JP7519114B2 - Gaming Machines - Google Patents

Description

This invention relates to gaming machines.

In the past, some gaming machines, such as the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, would enter an unprogressable state in which it was impossible to continue playing the game if the stored contents did not match. For example, the unprogressable state could not be ended unless at least the power supply was cut off.

JP 2020-081443 A

Today, there is a demand for proper control of gaming machines that are controlled to a non-progression state.

The gaming machine that solves the above problem is a gaming machine that can be controlled to a progress-impossible state in which it is impossible to progress in a game and can award a winning game, and is equipped with a first control unit, a second control unit that can input control information from the first control unit, and a display means that can execute at least a warning about addiction, and the first control unit has a function as a game state control means that controls a game state including a normal state, a function as an inability control means that controls the game state to the progress-impossible state when a specific condition is met, a function as a winning awarding means that awards a winning game, and a function as an information output means that outputs control information to be output to the second control unit, and the period in which the winning game is awarded includes at least an ending period, and is configured to be able to return to a state in which the winning game is awarded when the power supply is resumed after the power supply is cut off when the winning game is awarded, and when the winning game is awarded, depending on whether the specific condition is met when the winning game is awarded, When the power supply is interrupted during a winning game and then resumed, at least a part of the control information output from the first control unit to the second control unit is different, and when the specific condition is established while a winning game is awarded, the game is controlled to the unprogressable state after the winning game ends in either of the following cases: when the power supply is not interrupted during the period from when the specific condition is established until the winning game ends, and when the power supply is interrupted during the period from when the specific condition is established until the winning game ends and then the power supply is resumed, restoring the situation to the winning game being awarded. When the specific condition is established during a winning game that is awarded upon winning in the normal state, a warning regarding addiction can be issued, and regardless of the timing at which the specific condition is established while a winning game is awarded, the time for which the warning regarding addiction is issued is the same, and the time is shorter than the time that becomes the ending period .

The present invention allows for proper control.

FIG. FIG. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a launch device. (a) is a figure showing an example of the display content of the performance display device when a right-hit notification performance is executed, and (b) is a figure showing an example of the display content of the performance display device when a left-hit notification performance is executed. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the gaming machine. 13 is a flowchart showing a progress disable process. A figure showing an example of the display content of the performance display device when a stop notification performance is executed. A figure showing an example of the display content of the performance display device when a stop notice performance is executed. A figure showing an example of the display content of the performance display device when the arrival preview performance is executed. A figure showing an example of the display content of the performance display device when a warning about addiction is issued. 13A to 13C are diagrams showing the timing when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value and the timing when a warning about addiction is issued. (a) to (c) are figures showing an example of a case where, when a jackpot game is awarded, the power supply is cut off and then resumed before the maximum difference number reaches a specified value, and when a jackpot game is awarded, the power supply is cut off and then resumed after the maximum difference number reaches a specified value. 13A and 13B are diagrams showing an example of whether or not to execute an arrival notice performance in accordance with a change in the maximum difference number.

Hereinafter, an embodiment of the gaming machine will be described. In this specification, up, down, left, right, front (front), and back (rear) indicate the respective directions as seen by a player.
As shown in FIG. 1, a pachinko gaming machine 10 (hereinafter, referred to as gaming machine 10) as a gaming machine includes a frame body 11. The frame body 11 includes an outer frame 12, a middle frame 13, and a front frame 14. The outer frame 12 is fixed to an installation facility. The middle frame 13 is supported on the front side of the opening of the outer frame 12 so as to be openable and closable. A gaming board unit including a gaming board 20 is fixed to the middle frame 13. The front frame 14 is supported on the front side of the middle frame 13 so as to be openable and closable so as to cover the front side of the gaming board 20. A protective glass that covers the entire opening 14a of the front frame 14 and protects the gaming board 20 is supported on the front frame 14. The middle frame 13 and the front frame 14 are supported on the outer frame 12 so as to be openable and closable. The gaming machine 10 is provided with a locking mechanism SK for restricting the middle frame 13 and the front frame 14 from being opened and for releasing the restriction. For example, the locking mechanism SK can be unlocked by operating a frame key managed by the manager of the amusement facility, thereby opening the middle frame 13 and the front frame 14.

The gaming machine 10 is provided with a decorative lamp 17 on the front side of the front frame 14. The decorative lamp 17 performs an effect of turning on and off the built-in light-emitting element (hereinafter referred to as a light-emitting effect). The gaming machine 10 is provided with a speaker 18 that outputs sound on the front side of the front frame 14. The speaker 18 performs an effect of outputting sounds such as voices, sound effects, and music (hereinafter referred to as a sound effect). The gaming machine 10 is provided with an upper tray UZ on the front side of the front frame 14 in which gaming balls that serve as gaming media can be stored. The gaming machine 10 is provided with a lower tray DZ on the front side of the front frame 14 in which gaming balls that serve as gaming media can be stored. For example, the lower tray DZ can store gaming balls that overflow and cannot be paid out to the upper tray UZ.

The gaming machine 10 is provided with a launch handle 16 on the front side of the front frame 14. In the gaming machine 10, gaming balls are launched with a strength according to the amount of operation (rotation amount) of the launch handle 16. For example, in the gaming machine 10, when a player operates the launch handle 16, a launch device 70 as a gaming ball launcher provided inside the machine is driven, and a gaming ball is launched. In this way, in the gaming machine 10, it is possible to launch gaming balls by operating the launch handle 16. The launch handle 16 is provided with a touch sensor TS (shown in FIG. 5) that can detect that the launch handle 16 has been operated. The launch handle 16 is provided with a handle volume HB (shown in FIG. 5) that can detect the amount of operation (rotation amount) of the launch handle 16.

As shown in FIG. 2, a game area 21 that is substantially circular in front view is defined on the front side of the game board 20. The game board 20 has a guide passage 21a that guides game balls launched by the actuation of the launching device 70 to the game area 21. The game board 20 has a backflow prevention valve 21b that prevents game balls launched into the game area 21 from returning back to the guide passage 21a. Game balls launched by the actuation of the launching device 70 are guided by the guide passage 21a, pass through the backflow prevention valve 21b located at the most downstream of the guide passage 21a, and reach the game area 21. Game balls that reach the game area 21 flow down the game area 21.

The gaming machine 10 is provided with an information display panel 22. The information display panel 22 is provided with a first special symbol display section 22a. The first special symbol display section 22a displays a first special symbol changing game (hereinafter referred to as the first special game) in which a predetermined symbol is displayed in a variable manner and the first special symbol is finally displayed as a fixed stop. The information display panel 22 is provided with a second special symbol display section 22b. The second special symbol display section 22b displays a second special symbol changing game (hereinafter referred to as the second special game) in which a predetermined symbol is displayed in a variable manner and the second special symbol is finally displayed as a fixed stop. Hereinafter, the first special game and the second special game may be collectively referred to as the "special game". The special game as a variable game includes the first special game as the first variable game and the second special game as the second variable game. The special game is a special symbol changing game. The special symbol is a symbol that notifies the result of an internal lottery to be described later.

In this specification, "variable display" means a state in which the type of the displayed pattern changes over time. In this specification, "determined stop display" means a state in which the pattern is definitively displayed and the type of the displayed pattern does not change. Special patterns that can be definitively displayed in the special pattern display units 22a and 22b include a big win pattern, a small win pattern, and a miss pattern. When a big win pattern is definitively displayed in a special game, the player can recognize a big win. When a small win pattern is definitively displayed in a special game, the player can recognize a small win. When a miss pattern is definitively displayed in a special game, the player can recognize a miss. A small win pattern is a special pattern that is definitively displayed when it is neither a big win nor a miss. Therefore, a small win game can be said to be a state in which a special pattern that is definitively displayed when it is neither a big win nor a miss is definitively displayed. In the gaming machine 10, the first special game and the second special game are not executed simultaneously. In the gaming machine 10, the second special game is executed with priority over the first special game.

The first special symbol display section 22a is composed of a plurality of light-emitting elements. When a special symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in the first special symbol display section 22a, at least one of the plurality of light-emitting elements constituting the first special symbol display section 22a is lit. Incidentally, during the execution of the first special game, the light-emitting elements constituting the first special symbol display section 22a are lit in a lighting state corresponding to the execution of the first special game. Similarly, the second special symbol display section 22b is composed of a plurality of light-emitting elements. When a special symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in the second special symbol display section 22b, at least one of the plurality of light-emitting elements constituting the second special symbol display section 22b is lit. Incidentally, during the execution of the second special game, the light-emitting elements constituting the second special symbol display section 22b are lit in a lighting state corresponding to the execution of the second special game.

In the gaming machine 10, a jackpot lottery may be held when a special game is executed. In the gaming machine 10, when a jackpot is won in the jackpot lottery, a jackpot symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in the special game that is the subject of the winning, and then a jackpot game is awarded (occurs). In this way, in the gaming machine 10, if a jackpot is won in the jackpot lottery held when a special game is executed, a jackpot game can be awarded after the special game ends. That is, in the gaming machine 10, a jackpot game is awarded if a jackpot lottery is won. As described above, in the gaming machine 10, if a jackpot is won in the gaming machine 10, a jackpot game is awarded after the special game based on the jackpot being won ends. That is, in the gaming machine 10, if a winning jackpot is won, a winning game is awarded after the variable game ends. In this way, the gaming machine 10 is capable of awarding a winning game.

In the gaming machine 10, a small win lottery may be held when a special game is executed. In the gaming machine 10, when a small win is won in the small win lottery, the small win symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in the special game that is the subject of the win, and then a small win game is awarded (occurs). In this way, in the gaming machine 10, if a small win is won in the small win lottery held when a special game is executed, the small win game can be awarded after the special game has ended. In other words, in the gaming machine 10, a small win game is awarded when the small win lottery is won. Incidentally, in the gaming machine 10, a small win lottery may be held only when the second special game of the first special game and the second special game is executed.

Winning a jackpot in a jackpot lottery is equivalent to winning a jackpot lottery, and is equivalent to winning a jackpot in a winning lottery. A jackpot pattern being displayed as a fixed stop in a special game is equivalent to the result of winning a jackpot in the special game. Similarly, winning a small jackpot lottery is equivalent to winning a small jackpot in a winning lottery. A small jackpot pattern being displayed as a fixed stop in a special game is equivalent to the result of winning a small jackpot in the special game. Incidentally, in this embodiment, not winning a jackpot and not winning a small jackpot is equivalent to not winning either a jackpot or a small jackpot. A losing pattern being displayed as a fixed stop in a special game is equivalent to the result of not winning either a jackpot or a small jackpot in the special game.

The information display panel 22 includes a first special hold display section 22c and a second special hold display section 22d. The first special hold display section 22c displays in a recognizable manner the number of first special games whose execution has been put on hold because the start conditions have been met but the execution conditions have not yet been met (hereinafter referred to as the first special hold number). The gaming machine 10 is capable of putting on hold the execution of the first special game. The second special hold display section 22d displays in a recognizable manner the number of second special games whose execution has been put on hold because the start conditions have been met but the execution conditions have not yet been met (hereinafter referred to as the second special hold number). The gaming machine 10 is capable of putting on hold the execution of the second special game. In this way, this embodiment is capable of putting on hold the execution of a variable game.

The first special hold display section 22c is composed of a plurality of light-emitting bodies. The plurality of light-emitting bodies constituting the first special hold display section 22c are lit in a lighting manner that can specify the number of times (number) of the first special game that is on hold. For example, when the number of the first special game that is on hold is 1 or more, at least one of the plurality of light-emitting bodies constituting the first special hold display section 22c is lit. Note that when the number of the first special game that is on hold is 1 or more, it corresponds to when the execution of the first special game is on hold. Similarly, the second special hold display section 22d is composed of a plurality of light-emitting bodies. The plurality of light-emitting bodies constituting the second special hold display section 22d are lit in a lighting manner that can specify the number of times (number) of the second special game that is on hold. For example, when the number of the second special game that is on hold is 1 or more, at least one of the plurality of light-emitting bodies constituting the second special hold display section 22d is lit. Note that when the number of the second special game that is on hold is 1 or more, it corresponds to when the execution of the second special game is on hold. In this embodiment, at least one of the first special hold display unit 22c and the second special hold display unit 22d functions as a hold light emitting means capable of lighting in a lighting pattern that can identify the number of variable games on hold. This embodiment is configured such that when the number of variable games on hold is 1 or more, at least one of the light emitters constituting the hold light emitting means is lit.

The information display panel 22 includes a normal symbol display section 22e and a normal hold display section 22f. The normal symbol display section 22e displays a normal symbol variable game (hereinafter referred to as a normal game) that changes and displays a predetermined symbol, and finally displays a normal symbol as a fixed stop. The normal symbols that can be displayed as fixed stops on the normal symbol display section 22e include at least a normal win symbol that is displayed as a fixed stop in the case of a normal win, and a normal loss symbol that is displayed as a fixed stop in the case of a normal loss. In the gaming machine 10, when the normal win lottery is won, a normal win game is awarded (occurs) after a normal win symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in the normal game. The normal hold display section 22f recognizably displays the number of normal games (hereinafter referred to as the normal hold number) whose execution is on hold because the start condition has been met but the execution condition has not yet been met.

