximum of three predetermined triggers occur. A pseudo-stop (temporary stop) refers to a state in which the variation appears to the player as having stopped, but has not completely stopped. For example, a state in which one decorative symbol 80 selected and shown from each decorative symbol group 80g is slightly swaying is considered a pseudo-stop state. When three (N) predetermined triggers occur, the performance during the target variation does not end at the third predetermined trigger. Therefore, at least some of the three "stops or pseudo-stops" will be "pseudo-stops" (not all three will be "stops"). In this embodiment, all three are "pseudo-stops." In the following description of the symbol performance, unless otherwise specified, the term "stop" includes not only stops but also pseudo-stops.

In this embodiment, when a symbol animation occurs, the changes stop in the following order: left decorative symbol group 80gL, right decorative symbol group 80gR, and middle decorative symbol group 80gC. That is, the stopping of the change in the left decorative symbol group 80gL (see Figure 5(b)) may be the first predetermined trigger, the stopping of the change in the right decorative symbol group 80gR (see Figure 6(a)) may be the second predetermined trigger, and the stopping of the change in the middle decorative symbol group 80gC (see Figure 7(a)) may be the third predetermined trigger.

At a predetermined trigger, the display of a specific image 20 is defined as a display result, and the non-display of the specific image 20 is defined as a non-display result. Although the specific details are not shown in the figures, at the predetermined trigger, a teasing effect is performed that suggests that the decorative pattern 80, which is shown by the stopping of fluctuations in the decorative pattern group 80g, is about to change into the specific image 20. After this teasing effect is performed, the display result is that the specific image 20 is displayed (see Figures 5(c-1), 6(b-1), and 7(b-1)), or the non-display result is that the specific image 20 is not displayed and the decorative pattern 80 remains displayed (see Figures 5(c-2), 6(b-2), and 7(b-2)). In this embodiment, the pattern performance is considered successful if all three predetermined triggers result in a display result (see Figure 7(b-1)), and unsuccessful if any of the predetermined triggers result in a non-display result. Since even one non-display result is an unsuccessful result, if a non-display result occurs at the first or second predetermined trigger, the pattern performance ends there. If the outcome is unsuccessful, the target lottery result is confirmed to be a loss (see Figures 5(d), 6(c), and 7(c)). That is, the target variation ends with the three decorative patterns 80 that constitute the losing combination displayed. On the other hand, if the outcome is successful, there is a possibility that the target lottery result is a jackpot. Since the successful outcome is when the specific image 20 is displayed at three predetermined triggers, the display of the specific image 20 at each predetermined trigger (the resulting display) can be said to indicate that there remains a possibility of the target lottery result being a jackpot.

If the outcome is successful (see Figure 7(b-1)), the selection animation is executed (see Figure 8(a)). In other words, the selection animation is executed as part of the animation that constitutes the target variation. If the outcome is unsuccessful, the selection animation is not executed, and the result is confirmed as a loss. Therefore, the selection animation can be considered a type of so-called "chance-up" animation, suggesting that the probability (reliability) of the target winning or losing lottery has increased.

The selection sequence utilizes specific images 20 displayed at each predetermined trigger. Specifically, achieving a successful outcome means that three specific images 20 (each in a different form) are displayed at each of the three predetermined triggers (see Figure 7(b-1)). The selection sequence is a sequence where these three specific images 20 are presented as choices (choice images). In this embodiment, the first specific image 21 is displayed at the first predetermined trigger, the second specific image 22 at the second predetermined trigger, and the third specific image 23 at the third predetermined trigger. Each specific image 20 contains different image elements. In this embodiment, the first specific image 21 contains image elements representing character A, the second specific image 22 contains image elements representing character B, and the third specific image 23 contains image elements representing character C. Characters A through C are presented in a way that allows the player to recognize them as different characters.

Each specific image 20 is displayed at the position where the variation of the decorative pattern 80 (decorative pattern group 80g) corresponding to the predetermined trigger stops. The first specific image 21 is displayed on the left side of the display area 911 (the area where the left decorative pattern 80L stops), the second specific image 22 is displayed on the right side of the display area 911 (the area where the right decorative pattern 80R stops), and the third specific image 23 is displayed in the center of the display area 911 (the area where the middle decorative pattern 80C stops (between the first specific image 21 and the second specific image 22)). Therefore, in the case of a successful outcome, the three specific images 20 will be arranged from left to right in the order of the first specific image 21 (character A), the third specific image 23 (character C), and the second specific image 22 (character B) (see Figure 7(b-1)).

Furthermore, when the first specific image 21 is displayed, the left decorative symbol 80L selected from the left decorative symbol group 80gL is temporarily erased or displayed in a smaller size. Similarly, when the second specific image 22 is displayed, the right decorative symbol 80R selected from the right decorative symbol group 80gR is temporarily erased or displayed in a smaller size, and when the third specific image 23 is displayed, the middle decorative symbol 80C selected from the middle decorative symbol group 80gC is temporarily erased or displayed in a smaller size. Therefore, each specific image 20 appears to the player as a transformation of the decorative symbol 80 that has stopped at the corresponding position.

In the selection animation, one of the three options represented by three specific images 20 is selected. In this embodiment, the selection animation is automatic (the final selected option is predetermined internally), and the player cannot choose an arbitrary option. Any method can be used to indicate which of the multiple options (specific images 20) has been selected. In this embodiment, the cursor C is displayed moving between each option (specific image 20) (see Figure 8(a)), and then the cursor C stops at one option (see Figure 8(b)), indicating that that option has been selected.

After the selection animation, a reach animation corresponding to the result of the selection animation is executed. If the first specific image 21 is selected in the selection animation, the corresponding first reach animation is executed; if the second specific image 22 is selected, the corresponding second reach animation is executed; and if the third specific image 23 is selected, the corresponding third reach animation is executed. Each reach animation includes the animation elements represented by the corresponding specific image 20 (selection). As described above, the first specific image 21 to the third specific image 23 in this embodiment include image elements representing characters A to C, and each reach animation features the character in question. That is, character A appears in the first reach animation, character B appears in the second reach animation, and character C appears in the third reach animation (see Figure 8(c)). The reach animation in this embodiment is a battle animation in which the player's character, an ally character, fights against an enemy character. A victory for an ally character is considered a favorable outcome for the player (see Figure 8 (d-1)), while a defeat for an ally character is considered an unfavorable outcome for the player (see Figure 8 (d-2)). (The victory outcome includes a so-called reversal pattern where a defeat is initially apparent but then reversed.) If the target win/loss lottery result is a jackpot, the reach animation leads to a victory outcome; if it is a miss, it leads to a loss outcome. When a reach animation is performed, the outcome of the reach animation indicates the target win/loss lottery result. Character A in the first reach animation, character B in the second reach animation, and character C in the third reach animation appear as ally characters (each reach animation differs in at least the ally character). Unlike this embodiment, these characters may also appear as enemy characters in the animation.

The probability of a reach animation leading to a winning outcome (i.e., the reliability of the target win/loss lottery result) increases in the order of first reach animation < second reach animation < third reach animation. Therefore, in terms of the outcome of the selection animation, the selection of the second specific image 22 (character B) is more advantageous for the player than the selection of the first specific image 21 (character A), and the selection of the third specific image 23 (character C) is more advantageous than the selection of the second specific image 22 (character B).

As explained above, the symbol animation is a type of animation where the display of a specific image 20 each time the decorative symbol 80 stops (each predetermined trigger) determines whether the animation continues (whether or not it reaches a successful outcome). Furthermore, the selection animation executed when the symbol animation reaches a successful outcome uses the displayed specific image 20 as the direct representation of the choice. Therefore, the progression of the animations during the target reel spin, including the symbol animation, becomes easy to understand and speedy.

The following describes specific examples of improvements, concretizations, and modifications to the above-mentioned aspects of graphic presentation. Furthermore, whenever possible, a combination of the techniques described using the following examples may be applied.

Specific Example 1-1
In the above embodiment, it was explained that the specific image 20 displayed at a predetermined trigger is used as the image representing the options in the selection animation (option image). However, the specific image 20 may be configured to change into an image representing the options (option image). For example, as in the above embodiment, the first specific image 21 to the third specific image 23 are images that include characters A to C (the appearance of characters A to C) (see Figure 9(a)). If the pattern animation reaches a successful outcome, characters A to C in the first specific image 21 to the third specific image 23 are changed into characters representing the names of characters A to C (in the drawing, the name of character A is represented as "○○", the name of character B as "××", and the name of character C as "□□"), and then the selection animation in which the image is used as the option image is executed (see Figures 9(b) and (c)). In order to clarify the correspondence between the option image and the reach animation that is subsequently executed, it is preferable that the names included in the option image are used in the reach animation (see Figure 9(d)).

As an alternative example, it is conceivable that a change occurs in which another element is added to the specific image 20. For example, the first specific image 21 to the third specific image 23 (see Figure 10(a)), which are images that show the choices as a selection presentation, may have an element indicating the reliability when selected (reliability element) added to them. The reliability element may be expressed as a numerical concept representing the level of reliability. This numerical concept may include not only numbers themselves, but also the number of marks or the like. For example, as in the embodiment described above, if the reliability is higher in the order of first reach presentation < second reach presentation < third reach presentation, it is conceivable that the three images used as choice presentations would be the image of "Character A and Star 1" with one star mark added to the first specific image 21, the image of "Character B and Star 2" with two star marks added to the second specific image 22, and the image of "Character C and Star 3" with three star marks added to the third specific image 23 (see Figures 10(b) and (c)). In this way, the reliability element (star mark) makes it easy to understand the level of confidence when each option image (character) is selected. To clarify the correspondence between the option images and the subsequent reach animation, it is preferable that the reliability element included in the option images be used in the reach animation (see Figure 10(d)).

Whether the configuration is such that the specific image 20 itself becomes the choice image, as in the above embodiment, or such that the specific image 20 changes to become the choice image, as in this example, there is no difference in the fact that a selection animation is performed in which the content represented by each of the specific images 20 is used as the choice. However, as in the above embodiment, the configuration in which the specific image 20 itself becomes the choice image makes the flow of the animation from the pattern animation to the selection animation smoother and easier to understand.

Specific Examples 1-2
The combination (pattern) of specific images 20 displayed when the symbol animation reaches a successful outcome may change each time. This means that the number of types of images that can be displayed as specific images 20 is greater than the number of choice images shown as options in the selection animation. For example, five types of specific images 20 may be displayed: first specific image 21, second specific image 22, third specific image 23, fourth specific image 24, and fifth specific image 25 (assuming that the first to fifth specific images 25 represent characters A to E, respectively). When the symbol animation reaches a successful outcome, three of these five types of specific images 20 will be displayed, and the pattern may change each time (Figures 11(a) to (c) show some of the possible patterns).

Each of the first specific image 21 to the fifth specific image 25 corresponds to a first to fifth reach animation, each with a different level of reliability. Therefore, the type of reach animation that can be performed afterward depends on which type of specific image 20 is displayed when the symbol animation reaches a successful outcome. For example, if the reliability of the various reach animations is in the order of first reach animation < second reach animation < third reach animation < fourth reach animation < fifth reach animation, then if the fifth specific image 25 is present among the three specific images 20 displayed when a successful outcome is reached, the fifth reach animation (with the highest reliability) may occur (if the fifth specific image 25 is not present, the fifth reach animation will not occur). (In the example shown in Figure 11, the fifth reach animation will not occur in cases (a) and (b), but it may occur in case (c)). Therefore, if the symbol animation leads to a successful outcome, the player will expect a specific image 20, corresponding to a relatively reliable reach animation, to be displayed.

Furthermore, in the case of the example described above, it is preferable that, after a certain specific image 20 is displayed in the symbol display, specific images 20 associated with lower-reliability reach displays are not displayed. If the configuration is such that specific images 20 are displayed in the order of left → right → center, as in the above embodiment, then when a successful outcome is reached, the specific images 20 should be displayed in that order in increasing reliability (all patterns shown in Figures 11(a) to (c) satisfy this condition). In this case, if the specific image 20 displayed at an early predetermined trigger is of high reliability, a gameplay experience is achieved in which there is an expectation that an even higher-reliability specific image 20 will be displayed at subsequent predetermined triggers.

Specific Examples 1-3
The configuration is such that if the pattern animation reaches a successful outcome, two or more specific images 20 of the same type may be displayed. If, as in the above embodiment, the display of three specific images 20 is considered a successful outcome, then, for example, a successful outcome in which one second specific image 22 and two third specific images 23 are displayed may occur (see Figure 12).

Since the specific image 20 represents the choices in the selection sequence, if two or more of the same type of specific image 20 are displayed, it means that two or more of the same type of choices are displayed. In this case, the probability of two or more choices being selected is set to be higher than the probability of one choice being selected. In the example above (where a successful outcome occurs with one second specific image 22 and two third specific images 23 being displayed), the probability of the third reach sequence (character C) being selected in the subsequent selection sequence is set to be higher than the probability of the second reach sequence (character B) being selected. By doing so, the gameplay that players expect from the display of two or more specific images 20 corresponding to highly reliable reach sequences is realized.

Specific Examples 1-4
The decorative pattern 80 and the specific image 20 are associated. The decorative pattern 80 includes a main element part 80m and a sub-element part 80s as the pattern elements that constitute the pattern (see Figure 13). However, the decorative pattern 80 may be configured in this manner only when a pattern effect can occur. The main element part 80m is the part that indicates the type of decorative pattern 80, and for example, the part that includes characters such as "numbers" is the main element part 80m. If the main element part 80m is the same (if the numbers are the same), the type of pattern is the same, and if the main element part 80m is different, the type of pattern is different.

The sub-element section 80s is a part attached to the main element section 80m. The sub-element section 80s is said to represent a character. The main element section 80m of "1" is attached to the sub-element section 80s of "character A", the main element section 80m of "2" is attached to the sub-element section 80s of "character B", the main element section 80m of "3" is attached to the sub-element section 80s of "character C", ... the main element section 80m of "7" is attached to the sub-element section 80s of "character G" (Hereafter, various decorative patterns 80 will be represented in the form of "main element section 80m + sub-element section 80s", such as "1" + "character A") (see Figure 13). Unlike the example shown in Figure 13, the sub-element section 80s may be provided only on some of the decorative patterns 80. Furthermore, a configuration in which the same type of sub-element 80s is attached to different main element 80m components is also possible (for example, a configuration in which the main element 80m components "3" and "7" are each provided with sub-element 80s representing the same type of character).

In the pattern display, the stopping of the variation of each decorative pattern group 80g can be considered a predetermined trigger for the display of a specific image 20. When a display result occurs, the decorative pattern 80 selected from each decorative pattern group 80g and the specific image 20 are considered to be in a corresponding relationship. For example, as in the above embodiment, if the setting is such that a successful outcome results in the first specific image 21 (character A), the third specific image 23 (character C), and the second specific image 22 (character B) being displayed in a row from left to right (see Figure 14(f)), then at the first predetermined trigger, the left decorative pattern 80L selected from the left decorative pattern group 80gL becomes "1" + "character A" (see Figure 14(a)), and then the first specific image 21 (character A) is displayed (see Figure 14(b)). ), and at the second specified trigger, the right decorative pattern 80R selected and shown from the right decorative pattern group 80gR becomes "2" + "Character B" (see Figure 14(c)), and the second specified image 22 (Character B) is displayed (see Figure 14(d)), and at the third specified trigger, the middle decorative pattern 80C selected and shown from the middle decorative pattern group 80gC becomes "3" + "Character C" (see Figure 14(e)), and the third specified image 23 (Character C) is displayed (see Figure 14(f)). In other words, the character which is the sub-element part 80s (part of the pattern element part) of the decorative pattern 80 shown at each specified trigger and the character which is the image element part included in the specified image 20 displayed at that specified trigger are of the same type. This approach results in a clear and easy-to-understand presentation where the sub-element portion 80s (pattern element portion) of the decorative pattern 80, which is displayed when the variation of the decorative pattern group 80g stops, is linked to the image element portion of the specific image 20 (the choice shown in the selection presentation).

Furthermore, in the case of the example shown, as explained in Specific Example 1-2 above, the combination (pattern) of the specific image 20 displayed when the symbol animation reaches a successful outcome can be configured to change each time. In this case, the animation format will differ depending on the type (combination) of decorative symbols 80 selected and displayed from each group of decorative symbols 80g, resulting in a different combination (pattern) of the specific image 20 when a successful outcome occurs. For example, if the decorative symbols 80 stop in the order of "1" + "Character A", "3" + "Character C", and "5" + "Character E" (see Figures 15(a) to (f)), the selection animation will display the options Character A, E, and C from left to right (see Figure 15(g)).

Furthermore, in the case of the example shown, it is possible to configure the system so that two or more identical options are displayed, as explained in specific examples 1-3 above. When the types of decorative symbols 80 selected from two or more groups of decorative symbols 80g are the same, a selection animation will occur where two or more identical options are displayed. For example, if the decorative symbols 80 stop in the order of "1" + "Character A", "3" + "Character C", and "3" + "Character C" (see Figures 16(a) to (f)), the selection animation will display one option for Character A and two options for Character C (see Figure 16(g)).

Specific Examples 1-5
In the above embodiment, it was explained that a reach animation corresponding to the option selected in the selection animation is executed. However, the configuration may be such that no reach animation is executed as a result of the selection animation. For example, the result of the selection animation (which option is selected) may simply indicate the reliability of the target win/loss lottery result and not indicate the animation to be executed afterward.

Specific Examples 1-6
In the above embodiment, the specific image 20 includes a character as an image element, and in the selection sequence, the character is presented as an option. However, other elements may also be presented as options. For example, each specific image 20 may include an element representing a color (color element) (in the drawings, the color is represented by "text"). Each specific image 20 may include an element representing a different color, such as the first specific image 21 containing an element representing "blue," the second specific image 22 containing an element representing "green," and the third specific image 23 containing an element representing "red" (see Figure 17). If the pattern sequence reaches a successful outcome (see Figure 17(f)), the selection sequence is executed and one of the options (color elements) represented by each specific image 20 is selected (see Figure 17(g)). Depending on which option is selected, the probability of winning the jackpot in the target winning/losing lottery will differ (for example, the probability will increase in the order of first specific image 21 < second specific image 22 < third specific image 23).

After the selection animation, a post-event animation corresponding to the selected option (color element) may occur. For example, a post-event animation may occur in which the appearance of the reserved symbol 70 changes (the reserved symbol change animation itself is well known, so a detailed explanation is omitted). If "blue" (first specific image 21) is selected, the reserved symbol 71 during the variation will change to a blue appearance; if "green" (second specific image 22) is selected, the reserved symbol 71 during the variation will change to a green appearance; and if "red" (third specific image 23) is selected, the reserved symbol 71 during the variation will change to a red appearance (the reliability of the reserved symbol 70 is assumed to be in the order of blue < green < red) (see Figure 17(g)(h). This shows an example where the third specific image 23 "red" is selected and the reserved symbol 71 during the variation changes to "red"). By having such a post-event animation occur, the result of the selection animation will be reflected more clearly. However, this does not negate the possibility of not having such a post-event animation occur (i.e., a configuration that only indicates reliability based on the selection in the selection animation). Alternatively, instead of a change in the reserve symbol 71 during the reel spin, a post-event animation may occur where the appearance of the reserve symbol 72 before the reel spin changes. In this case, the post-event animation (the preceding symbol animation and selection animation) will function as a so-called pre-announcement animation (the pre-announcement animation is well-known, so an explanation will be omitted).

Furthermore, in the example shown, the design elements of the decorative pattern 80 and the image elements of the specific image 20 can be linked. The decorative pattern 80 includes a "blue pattern" (a pattern containing the numbers "2," "4," and "6"), a "green pattern" (a pattern containing the numbers "1" and "5"), and a "red pattern" (a pattern containing the numbers "3" and "7"). When the "blue pattern" is displayed, the first specific image 21 is shown (see Figures 17(a) and (b)); when the "green pattern" is displayed, the second specific image 22 is displayed (see Figures 17(c) and (d)); and when the "red pattern" is displayed, the third specific image 23 is displayed (see Figures 17(e) and (f)). In this way, the design elements of the decorative pattern 80 and the image elements of the specific image 20 shown at each specified event correspond to each other (the "color" is linked).