The normal symbol display section 22e is composed of a plurality of light-emitting elements. When a normal symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in the normal symbol display section 22e, at least one of the plurality of light-emitting elements constituting the normal symbol display section 22e is lit. Incidentally, during the execution of a normal game, the light-emitting elements constituting the normal symbol display section 22e are lit in a lighting mode corresponding to the execution of the normal game. In addition, the normal hold display section 22f is composed of a plurality of light-emitting elements. The plurality of light-emitting elements constituting the normal hold display section 22f are lit in a lighting mode that can identify the number of times (number) of normal games whose execution is held. For example, when the number of normal games whose execution is held is 1 or more, at least one of the plurality of light-emitting elements constituting the normal hold display section 22f is lit. Incidentally, when the number of normal games whose execution is held is 1 or more, this corresponds to when the execution of a normal game is held.

The information display panel 22 is equipped with a right-hit notification lamp 22g. Details will be described later, but the right-hit notification lamp 22g notifies that right-hitting is recommended in a situation in which right-hitting is recommended. The right-hit notification lamp 22g is composed of one light-emitting element. In a situation in which right-hitting is recommended, the light-emitting element that constitutes the right-hit notification lamp 22g lights up. On the other hand, in a situation in which right-hitting is not recommended, the light-emitting element that constitutes the right-hit notification lamp 22g does not light up and is turned off.

The special symbol display units 22a, 22b, special hold display units 22c, 22d, normal symbol display unit 22e, normal hold display unit 22f and right hit notification lamp 22g provided on the information display panel 22 do not need to be provided on the same component as the information display panel 22 in this embodiment, but may be provided separately on different components. For example, the first special symbol display unit 22a and the first special hold display unit 22c may be provided on the same component, while the second special symbol display unit 22b and the second special hold display unit 22d may be provided on a different component.

The gaming machine 10 has a center frame 23 decorated with various ornaments, located approximately in the center of the play area 21 of the game board 20. The center frame 23 has an opening 23a. The gaming machine 10 has a movable body 24. The movable body 24 can move between an original position 24a and a performance position 24b. The movable body 24 operates by receiving power from a performance actuator EA (shown in FIG. 5). The movable body 24 has a gear mechanism for transmitting the power of the performance actuator EA. In the gaming machine 10, the power of the performance actuator EA passes through the gear mechanism to operate the movable body 24. The gaming machine 10 has an original position sensor GS (shown in FIG. 5) that can detect the movable body 24 when the movable body 24 is located at the original position 24a.

The gaming machine 10 is equipped with a performance display device 25 as a display means. For example, the performance display device 25 may be a display device such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display. The performance display device 25 is equipped with a display area 25r in which an image is displayed. The performance display device 25 is attached to the gaming board 20 so that the player can view the display area 25r through the opening 23a of the center frame 23. The performance display device 25 executes a performance (hereinafter referred to as a display performance) that displays an image that resembles a specified character or letter. In this embodiment, some or all of the performance devices among the decorative lamp 17, the speaker 18, and the performance display device 25 correspond to the performance execution means.

The gaming machine 10 is provided with a first start hole 26 as a start hole. The first start hole 26 is located below the center frame 23 in the game area 21. The first start hole 26 is always open so that a game ball can be inserted. The gaming machine 10 is provided with a first start sensor SE1 (shown in FIG. 5) that detects a game ball that has entered the first start hole 26. The first start sensor SE1 realizes a function as a start ball entry detection means capable of detecting the entry of a game ball into the first start hole 26 as a start hole. For example, the first start hole 26 is connected to a ball passage that leads the entered game ball to the back side of the game board 20 (discharges it from the game board 20 to the outside), and the first start sensor SE1 is disposed in the ball passage. When the game ball is detected by the first start sensor SE1, the start condition of the first special game can be established and the payout condition of the prize ball is established. In the gaming machine 10, when the first start sensor SE1 detects gaming balls and the conditions for paying out prize balls are met, three gaming balls are awarded as prize balls.

The gaming machine 10 is provided with a second start hole 27 as a start hole. The second start hole 27 is located in the lower right of the center frame 23 in the game area 21. The gaming machine 10 is provided with a second start sensor SE2 (shown in FIG. 5) that detects a game ball that has entered the second start hole 27. The second start sensor SE2 realizes the function of a start ball entry detection means capable of detecting the entry of a game ball into the second start hole 27 as a start hole. For example, a ball passage that leads the entered game ball to the back side of the game board 20 is connected to the second start hole 27, and the second start sensor SE2 is disposed in the ball passage. When the game ball is detected by the second start sensor SE2, the start condition of the second special game may be established, and the payout condition of the prize ball is established. In the gaming machine 10, when the gaming ball is detected by the second start sensor SE2 and the payout condition of the prize ball is established, one gaming ball is awarded as a prize ball. The second start opening 27 has a first variable member 28 as an opening/closing member. The first variable member 28 can be operated in an open state in which the gaming ball can be easily or can be inserted into the second start opening 27, and in a closed state in which the gaming ball can be difficult (or cannot be inserted) into the second start opening 27. The first variable member 28 is operated by receiving power from a first actuator A1 (shown in FIG. 5). Hereinafter, the opening state of the first variable member 28 may be referred to as "the second start opening 27 is opened," and the closing state of the first variable member 28 may be referred to as "the second start opening 27 is closed." As described above, the gaming machine 10 has a start opening into which the gaming ball can be inserted. The start ports include a first start port and a second start port. The special games as variable games include a first special game as a first variable game that can be executed when a game ball enters the first start port 26, and a second special game as a second variable game that can be executed when a game ball enters the second start port 27.

The gaming machine 10 is provided with a first large prize opening 29 as a large prize opening. The first large prize opening 29 is located to the right of the center frame 23 in the game area 21. The gaming machine 10 is provided with a first count sensor SE3 (shown in FIG. 5) that detects a game ball that has entered the first large prize opening 29. For example, a ball passage that leads the entered game ball to the back side of the game board 20 is connected to the first large prize opening 29, and the first count sensor SE3 is disposed in the ball passage. When the game ball is detected by the first count sensor SE3, the payout condition of the prize ball is established. In the gaming machine 10, when the game ball is detected by the first count sensor SE3 and the payout condition of the prize ball is established, 10 game balls are awarded as prize balls. The first large prize opening 29 has a second variable member 30. The second variable member 30 can be operated in an open state in which the game ball can enter the first large prize opening 29, and in a closed state in which the game ball cannot enter the first large prize opening 29. The second variable member 30 operates by receiving power from a second actuator A2 (shown in FIG. 5). When the second variable member 30 is in the open state, the game ball is allowed to enter the first large prize opening 29. When the second variable member 30 is in the closed state, the game ball is not allowed to enter the first large prize opening 29. Hereinafter, the open state of the second variable member 30 may be referred to as "the first large prize opening 29 is opened," and the closed state of the second variable member 30 may be referred to as "the first large prize opening 29 is closed."

The gaming machine 10 is provided with a second large prize opening 31 as a large prize opening. The second large prize opening 31 is located in the lower right of the center frame 23 in the gaming area 21. The gaming machine 10 is provided with a second count sensor SE4 (shown in FIG. 5) that detects a game ball that has entered the second large prize opening 31. For example, a ball passage that leads the entered game ball to the back side of the gaming board 20 is connected to the second large prize opening 31, and the second count sensor SE4 is disposed in the ball passage. When the game ball is detected by the second count sensor SE4, the payout condition of the prize ball is established. In the gaming machine 10, when the game ball is detected by the second count sensor SE4 and the payout condition of the prize ball is established, 10 game balls are awarded as prize balls. The second large prize opening 31 has a third variable member 32. The third variable member 32 can be operated between an open state in which the game ball can enter the second large winning opening 31 and a closed state in which the game ball cannot enter the second large winning opening 31. The third variable member 32 operates by receiving power from a third actuator A3 (shown in FIG. 5). When the third variable member 32 is in the open state, the game ball is allowed to enter the second large winning opening 31. When the third variable member 32 is in the closed state, the game ball is not allowed to enter the second large winning opening 31. Hereinafter, the open state of the third variable member 32 may be referred to as "the second large winning opening 31 is opened," and the closed state of the third variable member 32 may be referred to as "the second large winning opening 31 is closed."

The gaming machine 10 is equipped with a gate 33. The gate 33 is located to the right of the center frame 23 in the gaming area 21. The gate 33 has a gate opening that is always open so that gaming balls can enter the gate. A gate sensor SE5 (shown in FIG. 5) that detects gaming balls that enter and pass through the gate opening is disposed at the gate opening. When a gaming ball is detected by the gate sensor SE5, the conditions for starting a normal game may be established. Note that the gaming ball that enters the gate 33 does not have to be configured to pass through the gate 33. For example, the gaming ball that enters the gate 33 may pass through a ball passage that leads to the back side of the gaming board 20 and be discharged from the gaming board 20 to the outside.

The gaming machine 10 is provided with a first general winning opening 34 as a general winning opening. The first general winning opening 34 is located at the lower left of the center frame 23 in the gaming area 21. The first general winning opening 34 is always open so that a game ball can be entered. The gaming machine 10 is provided with a first general sensor SE6 (shown in FIG. 5) that detects a game ball that has entered the first general winning opening 34. The first general sensor SE6 realizes the function of a general winning ball detection means that can detect the entry of a game ball into the first general winning opening 34 as a general winning opening. For example, a ball passage that leads the entered game ball to the back side of the game board 20 (discharges it from the game board 20 to the outside) is connected to the first general winning opening 34, and the first general sensor SE6 is arranged in the ball passage. When the game ball is detected by the first general sensor SE6, the payout condition of the prize ball is established. In the gaming machine 10, when gaming balls are detected by the first general sensor SE6 and the conditions for paying out prize balls are met, eight gaming balls are awarded as prize balls.

The gaming machine 10 is provided with a second general winning opening 35 as a general winning opening. The second general winning opening 35 is located in the lower right of the center frame 23 in the gaming area 21. The second general winning opening 35 is always open so that a game ball can be entered. The gaming machine 10 is provided with a second general sensor SE7 (shown in FIG. 5) that detects a game ball that has entered the second general winning opening 35. The second general sensor SE7 realizes the function of a general winning ball detection means that can detect the entry of a game ball into the second general winning opening 35 as a general winning opening. For example, the second general winning opening 35 is connected to a ball passage that leads the entered game ball to the back side of the game board 20 (discharges it from the game board 20 to the outside), and the second general sensor SE7 is arranged in the ball passage. When the game ball is detected by the second general sensor SE7, the payout condition of the prize ball is established. In the gaming machine 10, when gaming balls are detected by the second general sensor SE7 and the conditions for paying out prize balls are met, eight gaming balls are awarded as prize balls.

The gaming machine 10 is equipped with an outlet 36. In this embodiment, gaming balls that do not enter the starting holes 26, 27, the big prize holes 29, 31, or the general prize holes 34, 35 are discharged from the machine through the outlet 36. The gaming machine 10 is equipped with game components, such as nails (game nails) and windmills, that change the behavior of the gaming balls flowing down the gaming area 21.

The gaming machine 10 is equipped with an out sensor SE8 (shown in FIG. 5) that detects game balls (out balls) discharged from the gaming board 20 to the outside. The out sensor SE8 is disposed on a passage through which game balls launched into the game area 21 of the gaming board 20 and game balls discharged to the outside of the gaming board 20 are collected and passed. The game balls discharged to the outside of the gaming board 20 include game balls that enter the out hole 36. The game balls discharged to the outside of the gaming board 20 include game balls that enter each of the ball entry holes of the starting holes 26, 27, the big prize holes 29, 31, and the general prize holes 34, 35. The out sensor SE8 functions as a discharged ball detection means that detects game balls discharged from the gaming board 20. The discharged ball detection means can also be said to be an out ball detection means that detects out balls.

Next, the launching device 70 serving as the launching mechanism will be described.
As shown in Fig. 3, the launching device 70 includes a ball sending mechanism 71 and a launching mechanism 72. The game balls stored in the upper tray UZ are guided to a waiting position W1 by a ball guide path in the upper tray UZ. The game balls guided to the waiting position W1 are sent to a launching position W2 in the launching mechanism 72 by the operation of the ball sending mechanism 71. The ball sending mechanism 71 operates by receiving power from a ball sending actuator 71a (shown in Fig. 5). By the operation of the ball sending mechanism 71, one game ball is sent to the launching position W2.

The launch mechanism 72 includes a hammer portion 72a as a hammer. The hammer portion 72a can be operated in a pre-launch state in which the game ball is not in contact with the hammer portion 72a when the game ball is located at the launch position W2, and a post-launch state in which the game ball is in contact with the hammer portion 72a when the game ball is located at the launch position W2. In FIG. 3, the hammer portion 72a in the pre-launch state is shown by a solid line, and the hammer portion 72a in the post-launch state is shown by a two-dot chain line. The hammer portion 72a operates by receiving power from a hammer actuator 72b (shown in FIG. 5). The launch mechanism 72 includes a launch rail 72c. When the game ball at the launch position W2 is launched by being shot out by the operation of the hammer portion 72a, the game ball is guided to the guide passage 21a by the launch rail 72c.