Specific Examples 1-7
In the above embodiment, the symbol display is considered successful if it is displayed at all predetermined triggers, and unsuccessful if it is not displayed at any predetermined trigger. While it was explained that the symbol display ends if it is not displayed at any intermediate predetermined trigger, the configuration is such that it can still be a successful outcome even if it is not displayed at some point. For example, the first predetermined trigger when the left decorative symbol 80L is shown results in a display, and the first specific image 21 is displayed. The second predetermined trigger when the right decorative symbol 80R is shown results in a non-display (the second specific image 22 is not displayed). However, the third predetermined trigger when the middle decorative symbol 80C is shown results in a display where both the second specific image 22 and the third specific image 23 are displayed, leading to a successful outcome for the symbol display. This configuration allows for a display format where players can expect to reach a successful outcome until the final (third) decorative symbol 80 is shown. However, if the goal is to create a presentation that gives the impression that a decorative pattern 80 selected from each group of decorative patterns 80g has transformed into a specific image 20, then it is preferable to do so as in the above embodiment (maintaining a 1:1 relationship between the decorative pattern 80 and the specific image 20 shown at each predetermined trigger).

Specific Examples 1-8
The selection sequence, which is executed when the symbol animation results in a successful outcome, allows the player to choose their preferred option (optional selection). However, while this choice affects the subsequent animation, it does not affect the payout (expected payout). For example, the first reach animation executed when the first specific image 21 is selected, the second reach animation executed when the second specific image 22 is selected, and the third reach animation executed when the third specific image 23 is selected are assumed to have the same level of reliability. In other words, although the selection sequence allows the player to arbitrarily choose the subsequent animation from among several types of animations, the reliability (expected payout) remains the same regardless of which animation is executed.

3-2) Background Effects The gaming machine 1 according to this embodiment is capable of executing background effects as effects that constitute the effects during reel spinning. The background effect is an effect that uses a background image 30 (see Figure 18(a)) displayed in the display area 911 as the background of the decorative symbols 80 (in drawings other than those explaining the background effect, the illustration of the background image 30 may be omitted). The specific form of the background image 30 can be anything. The image layer representing the background image 30 is set in front of the image layer representing the decorative symbols 80, so that the player sees the background image 30 as being behind the decorative symbols 80. In addition, the background image 30 in this embodiment is also the background of the reserved symbols 70 (the image layer of the background image 30 is behind the image layer of the reserved symbols 70). However, the background of the reserved symbols 70 may be different from the background of the decorative symbols 80.

The background effect includes a background shrinkage period in which the background image 30 gradually shrinks over time. The start of the background effect also coincides with the start of the background shrinkage period. In this embodiment, the background image 30 in its normal state (the background image 30 before the background effect occurs) is displayed across the entire display area 911 (see Figure 18(a)). However, the background image 30 may not be displayed across the entire display area 911 in its normal state (for example, if the background of the hold symbol 70 is different, the background of the decorative symbol 80 will not be displayed across the entire display area 911). At a minimum, the background image 30 in its normal state is larger (occupies a larger area of the display area 911) than the background image 30 during the background shrinkage period. Even when the background image 30 shrinks, the specific form of the background image 30 is maintained in a way that is perceived as identical by the player. That is, when the background effect occurs, the player understands that the same background image 30 (a certain type of background image 30) is gradually shrinking.

When a background effect occurs and the background image 30 becomes smaller than its normal size (background reduction period) (see Figures 18(b) to (d)), a frame image 35 is displayed around the background image 30. As described above, in this embodiment, the background image 30 is displayed across the entire display area 911 in the normal state (before the background effect occurs). Therefore, the frame image 35 during the background effect can be seen as representing the outer edge of the display area 911 before the background effect occurred. In this embodiment, the frame image 35 is roughly rectangular in shape, and as the frame image 35 shrinks, the distance between the frame image 35 and the top, bottom, left, and right edges of the display area 911 gradually increases. As a result, the background image 30 appears to the player as if it has been displaced roughly backward.

In this embodiment, the background effect is executed as a type of reach effect. Because it is executed as a reach effect, it begins in a state where a reach has been achieved (reach state). In this embodiment, the left decorative symbol 80L (in a pseudo-stop state) selected and displayed from the left decorative symbol group 80gL, and the right decorative symbol 80R (in a pseudo-stop state) selected and displayed from the right decorative symbol group 80gR, are of the same type (hereinafter, these same type of decorative symbols 80 are referred to as reach symbols), and the state in which the middle decorative symbol group 80gC is changing (the state in which the middle decorative symbol 80C has not been determined) is considered the reach state. Therefore, immediately before the start of the background effect, the reach symbols are displayed in front of the normal background image 30 (see Figure 18(a)).

During the background reduction period, the rate at which the background image 30 shrinks is controlled to be greater than the rate at which the decorative pattern 80 shrinks (see Figures 18(b) to (d)). If we define "the area occupied by the image (pattern) at a certain point during the background reduction period / the area occupied by the image (pattern) at the start of the background reduction period = reduction rate," then the "rate of shrinkage" mentioned above corresponds to the change in the reduction rate per unit of time. In other words, the rate at which the background image 30 shrinks is greater than the rate at which the decorative pattern 80 shrinks means that the change in the reduction rate of the background image 30 per unit of time is greater than the change in the reduction rate of the decorative pattern 80 per unit of time.

In this embodiment, all of the displayed decorative patterns 80 are controlled as described above, but it is also possible that only a portion of the decorative patterns 80 are controlled as described above. It is preferable that at least the decorative patterns 80 that are stopped or in a pseudo-stopped state (reach patterns in this embodiment) are subject to this control.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, the display pattern of the reserved symbol 70 is maintained even during the background reduction period (the reserved symbol 70 that was displayed before the background reduction period began is "maintained." If new reserved information is acquired, the new reserved symbol 70 will be displayed). To make it clear that only the "background" shrinks during the background reduction period, the reserved symbol 70 does not change (see Figures 18(b) to (d)). In this embodiment, the reserved symbol 70 that overlapped the background image 30 before the background reduction period began (see Figure 18(a)) becomes no longer overlapping the background image 30 during the background reduction period (see Figures 18(c) and (d)). However, this does not negate the possibility of the reserved symbol 70 shrinking together with the background image 30 (shrinking at the same speed as the background image 30). In this case, the reserved symbol 70 would appear as if it were part of the background.

During the background reduction period, the background image 30 and decorative symbols 80 are controlled as described above, resulting in a change where the decorative symbols 80 (reach symbols) gradually become larger relative to the background image 30 (see Figures 18(b) to (d)). In other words, the background effect is an interesting one, where the decorative symbols 80 (reach symbols) are gradually emphasized in comparison to the background image 30, even as the background image 30 shifts backward (becomes smaller).

The reach animation transitions to a winning ending (see Figure 19(a-1)) if the draw result is a jackpot, and to a losing ending (see Figure 19(a-2)) if it is a loss. The winning ending occurs when the type of the middle decorative symbol 80C selected from the middle decorative symbol group 80gC is the same as the reach symbol, and the losing ending occurs when it is a different type. That is, the winning ending displays a winning combination composed of decorative symbols 80 of the same type, and the losing ending displays a losing combination in which the middle decorative symbol 80C is different from the reach symbol. The player may be required to operate the operation means 60 (for example, a push button 61), and this may trigger the display of a winning combination or a losing combination. In this embodiment, the transition to the ending occurs during or at the end of the background reduction period. That is, the transition to the ending occurs while the background image 30 is shrinking or when the background image 30 has become the smallest. Therefore, winning or losing combinations are indicated by a state where the relative size of the decorative symbols 80 to the background image 30 is larger (than in the normal state when no background effects are being performed).

After the winning or losing combination is displayed, the background image 30 returns to its original size (in this embodiment, displayed across the entire display area 911). That is, a background enlargement period is provided during which the background image 30 gradually enlarges (see Figures 19(a-1) to (d-1), (a-2) to (d-2)). Simultaneously, the decorative symbols 80 (which constitute the winning or losing combination) also return to their original size. As described above, during the background reduction period, the speed at which the background image 30 shrinks is set to be faster than the speed at which the decorative symbols 80 shrink. Therefore, during the background enlargement period, when the background image 30 and decorative symbols 80 return to their original size, the opposite setting is applied. That is, during the background enlargement period, the speed at which the background image 30 enlarges is slower than the speed at which the decorative symbols 80 enlarge. In this way, the variation including the reach animation using the background animation ends (the notification of the winning or losing result is completed) (see Figures 19(d-1), (d-2)).

Furthermore, the configuration may be such that the variation ends without such a background expansion period. As shown in Figures 19(a-1) and (a-2), the variation can end with the background image 30 displayed in a smaller size (after which a sudden scene change can occur).

The following describes specific examples of improvements, concretizations, and modifications to the above-mentioned background effects. Furthermore, whenever possible, a configuration can be created by combining multiple techniques described using the following examples.

〇Specific Example 2-1
Although the background effect in the above embodiment is described as being performed as a reach effect, it is also possible to use the background effect for purposes other than a reach effect. For example, it is conceivable that the background effect will occur when a winning combination (a combination of the same type of decorative symbols 80) indicating a win in the lottery results is displayed. With the winning combination displayed in front of the normal background image 30 (see Figure 20(a)), a background reduction period will begin, and the decorative symbols 80 constituting the winning combination will gradually become larger relative to the background image 30 (see Figures 20(b) to (d)) in order to emphasize the winning combination. After that, a background expansion period (see Figures 20(e) to (g)) can be provided, similar to the above embodiment.

Furthermore, it is conceivable that a background effect should occur when a so-called "chance combination" (a combination different from a winning combination, but following a predetermined rule indicating the occurrence of an event advantageous to the player (an event suggesting an increased probability of a big win, such as a well-known pre-announcement or pseudo-consecutive win)) is displayed. Figure 21 shows an example where a chance combination (a "sequential" combination) is displayed as a pre-announcement effect. With the chance combination displayed in front of the normal background image 30 (see Figure 21(a)), a background reduction period begins, and the decorative symbols 80 constituting the chance combination gradually enlarge relative to the background image 30 (see Figures 21(b) to (d)), thereby emphasizing the chance combination. Afterward, a background expansion period (see Figures 21(e) to (g)) can be provided, similar to the above embodiment. After the establishment of the chance combination is indicated in this way, the next spin begins (see Figure 21(h)). In the case of a pseudo-consecutive win, the next pseudo-spin should begin before the spin completely stops in Figure 21(g).

Specific Example 2-2
After a background reduction period (including a period of partial background reduction, i.e., being in the middle of the background reduction period), at least a portion of the multiple decorative patterns 80 are displayed outside the background image 30, resulting in a background/pattern separation state (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as the separation state) (see Figure 22(d)). As described above, the background reduction period is the period during which the background image 30 gradually shrinks, so the area between the outer edge of the background image 30 (frame image 35) and the outer edge of the display area 911 (hereinafter referred to as the outer area 911a) gradually enlarges. The background reduction period is also the period during which the relative size of the decorative patterns 80 to the background image 30 increases. As a result of these changes in the background image 30 and decorative patterns 80, the effect is such that at least a portion of the multiple decorative patterns 80 appear to protrude outside the background image 30 (frame image 35) (see Figures 22(b) to (d)). In the following explanation, the decorative pattern 80 displayed in the outer region 911a may also be referred to as the separate pattern 80x.

For example, if the background effect is used as a reach effect, as in the embodiment described above, the left decorative symbol 80L and the right decorative symbol 80R, which are reach symbols, will be displayed as separate symbols 80x in the outer area 911a. On the other hand, the middle decorative symbol group 80gC will maintain its state of being displayed in a variable manner in front of the background image 30 (decorative symbols 80 that are not reach symbols will not be treated as separate symbols 80x) (see Figure 22(d)).

Subsequently, the game transitions to the conclusion of the reach animation, and the result of the win/loss lottery is determined. If the result of the win/loss lottery is a jackpot, a middle decorative symbol 80C of the same type as the reach symbol is shown (see Figure 22(e)). Although not shown, if it is a loss, a middle decorative symbol 80C of a different type from the reach symbol is shown. In other words, the result of the win/loss lottery is determined by the display of one middle decorative symbol 80C selected from the middle decorative symbol group 80gC. The middle decorative symbol 80C is not displayed in the outer area 911a, but is displayed overlapping in front of the background image 30. In other words, of the three decorative symbols 80 that constitute the combination according to the win/loss lottery result, the two that were reach symbols are displayed outside the background image 30 (frame image 35), and the last one shown is displayed inside the background image 30 (frame image 35). Therefore, the distinction between the reach symbols and the last symbol shown becomes clear. Subsequently, the background image 30 and decorative pattern 80 return to their original size, and the transformation ends (see Figures 22(f) to (h)).

As shown in this example, the background effect clearly distinguishes between the reach symbols (left decorative symbol 80L, right decorative symbol 80R) displayed in the outer area 911a and the non-reach symbols (center decorative symbol 80C) displayed overlapping the background image 30.

In this example, the separation state is one in which the entire left decorative pattern 80L and the right decorative pattern 80R are displayed in the outer area 911a (a state in which the left decorative pattern 80L and the right decorative pattern 80R do not overlap at all with the background image 30). However, it is also possible to have a state in which only a portion of the left decorative pattern 80L and the right decorative pattern 80R are displayed in the outer area 911a (a state in which a portion of the left decorative pattern 80L and the right decorative pattern 80R overlaps with the background image 30 (a state in which a portion of the left decorative pattern 80L and the right decorative pattern 80R appears to extend beyond the background image 30)). However, from the viewpoint of clearly distinguishing between the left decorative pattern 80L and the right decorative pattern 80R (reach patterns) and the middle decorative pattern 80C (patterns that are not reach patterns), it is preferable that the separation state be one in which the entire left decorative pattern 80L and the right decorative pattern 80R are displayed in the outer area 911a.

〇Specific Example 2-3 (A variation of Specific Example 2-2)
In the reach animation described in the specific example 2-2 above, the player is required to operate the operating means 60 (for example, a push button) (see Figure 23(d)), and the game proceeds to the conclusion and the result of the win/loss lottery is determined when the operation of the operating means 60 during the operation valid period satisfies predetermined conditions (see Figure 23(e)). For example, if a single operation (one action) is required, the game proceeds to the conclusion when the single operation is performed during the operation valid period. If the operation during the operation valid period does not satisfy the predetermined conditions, the game proceeds to the conclusion when the operation valid period ends.

The player is requested to operate the operating means 60 by displaying an image (operation image 65) representing the operating means 60 (operation image 65) in the display area 911. (If operation of a push button 61 is requested, the operation image 65 is designed in a way that allows the player to easily recognize that it represents the push button 61.) In the separated state described above, the operation image 65 is displayed superimposed on the background image 30. That is, when the reach symbol is displayed in the outer area 911a without overlapping the background image 30, the operation image 65 is displayed superimposed on the background image 30, and the player is then requested to operate the operating means 60 represented by the operation image 65 (see Figure 23(d)). In addition to the operation image 65, images indicating the remaining operation validity period (operating means 60) (for example, an image of a meter that changes as the operation validity period elapses) and images representing the operation of the operating means 60 required of the player (for example, the word "Press") are also displayed superimposed on the background image 30.

As shown in this example, the reach symbol is displayed in the outer area 911a that does not overlap with the background image 30, while the operation image 65 is displayed so as to overlap with the background image 30 (see Figure 23(d)). In other words, the operation image 65, which is displayed to inform the player that it is time to operate the operation means 60, is displayed in an area that is clearly distinguishable from the outer area 911a where the reach symbol is displayed (the area inside the frame image 35). This has the advantage of making it easy to understand that operation of the operation means 60 is required.

Specific Example 2-4
During the background reduction period, the background image 30 may gradually become smaller while the decorative pattern 80 (the target decorative pattern 80) gradually becomes larger. If the reach pattern is the target decorative pattern 80 as in the above embodiment, then during the background reduction period, the background image 30 will gradually become smaller while the reach pattern will gradually become larger. This will result in a faster rate of change in the relative size of the decorative pattern 80 to the background image 30 (the enlargement of the decorative pattern 80 in comparison to the background image 30 will be faster than in the above embodiment).

〇Specific Example 2-5
In the above embodiment, the change in the background image 30 in the background effect is such that the frame image 35 is roughly rectangular and the background image 30 appears to have moved roughly backward. However, other modes are also acceptable as long as an outer region 911a is created (a mode in which the background image 30 appears to have become smaller as a whole). For example, the frame image 35 may be roughly parallelogram-shaped and the background image 30 may appear to have been displaced three-dimensionally with respect to the display region 911. However, the above embodiment has the advantage of making it easier to capture the change in size of the background image 30 (making it easier to capture the enlargement of the decorative pattern 80 relative to the background image 30).

Specific Example 2-6
After reaching a predetermined branching point following a successful reach (see Figure 24(a)), two patterns may occur: one in which background effects are performed (background effects pattern) (see Figure 24(b-1)), and another in which background effects are not performed (background effects-free pattern) (see Figure 24(b-2)). In the background effects-free pattern, the size of the background image 30 does not change (it remains in its normal state).

The probability (reliability) of reaching a winning outcome differs between patterns with and without background effects. This creates a gameplay experience where players will pay attention to whether or not background effects occur. As shown in Figure 24, if the pattern with background effects has a higher probability of reaching a winning outcome than the pattern without background effects, then the occurrence of background effects functions as a so-called "chance-up" feature.

Specific Example 2-7
In the reach animation, a winning outcome occurs when a decorative symbol 80 that is not a reach symbol (hereinafter referred to as the remaining symbol 80z) is of the same type as the reach symbol, and a losing outcome occurs when it is of a different type. In the embodiment described above, one of the middle decorative symbols 80C selected from the middle decorative symbol group 80gC becomes the remaining symbol 80z.

At the end of the reach animation, at least a portion of the remaining symbol 80z is displayed in the outer area 911a. That is, while the reach symbol is entirely within the frame image 35, at least a portion of the remaining symbol 80z protrudes outside the frame image 35 (see Figures 25(d-1) and (d-2)). This clearly distinguishes the remaining symbol 80z from the reach symbol. Since the type of remaining symbol 80z is an important factor determining the outcome and is likely to be a focus of the player's attention, the reduced background image 30 is used to ensure that the remaining symbol 80z is perceived differently from the reach symbol. To make the remaining symbol 80z more prominent, it may be displayed larger than the reach symbol.

The remaining symbols 80z may be displayed only when the outcome is a win. That is, if the type of remaining symbols 80z is the same as the winning symbol, at least a portion of the remaining symbols 80z is displayed in the outer area 911a (as shown in Figure 25(d-1)) to emphasize it (emphasize the jackpot). On the other hand, if the outcome is a loss, the entire remaining symbols 80z are displayed inside the frame image 35, similar to the winning symbol (as shown in Figure 19(a-2)), so that the loss is not emphasized.

3-3) Progress Images The first special game state, which is a more advantageous state than the normal game state (the most advantageous state for the player among several advantageous states), is a high probability (probability change) state and a high base (time reduction) state, and is a so-called ST state that ends when the win/loss lottery result is a loss for a predetermined number of times (X times) (see Figure 3(a)). In this embodiment, X = 150. After the special jackpot game, which is executed when a special jackpot is won, ends, the game transitions to the first special game state (see Figure 26(a)). A jackpot won in the first special game state becomes a special jackpot, and after the jackpot game ends, the game transitions back to the first special game state. In other words, it becomes a "consecutive win". In the following explanation of "progress images", when simply referred to as the special game state, it refers to the first special game state.

The gaming machine 1 according to this embodiment is equipped with a "probability variation limiter" function. The probability variation limiter is a function that forcibly terminates the high-probability state (probability state) when the special game state continues for a predetermined limit number of consecutive times (L times), i.e., when the number of consecutive wins (including the jackpot that triggered the transition to the first special game state) reaches L times. However, this limit number is set to a probability that is virtually impossible to reach (the probability of this event occurring when transitioning to a new special game state is less than 0.1%). In other words, the probability of the probability variation limiter actually functioning and forcibly terminating the high-probability state is virtually impossible. In this embodiment, L = 255 times (in this embodiment, the probability of winning a jackpot before the special game state ends (the so-called continuation rate) is approximately 78%, and it is virtually impossible for this to happen 255 times consecutively).

As detailed below, in this embodiment, a probability variation limiter is used to change the type of special game state when a predetermined number of consecutive wins is reached (the switching condition is met). Therefore, the situation where the probability variation limiter is actually activated and the high-probability state is forcibly terminated is prevented. However, this does not negate the possibility of setting the probability variation limiter activation to a realistically achievable probability (1% or more). Even with this configuration, it is possible to create a change in the type of special game state using the probability variation limiter (described later).