Next, the path along which the gaming ball flows in this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
The gaming machine 10 has a plurality of paths through which the gaming balls flow down in the gaming area 21 according to the launch strength of the gaming balls. The paths through which the gaming balls flow down can also be understood as the areas through which the gaming balls flow down. The plurality of paths include a first path R1 that passes through the left side of the center frame 23 to the outlet 36, and a second path R2 that passes through the right side of the center frame 23 to the outlet 36. The first path R1 and the second path R2 may overlap in part or may not overlap in whole. Hereinafter, the area located to the left of the center line CL that divides the gaming area 21 into left and right halves when the gaming board 20 is viewed from the front is referred to as the left area RA1, and the area located to the right of the center line CL is referred to as the right area RA2. The left area RA1 and the right area RA2 are at least partially different from each other. The route flowing down the left side area RA1 corresponds to the first route R1, and the route flowing down the right side area RA2 corresponds to the second route R2.

The player can then operate the launch handle 16 to adjust the launch strength of the game ball, thereby hitting the game ball into the left area RA1 or the right area RA2, and making the game ball enter the start hole 26, 27, the big prize hole 29, 31, the gate 33, or the general prize hole 34, 35. Specifically, when the game ball is launched with the launch strength adjusted to a low level (a so-called left hit), the game ball is more likely to be guided down to the left area RA1 and may enter the first start hole 26 or the first general prize hole 34. On the other hand, when the game ball is launched with the launch strength adjusted to a high level (a so-called right hit), the game ball is more likely to be guided down to the right area RA2 and may enter the second start hole 27, the big prize hole 29, 31, the gate 33, or the second general prize hole 35. That is, the first route R1 includes the first start gate 26 and the first general winning gate 34, and the second route R2 includes the second start gate 27, the large winning gates 29 and 31, the gate 33, and the second general winning gate 35.

When flowing down the first route R1, the game ball is less likely to enter the second start port 27, the large prize port 29, 31, the gate 33, or the second general prize port 35, compared to when flowing down the second route R2. When flowing down the second route R2, the game ball is less likely to enter the first start port 26 or the first general prize port 34, compared to when flowing down the first route R1. In the right area RA2, the second start port 27, the large prize port 29, 31, the gate 33, and the second general prize port 35 are arranged in the following order from the upstream side: gate 33, first large prize port 29, second general prize port 35, second start port 27, second large prize port 31. Hereinafter, firing the game ball so that it flows down the first path R1 may be referred to as a "left hit," and firing the game ball so that it flows down the second path R2 may be referred to as a "right hit."

Next, the gaming state of the gaming machine 10 will be described.
The gaming machine 10 has a low probability state and a high probability state as game states with different jackpot probabilities. The jackpot probability is the probability of winning a jackpot in a jackpot lottery. The high probability state is a game state with a higher jackpot probability than the low probability state. The high probability state is what is called a "probability variable state (high probability state)." The low probability state is a "non-probability variable state (non-high probability state)." In the following explanation, the high probability state is referred to as the "high probability state" and the low probability state is referred to as the "non-high probability state."

The gaming machine 10 also has a low base state and a high base state, which are gaming states with different ratios of the number of winning balls to the number of game balls fired. The high base state is a gaming state in which the probability of the game ball entering the second starting hole 27 is higher than in the low base state. The high base state is a so-called "electric support state." The low base state is a "non-electric support state." The high base state has a higher advantage in terms of the ball entering the second starting hole 27 than in the low base state.

The high base state can be realized, for example, by performing one of the three controls described below, which are arbitrarily selected, or by combining a plurality of controls. The first control is a normal symbol variation time shortening control that shortens the variation time of the normal game compared to the low base state. The second control is a normal symbol probability variation control that varies the probability of winning a normal win in a normal win lottery (normal win probability) to a higher probability than in the low base state. The third control is an opening time extension control that makes the total opening time of the first variable member 28 in one normal win game longer than in the low base state. In addition, as the opening time extension control, at least one of the following controls may be performed: a control that increases the number of openings of the first variable member 28 in one normal win game compared to the low base state, and a control that makes the opening time of the first variable member 28 in one normal win game longer than in the low base state. The high base state may also be realized by combining the fourth control described below. The fourth control is a special symbol fluctuation time shortening control that makes the fluctuation time of the special game (for example, the average fluctuation time) easier to be shorter than in a low base state. When special symbol fluctuation time shortening control is performed, the high base state becomes a so-called "fluctuation time shortening state (variable shortening state)."

In this embodiment, since the first variable member 28 may be in an open state even in the low base state, there is a possibility that a game ball may enter the second starting hole 27 even in the low base state. However, when the base state is low, for example, the first variable member 28 may not be in an open state and a game ball may not enter the second starting hole 27, by configuring the game ball not to win a normal win in the normal winning lottery. In addition, when the base state is low, for example, the first variable member 28 may not be in an open state even if a normal win is won in the normal winning lottery, by configuring the game ball not to enter the second starting hole 27. When configured as described above, the low base state can be said to be a state in which a game ball cannot enter the second starting hole 27, and the high base state can be said to be a state in which a game ball can enter the second starting hole 27.

The game states that can be controlled in the gaming machine 10 include a "low probability low base state" which is a low base state and a non-probability variable state. The low probability low base state is what is called a "normal state (normal gaming state)." The game states that can be controlled in the gaming machine 10 include a "low probability high base state" which is a high base state and a non-probability variable state. The game states that can be controlled in the gaming machine 10 include a "high probability high base state" which is a high base state and a probability variable state. In this way, the game states that can be controlled in the gaming machine 10 include the normal state.

Next, a jackpot in the gaming machine 10 will be described.
The gaming machine 10 has a plurality of types of jackpot symbols as special jackpot symbols. The plurality of types of jackpot symbols are classified into a first jackpot symbol and a second jackpot symbol. A type of jackpot is determined for each of the plurality of types of jackpot symbols. A game state after the end of a jackpot game may be determined for each jackpot symbol. In a jackpot game, an opening performance is first performed for a predetermined opening period to notify the start of the jackpot game. In a jackpot game, after the opening performance is completed, a round game is performed in which the first large prize winning hole 29 is opened. In a jackpot game, a plurality of round games are performed. That is, in a winning game, a plurality of round games are performed. The round game is performed up to a predetermined upper limit number of times. In one round of play, the first big prize opening 29 is opened until a first round end condition is met in which a predetermined upper limit number of game balls enter the opening, or a second round end condition is met in which a predetermined upper limit time has elapsed. In the round of play, a round performance is performed. Then, in the jackpot game, when the final round of play is completed, an ending performance is performed for a predetermined ending period to notify the end of the jackpot game. The jackpot game ends with the end of the ending performance. In this way, in the jackpot game, multiple rounds of play are performed after the opening period has ended. Also, in the jackpot game, the ending period begins after all the rounds have been completed. Then, the jackpot game ends when the ending period ends.

For the jackpot pattern classified as the first jackpot pattern, the type of jackpot is set to "first jackpot". For the jackpot pattern classified as the first jackpot pattern, the upper limit number of rounds is set to "10 times". For the jackpot pattern classified as the first jackpot pattern, the game state after the end of the jackpot game is set to a probability variable state. For the jackpot pattern classified as the first jackpot pattern, the game state after the end of the jackpot game is set to a high base state. In other words, for the jackpot pattern classified as the first jackpot pattern, the game state after the end of the jackpot game is set to a high probability high base state. For the jackpot pattern classified as the second jackpot pattern, the type of jackpot is set to "second jackpot". For the jackpot pattern classified as the second jackpot pattern, the upper limit number of rounds is set to "8 times". For the jackpot pattern classified as the second jackpot pattern, it is determined that the game state after the jackpot game ends is a non-probability variable state. Also, for the jackpot pattern classified as the second jackpot pattern, it is determined that the game state after the jackpot game ends is a high base state until the 100th special game ends, or until the jackpot game is awarded before the 100th special game ends. In other words, for the jackpot pattern classified as the second jackpot pattern, it is determined that the game state after the jackpot game ends is a low probability high base state. In the following description, the jackpot game awarded based on the jackpot pattern classified as the first jackpot pattern may be referred to as the "first jackpot game", and the jackpot game awarded based on the jackpot pattern classified as the second jackpot pattern may be referred to as the "second jackpot game".

Next, the small win in the gaming machine 10 will be described.
In a small win game, the second large winning opening 31 is opened, and a game ball is allowed to enter the second large winning opening 31. In a small win game, the second large winning opening 31 is opened in a predetermined opening mode. In a small win game, the second large winning opening 31 is opened in a predetermined opening mode until a first open game end condition in which a predetermined upper limit number of game balls enters, or a second open game end condition in which a predetermined upper limit time has elapsed, is met. For example, in a small win game, the second large winning opening 31 is opened in an opening mode in which the opening is opened for 0.6 seconds, closed for 0.5 seconds, and then the second large winning opening 31 is opened for 1.2 seconds. In this way, in a small win game, the second large winning opening 31 is opened at least once for a time that makes it easy to allow a game ball to enter the second large winning opening 31.

The display effects that the effect display device 25 can execute include an effect pattern change game (hereinafter referred to as an effect game) in which effect patterns (hereinafter referred to as effect patterns) are displayed in a variable manner in multiple rows, and a combination of effect patterns is finally displayed as a fixed stop. In this way, the gaming machine 10 is configured to be able to execute an effect pattern change game using effect patterns. The effect patterns are patterns decorated with characters, patterns, etc., and are also called decorative patterns or ornamental patterns. The effect game is performed by displaying the first, second, and third pattern rows in a variable manner (scrolling display) vertically. The effect pattern in the first row is the first pattern, the effect pattern in the second row is the second pattern, and the effect pattern in the third row is the third pattern. Hereinafter, the first column will be referred to as the "left column" and the first symbol will be referred to as the "left symbol", the second column will be referred to as the "middle column" and the second symbol will be referred to as the "middle symbol", and the third column will be referred to as the "right column" and the third symbol will be referred to as the "right symbol". In this embodiment, in principle, in each column, performance symbols that resemble the numbers [1] to [8] are displayed in a predetermined order.

The presentation game is performed in conjunction with the special game. Specifically, the presentation game is started with the start of the special game and ended with the end of the special game. In this way, the gaming machine 10 is configured to be able to execute the presentation game during the execution of the special game. In the presentation game, a combination of presentation symbols corresponding to the special symbols that are fixedly displayed in the special game is derived. When the big win symbol is fixedly displayed in the special game, the big win symbol combination is fixedly displayed in the presentation game. For example, the big win symbol combination is a symbol combination in which the presentation symbols of all columns are the same, such as [777]. When the small win symbol is fixedly displayed in the special game, the small win symbol combination is fixedly displayed in the presentation game. For example, the small win symbol combination is a symbol combination in which the presentation symbols of at least some columns are different from the presentation symbols of the other columns, such as [323] or [426]. When a losing symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in the special game, a losing symbol combination is displayed as a fixed stop in the performance game. For example, a losing symbol combination is a symbol combination in which the performance symbols of at least some columns are different from the performance symbols of other columns, such as [323]. Incidentally, a small winning symbol combination may be a symbol combination that is partially or entirely common to the losing symbol combination. For example, when a symbol combination common to a small winning symbol combination and a losing symbol combination is displayed as a fixed stop in the performance game, it is difficult to identify whether it is a small winning or a losing symbol from the performance symbol. On the other hand, a small winning symbol combination may be a symbol combination different from the losing symbol combination. Note that, in the performance game, the performance symbol is displayed as a fixed stop before being displayed as a fixed stop. In this specification, "temporary stop display" means a state that indicates a state different from a fixed stop display, such as a "shaking state".

In a presentation game, the display mode of the presentation symbols may become a reach mode (a reach is formed) and a reach presentation may be performed. The reach mode is a state in which presentation symbols imitating the same numbers are temporarily displayed in a specific column (e.g., the left column and the right column) among multiple columns, and presentation symbols in a column other than the specific column (e.g., the middle column) are continuously displayed in a variable manner. There may be multiple types of reach presentations in which the characters that appear and the actions of the presentation symbols are different. The reach presentation is performed during the execution of a special game. The reach presentation includes a normal reach presentation and a super reach presentation that is performed after the start of a normal reach presentation. In this embodiment, when a super reach presentation is performed during the execution of a special game, the expectation of a jackpot is higher than when only a normal reach presentation is performed.

In the gaming machine 10, effects related to the strength of the launch of the gaming ball are executed by the effect display device 25. Specifically, in the gaming machine 10, the effects related to the strength of the launch of the gaming ball include a right-hit notification effect that encourages right-hitting, and a left-hit notification effect that encourages left-hitting.

As shown in FIG. 4(a), for example, in the gaming machine 10, an image YG1 resembling a right-facing arrow and text information MJ1 saying "right hit" are displayed on the effect display device 25, and a right hit notification effect is executed. The right hit notification effect corresponds to a specific area effect that encourages the launch of the gaming ball into a specific area. In this way, the specific area effect is one of the effects that can be executed by the effect display device 25.

The right-hit notification effect is executed in a situation where a right hit is recommended. For example, the right-hit notification effect is executed when the high base state is reached. For example, the right-hit notification effect is executed when a big win has been awarded. For example, the right-hit notification effect is executed when a small win has been awarded. The right-hit notification effect may be configured to continue to be executed until the end condition of the right-hit notification effect is met. The end condition of the right-hit notification effect may be met, for example, when a big win has not been awarded and the high base state has ended and switched to a low base state.