Multiple performance modes are provided as performance modes that can be set in the special game state. Performance modes are elements that govern the manner of performance during reel spins. If the type of performance mode is different, the manner of performance during reel spins will be clearly different. In this embodiment, a first performance mode and a second performance mode are provided. The first performance mode (see Figure 26(b)) is a high-speed reel spin mode. This mode has an average reel spin time of 1 second (this is a so-called "instant win" mode where the notification of the win/loss lottery result is extremely fast). On the other hand, the second performance mode (see Figure 26(c)) is a normal mode with an average reel spin time of 10 seconds (a mode with a longer reel spin time compared to the first performance mode). In addition, in the special game state, an image representing the currently set performance mode (mode-corresponding image 49) is displayed. In this embodiment, a mode-corresponding image 49 is displayed that includes the name of the currently set performance mode (in this embodiment, the first performance mode is "□□ mode" and the second performance mode is "×× mode"). Naturally, the mode-corresponding image 49 representing a certain type of performance mode will not be displayed when a different type of performance mode is set. Furthermore, although not illustrated, when the performance modes differ, the background image 30 of the decorative symbols 80 will also differ (each performance mode has its own unique background image 30). In addition, the configuration may include different characters as motifs for each performance mode, different types of reach performances executed according to the set performance mode, and different types of displayed reserve symbols 70 (at least different types of normal symbols).

In this embodiment, multiple types of special game states with different settings for the above-mentioned performance modes may occur. In this embodiment, two types of special game states may occur: Special Game State A and Special Game State B. In Special Game State A, the first performance mode is set for the first 20 spins (until 20 consecutive misses) from the start of the special game state, and the second performance mode is set thereafter (21st to 150th spins). In Special Game State B, the first performance mode is set for the first 50 spins (until 50 consecutive misses) from the start of the special game state, and the second performance mode is set thereafter (51st to 150th spins). In other words, the special game state is triggered by a change in the performance mode after reaching a point where there have been Y consecutive misses (where Y is less than the value of X, which is the ST count). Special game state A and special game state B (different types of special game states) differ in the number of spins (value of Y) at which this change occurs (Special game state A is Y=20, and special game state B is Y=50) (see Figures 26(b) and (c)).

The type of special game state that is newly initiated depends on the number of times the above-mentioned probability limiter is activated (the number of remaining times until the limit is reached). In this embodiment, special game state A is set when the number of remaining times until the limit is reached is between 255 and 251, and special game state B is set when the number of remaining times is between 250 and 1. The condition of 255 to 251 remaining times essentially means that special game state A is the state transitioned to after a special jackpot with up to 5 consecutive wins, and special game state B is the state transitioned to after a special jackpot with 6 or more consecutive wins. In the following explanation, the condition for changing from special game state A to special game state B is referred to as the switching condition. The number of consecutive wins (5 in this embodiment) for the switching condition to be met can be increased or decreased as appropriate. Furthermore, the switching condition may be met by conditions other than the number of consecutive wins. For example, the trigger condition for switching could be that the total number of balls (prize balls) obtained during a winning streak exceeds a predetermined value. Alternatively, the trigger condition could be that the reach animation performed during the special game state meets a predetermined condition (for example, a jackpot is announced during a specific reach).

Furthermore, the average fluctuation time is shorter in the second presentation mode than in the first presentation mode. In other words, the so-called (fluctuation) consumption time is shorter in the second presentation mode than in the first presentation mode. From this, it follows that the consumption time is shorter in special game state B than in special game state A because the first presentation mode is set for more spins. In other words, the consumption time of the special game state is shortened when the switching condition is met. However, since there is no difference in the number of ST rounds (X = 150 rounds) and the probability of winning/losing (high probability lottery) between special game state A and special game state B, there is no difference in the expected value of the profit (referring to the actual profit in terms of payouts) generated by each special game state (although there is a difference in profit per unit of time (payout speed) because the consumption speed is different).

During the special game state (during the variation in the special game state), the progress image 40 is displayed in the display area 911 (which may be a different area from the display area 911 where the decorative symbols 80 are displayed) (see Figures 26(b) and 26(c)). The progress image 40 includes a displacement element 41, a start position element 42s, an end position element 42e, and a change point element 43. While the progress image 40 may be temporarily erased if a specific effect occurs during variation, the progress image 40 is generally displayed continuously across multiple variations.

The progress image 40 (see Figure 27) shows a main body that is elongated horizontally, resembling a "meter." The left end of this "meter" is the start position element 42s, and the right end is the end position element 42e. The start position element 42s and end position element 42e may also be configured to display characters indicating the starting position (e.g., the word "START") and the end position (e.g., the word "END").

The displacement element 41 is the part that displaces from the starting position to the ending position when the lottery result is a loss. In this embodiment, the displacement element 41 is an image including the main character from the original work that served as the motif for the game machine 1. The starting position is represented by the starting position element 42s, and the ending position is represented by the ending position element 42e. Therefore, in this embodiment, the displacement element 41 displaces from left to right (see Figure 27(a)). Note that while Figure 27(a) uses progress image A to show how the displacement element 41 displaces, the displacement element 41 also displaces similarly in progress image B.

The displacement element 41 may be configured to displace each time a losing spin ends during the special game state, or it may be configured to displace when a group of two or more spins ends (for example, after five losing spins). In any case, since the displacement element 41 approaches the end position when a losing spin occurs, it can be said that the closer the displacement element 41 is to the end position, the closer the special game state is to ending. The player can perceive the progress of the special game state (how close it is to the end of the ST) by the position of the displacement element 41. To make the displacement of the displacement element 41 easier to understand, the progress image 40 (the "meter" part) may be configured with marks such as "scales".

The change point element 43 represents the change point. As described above, in special game state A, the number of spins (number of consecutive misses) up to the change point is 20 spins (Y=20) from the start of the special game state, and in special game state B, the number of spins (number of consecutive misses) up to the change point is 50 spins (Y=50) from the start of the special game state. Therefore, in special game state A, the progress image 40 (see Figure 27(b-1)) is displayed with the change point element 43 placed at the location corresponding to the 20th spin (where the displacement element 41 is located at the 20th spin), and in special game state B, the progress image 40 (see Figure 27(b-2)) is displayed with the change point element 43 placed at the location corresponding to the 50th spin (where the displacement element 41 is located at the 50th spin). In other words, the position of the change point element 43 in the progress image 40 differs between special game state A and special game state B (in the following explanation, progress image 40 in special game state A may be referred to as progress image A, and progress image 40 in special game state B may be referred to as progress image B). Since the 20th spin is closer to the start of the special game state than the 50th spin, the position of the change point element 43 in progress image A is closer to the start position element 42s (to the left) than the position of the change point element 43 in progress image B. Note that there is no difference in the displacement pattern of the displacement element 41 (the relationship between the remaining number of ST spins and the position of the displacement element 41 (position relative to the start position element 42s and the end position element 42e)) between progress image A and progress image B.

The change point element 43 is intended to indicate to the player that a change in the performance mode will occur when the displacement element 41 reaches that point. In this embodiment, the change point element 43 is provided with a mark containing the words "Mode Change" (see Figure 27). Furthermore, in this embodiment, the portion to the left of the Y-th rotation point and the portion to the right of the Y-th rotation point in the main body portion (meter portion) of the progress image 40 are clearly different in appearance. For example, the left portion may be marked with the words "□□ Mode" representing the first performance mode, and the right portion may be marked with the words "×× Mode" representing the name of the second performance mode. In addition to this, or instead, the left and right portions may be made to have different colors (the left portion is red, and the right portion is blue) (in the drawing, the hatching patterns are different). In this way, the boundary (border) between the left and right portions also functions as a change point element 43.

As described above, before the switching condition (reaching 5 consecutive wins in this embodiment) is met, the game is in Special Game State A, and after the switching condition is met, it is in Special Game State B. Therefore, if we consider the last Special Game State before the switching condition is met as the "First Special Game State" and the first Special Game State after the switching condition is met as the "Second Special Game State," then the First Special Game State is Special Game State A, and the Second Special Game State is Special Game State B. Consequently, the position of the change point element 43 in the progress image 40 (Progress Image A) displayed in the First Special Game State (indicating the 20th spin) is different from the position of the change point element 43 in the progress image 40 (Progress Image B) displayed in the Second Special Game State (indicating the 50th spin). In other words, the position of the change point element 43 in the progress image 40 changes before and after the switching condition is met.

In this embodiment, since only one change in the performance mode can occur during a single special game state, there is only one change point element 43 provided in the progress image 40. If two or more changes in the performance mode occur (for example, if there are three or more performance modes that can be set during a single special game state), then two or more change point elements 43 should be provided in the progress image 40.

In this embodiment, Special Game State A and Special Game State B are given the same name ("○○RUSH"). This name is displayed at the beginning of the Special Game State (just before the start of the first spin or at the beginning of the first spin) (see Figure 26(a)). It may also be displayed during the spin of the Special Game State. At the beginning of the Special Game State, a numerical value representing the ST count (X = 150) is also displayed along with the name. Using different names for Special Game State A and Special Game State B may lead players to mistakenly believe that settings related to payouts, such as the probability of winning or losing and the number of consecutive spins (ST count), are different between Special Game State A and Special Game State B. Therefore, it is preferable to use the same name so that players recognize them as the same game state.

In this embodiment, a remaining count display 45 is provided in conjunction with the progress image 40 (see Figure 27). This remaining count display 45 represents the remaining number of special game states (ST) at the current time. That is, the remaining count display 45 includes a number that decreases by 1 each time a losing spin ends. Note that the remaining count display 45 may be provided separately from the progress image 40, rather than being attached to it.

As described above, the gaming machine 1 according to this embodiment displays a progress image 40 during the special game state. Since the progress image 40 includes a displacement element 41 that shifts from the starting position to the ending position when the win/loss lottery result is a loss, the remaining amount of the special game state (remaining ST) can be visually grasped, making the progress of the game easier to understand.

Furthermore, since the progress image 40 in this embodiment includes a change point element 43, the timing of the change in the type of performance mode (change point) can be known in advance. In particular, in this embodiment, since multiple types of special game states are provided with different timings for the change in the performance mode (change points), it is highly significant that the change point is indicated by the change point element 43 by displaying progress images 40 (progress image A, progress image B) with different positions of the change point element 43 for each type of special game state.

The following describes specific examples of improvements, concretizations, and modifications to the matters related to the above progress image 40. Furthermore, whenever possible, a configuration may be created by combining multiple techniques described using the following specific examples.

Specific Example 3-1
Although it has been explained that the special game state in the above embodiment may change in the type of performance mode during the game, the progress image 40 may also be displayed in a special game state where no change in performance mode occurs. Even if no change in performance mode occurs, including a displacement element 41 that moves from the starting position towards the ending position when the win/loss lottery result is a loss has the advantage of making it easier to grasp the remaining special game state (remaining number of ST rounds). If no change in performance mode occurs, the progress image 40 does not need to include the change point element 43 (in fact, if no change in performance mode occurs, it is not possible to define the change point, so the change point element 43 cannot be provided).

〇Specific Example 3-2
In the above embodiment, it was explained that there are multiple types of special game states (special game state A, special game state B) with different timings of change in the performance mode (different Y values). However, the timing of change in the performance mode in the special game states may be constant (the Y value is constant). In such a configuration, the location where the change point element 43 is provided in the progress image 40 will be constant. Even if the timing of mode changes in the special game states is constant, providing the change point element 43 in the progress image 40 allows the player to grasp the degree of proximity to the change point, which has the advantage of making the game easier to understand.

Specific Example 3-3
In the above embodiment, the gaming machine 1 is configured to change the type of special game state (from special game state A to special game state B) based on the remaining number of spins until the limit is reached by using a probability variation limiter. However, a configuration without a probability variation limiter is also possible. For example, a configuration without a probability variation limiter is also possible, in which the type of special game state changes simply when the number of consecutive wins reaches a certain number.

Specific Example 3-4
Instead of displaying the progress images 40 from the beginning to the end of the special game state, the progress images 40 may be displayed for a certain period and hidden for the rest of the time. In other words, the progress images 40 may be displayed only for a part of the ST, rather than for the entire ST.

For example, in the configuration described above, where the special game state is configured to have 150 ST rounds (X = 150 rounds), the progress images 40 are displayed for the 1st to 140th rounds of the special game state (ST), and the progress images 40 are not displayed for the remaining 10 rounds. It is known that the in-game animation when the number of remaining ST rounds is low can be made into a special form (special variation). In such a configuration, the progress until the special variation begins may be shown by the progress images 40, and the progress images 40 may not be displayed after the special variation begins.

Specific Example 3-5
The progress images 40 will be used to create a visual effect (suggestive effect) that hints at the outcome of the draw. For example, the following effects are possible.

If the displacement element 41 is not in the correct position corresponding to the remaining number of special game states (remaining ST counts), the winning/losing result corresponding to one of the already acquired winning/losing lottery information (reserved information) will be a jackpot (a jackpot is guaranteed). For example, if the displacement element 41 is set to displace (approach the end position) each time a losing spin ends, and the displacement element 41 does not displace even after the losing spin ends, then the displacement element 41 is not in the correct position, and a jackpot is guaranteed. In the case of a jackpot, the special game state will start again after the jackpot game (ST will be reset), so it is considered that there is no problem even if the displacement element 41 is in the wrong position (it is not a problem even if the correct information about the remaining ST is not conveyed to the player), and thus this type of effect can occur.

If the change point element 43 is displayed in a location other than the location indicating the change point, the win/loss lottery result corresponding to one of the already acquired win/loss lottery information (reserved information) will be a jackpot (a jackpot is guaranteed). As explained in the above embodiment, although the change point for each special game state is the arrival of a predetermined number of fluctuations (Y times), the change point element 43 can be displayed in a location other than that. For example, as shown in Figure 28, even though the game is in special game state B (Y=50), the change point element 43 may be displayed in the location indicating the change point for special game state A (Y=20) (the progress image A is displayed in special game state B). In this case, a gameplay feature can be realized in which a player who is aware that the game is in special game state B from the number of consecutive wins will notice the occurrence of the event (a player who is aware of whether the game is in special game state A or B will notice the event). Conversely, the setting may also be such that, even though the game is in special game state A (Y=20), the change point element 43 is displayed at the position indicating the change point to special game mode B (Y=50).

3-4) Display during special jackpot game The special game state (first special game state, second special game state) is a state in which the game ball should be launched aiming at the second starting area 904b (in this embodiment, "right-handed shooting"), and the goal is to win a special jackpot by winning the second win/fail lottery (special figure 2 lottery) (see Figure 3(a)). As described above, of the jackpots won in the second win/fail lottery (jackpot distribution), 50% are 5-round special jackpots, and the remaining 50% are 10-round special jackpots (see Figure 3(b)).

The 5-round special jackpot and the 10-round special jackpot are both special jackpots, but they are different types of jackpots with different round counts, and therefore have different names. The specific names of each jackpot can be anything. In this embodiment, the 5-round special jackpot is named "Small Bonus," and the 10-round special jackpot is named "Big Bonus." As will be described later, in each special jackpot game, a name image 50 including the name is displayed in the display area 911. The name image 50 can also be said to represent the "title" of each special jackpot game. Hereinafter, the name image 50 including the name "Small Bonus" (the name image 50 corresponding to the 5-round special jackpot) may be referred to as the first name image 501, and the name image 50 including the name "Big Bonus" (the name image 50 corresponding to the 10-round special jackpot) may be referred to as the second name image 502.

5-round special jackpots and 10-round special jackpots differ in the number of rounds (number of unit games) included in the jackpot game, and therefore the profit obtained from the jackpot game differs. The guaranteed profit is the profit obtained when no abnormalities (such as power outages or malfunctions) occur during the jackpot game, no fraudulent activity is performed, and the game is played as instructed (in this embodiment, continuous right-hand shooting). In this embodiment, a profit image 52 including a numerical value representing the guaranteed profit (profit value) is displayed during the jackpot game. The guaranteed profit is determined based on the number of prize balls (however, this does not negate the possibility of determining it based on the net increase, etc.). As described above, in this embodiment, the count of one round (unit game) = 10, and the number of prize balls paid out when one game ball enters the jackpot area 906 = 15, so the guaranteed profit (guaranteed number of prize balls) obtained in one round (unit game) is 10 × 15 = 150 balls. Therefore, the profit value for a 5-round special jackpot is "750" (150 x 5), and the profit value for a 10-round special jackpot is "1500" (150 x 10). As described later, in each special jackpot game, a profit image 52 including the profit value is displayed in the display area 911. Hereafter, the profit image 52 containing the number "750" (the profit image 52 corresponding to the 5-round special jackpot) may be referred to as the first profit image 521, and the profit image 52 containing the number "1500" (the profit image 52 corresponding to the 10-round special jackpot) may be referred to as the second profit image 522.

In a special jackpot, the V-area 10 is opened, and entering the V-area 10 is the condition for transitioning to the first special game state after the jackpot game ends. The unit game (V-round) in which the V-area 10 is opened is defined as the round in which the jackpot with the fewest total rounds among the special jackpots never ends. In this embodiment, the jackpot with the fewest rounds among the special jackpots is the 5-round special jackpot, so one of rounds 1 through 5 is designated as a V-round. In this embodiment, round 2 is designated as a V-round.

In special jackpots (5-round special jackpots, 10-round special jackpots), the name image 50 is not displayed until the game ball enters the V-area 10. In this embodiment, since the second round is the V-round in both 5-round and 10-round special jackpots, the name image 50 is not displayed until partway through the first and second rounds (until a V-entry is achieved) (see Figure 29(b)). Upon detection of a V-entry, the name image 50 representing the corresponding jackpot type is displayed. Except in irregular cases where a so-called upgrade animation occurs (the upgrade animation will be described later; a configuration without an upgrade animation is also possible; in the following description, unless otherwise specified, this refers to the case where an upgrade animation does not occur), the first name image 501 containing the words "Small Bonus" is displayed for a 5-round special jackpot (see Figure 29(c-1)), and the second name image 502 containing the words "Big Bonus" is displayed for a 10-round special jackpot (see Figure 29(c-2)).

Until a V-win is detected, the image displayed in the display area 911 can be anything as long as the name image 50 is not displayed. However, it is conceivable that the image should suggest in advance that some event will occur upon a V-win. For example, an image 56 could be displayed that indicates the player should aim the ball at the V-area 10 and includes the words "Pray for a V-win" (see Figure 29(b)). In this way, the player can sense in advance that a favorable event may occur upon a V-win.

Thus, in this embodiment, since a name image 50 corresponding to the type (number of rounds) of the special jackpot is displayed upon V-entry, the gameplay can be designed to give the impression that a jackpot has been won upon V-entry (in reality, V-entry leads to the acquisition of the right to transition to the first special game state and is unrelated to winning a jackpot).

Furthermore, the profit image 52 is displayed together with the name image 50 (at the same time), or after the name image 50 is displayed. That is, similar to the name image 50, the profit image 52 is not displayed before a V-win occurs. In this embodiment, it is displayed after a predetermined time (several seconds) has elapsed since the name image 50 was displayed. For a 5-round special jackpot, the first name image 501 containing the words "Small Bonus" is displayed (see Figure 29 (c-1)), followed by the first profit image 521 containing the number "750" (see Figure 30 (a-1)). For a 10-round special jackpot, the second name image 502 containing the words "Big Bonus" is displayed (see Figure 29 (c-2)), followed by the second profit image 522 containing the number "1500" (see Figure 30 (a-2)). Since the timing of the display of the name image 50 depends on the timing of the V-win, it can be said that the timing of the display of the profit image 52 also depends on the V-win (it is triggered by the V-win).

As described above, in this embodiment, a name image 50 representing the name of the special jackpot is displayed upon a V-win. However, if the profit image 52 were displayed before the V-win, the type of special jackpot (number of rounds) would be revealed by the content of the profit image 52 (profit value). Therefore, the profit image 52 is displayed together with the name image 50, or after the name image 50 is displayed.

The displayed profit image 52 is used as part of the progress images 53 that show the progress of the profits earned during subsequent rounds. In this embodiment, in the case of a 5-round special jackpot, the first progress image 531 of "xx/750" (see Figure 30(b-1)) is displayed, and in the case of a 10-round special jackpot, the second progress image 532 of "xx/1500" (see Figure 30(b-2)) is displayed. xx (the value of the "numerator") represents the progress of the profit (number of prize balls) obtained in the jackpot game currently being played (hereinafter referred to as "progress profit"). That is, it is a value that changes each time a game ball enters the big prize area 906. On the other hand, the profit image 52 (the value of the "denominator") does not change even when a game ball enters the big prize area 906. The progress profit may or may not include over-winning. In the former case, the end of the jackpot game (final round) is indicated when the value of the intermediate profit ("numerator") and the value of the profit image 52 ("denominator") match. In the latter case, when an over-winning occurs, the value of the intermediate profit ("numerator") will exceed the value of the profit image 52 ("denominator"). Furthermore, the intermediate profit may include prize balls obtained when game balls enter winning areas other than the jackpot area 906. Alternatively, the display may transition to a state where the intermediate progress image 53, including the profit image 52, is displayed, as shown in Figures 30(b-1) and (b-2), without the display shown in Figures 30(a-1) and (a-2). In this case, since the display of the intermediate progress image 53 corresponds to the display of the profit image 52, care should be taken to ensure that the intermediate progress image 53 is not displayed before a V-winning occurs.