As shown in FIG. 4(b), for example, in the gaming machine 10, an image YG2 imitating a left-facing arrow and text information MJ2 saying "Please return to left-handed hitting" are displayed on the effect display device 25, and a left-handed hitting notification effect is executed. The left-handed hitting notification effect corresponds to a non-specific area effect that encourages the launch of a game ball into a non-specific area. In this way, the effect that the effect display device 25 can execute includes a non-specific area effect. The left-handed hitting notification effect is executed in a situation where a left-handed hit is recommended. For example, the left-handed hitting notification effect is executed when the low base state is in effect. For example, the left-handed hitting notification effect may be configured to be executed when a high base state ends and switches to a low base state when a jackpot game is not awarded. For example, the left-handed hitting notification effect may be configured to be executed when it is determined that a right-handed hit is being performed in a situation where a left-handed hit is recommended. At this time, for example, it may be determined that a right-handed hit is being performed based on the game ball entering the gate 33. The left hit notification effect may be configured to continue to be executed until the end condition of the left hit notification effect is met. The end condition of the left hit notification effect may be met, for example, when a predetermined presentation time has elapsed, or when at least one of a big win game and a small win game is awarded.

Next, the electrical configuration of the gaming machine 10 will be described.
As shown in FIG. 5, the gaming machine 10 includes a main board 40 as a first control unit (main control unit). The main board 40 performs various processes and outputs control information such as a control signal (control command) according to the results of the processes. The gaming machine 10 includes a sub-board 50 as a second control unit (sub-control unit). The sub-board 50 can input the control information output by the main board 40. That is, the second control unit can input the control information from the first control unit. The sub-board 50 performs a predetermined process based on the control information output by the main board 40. For example, the sub-board 50 performs a process for executing a light-emitting effect by the decorative lamp 17, a sound effect by the speaker 18, and a display effect by the effect display device 25. The main board 40 and the sub-board 50 are disposed on the back side of the gaming board 20. The gaming board unit includes the main board 40 and the sub-board 50. The main board 40 is connected to the sub-board 50. The gaming machine 10 includes a power supply unit 60. The power supply unit 60 is a unit that supplies power to the main board 40, the sub-board 50, and the launching device 70 by switching a power switch 61 to the on state. By switching the power switch 61 to the on state, power is supplied to the gaming machine 10. The gaming machine 10 is equipped with the launching device 70. The launching device 70 is connected to the main board 40.

First, the main board 40 will be described.
The main board 40 includes a main CPU 41, a main ROM 42, and a main RWM 43. The main board 40 also includes a clear switch 45. The main CPU 41 executes its own control program (main control program) to perform various types of processing.

The main ROM 42 stores the main control program, lottery tables and judgment values used in a predetermined lottery. For example, the main ROM 42 stores a jackpot judgment value used in a jackpot lottery. The jackpot judgment value includes a high probability jackpot judgment value and a common jackpot judgment value. In the gaming machine 10, in a jackpot lottery when the game machine 10 is in a non-probability variable state, only the common jackpot judgment value out of the common jackpot judgment value and the high probability jackpot judgment value is used, while in a jackpot lottery when the game machine 10 is in a probability variable state, both the common jackpot judgment value and the high probability jackpot judgment value are used. The main ROM 42 stores a performance judgment value used in a performance lottery. In the performance lottery, a decision is made as to whether to execute a reach performance. For this reason, the performance lottery can also be called a reach lottery.

The main ROM 42 stores a plurality of types of fluctuation patterns. The plurality of types of fluctuation patterns are associated with a fluctuation time from the start of the special game to the end of the special game. That is, the fluctuation time of the special game is associated with the fluctuation pattern. For this reason, the fluctuation pattern can be said to be information capable of identifying the fluctuation time of the special game. In the gaming machine 10, the fluctuation pattern is determined, thereby determining the fluctuation time of the special game. The fluctuation pattern may be information capable of identifying a part or all of the performance contents of the performance game performed from the start of the special game to the end of the special game. The fluctuation patterns include, for example, a big win fluctuation pattern, a small win fluctuation pattern, and a miss fluctuation pattern. The big win fluctuation pattern is associated with a performance content of the performance game that finally displays a big win pattern combination by the performance pattern after a reach performance. The small win fluctuation pattern is associated with a performance content of the performance game that finally displays a small win pattern combination by the performance pattern after a reach performance. There are two types of loss variation patterns: a no-reach variation pattern and a reach-to-miss variation pattern. A no-reach variation pattern is associated with a performance content of a performance game in which a losing symbol combination is finally displayed as a confirmed stop without going through a reach performance. A loss-to-reach variation pattern is associated with a performance content of a performance game in which a reach performance is finally displayed as a confirmed stop.

There are two types of fluctuation patterns: one that can be determined when the base state is high, and one that can be determined when the base state is low. The fluctuation patterns that can be determined when the base state is high and the fluctuation patterns that can be determined when the base state is low are partially or entirely different. The fluctuation time determined for the fluctuation pattern that can be determined when the base state is high is shorter (or is often shorter) than the fluctuation time determined for the fluctuation pattern that can be determined when the base state is low. There are two types of fluctuation patterns: a fluctuation pattern for the first special game that can be determined when the first special game is executed, and a fluctuation pattern for the second special game that can be determined when the second special game is executed. The fluctuation patterns for the first special game and the fluctuation pattern for the second special game are partially or entirely different. It is preferable that the big win fluctuation pattern that can be determined when a big win is won is different from the small win fluctuation pattern that can be determined when a small win is won and the miss fluctuation pattern that can be determined when a miss occurs. The small win fluctuation pattern and the miss fluctuation pattern may be partially or entirely common.

The main RWM 43 is configured to be capable of storing various information that is appropriately rewritten during operation of the gaming machine 10. Information stored in the main RWM 43 includes, for example, flags, counters, and timers. The main board 40 is configured to be capable of generating random numbers. The random numbers may be hardware random numbers or software random numbers. The main CPU 41 is configured to be capable of inputting an operation signal that is output when the clear switch 45 is operated to the on state.

Various sensors SE1 to SE8 are connected to the main board 40. The main CPU 41 is configured to be able to input detection signals output by the various sensors SE1 to SE8 via a port. The information display panel 22 is connected to the main board 40. The main CPU 41 is able to control the display content of the information display panel 22 via a drive circuit. Various actuators A1 to A3 are connected to the main board 40. The main CPU 41 is able to control the operation of the first actuator A1, the second actuator A2, and the third actuator A3 via the drive circuit.

Next, the sub-substrate 50 will be described.
The sub-board 50 includes a sub-CPU 51, a sub-ROM 52, and a sub-RWM 53. For example, the sub-CPU 51 executes a control program (sub-control program) of the sub-CPU 51 to perform various processes (for example, processes related to presentation). The sub-ROM 52 stores the sub-control program, a lottery table used in the lottery, and a judgment value. The sub-ROM 52 stores display presentation data that can specify the mode (contents) of the display presentation. The sub-ROM 52 stores light-emitting presentation data that can specify the mode (contents) of the light-emitting presentation. The sub-ROM 52 stores sound presentation data that can specify the mode (contents) of the sound presentation. The sub-RWM 53 is configured to be able to store various information that is appropriately rewritten during the operation of the gaming machine 10. The information stored by the sub-RWM 53 includes, for example, a flag, a counter, and a timer. The sub-board 50 is configured to be able to generate random numbers. The random numbers may be hardware random numbers or software random numbers.

The decorative lamps 17, the speaker 18, and the performance display device 25 are connected to the sub-substrate 50. The sub-CPU 51 is capable of controlling the decorative lamps 17, the speaker 18, and the performance display device 25 via a drive circuit. In this embodiment, the sub-CPU 51 controls the performance devices among the decorative lamps 17, the speaker 18, and the performance display device 25 that serve as the performance execution means, thereby realizing the function of the performance control means that controls the performance execution means. In this way, the second control unit has the function of the performance control means. The performance actuator EA is connected to the sub-substrate 50. The sub-CPU 51 is capable of controlling the operation of the performance actuator EA via a drive circuit. The original position sensor GS is connected to the sub-substrate 50. The sub-CPU 51 is configured to be able to input the detection signal output by the original position sensor GS via a port.

Next, the power supply unit 60 will be described.
The power supply unit 60 converts a power supply voltage supplied from an external power source such as an amusement center into a power supply voltage to be supplied to each of the boards 40, 50 and the launching device 70. The power supply unit 60 supplies power to each of the boards 40, 50 and the launching device 70 via a power supply line. The power supply unit 60 has a power switch 61. When the power switch 61 is switched from an off state to an on state, power supply to each of the boards 40, 50 and the launching device 70 is started. On the other hand, when the power switch 61 is switched from an on state to an off state, the power supply to each of the boards 40, 50 and the launching device 70 is cut off. Cutting off the power supply corresponds to stopping the power supply.

The power supply unit 60 includes a backup power supply 62. The backup power supply 62 supplies power to the main RWM 43 even after the power supply is cut off. The main RWM 43 is supplied with power from the backup power supply 62, so that the contents stored in the main RWM 43 at the time the power supply is cut off can be retained even after the power supply is cut off. In this embodiment, the main RWM 43 functions as a storage means capable of storing and retaining stored information even after the power supply is cut off. For example, the main RWM 43 may be configured as a non-volatile memory capable of retaining stored contents even when the power supply is cut off, and capable of retaining stored information even after the power supply is cut off.

The gaming machine 10 is also provided with a backup function. The backup function is a function that internally stores (backs up) various pieces of information related to game control even when the power supply from an external power source is cut off, and restores game control based on the various pieces of information that have been stored when the power supply is started again. In this embodiment, the main board 40 has the backup function. For example, the sub-board 50 may also have the backup function. The main RWM 43 is capable of storing various pieces of information, and is an example of a storage means configured to be able to retain at least a portion of the stored information even after the power supply is cut off.

Next, the launch device 70 will be described.
As described above, the launching device 70 includes a ball feeding mechanism 71. As described above, the launching device 70 includes a launching mechanism 72. The launching device 70 includes a launch drive circuit 73. A touch sensor TS is connected to the launching device 70. The launch drive circuit 73 is configured to be able to input a detection signal output by the touch sensor TS. A handle volume HB is connected to the launching device 70. The launch drive circuit 73 is configured to be able to input a signal that can specify the amount of operation of the launch handle 16 detected by the handle volume HB. The handle volume HB in this embodiment is a variable resistor. And the signal that can specify the amount of operation of the launch handle 16 becomes a voltage value to the launch drive circuit 73.

Here, we will explain the various processes that the main CPU 41 executes based on the main control program. The main CPU 41 executes special symbol input processing and special symbol start processing as timer interrupt processing that is performed every predetermined control period (e.g., 4 ms).

First, the special symbol input process performed by the main CPU 41 will be described.
In the special symbol input process, the main CPU 41 performs a first special symbol input process. After completing the first special symbol input process, the main CPU 41 performs a second special symbol input process. After completing the second special symbol input process, the main CPU 41 ends the special symbol input process.

In the first special symbol input process, the main CPU 41 judges whether a game ball has entered the first start hole 26 based on whether a detection signal from the first start sensor SE1 has been input (hereinafter referred to as the first input judgment). If the judgment result of the first input judgment is negative, the main CPU 41 ends the first special symbol input process. On the other hand, if the judgment result of the first input judgment is positive, the main CPU 41 judges whether the first special reserved number stored in the main RWM 43 is less than the upper limit number (hereinafter referred to as the first reserved judgment). If the judgment result of the first reserved judgment is negative, the main CPU 41 ends the first special symbol input process. If the judgment result of the first reserved judgment is positive, the main CPU 41 adds 1 to the first special reserved number to update it. In addition, the main CPU 41 controls the information display panel 22 to display the updated first special reserved number. The main CPU 41 stores control information capable of identifying the updated first special reserved number (hereinafter referred to as the first reserved number command) in the output buffer. The control information (commands) stored in the output buffer will be output to the sub-board 50 during the next and subsequent timer interrupt processes.

When the result of the first hold determination is positive, the main CPU 41 acquires the random number generated in the main board 40 and stores random number information based on the acquired random number in the main RWM 43. At this time, the main CPU 41 stores the random number information so that it is possible to identify that it is random number information for the first special game and the storage order of the random number information. In this embodiment, the execution of the first special game is suspended by storing the random number information for the first special game in the main RWM 43. The random number information may be the acquired random number itself, or may be information obtained by processing the random number by a predetermined method. For example, the random number may be a winning lottery random number used in a big win lottery, a pattern random number used to determine a special pattern, a variation pattern random number used to determine a variation pattern, a performance lottery random number used in a performance lottery, etc. The winning lottery random number may also be used in a small win lottery. After that, the main CPU 41 ends the first special pattern input process.