After this message is displayed, the special jackpot game ends when the prescribed number of rounds are completed. Following the end of the special jackpot game, the first special game state (ST state) begins.

The following describes specific examples of improvements, concretizations, and modifications to the above-mentioned matters concerning displays during special jackpot games. Furthermore, whenever possible, a configuration may be implemented that combines multiple techniques described using the following examples.

Specific Example 4-1
In all of the multiple types of special jackpots, the first round (the first unit of play) is set to be a V-round. If the configuration is set to include a 5-round special jackpot and a 10-round special jackpot as in the above embodiment, then in both cases, the V-area 10 will be opened in the first round.

As mentioned above, the title image 50 is displayed upon a V-win. By setting the V-round as the first round, as in this example, the title image 50 is displayed relatively quickly after the jackpot game begins. If the V-round is set to the second round or later, the display timing of the title image 50 will be delayed as the previous rounds progress. However, by using this method, the degree of this delay can be mitigated (reducing the risk of players feeling uncomfortable due to the delayed title display).

Specific Example 4-2
In the special game state, multiple types of special jackpots (in the above embodiment, a 5-round special jackpot and a 10-round special jackpot) can be obtained, and the configuration does not include an "opening period" for the jackpot game. The opening period is known to be the period between the end of the winning variation that announced the jackpot and the start of the first round of the unit game (opening of the jackpot area 906), and in this case, there is no such opening period. Note that "no opening period" (no opening period) includes providing an opening period that is so short that the player cannot perceive it (0.1 seconds or less). In this case, since the opening period is eliminated, the time from the start of the jackpot game to the V-entry (time until the V-round) is shortened, so the risk of the player perceiving the display timing of the name image 50 (title) as being slow is reduced.

Specific Example 4-3
As shown in example 4-1 above, the first round is designated as the V-round, while the opening period is omitted as shown in example 4-2 above. By doing so, the start of the jackpot game and the reveal of the V-round are the same. Therefore, even if the name image 50 (title) is displayed when a V-win is achieved, the name image 50 will be displayed relatively early after the jackpot game has started (see Figures 31(c) and 31(d)), reducing the likelihood that the player will feel uncomfortable.

Furthermore, in the case of this example (without an opening period and with the first round being the V-round), the V-round will start immediately after the end of the winning variation (the variation that announces a special jackpot). Therefore, in order to prevent the occurrence of an event where a V-entry is not possible while the V-area 10 is open (a so-called "puncture"), it is preferable to display an instruction image 55 that ensures the continuous firing of game balls toward the V-area 10 from before the jackpot game, that is, from during the winning variation. For example, the display of the instruction image 55 may start from a state where the winning combination has pseudo-stopped (a state where the winning variation has not completely ended) (see Figure 31(a)), and continue to be displayed even after the winning variation ends and the jackpot game (the V-round of the first round) begins (see Figures 31(b) and (c)). In other words, the instruction image 55 is continuously displayed from the middle of the winning variation until a V-entry is achieved in the first round. The display of instruction image 55 begins at the same time as or after the point at which the win/loss lottery result is confirmed to be a win (although the state in which the winning combination has pseudo-stopped is a state in which the fluctuation has not completely ended, it is the point at which the win is confirmed). Although not shown in the diagram, for example, if a super reach animation is executed that leads to a favorable ending if the win/loss lottery result is a jackpot, and to an unfavorable ending if it is a loss, then it is conceivable that the display of instruction image 55 would begin at the same time as or after the point at which it is determined that a favorable ending will be reached.

However, the instruction image 55 shall not contain any text indicating the jackpot area 906 or the V area 10 (special area). During a winning spin, the jackpot game (the first round of gameplay) has not yet begun, and the jackpot area 906 and the V area 10 are not open (they are closed). Therefore, displaying an instruction image 55 such as "Aim for the attacker" (the attacker is a commonly used term to refer to the jackpot area 906) or "Aim for the V" in this situation would contradict the current situation and is undesirable. Therefore, for example, an instruction image 55 such as "Aim to the right" (an image that does not contain any text indicating the jackpot area 906 or the V area 10 (special area)) should be displayed from the start of the winning spin (see Figures 31(a) to (c)).

Furthermore, the instruction image 55 may be displayed during winning spins in the special game state, but will not be displayed during losing spins. Since the special game state is a state in which "right-hand shooting" is required, the instruction to shoot to the right is continuously given in the special game state, including during losing spins. The image of this "continuous right-hand shooting instruction" (hereinafter referred to as the normal image 55n) (see Figures 31(a) and (b)) is different from the instruction image 55. The instruction image 55 is a "more conspicuous image" compared to the normal image 55n. The normal image 55n could be, for example, simply a right-pointing arrow. In winning spins, both the normal image 55n and the instruction image 55 may be displayed. That is, in normal conditions (losing spins), the normal image 55n is displayed but the instruction image 55 is not, while in winning spins, both the normal image 55n and the instruction image 55 may be displayed. Therefore, the state in which instruction image 55 is displayed emphasizes the "right-hand shooting" action to the player more than the normal state (where normal image 55n is displayed but instruction image 55 is not). Although not shown in the illustration, it is preferable that a right-hand shooting instruction image (a different image from instruction image 55) similar to the normal image 55n (shown above) is continuously displayed even during a jackpot game.

Specific Example 4-4
The system is configured to allow for an upgrade animation. The upgrade animation makes it appear as if the player has won a certain type of jackpot, and then informs them that they have actually won a different type of jackpot that is more advantageous to them (an animation that retrospectively informs the player that they have won a different type of jackpot). If the system is configured to have a 5-round special jackpot and a 10-round special jackpot as in the embodiment described above, then when the player wins the 10-round special jackpot, the system can be configured to first make it appear as if they have won the 5-round special jackpot, and then retrospectively inform them that they have won the 10-round special jackpot.

The sequence of events during a jackpot game (10-round special jackpot) when an upgrade animation occurs is as follows: Upon a V-entry in the V-round, the first name image 501 containing the words "Small Bonus" is displayed (see Figures 32(a) and 32(b)). Subsequently, the first profit image 521 containing the number "750" is displayed (see Figure 32(c)). These first name images 501 and first profit images 521 can be considered false images designed to "pretend" that a 5-round special jackpot has been won. Then, the upgrade animation occurs (see Figure 32(d)). Since the possibility of a 5-round special jackpot disappears if the game progresses to the 6th round, and the player will know it's a 10-round special jackpot, the upgrade animation should begin when it's unclear whether the 6th round will proceed. That is, the upgrade animation should begin before the start of the 6th round, or simultaneously with the start of the 6th round.

During the upgrade animation, a second name image 502 containing the words "Big Bonus" is displayed (see Figure 32(d)). In other words, even when the upgrade animation occurs, the same name image 50 displayed during a 10-round special jackpot game in cases where the upgrade animation does not occur should be shown, clearly indicating that a 10-round special jackpot has been won. In other words, avoid displays that suggest the 10-round jackpot was a result of an extended 5-round jackpot (for example, displays such as "To be continued," "Not yet," or "EXTRA," which suggest the jackpot has been extended).

Furthermore, when the upgrade animation occurs, the second profit image 522 is displayed. It is preferable that a preliminary animation occurs before the display of the second profit image 522. The preliminary animation is one in which the increase image 59 is displayed. The upgrade animation is an animation that makes it appear as if the player has won a certain type of jackpot (a pseudo-jackpot), and then notifies them that they have won a different type of jackpot (the target jackpot). The increase image 59 is an image that includes the value of "profit value of the target jackpot - profit value of the pseudo-jackpot" (hereinafter referred to as the increase value). In this embodiment, the increase value is "1500 - 750 = 750". In short, the increase value is the difference between the "profit value of the pseudo-jackpot" shown before the upgrade and the "profit value of the real jackpot" that is the target of the upgrade animation notification.

Before the promotion animation (pre-animation) occurs, the first profit image 521 containing the number "750" is displayed. During the pre-animation, an increase image 59 containing the number "750" is displayed, and this increase image 59 is displaced toward the first profit image 521 (see Figure 32(e)). Then, an effect (not shown) that makes the two appear as one is displayed, and the second profit image 522 containing the number "1500" is shown (see Figure 32(f)). In other words, the animation appears as if the "750" in the first profit image 521 is added to the "750" in the increase image 59, resulting in the display of "1500" in the second profit image 522. This makes it easy to understand the increase in profit (guaranteed profit) when the promotion animation occurs.

Specific Examples 4-5
The system is configured to include a movable component 15 that can operate within a predetermined range. The specific configuration of the movable component 15 may be anything. It is capable of changing into multiple forms with different appearances. The differences between each form are not limited to those caused by the position of the movable component 15, but may also be caused by the emission pattern (emission color) of the light-emitting element provided by the movable component 15. Furthermore, the normal state (original position) may be one of the forms of the movable component 15.

As described in the above embodiment, upon V-entry, the name image 50 is displayed and the type of special jackpot won is announced. To further clarify (emphasize) this announcement, the movable mechanism 15 can be configured to display different states upon V-entry. For a 5-round special jackpot, the movable mechanism 15 is configured to display the first state upon V-entry (see Figure 33(b-1)). For a 10-round special jackpot, the movable mechanism 15 is configured to display the second state (a different state from the first) upon V-entry (see Figure 33(b-2)). This allows for clearer identification of which of the multiple types of special jackpots has been won. Since identification is possible solely by the state of the movable mechanism 15, a configuration where the name image 50 is not displayed is also possible.

The configuration may also include further information being announced (suggested) depending on the state of the movable mechanism 15 when a V-win occurs. For example, if the movable mechanism 15 enters a third state (not shown) as a result of a V-win, it is assumed that one of the previously acquired reserve information results in a jackpot (a so-called consecutive win occurs within the reserve).