In the second special symbol input process, the main CPU 41 judges whether a game ball has entered the second start hole 27 based on whether a detection signal from the second start sensor SE2 has been input (hereinafter referred to as the second input judgment). If the judgment result of the second input judgment is negative, the main CPU 41 ends the special symbol input process. On the other hand, if the judgment result of the second input judgment is positive, the main CPU 41 judges whether the second special reserved number stored in the main RWM 43 is less than the upper limit number (hereinafter referred to as the second reserved judgment). If the judgment result of the second reserved judgment is negative, the main CPU 41 ends the special symbol input process. On the other hand, if the judgment result of the second reserved judgment is positive, the main CPU 41 adds 1 to the second special reserved number to update it. The main CPU 41 controls the information display panel 22 to display the updated second special reserved number. In addition, the main CPU 41 stores control information (hereinafter referred to as the second reserved number command) capable of identifying the updated second special reserved number in the output buffer. Furthermore, if the result of the second hold determination is positive, the main CPU 41 acquires the random numbers generated within the main board 40, stores random number information based on the acquired random numbers in the main RWM 43, and ends the special symbol input process. At this time, the main CPU 41 stores the random number information so that it is possible to identify that it is random number information for the second special game and the storage order of the random number information. In this embodiment, the execution of the second special game is put on hold by storing the random number information for the second special game in the main RWM 43. Thereafter, the main CPU 41 ends the second special symbol input process.

The series of controls from when the result of the first hold judgment becomes positive until the random number information for the first special game is stored in the main RWM 43 corresponds to the control of holding the execution of the first special game, and corresponds to the hold control of holding the execution of the variable game. The main CPU 41 can execute the control of holding the execution of the first special game, triggered by the entry of a game ball into the first starting hole 26. Similarly, the series of controls from when the result of the second hold judgment becomes positive until the random number information for the second special game is stored in the main RWM 43 corresponds to the control of holding the execution of the second special game, and corresponds to the hold control of holding the execution of the variable game. The main CPU 41 can execute the control of holding the execution of the second special game, triggered by the entry of a game ball into the second starting hole 27. In this embodiment, the main CPU 41 executes at least one of the control of holding the execution of the first special game and the control of holding the execution of the second special game, thereby realizing a function as a hold control means capable of executing the hold control of holding the execution of the variable game.

Next, the special symbol start process performed by the main CPU 41 will be described.
In the special symbol start process, the main CPU 41 judges whether the game is not a winning game (big win game, small win game) and whether the special game is not being executed. If the game is a winning game or a special game is being executed, the main CPU 41 ends the special symbol start process. On the other hand, if the game is not a winning game and the special game is not being executed, the main CPU 41 performs a second reservation judgment to judge whether the second special reservation number is 1 or more. If the second reservation judgment judges that the second special reservation number is 1 or more, the main CPU 41 performs a second special symbol start process related to the execution of the second special game. After performing the second special symbol start process, the main CPU 41 ends the special symbol start process. If the second reservation judgment judges that the second special reservation number is not 1 or more, the main CPU 41 performs a first reservation judgment to judge whether the first special reservation number is 1 or more. If the first reservation judgment judges that the first special reservation number is not 1 or more, the main CPU 41 ends the special symbol start process. When the first reservation judgment determines that the first special reservation number is 1 or more, the main CPU 41 performs a first special symbol start process related to the execution of the first special game. After performing the first special symbol start process, the main CPU 41 ends the special symbol start process. Incidentally, when the second reservation judgment determines that the second special reservation number is not 1 or more and the first reservation judgment determines that the first special reservation number is not 1 or more, the main CPU 41 stores control information (hereinafter referred to as a standby command) capable of identifying a standby state in the output buffer.

Here, the first special symbol start process will be explained.
In the first special symbol start process, the main CPU 41 updates the first special reserved number stored in the main RWM 43 by subtracting 1. The main CPU 41 controls the information display panel 22 so that the updated first special reserved number is displayed. The main CPU 41 also stores a first reserved number command capable of identifying the updated first special reserved number in the output buffer. Next, the main CPU 41 reads out the first stored random number information from the main RWM 43 among the random number information for the first special game. After reading out the first random number information, the main CPU 41 erases the first stored random number information from the main RWM 43. Then, the main CPU 41 performs a jackpot lottery process.

In the jackpot lottery process, the main CPU 41 performs a jackpot lottery based on the value of the winning lottery random number that can be identified from the read random number information and the jackpot judgment value stored in the main ROM 42. At this time, if the game is in a high probability state, the main CPU 41 performs a jackpot lottery using the common jackpot judgment value and the high probability jackpot judgment value, while if the game is not in a high probability state, the main CPU 41 performs a jackpot lottery using the common jackpot judgment value. The main CPU 41 determines whether the value of the winning lottery random number matches the jackpot judgment value, and performs a jackpot lottery. In this embodiment, if the value of the winning lottery random number matches the jackpot judgment value, the jackpot lottery is considered to have been won, and if the value of the winning lottery random number does not match the jackpot judgment value, the jackpot lottery is considered to have not been won (not won). If the jackpot lottery is won, the main CPU 41 ends the jackpot lottery process and performs jackpot game processing. On the other hand, if the jackpot lottery is not won, the main CPU 41 ends the jackpot lottery process and performs the loss game process.

In the jackpot game processing in the first special pattern start processing, the main CPU 41 determines the jackpot pattern based on the value of the pattern random number that can be specified from the read random number information. In this embodiment, the main CPU 41 determines the first jackpot pattern or the second jackpot pattern based on the value of the pattern random number. In the jackpot game processing, the main CPU 41 determines the jackpot fluctuation pattern based on the value of the fluctuation pattern random number that can be specified from the read random number information. For example, the main CPU 41 refers to information that can specify whether the game state is a low base state or a high base state (hereinafter referred to as a base state flag) among the information that can specify the game state stored in the main RWM 43. Then, for example, the main CPU 41 determines the jackpot fluctuation pattern depending on whether the game state is a low base state or a high base state. After determining the special symbol and the variation pattern, the main CPU 41 ends the jackpot game process and stores the control information capable of identifying the determined special symbol (hereinafter referred to as the symbol command) and the control information capable of identifying the determined variation pattern (hereinafter referred to as the variation pattern command) in the output buffer. Then, the main CPU 41 ends the first special symbol start process.

In the loss game process in the first special symbol start process, the main CPU 41 determines the loss symbol. In the loss game process, the main CPU 41 determines the loss variation pattern based on the value of the variation pattern random number that can be specified from the read random number information. In the loss game process, the main CPU 41 performs a performance lottery based on the value of the performance lottery random number that can be specified from the read random number information and the performance judgment value stored in the main ROM 42. The main CPU 41 determines that the performance lottery has been won if the value of the performance lottery random number matches the performance judgment value, and determines that the performance lottery has not been won (not won) if the value of the performance lottery random number does not match the performance judgment value. The main CPU 41 determines a loss reach variation pattern when the performance lottery has been won based on the value of the variation pattern random number that can be specified from the read random number information, and determines a loss reach non-variation pattern when the performance lottery has been lost. For example, the main CPU 41 refers to the base state flag and determines the loss variation pattern depending on whether the base state is low or high. After determining the special symbol and the variation pattern, the main CPU 41 ends the loss game process and stores the symbol command and the variation pattern command in the output buffer. Then, the main CPU 41 ends the first special symbol start process.

Next, the second special pattern start process will be described.
In the second special symbol start process, the main CPU 41 updates the second special reserved number stored in the main RWM 43 by subtracting 1. The main CPU 41 controls the information display panel 22 so that the updated second special reserved number is displayed. The main CPU 41 also stores a second reserved number command capable of identifying the updated second special reserved number in the output buffer. Next, the main CPU 41 reads out the first stored random number information from the main RWM 43 among the random number information for the second special game. After reading out the first random number information, the main CPU 41 erases the first stored random number information from the main RWM 43. Then, the main CPU 41 performs a jackpot lottery process.

In the jackpot lottery process in the second special symbol start process, the main CPU 41 performs the same control as in the jackpot lottery process in the first special symbol start process. If the jackpot lottery is won in the jackpot lottery process in the second special symbol start process, the main CPU 41 ends the jackpot lottery process and performs jackpot game processing. On the other hand, if the jackpot lottery is not won in the jackpot lottery process in the second special symbol start process, the main CPU 41 ends the jackpot lottery process and performs small jackpot lottery processing.

In the small win lottery process, the main CPU 41 performs a small win lottery based on the value of the winning lottery random number that can be identified from the read random number information (the value of the winning lottery random number used in the big win lottery process) and the small win judgment value stored in the main ROM 42. The main CPU 41 determines whether the value of the winning lottery random number matches the small win judgment value, and performs a small win lottery. In this embodiment, if the value of the winning lottery random number matches the small win judgment value, the small win lottery is considered to have been won, and if the value of the winning lottery random number does not match the small win judgment value, the small win lottery is considered to have been not won (not won). Then, if the small win lottery is won, the main CPU 41 ends the small win lottery process and performs small win game processing. On the other hand, if the small win lottery is not won, the main CPU 41 ends the small win lottery process and performs loss game processing.

In the jackpot game processing in the second special symbol start processing, the main CPU 41 performs the same control as in the jackpot game processing in the first special symbol start processing described above. After determining the special symbol and the variation pattern in the jackpot game processing in the second special symbol start processing, the main CPU 41 ends the jackpot game processing and stores the symbol command and the variation pattern command in the output buffer. Then, the main CPU 41 ends the second special symbol start processing.

In the small win game processing in the second special pattern start processing, the main CPU 41 determines the small win pattern. In the small win game processing, the main CPU 41 determines the small win fluctuation pattern based on the value of the fluctuation pattern random number that can be specified from the read random number information. For example, the main CPU 41 refers to the base state flag and determines the small win fluctuation pattern depending on whether the base state is low or high. After determining the special pattern and fluctuation pattern, the main CPU 41 ends the small win game processing and stores the pattern command and the fluctuation pattern command in the output buffer. Then, the main CPU 41 ends the second special pattern start processing.

In the loss game processing in the second special symbol start processing, the main CPU 41 performs the same control as in the loss game processing in the first special symbol start processing described above. After determining the special symbol and the variation pattern in the loss game processing in the second special symbol start processing, the main CPU 41 ends the loss game processing and stores the symbol command and the variation pattern command in the output buffer. Then, the main CPU 41 ends the second special symbol start processing. In the following description, the variation pattern command stored in the output buffer in the first special symbol start processing may be referred to as the first variation pattern command, and the variation pattern command stored in the output buffer in the second special symbol start processing may be referred to as the second variation pattern command.

As described above, in the gaming machine 10, a jackpot lottery may be held when a special game is executed. In this embodiment, the main CPU 41 executes the jackpot lottery process, thereby realizing a function as a jackpot lottery means that performs a jackpot lottery to determine whether a jackpot will be won. In the gaming machine 10, a small jackpot lottery may be held when a special game is executed. In this embodiment, the main CPU 41 executes the small jackpot lottery process, thereby realizing a function as a small jackpot lottery means that performs a small jackpot lottery to determine whether a small jackpot will be won. In this way, in this embodiment, the main CPU 41 realizes a function as a jackpot lottery means that performs a jackpot lottery.

When the special symbol start process is completed, the main CPU 41 performs a process separate from the special symbol start process and executes a special game. Specifically, the main CPU 41 controls the information display panel 22 so that a special game is started. When the first special game is being executed, the main CPU 41 controls the light emitters constituting the first special symbol display section 22a to light up in a lighting state corresponding to the execution of the first special game. Similarly, when the second special game is being executed, the main CPU 41 controls the light emitters constituting the second special symbol display section 22b to light up in a lighting state corresponding to the execution of the second special game. In addition, the main CPU 41 times the fluctuation time associated with the fluctuation pattern determined in the special symbol start process.

The main CPU 41 then controls the information display panel 22 so that the special symbol determined in the special symbol start process is displayed as a fixed stop when the variable time associated with the variable pattern has elapsed. For example, when a special symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in the first special symbol display section 22a, at least one of the multiple light emitters constituting the first special symbol display section 22a emits light. Similarly, when a special symbol is displayed as a fixed stop in the second special symbol display section 22b, at least one of the multiple light emitters constituting the second special symbol display section 22b emits light. When the variable time associated with the variable pattern has elapsed, the main CPU 41 stores a game end command in the output buffer. In this embodiment, the main CPU 41 performs control to execute the special game, thereby realizing a function as a variable game control means for executing the variable game.

Next, the big win processing performed by the main CPU 41 will be described.
The main CPU 41 specifies the type of jackpot game based on the jackpot symbol determined in the special symbol start process. Then, the main CPU 41 performs jackpot processing after the jackpot special game ends, and awards the specified jackpot game. Specifically, the main CPU 41 performs jackpot processing after the jackpot special game ends and the inter-variation interval has elapsed. The main CPU 41 awards the jackpot game by performing the jackpot processing. In this way, when the gaming machine 10 wins a jackpot in the jackpot lottery, it is possible to award the jackpot game after the special game in which the jackpot was won ends. In other words, the gaming machine 10 is configured such that when the jackpot is won, the jackpot game is awarded after the special game ends.

In the jackpot process, the main CPU 41 stores an opening command in the output buffer. When the main CPU 41 stores the opening command in the output buffer, it times the opening time. When the opening time has elapsed, the main CPU 41 performs a process to execute a round game. The elapse of the opening time corresponds to the end of the opening period. In addition, the main CPU 41 controls the second actuator A2 so that the first large prize winning opening 29 is opened, and starts the round game. After starting the round game, when the first open game end condition or the second open game end condition is established, the main CPU 41 controls the second actuator A2 so that the first large prize winning opening 29 is closed, and ends the round game. The main CPU 41 repeats the process to execute the round game until the upper limit number of round games set for the jackpot game is ended. The main CPU 41 stores a round command in the output buffer every time a round game is started. When the final round game is ended, the main CPU 41 stores an ending command in the output buffer. The end of the final round of play corresponds to the end of all rounds of play. When the main CPU 41 stores the ending command in the output buffer, it times the ending time. When the ending time has elapsed, the main CPU 41 ends the jackpot processing. The elapse of the ending time corresponds to the end of the ending period. In addition, the main CPU 41 controls the right hit notification lamp 22g to light up when a jackpot play has been awarded.

Next, the small win processing performed by the main CPU 41 will be described.
The main CPU 41 performs small win processing after the special game for the small win is completed, and awards the small win game. Specifically, the main CPU 41 performs small win processing after the special game for the small win is completed and the inter-variation interval has elapsed. The main CPU 41 awards the small win game by performing the small win processing. In this way, when a small win is won in the small win lottery, the gaming machine 10 can award the small win game after the special game in which the small win was won is completed. In other words, the gaming machine 10 is configured so that when a small win is won, the small win game is awarded after the special game is completed.

When performing small win processing, the main CPU 41 stores control information (hereinafter referred to as a small win command) indicating that a small win game is awarded in the output buffer. In small win processing, the main CPU 41 controls the third actuator A3 so that the second large winning opening 31 opens for an upper limit of 0.6 seconds, then closes for 0.5 seconds, and then opens for an upper limit of 1.2 seconds. After starting the awarding of a small win game, the main CPU 41 controls the third actuator A3 so that the second large winning opening 31 is closed when the first open game end condition or the second open game end condition is established, and ends the small win processing. The main CPU 41 controls the right hit notification lamp 22g to light up when a small win game is awarded. When ending the small win process, the main CPU 41 stores control information indicating that the small win game has ended (hereinafter referred to as the small win end command) in the output buffer.

In this embodiment, the main CPU 41 performs jackpot processing, thereby realizing the function of a jackpot awarding means that awards a jackpot game. In this embodiment, the main CPU 41 performs small jackpot processing, thereby realizing the function of a small jackpot awarding means that awards a small jackpot game. In this way, in this embodiment, the main CPU 41 realizes the function of a jackpot awarding means that awards a jackpot game. In other words, the first control unit has the function of a jackpot awarding means.

Next, the game state processing performed by the main CPU 41 will be described. In this embodiment, the main CPU 41 performs game state processing, thereby realizing the function of game state control means that controls the game state.

When the main CPU 41 controls to a non-probability variable state, it sets the probability state flag to a value that can specify that the state is controlled to a non-probability variable state. The main CPU 41 also stores control information that can specify that the state is not a probability variable state (hereinafter referred to as a low probability state command) in the output buffer. Similarly, when the main CPU 41 controls to a probability variable state, it sets the probability state flag to a value that can specify that the state is controlled to a probability variable state. The main CPU 41 also stores control information that can specify that the state is a probability variable state (hereinafter referred to as a high probability state command) in the output buffer. For example, after the first jackpot game ends, the main CPU 41 sets the probability state flag to a value that can specify that the state is controlled to a probability variable state. On the other hand, after the second jackpot game ends, the main CPU 41 sets the probability state flag to a value that can specify that the state is controlled to a non-probability variable state.

When controlling to a low base state, the main CPU 41 sets a value that can specify that control is to be made to the low base state to the base state flag stored in the main RWM 43. The main CPU 41 also stores control information that can specify that the state is a low base state (hereinafter referred to as a low base state command) in the output buffer. Incidentally, when a jackpot game is awarded, the main CPU 41 sets a value that can specify that control is to be made to the low base state to the base state flag. Furthermore, the main CPU 41 stores the low base state command in the output buffer.

When controlling to a high base state, the main CPU 41 sets a value that can specify that the game will be controlled to the high base state after the end of the jackpot game in the base state flag. The main CPU 41 also stores control information that can specify that the game will be in the high base state (hereinafter referred to as a high base state command) in the output buffer. Furthermore, the main CPU 41 updates information that can specify the remaining number of special games to be controlled to the high base state after the end of the jackpot game (hereinafter referred to as the number information). At this time, the main CPU 41 updates the number information that can specify that the game will be controlled to the high base state until the next jackpot game is awarded after the end of the first jackpot game. On the other hand, the main CPU 41 updates the number information that can specify 100 times after the end of the second jackpot game. After the end of the second jackpot game, the main CPU 41 subtracts 1 from the number of times that can be specified from the number information each time the special game ends, and updates the number information. Then, when the number of times that can be specified from the number information after subtracting 1 reaches 0, the main CPU 41 controls to the low base state. Incidentally, when a jackpot game is awarded, the main CPU 41 updates the number of times that can be determined from the number of times information to 0, and initializes it. When the main CPU 41 updates the number of times information, it stores control information (hereinafter referred to as a number of times command) that can determine the number of times that can be determined from the updated number of times information in the output buffer.

In the gaming machine 10, the base state flag is set to a value that can specify that the game is controlled to a low base state, and the probability state flag is set to a value that can specify that the game is controlled to a low probability state, thereby controlling the game to the normal state. In other words, the main CPU 41 can control the game to the normal state by setting the base state flag to a value that can specify that the game is controlled to a low base state, and setting the probability state flag to a value that can specify that the game is controlled to a low probability state. In this way, the main CPU 41 can control game states including the normal state. Incidentally, when a jackpot game is awarded, the main CPU 41 sets the probability state flag to a value that can specify that the game is controlled to a non-probability variable state, and sets the base state flag to a value that can specify that the game is controlled to a low base state. Furthermore, the main CPU 41 stores the low probability state command in the output buffer, and stores the low base state command in the output buffer.

Next, the normal symbol input process performed by the main CPU 41 will be described.
In the normal symbol input process, the main CPU 41 judges whether the game ball has passed through the gate 33 based on whether a detection signal has been input from the gate sensor SE5. If the game ball has not passed through the gate 33, the main CPU 41 ends the normal symbol input process. On the other hand, if the game ball has passed through the gate 33, the main CPU 41 judges whether the normal reserved number stored in the main RWM 43 is less than the upper limit number. If the normal reserved number is not less than the upper limit number, the main CPU 41 ends the normal symbol input process. If the normal reserved number is less than the upper limit number, the main CPU 41 adds 1 to the normal reserved number stored in the main RWM 43 and updates it. In addition, the main CPU 41 controls the information display panel 22 to display the updated normal reserved number. In addition, the main CPU 41 stores control information (hereinafter referred to as a normal reserved number command) that can specify the updated normal reserved number in the output buffer. Next, the main CPU 41 acquires a normal winning lottery random number, and stores random number information based on the acquired random number in the main RWM 43. In this case, the main CPU 41 stores the random number information so that it is possible to identify that it is random number information for a normal game and the storage order of the random number information. After that, the main CPU 41 ends the normal symbol input process.

Next, the normal symbol start process performed by the main CPU 41 will be described.
In the normal symbol start process, the main CPU 41 judges whether the execution conditions of the normal game are satisfied. The main CPU 41 judges positively when the normal winning game is not being played and the normal game is not being played, whereas it judges negatively when the normal winning game is being played or the normal game is being played. If the execution conditions of the normal game are not satisfied, the main CPU 41 ends the normal symbol start process. On the other hand, if the execution conditions of the normal game are satisfied, the main CPU 41 judges whether the normal reserved number stored in the main RWM 43 is 1 or more. If the normal reserved number is not 1 or more, the main CPU 41 ends the normal symbol start process. If the normal reserved number is 1 or more, the main CPU 41 updates the normal reserved number stored in the main RWM 43 by subtracting 1. Furthermore, the main CPU 41 controls the information display panel 22 so that the updated normal reserved number is displayed. In addition, the main CPU 41 stores a normal reserved number command capable of identifying the updated normal reserved number in the output buffer.

Next, the main CPU 41 reads out the random number information for the normal game that was stored first from the main RWM 43. After reading out the first random number information, the main CPU 41 erases the first random number information stored from the main RWM 43. Next, the main CPU 41 judges whether or not a normal win is won based on the read random number information for the normal game and the normal win judgment value stored in the main ROM 42. This process corresponds to a normal win lottery (normal win judgment) for whether or not a normal win is won. For example, when the main CPU 41 is in a high base state, the main CPU 41 performs a normal win lottery with the winning probability in the high base state. When the main CPU 41 is in a low base state, the main CPU 41 performs a normal win lottery with the winning probability in the low base state. When a normal win is won, the main CPU 41 determines the normal win pattern to be derived in the normal game and the fluctuation time of the normal game. When the normal win is determined to be a non-win, the main CPU 41 determines the normal losing symbol to be derived in the normal game and the fluctuation time of the normal game. For example, the main CPU 41 determines the fluctuation time of the normal game depending on whether the state is a low base state or a high base state. After that, the main CPU 41 ends the normal symbol start process.

The main CPU 41 then executes the normal game by performing a process separate from the normal symbol start process. Specifically, the main CPU 41 starts the normal game, and controls the information display panel 22 so that the normal symbol determined in the normal symbol start process is displayed as a fixed stop when the variable time determined in the normal symbol start process has elapsed. In addition, the main CPU 41 stores control information capable of identifying that the execution of the normal game is about to start in the output buffer in conjunction with starting the execution of the normal game.

Next, the normal win processing performed by the main CPU 41 will be described.
After the normal game of the normal win is finished, the main CPU 41 performs normal win processing. In the normal win processing, the main CPU 41 starts control to generate a normal win game depending on whether the state is in the open extension state or the non-open extension state. Therefore, the main CPU 41 performs normal win processing to give a normal win. For example, in the normal win processing, when the main CPU 41 is in a high base state, the main CPU 41 controls the first actuator A1 so that the second start hole 27 is opened in the opening mode in the high base state. When the main CPU 41 is in a low base state, the main CPU 41 controls the first actuator A1 so that the second start hole 27 is opened in the opening mode in the low base state. In this embodiment, the opening mode in the high base state is greater in the number of times the second start hole 27 is opened in one normal win game, and the total time that the second start hole 27 is opened is longer than the opening mode in the low base state. For this reason, when the second starting hole 27 is opened in the open mode in the high base state, it is easier to get a game ball to enter the second starting hole 27 than when the second starting hole 27 is opened in the open mode in the low base state. That is, in this embodiment, when the base state is high, there is a higher advantage in getting a game ball to enter the second starting hole 27 than when the base state is low.

Next, the prize ball processing performed by the main CPU 41 will be described.
When a detection signal from the first start sensor SE1 is input, the main CPU 41 controls so that three game balls are paid out as prize balls. That is, when a game ball enters the first start hole 26, the main CPU 41 controls so that a game ball is paid out as a prize ball when the game ball enters the first start hole 26. When a detection signal from the second start sensor SE2 is input, the main CPU 41 controls so that one game ball is paid out as a prize ball. That is, when a game ball enters the second start hole 27, the main CPU 41 controls so that a game ball is paid out as a prize ball when the game ball enters the second start hole 27. When a game ball enters the start holes 26 and 27, the main CPU 41 controls so that a game ball is paid out as a prize ball when the game ball enters the second start hole 27.

When a detection signal is input from the first count sensor SE3, the main CPU 41 controls so that 10 game balls are paid out as prize balls. That is, the main CPU 41 controls so that when a game ball enters the first large prize opening 29, the game balls are paid out as prize balls in response to the ball's entry. When a detection signal is input from the second count sensor SE4, the main CPU 41 controls so that 10 game balls are paid out as prize balls. That is, the main CPU 41 controls so that when a game ball enters the second large prize opening 31, the game balls are paid out as prize balls in response to the ball's entry. The main CPU 41 controls so that when a game ball enters the large prize openings 29, 31, the game balls are paid out as prize balls in response to the ball's entry.

When a detection signal is input from the first general sensor SE6, the main CPU 41 controls so that eight game balls are dispensed as prize balls. That is, the main CPU 41 controls so that when a game ball enters the first general winning opening 34, the game balls are dispensed as prize balls in response to the ball's entry. When a detection signal is input from the second general sensor SE7, the main CPU 41 controls so that eight game balls are dispensed as prize balls. That is, the main CPU 41 controls so that when a game ball enters the second general winning opening 35, the game balls are dispensed as prize balls in response to the ball's entry. The main CPU 41 controls so that when a game ball enters the general winning openings 34, 35, the game balls are dispensed as prize balls in response to the ball's entry.

In this way, the main CPU 41 controls the number of game balls associated with the winning slot into which the game ball entered so that they are paid out as prize balls. In this embodiment, the main CPU 41 performs prize ball processing and controls the game balls to be paid out as prize balls, thereby awarding the prize balls. In this embodiment, the main CPU 41 controls the game balls to be paid out as prize balls, thereby realizing a function as a prize ball control means that controls the payout of prize balls.

Next, various processes executed by the secondary CPU 51 based on the secondary control program will be described.
When the sub-CPU 51 inputs a low probability state command, it sets the sub-probability state flag stored in the sub-RWM 53 to a value that can identify a non-probability variable state. When the sub-CPU 51 inputs a high probability state command, it sets the sub-probability state flag stored in the sub-RWM 53 to a value that can identify a probability variable state. When the sub-CPU 51 inputs a low base state command, it sets the sub-base state flag stored in the sub-RWM 53 to a value that can identify a low base state. When the sub-CPU 51 inputs a high base state command, it sets the sub-base state flag to a value that can identify a high base state. In addition, when the sub-CPU 51 inputs a number command, it updates the information stored in the sub-RWM 53 (hereinafter referred to as sub number information) so as to be able to identify the remaining number of special games to be controlled to a high base state after the end of a jackpot game that can be identified from the command.