Specific Example 4-6
In the above embodiment, it was explained that the name image 50 is displayed when a V-win is achieved. However, the configuration allows for the name image 50 to be displayed not only when a V-win is achieved (see Figures 34(c-1) and (c-2)), but also before a V-win is achieved (see Figure 34(b-1)). In other words, there may be cases where the type (number of rounds) of the special jackpot won is revealed before a V-win is achieved. When the type of special jackpot is announced before a V-win is achieved, the setting may be limited to the announcement of a favorable jackpot. If a 5-round special jackpot and a 10-round special jackpot are provided as in the above embodiment, the announcement of a 10-round special jackpot may occur before a V-win (a special animation that confirms a 10-round special jackpot occurs), but the announcement of a 5-round special jackpot will not occur. In this example, it is expected that the winning of a favorable jackpot (10-round special jackpot) will be announced before a V-win is achieved (see Figure 34(b-1)). If no such notification is given, the expectation is that a favorable jackpot will be announced upon winning a V-slot (see Figure 34 (c-2)). In other words, a gameplay experience can be achieved where the player feels as if there are multiple chances to win a favorable jackpot.

If the type of special jackpot is announced before the V-win, the profit image 52 may be displayed before the V-win. For example, if the second name image 502 is displayed before the V-win and the 10-round special jackpot is announced, the first profit image 521 (the value "1500") may be displayed before the V-win (see Figure 34 (b-1)).

4) Although embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, the present invention is not limited in any way to the above embodiments, and various modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the invention.

The matters described in the above embodiment can also be applied to other gaming machines, such as revolving-type gaming machines, except for the use of configurations specific to pachinko gaming machines.

In the above embodiment, the winning/losing results are set to either a jackpot or a loss, and a jackpot is won (a jackpot game is executed) when a jackpot is won. However, it is also possible to win a jackpot via a so-called minor win. Since the gameplay of being able to win a jackpot via a minor win (the gameplay of a so-called "Type 2 game machine") is well known, a detailed explanation will be omitted. However, if, for example, a minor win is set to lead to winning a jackpot (except in cases of irregular events such as a malfunction of the game machine or the player not following instructions), then the jackpot win described in the above embodiment includes winning a minor win that leads to winning a jackpot ("jackpot" can be read as "minor win").

The specific means (gaming machines) obtained from the above embodiments are listed below.

・Means 1-1
A gaming machine in which multiple types of decorative symbols for indicating the result of a winning or losing lottery are displayed on a display means, wherein N groups of decorative symbols, including multiple types of the decorative symbols, are displayed in a variable manner, and a specific image may be displayed when the variation of each of the N groups of decorative symbols stops or pseudo-stops, and when the state in which N specific images are displayed, a selection performance is executed in which the content represented by each of the N specific images is used as a choice, and when the state in which N specific images are not displayed, the selection performance is not executed.
The above-mentioned gaming machine is designed so that the selection animation is triggered when N specific images are displayed. When N specific images are displayed, the content represented by those images becomes the selection option, making the process easy to understand.

・Means 1-2
The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the multiple types of decorative patterns includes a pattern element that is different from the other types of decorative patterns, the specific image includes an image element that corresponds to the pattern element included in the decorative pattern shown when the variation of the group of decorative patterns stops or is pseudo-stopped, and the image element represents the content of the options that can be selected in the selection performance.
This allows for an easily understandable presentation where the pattern elements of a decorative design, which are shown stopped or pseudo-stopped, are linked to the image elements of a specific image.

・Means 1-3
The game machine according to claim 2, characterized in that the aforementioned pattern element is a sub-element that is not a main element for distinguishing the type of decorative pattern, the sub-element represents a character, and the image element of the specific image represents a character of the same type as the sub-element.
This approach allows for a clear and easily understandable presentation where the characters in the sub-elements of the decorative patterns, which are shown stopped or pseudo-stopped, are linked to the characters in the image elements of a specific image.

・Means 2-1
A gaming machine comprising: a display means having a display area; and an effect execution means that executes a background effect including a background reduction period in which a background image displayed in the display area as the background of a decorative pattern indicating the result of a draw becomes smaller over time, wherein during the background reduction period, the rate at which the background image becomes smaller is greater than the rate at which the decorative pattern becomes smaller.
The above-mentioned gaming machine is capable of performing an interesting effect in which the background image gradually becomes smaller, while the relative size of the decorative symbols in relation to the background image gradually increases.

・Means 2-2
The gaming machine according to means 2-1, characterized in that, after the background reduction period, at least a portion of the multiple decorative patterns is displayed in the outer region, which is outside the background image in the display area, resulting in a background-pattern separation state.
By doing this, the background image becomes smaller, resulting in a visual effect where at least some of the decorative patterns appear to protrude beyond the background image.

・Means 2-3
The game machine according to means 2-2, characterized in that the background effect is performed as a reach effect in which two identical decorative patterns are displayed as reach patterns, and the background/pattern separation state is a state in which the reach patterns are displayed in the outer region.
By doing this, the winning symbols appear to pop out from the background image, making them stand out and stand out.

・Means 2-4
The game machine according to means 2-2 or means 2-3, characterized in that the background presentation requires the player to operate an operating means, and the result of the reach presentation is determined when the operation of the operating means satisfies predetermined conditions, and in the background and symbol separation state, an operation image representing the operating means is displayed superimposed on the background image.
By doing this, the operation image is displayed in an area that is clearly distinguishable from the outer area where the reach symbols are displayed (an area that overlaps with the background image), making it easy to understand that operation of the control device is required.

・Means 3-1
A gaming machine comprising: a display means having a display area; and a game state setting means capable of setting a normal game state and a special game state which is more advantageous to the player than the normal game state and ends when an ending condition is met in which the win/loss lottery result is X consecutive times from the start, wherein during the special game state, a progress image is displayed in the display area, and the progress image includes a displacement element that displaces from the starting position side to the ending position side when the win/loss lottery result is a loss, a starting position element indicating the starting position, and an ending position element indicating the ending position.
In the above-mentioned gaming machine, when the winning/losing lottery result is a loss during the special game state, a progress image is displayed that includes a displacement element that moves from the starting position towards the ending position. This allows players to visually grasp how much of the special game state remains, making it easy to understand the progress of the game.

・Means 3-2
The aforementioned special game state is triggered by a change in the performance mode when a point in time is reached in which there have been Y consecutive losses (where X > Y) since the start of the game.
The gaming machine according to means 3-1, characterized in that the progress image includes a change point element indicating the change point.
By doing this, it becomes possible to know in advance when the change in the presentation mode will occur (the point at which the change will occur).

・Means 3-3
The gaming machine according to means 3-2, characterized in that the value of Y changes when a predetermined switching condition is met, and the position of the change point element in the progress image displayed in the special game state that is started after the switching condition is met is different from the position of the change point element in the progress image displayed in the special game state that was started before the switching condition was met.
If the timing of the change in the presentation mode (the point at which the change occurs) is to be varied, then the significance of indicating the point of change through the change point element is considerable.

・Means 4-1
A gaming machine comprising: a display means; a lottery means that performs a win/loss lottery triggered by a game ball entering a starting area; a game state setting means that can set a low probability state and a high probability state in which the probability of winning the win/loss lottery is higher than that of the low probability state as game states in which a game ball is launched toward the starting area; and a special area which is opened to allow a game ball to enter in a special win game that is performed when the win/loss lottery results in a special win, and in which the entry of a game ball is a condition for transitioning to the high probability state, wherein there are two or more types of special wins with different names, and a name image including the name of the special win is not displayed on the display means from the start of the special win game until a game ball enters the special area, and is displayed on the display means when a game ball enters the special area.
According to the above-mentioned gaming machine, it is possible to create an engaging gameplay experience that gives players the impression of having won a special prize by getting the game ball into a special area.

・Measure 4-2
The game machine according to means 4-1, characterized in that the special wins with different names have different guaranteed profits that can be obtained if the game is played as instructed, and a profit image representing the guaranteed profit is displayed on the display means together with the name image, or after the name image is displayed.
Since displaying the profit image reveals the type of special win, it's best to prevent the profit image from being displayed before the name image.

・Means 4-3
The gaming machine according to means 4-1 or means 4-2, characterized in that each of the special wins with different names includes two or more unit games, and in each of the special wins with different names, the special area is opened during the first unit game.
This method allows the game ball to enter the special area relatively quickly after the start of a jackpot game, so the name image is displayed relatively quickly as well (reducing the risk of players feeling uncomfortable due to a long period between the start of a jackpot game and the display of the name image).

1 Game machine 10 V area (special area)
20 Specific image 30 Background image 35 Frame image 40 Progress image 41 Displacement element 42s Start position element 42e End position element 43 Change point element 50 Name image 52 Profit image 53 Intermediate progress image 60 Operation means (61 Push button)
65 Operation Image 70 Hold Symbol 80 Decorative Symbol (80L Left Decorative Symbol 80C Middle Decorative Symbol 80R Right Decorative Symbol 80g Decorative Symbol Group (80gL Left Decorative Symbol Group 80gC Middle Decorative Symbol Group 80gR Right Decorative Symbol Group)
80m Main element 80s Sub-element 80x Separation pattern 80z Remaining pattern 904 Starting area (904a First starting area 904b Second starting area)
906 Big winning area 91 Display device 911 Display area 911a Outer area

Claims (3)

Display means and
A lottery method that executes a win/loss lottery when a game ball enters the starting area,
A game state setting means that can set a low probability state and a high probability state in which the probability of winning the draw is higher than that of the low probability state, as game states in which game balls are launched toward the starting area,
A special area that is opened in the special win game, which is executed when the winning result obtained through the aforementioned draw is a special win, and in which the entry of the game ball is a condition for transitioning to the high probability state,
Equipped with,
As mentioned above, there are two or more special prizes with different names.
A gaming machine characterized in that a name image including the name of the special win is not displayed on the display means from the start of the special win game until a game ball enters the special area, and is displayed on the display means when a game ball enters the special area. The aforementioned special wins, which have different names, offer different guaranteed profits if the game is played according to the instructions.
The gaming machine according to claim 1, characterized in that the profit image representing the guaranteed profit is displayed on the display means together with the name image, or after the name image is displayed. The gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that each of the special wins with different names includes two or more unit games, and in each of the special wins with different names, the special area is opened during the first unit game.