The secondary CPU 51 controls at least one of the various presentation devices 17, 18, 25 so that a presentation game or a presentation associated with the presentation game is performed. Specifically, when the secondary CPU 51 inputs a variation pattern command, it controls the presentation game to be executed. Furthermore, when the secondary CPU 51 executes a presentation associated with the presentation game, it may be capable of controlling not only the various presentation devices 17, 18, 25, but also the presentation actuator EA to operate the movable body 24.

When controlling the execution of the presentation game, the sub-CPU 51 determines the pattern combination of the presentation patterns to be ultimately derived in the presentation game based on the variation pattern command and the pattern command. If the sub-CPU 51 can identify a big win pattern from the pattern command, it determines the presentation pattern combination for a big win. If the sub-CPU 51 can identify a small win pattern from the pattern command, it determines the presentation pattern combination for a small win. If a miss pattern can be identified from the pattern command, it determines the miss presentation pattern combination. When executing a reach presentation, the sub-CPU 51 determines the miss presentation pattern combination including the reach.

When controlling the execution of the presentation game, the sub-CPU 51 controls the presentation display device 25 so that the presentation pattern is changed and the presentation game is started in response to the input of a change pattern command. The sub-CPU 51 controls at least one of the various presentation devices 17, 18, 25 so that various presentations are executed based on a change pattern that can be specified from the change pattern command. The sub-CPU 51 also temporarily stops and displays the pattern combination of the determined presentation pattern at a specified timing. Thereafter, the sub-CPU 51 stops and displays the presentation pattern combination in a confirmed state in response to the input of a game end command. The sub-CPU 51 may also time a change time that can be specified from the change pattern, regardless of the game end command, and stop and display the presentation pattern combination in a confirmed state when the change time has elapsed. In this case, the game end command may be omitted.

The sub-CPU 51 controls at least one of the various presentation devices 17, 18, 25 so that a presentation during a big win game is performed when a big win game is awarded. Specifically, the sub-CPU 51 controls at least one of the various presentation devices 17, 18, 25 so that an opening presentation is performed when an opening command is input. The sub-CPU 51 controls at least one of the various presentation devices 17, 18, 25 so that a round presentation is performed when a round command is input. The sub-CPU 51 controls at least one of the various presentation devices 17, 18, 25 so that an ending presentation is performed when an ending command is input. In addition, the sub-CPU 51 controls at least one of the various presentation devices 17, 18, 25 so that a presentation during a small win game is performed when a small win game is awarded. The small win play effect is a content that keeps the small win pattern by the effect pattern displayed on the effect display device 25, and the display content of the effect display device 25 at the end of the small win special game and the display content of the effect display device 25 during the small win play are the same. Therefore, even if the small win play effect is executed, it is difficult to determine from the display content of the effect display device 25 that a small win play has been awarded. However, the small win play effect may be an effect that allows one to determine that a small win play has been awarded.

In this embodiment, the secondary CPU 51 controls the decorative lamp 17 as decorative light-emitting means, thereby realizing a function as decorative light-emitting control means that controls the decorative light-emitting means. In this way, the second control unit has a function as decorative light-emitting control means. In this embodiment, the secondary CPU 51 controls the speaker 18 as sound output means, thereby realizing a function as sound output control means that controls the sound output means. In this embodiment, the secondary CPU 51 controls the performance display device 25 as display means, thereby realizing a function as display control means that controls the display means. In this embodiment, the second control unit has a function as display control means.

The gaming machine 10 may be controlled to an unprogressable state in which it is impossible to progress in the game. In other words, this embodiment can be controlled to an unprogressable state in which it is impossible to progress in the game. In the gaming machine 10, maximum difference information processing and unprogressable processing are performed as control related to the unprogressable state.

First, the maximum difference number information processing will be described. The maximum difference number information processing corresponds to a process of counting the maximum difference number. Information that can identify the maximum difference number (hereinafter referred to as maximum difference number information) is stored in the main RWM 43. In the maximum difference number information processing, the main CPU 41 updates the maximum difference number information and counts the maximum difference number. In this embodiment, the value that can be identified from the maximum difference number information, that is, the maximum difference number, corresponds to the specific value.

In the maximum difference number information processing, when the main CPU 41 controls the payout of game balls as prize balls, it adds the number of paid-out game balls to a value that can be determined from the maximum difference number information, and updates the maximum difference number information. Also, when the main CPU 41 inputs a detection signal from the out sensor SE8, it subtracts 1 from the value that can be determined from the maximum difference number information, and updates the maximum difference number information. However, if the value that can be determined from the maximum difference number information before the subtraction is 0, the main CPU 41 does not update the maximum difference number information. Also, when the main CPU 41 updates the maximum difference number information, it stores control information (hereinafter referred to as a maximum difference number command) that can determine the updated maximum difference number in the output buffer. As described above, the maximum difference number is counted based on the number of prize balls awarded since the start of power supply and the number of out balls (valid balls) since the start of power supply. In this way, the maximum difference number can change as the game progresses. In other words, the specific value is a value that can change as the game progresses. In other words, the maximum difference information can change as the game progresses. The maximum difference can also be said to be a value that can change as the game progresses.

Next, the progress disable process will be described with reference to FIG.
In the progress disable process, the main CPU 41 judges whether or not progress disable scheduled information is stored in the main RWM 43 (step S101). Although details will be described later, the progress disable scheduled information corresponds to information stored in the main RWM 43 under a situation where a progress disable state has been determined, but the progress disable state is not controlled because a big win game or a small win game is being awarded.

If the progress-impossible planned information is stored (step S101; YES), the main CPU 41 determines whether a big win game has been awarded (step S102). If a big win game has been awarded (step S102; YES), the main CPU 41 ends the progress-impossible process. On the other hand, if a big win game has not been awarded (step S102; NO), the main CPU 41 determines whether a small win game has been awarded (step S103). If a small win game has been awarded (step S103; YES), the main CPU 41 ends the progress-impossible process. On the other hand, if a small win game has not been awarded (step S103; NO), the main CPU 41 turns off the information display panel 22 (step S104). In step S104, the main CPU 41 turns off the first special symbol display unit 22a. In step S104, the main CPU 41 turns off the second special symbol display section 22b. In step S104, the main CPU 41 turns off the first special hold display section 22c. In step S104, the main CPU 41 turns off the second special hold display section 22d. In step S104, the main CPU 41 turns off the normal symbol display section 22e. In step S104, the main CPU 41 turns off the normal hold display section 22f. In step S104, the main CPU 41 turns off the right hit notification lamp 22g.

Next, the main CPU 41 stores the progress disable command in the output buffer and outputs it to the sub-board 50 (step S105). Furthermore, in step S105, the main CPU 41 stores information that can identify that the game has been controlled to a progress disable state (hereinafter, referred to as disabled information) in the main RWM 43. In step S105, the main CPU 41 outputs a stop signal to the launch device 70. After that, the main CPU 41 performs loop processing. As a result, the main CPU 41 performs loop processing until the power supply is cut off. When the loop processing is being performed, the game is in a progress disable state in which it is impossible to proceed. For example, when the loop processing is being performed, the special symbol input processing is not performed, so the execution of the special game is not suspended even if a game ball enters the start hole 26, 27. For example, when the loop processing is being performed, the special symbol start processing is not performed, so the special game is not executed. For example, when the loop process is being performed, prize ball processing is not performed, so even if a game ball enters any of the start holes 26, 27, the large prize holes 29, 31, and the general prize holes 34, 35, prize balls are not awarded. For example, when the loop process is being performed, big win processing is not performed, so the awarding of a big win game is not started. For example, when the loop process is being performed, small win processing is not performed, so the awarding of a small win game is not started. For example, when the loop process is being performed, processing related to the normal game is not performed. Therefore, for example, when the loop process is being performed, the execution of the normal game is not put on hold. For example, when the loop process is being performed, the normal game is not executed. For example, when the loop process is being performed, a normal win game is not awarded.

On the other hand, if no planned non-progression information is stored (step S101; NO), the main CPU 41 determines whether the maximum difference number has reached a specified value (step S106). In the gaming machine 10, the specified value is set to "99,000." Therefore, in step S106, the main CPU 41 determines whether the maximum difference number that can be determined from the maximum difference number information of the main RWM 43 has reached 99,000. Then, if the maximum difference number has not reached the specified value (step S106; NO), the main CPU 41 ends the non-progression processing.

When the maximum difference number reaches the specified value (step S106; YES), the main CPU 41 judges whether a big win game has been awarded (step S107). When a big win game has been awarded (step S107; YES), the main CPU 41 proceeds to the process of step S109. On the other hand, when a big win game has not been awarded (step S107; NO), the main CPU 41 judges whether a small win game has been awarded (step S108). When a small win game has been awarded (step S108; YES), the main CPU 41 proceeds to the process of step S109. When a small win game has not been awarded (step S108; NO), the main CPU 41 proceeds to the process of step S111.

In step S109, the main CPU 41 stores the planned non-progression information in the main RWM 43. Next, the main CPU 41 stores the planned non-progression command in the output buffer and outputs it to the sub-board 50 (step S110). Thereafter, the main CPU 41 ends the non-progression processing.

In addition, in step S111, the main CPU 41 turns off the information display panel 22. In step S111, the main CPU 41 turns off the first special pattern display unit 22a. In step S111, the main CPU 41 turns off the second special pattern display unit 22b. In step S111, the main CPU 41 turns off the first special hold display unit 22c. In step S111, the main CPU 41 turns off the second special hold display unit 22d. In step S111, the main CPU 41 turns off the normal pattern display unit 22e. In step S111, the main CPU 41 turns off the normal hold display unit 22f. In step S111, the main CPU 41 turns off the right hit notification lamp 22g. Next, the main CPU 41 stores the progress impossible command in the output buffer and outputs it to the sub-board 50 (step S112). Furthermore, in step S112, the main CPU 41 stores the disabled information in the main RWM 43. In step S112, the main CPU 41 outputs a stop signal to the launch device 70. After that, the main CPU 41 performs a loop process. As a result, the main CPU 41 performs the loop process until the power supply is cut off, similarly to after the process of step S105 is performed. The state in which the loop process is being performed is a disabled state in which the game cannot proceed. For example, in the state in which the loop process is being performed, the special symbol input process is not performed, so even if a game ball enters the start hole 26, 27, the execution of the special game is not suspended. For example, in the state in which the loop process is being performed, the special symbol start process is not performed, so the special game is not executed. For example, in the state in which the loop process is being performed, the prize ball process is not performed, so even if a game ball enters any of the start hole 26, 27, the large prize hole 29, 31, and the general prize hole 34, 35, the prize ball is not awarded. For example, when loop processing is being performed, big win processing is not performed, and thus the awarding of a big win game does not start. For example, when loop processing is being performed, small win processing is not performed, and thus the awarding of a small win game does not start. For example, when loop processing is being performed, processing related to the normal game is not performed. Therefore, for example, when loop processing is being performed, the execution of the normal game is not put on hold. For example, when loop processing is being performed, the normal game is not executed. For example, when loop processing is being performed, a normal win game is not awarded.

As described above, in the gaming machine 10, when the maximum difference number reaches the specified value, the game is controlled to an unprogressable state. In this embodiment, the specific condition is met when the maximum difference number reaches the specified value. That is, in this embodiment, the specific condition is met when the maximum difference number as a specific value reaches the specified value as a predetermined value. Then, in the gaming machine 10, the game is controlled to an unprogressable state when the specific condition is met. Specifically, in the gaming machine 10, the game is controlled to an unprogressable state by the main CPU 41 performing a loop process when the specific condition is met. In this embodiment, the main CPU 41 performs a loop process to realize a function as an unprogressable control means that controls the game to an unprogressable state. In this way, the first control unit has a function as an unprogressable control means that controls the game to an unprogressable state when the specific condition is met.

In addition, in the gaming machine 10, for example, when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value when a big win game is awarded, the non-progression planned information is stored in the main RWM 43, but the game is not controlled to a non-progression state until the big win game ends. And in the gaming machine 10, for example, when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value when a big win game is awarded, the game is controlled to a non-progression state after the big win game ends. In other words, in the gaming machine 10, for example, when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value when a big win game is awarded, the game is controlled to a non-progression state after waiting for the big win game to end. Similarly, in the gaming machine 10, for example, when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value when a small win game is awarded, the non-progression planned information is stored in the main RWM 43, but the game is not controlled to a non-progression state until the small win game ends. And in the gaming machine 10, for example, when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value when a small win game is awarded, the game is controlled to a non-progression state after the small win game ends. That is, in the gaming machine 10, for example, if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value when a small win game is awarded, the game is controlled to a non-progression state after waiting for the small win game to end. In other words, in the gaming machine 10, if a specific condition is met when a win game is awarded, the game is not controlled to a non-progression state until the win game ends. And, in the gaming machine 10, if a specific condition is met when a win game is awarded, the game is controlled to a non-progression state after the win game ends. In this way, this embodiment is configured to be controlled to a non-progression state after the win game ends when a specific condition is met when a win game is awarded.

On the other hand, in the gaming machine 10, for example, if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value while a special game is being executed, the gaming machine 10 is controlled to an inability to proceed even if the special game is being executed. At this time, execution of the special game is stopped. In this way, in the gaming machine 10, if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value while a special game is being executed, the gaming machine 10 is controlled to an inability to proceed without waiting for the special game to end. That is, in this embodiment, if a specific condition is met while a variable game is being executed, the gaming machine 10 is controlled to an inability to proceed without waiting for the variable game to end. In other words, in the gaming machine 10, if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value while a special game is being executed, the gaming machine 10 is controlled to an inability to proceed before the special game ends.

In the gaming machine 10, when the processing of step S111 is executed by the main CPU 41 during the execution of the first special game, the state is switched from a state in which the light-emitting elements constituting the first special symbol display unit 22a are lit in a lighting state corresponding to the execution of the first special game to a state in which all the light-emitting elements constituting the first special symbol display unit 22a are turned off. For example, when the processing of step S111 is executed when a special symbol is displayed in a fixed stop state on the first special symbol display unit 22a, the state is switched from a state in which at least one of the light-emitting elements constituting the first special symbol display unit 22a is lit to a state in which all the light-emitting elements constituting the first special symbol display unit 22a are turned off. It should be noted that, not only in the processing of step S111, but also in the case where the processing of step S104 is executed by the main CPU 41, the state is switched to a state in which all the light-emitting elements constituting the first special symbol display unit 22a are turned off. However, in the gaming machine 10, the processing of step S104 is not performed during the execution of the first special game.

Similarly, for example, when the process of step S111 is executed by the main CPU 41 during the execution of the second special game, the state is switched from a state in which the light-emitting elements constituting the second special symbol display unit 22b are lit in a lighting state corresponding to the execution of the second special game to a state in which all the light-emitting elements constituting the second special symbol display unit 22b are turned off. For example, when the process of step S111 is executed when a special symbol is displayed in a fixed stop state on the second special symbol display unit 22b, the state is switched from a state in which at least one of the light-emitting elements constituting the second special symbol display unit 22b is lit to a state in which all the light-emitting elements constituting the second special symbol display unit 22b are turned off. Note that, not only in the process of step S111, but also when the process of step S104 is executed by the main CPU 41, the state is switched to a state in which all the light-emitting elements constituting the second special symbol display unit 22b are turned off. However, in the gaming machine 10, the process of step S104 is not executed during the execution of the second special game.

In step S111, the main CPU 41 turns off the first special symbol display unit 22a. At this time, if the first special game is being played, the first special symbol display unit 22a is turned off, and the first special game being played is forcibly ended. Similarly, in step S111, the main CPU 41 turns off the second special symbol display unit 22b. At this time, if the second special game is being played, the second special symbol display unit 22b is turned off, and the second special game being played is forcibly ended. In this way, in the gaming machine 10, when the processing of step S111 is executed while a special game is being played, the special symbol display units 22a and 22b are turned off, and the special game being played is forcibly ended.

In this way, in the gaming machine 10, if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value while a special game is being executed, the illuminants constituting the special symbol display units 22a and 22b are turned off, forcing the special game to end. That is, in the gaming machine 10, if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value while a special game is being executed, the special game being executed is stopped. In particular, when the execution of the special game is stopped, the special symbol is not displayed as a fixed stop, and the execution of the special game is stopped. For example, in the gaming machine 10, even if the special game being executed is a special game executed based on winning a jackpot in a jackpot lottery, if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value, the game is controlled to a non-progressable state, the jackpot special game is stopped, and the jackpot game is not awarded. Similarly, for example, in gaming machine 10, even if the special game being played is a special game that is being played based on winning a small prize in a small prize lottery, if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value, the game will be controlled to a state where it cannot proceed, the small prize special game will be stopped, and the small prize will not be awarded.

When the processing of step S104 or step S111 is executed when a special symbol is displayed as fixed and stopped on the first special symbol display unit 22a, the state switches from a state in which at least one of the light-emitting elements constituting the first special symbol display unit 22a is lit to a state in which all of the light-emitting elements constituting the first special symbol display unit 22a are turned off. Similarly, when the processing of step S104 or step S111 is executed when a special symbol is displayed as fixed and stopped on the second special symbol display unit 22b, the state switches from a state in which at least one of the light-emitting elements constituting the second special symbol display unit 22b is lit to a state in which all of the light-emitting elements constituting the second special symbol display unit 22b are turned off.

In this way, in the gaming machine 10, regardless of whether the maximum difference number reaches the specified value when the special game is being played or when the special game is not being played, all of the light-emitting elements that make up the special symbol display units 22a and 22b are turned off. For this reason, it is difficult to determine from the special symbol display units 22a and 22b after they have been controlled to a progress-disabled state whether a special game was being played before they were controlled to a progress-disabled state.

In the gaming machine 10, when the processing of step S104 or step S111 is executed while the execution of the first special game is on hold, the state is switched from a state in which the light-emitting elements constituting the first special hold display unit 22c are lit in a lighting manner that allows the first special hold number to be specified to a state in which all the light-emitting elements constituting the first special hold display unit 22c are turned off. For this reason, for example, when the execution of the first special game is on hold and the maximum difference number reaches a specified value while the first special game is being executed and is controlled to a state in which progress cannot be made, the light-emitting elements constituting the first special hold display unit 22c are turned off. Similarly, in the gaming machine 10, when the processing of step S104 or step S111 is executed while the execution of the second special game is on hold, the state is switched from a state in which the light-emitting elements constituting the second special hold display unit 22d are lit in a lighting manner that allows the second special hold number to be specified to a state in which all the light-emitting elements constituting the second special hold display unit 22d are turned off. For this reason, for example, when the execution of the second special game is on hold, if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value while the second special game is being executed and the game is controlled to an unprogressable state, the light-emitting element that constitutes the second special hold display unit 22d is turned off. As described above, in the gaming machine 10, when the execution of a special game is on hold, if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value while the special game is being executed and the game is controlled to an unprogressable state, the light-emitting element that constitutes the special hold display units 22c and 22d is turned off.

In the gaming machine 10, when the processing of step S104 or step S111 is executed during the execution of the normal game, the situation is switched from a situation in which the light-emitting elements constituting the normal symbol display unit 22e are lit in a lighting state corresponding to the execution of the normal game to a situation in which all the light-emitting elements constituting the normal symbol display unit 22e are turned off. For example, when the processing of step S104 or step S111 is executed when a normal symbol is displayed in a fixed stop state on the normal symbol display unit 22e, the situation is switched from a situation in which at least one light-emitting element constituting the normal symbol display unit 22e is lit to a situation in which all the light-emitting elements constituting the normal symbol display unit 22e are turned off. In steps S104 and S111, the main CPU 41 turns off the normal symbol display unit 22e. At this time, if the normal game is being executed, the normal game being executed is forcibly ended by turning off the normal symbol display unit 22e. In the gaming machine 10, regardless of whether the maximum difference number reaches the specified value and the game is controlled to the non-progression state while the normal game is being played or while the normal game is not being played, all of the light-emitting elements that make up the normal symbol display unit 22e are turned off. For this reason, it is difficult to determine from the normal symbol display unit 22e after it has been controlled to the non-progression state whether the normal game was being played before it was controlled to the non-progression state.

In the gaming machine 10, when the processing of step S104 or step S111 is executed while the execution of the normal game is on hold, the state switches from a state in which the light-emitting elements constituting the normal hold display section 22f are lit in a lighting pattern that allows the normal hold number to be identified, to a state in which all light-emitting elements constituting the normal hold display section 22f are turned off. For this reason, for example, when the execution of the normal game is on hold, if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value and is controlled to a state in which progress cannot be made, the light-emitting elements constituting the normal hold display section 22f are turned off.

In the gaming machine 10, when the main CPU 41 executes the processing of step S104 or step S111 in a situation where right hitting is recommended, the right hit notification lamp 22g switches from being lit to being turned off. For this reason, for example, when the right hit notification lamp 22g is lit and a special game is being played, if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value and the game is controlled to an unprogressable state, the right hit notification lamp 22g turns off.

Next, the control related to the launch of game balls by the launching device 70 will be described.
In the gaming machine 10, the launch drive circuit 73 executes launch control corresponding to the control related to the launch of the game ball based on the operation of the launch handle 16. In the launch control, the launch drive circuit 73 executes ball feed control for sending the game ball before being launched to the launch position W2, and hammer control for hitting the game ball at the launch position W2 with the hammer part 72a. In this way, the launch control is configured to include ball feed control for sending the game ball before being launched to a predetermined launch position, and hammer control for hitting the game ball at the launch position with a hammer. In the launch control, the launch drive circuit 73 executes the ball feed control and then executes the hammer control. In this embodiment, the launch drive circuit 73 executes the launch control, thereby realizing a function as a launch control means capable of executing the launch control related to the launch of the game ball.

In ball feed control, the launch drive circuit 73 operates the ball feed actuator 71a. At this time, if a game ball is located at the waiting position W1, the game ball is sent to the launch position W2. In hammer control, the launch drive circuit 73 operates the hammer actuator 72b. Specifically, the launch drive circuit 73 operates the hammer actuator 72b so that the game ball is launched with a launch intensity corresponding to a signal that can identify the amount of operation of the launch handle 16. At this time, if a game ball is located at the launch position W2, the game ball is launched with a launch intensity corresponding to the amount of operation of the launch handle 16.

However, this does not apply when a stop signal is input to the launch device 70. Specifically, when a stop signal is input, the launch drive circuit 73 does not execute ball feed control and does not operate the ball feed actuator 71a, even if it inputs a signal that can identify the amount of operation of the launch handle 16 and a detection signal from the touch sensor TS. Similarly, when a stop signal is input, the launch drive circuit 73 does not execute hammer control and does not operate the hammer actuator 72b, even if it inputs a signal that can identify the amount of operation of the launch handle 16 and a detection signal from the touch sensor TS. As a result, when a stop signal is input to the launch device 70, the game ball is not launched even if the launch handle 16 is operated.

As described above, the stop signal is output to the launch device 70 when the gaming machine 10 is controlled to an unprogressable state. For this reason, when the gaming machine 10 is controlled to an unprogressable state, launch control is not executed. Specifically, when the gaming machine 10 is controlled to an unprogressable state, ball forwarding control is not executed. In other words, when a specific condition is met and the gaming machine 10 is controlled to an unprogressable state, ball forwarding control is not executed. Furthermore, when the gaming machine 10 is controlled to an unprogressable state, mallet control is not executed. In other words, when a specific condition is met and the gaming machine 10 is controlled to an unprogressable state, mallet control is not executed. As described above, when a specific condition is met and the gaming machine 10 is controlled to an unprogressable state, launch control is not executed.

For example, if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value during the execution of a special game and the game is controlled to an unprogressable state, the game ball will not be launched in that unprogressable state even if the launch handle 16 is operated. In other words, if a specific condition is met during the execution of a variable game and the game is controlled to an unprogressable state, the game ball will not be launched in that unprogressable state even if the launch handle is operated.

On the other hand, for example, even if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value when a big win game is awarded, the game ball is launched by operating the launch handle 16 when the big win game is awarded, since the game ball is not controlled to a non-progression state when the big win game is awarded. However, at this time, the game ball is launched by operating the launch handle 16 after the big win game ends, and in this non-progression state, the game ball is not launched even if the launch handle 16 is operated. Similarly, for example, even if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value when a small win game is awarded, the game ball is launched by operating the launch handle 16 when the small win game is awarded, since the game ball is not controlled to a non-progression state when the small win game is awarded. However, at this time, the game ball is launched by operating the launch handle 16 after the small win game ends, and in this non-progression state, the game ball is not launched even if the launch handle 16 is operated. In other words, even if a certain condition is met when a winning game is awarded, the game ball can be launched by operating the launch handle while the winning game is awarded, but if the game is controlled to a non-progression state after the winning game ends, the game ball will not be launched even if the launch handle is operated in that non-progression state.

The gaming machine 10 is capable of executing a stop notification effect that allows the player to identify that the machine has been controlled to an unprogressable state. The stop notification effect can also be said to be an effect that notifies the player that the machine has been controlled to an unprogressable state. The stop notification effect is executed on the effect display device 25 when the machine is controlled to an unprogressable state. When the stop notification effect is executed, the stop notification effect continues to be executed on the effect display device 25 at least until the power supply is cut off.

As shown in FIG. 7, in the gaming machine 10, a stop notification effect is executed by displaying a stop notification image Ga on the effect display device 25. The stop notification image Ga is an image including text information such as "Today's game has ended." In this way, the effect display device 25 is capable of executing a stop notification effect.

The gaming machine 10 can execute a stop notice effect as a special effect that allows the player to identify that the game will be controlled to a non-progression state after the end of a winning game. The stop notice effect can also be said to be an effect that notifies the player that the game will be controlled to a non-progression state after the end of a winning game. The stop notice effect is executed on the effect display device 25 when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value when a big win game is awarded. When a stop notice effect is executed when a big win game is awarded, the stop notice effect is continuously executed on the effect display device 25 until the big win game ends, that is, until the game is controlled to a non-progression state. Similarly, the stop notice effect is executed on the effect display device 25 when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value when a small win game is awarded. When a stop notice effect is executed when a small win game is awarded, the stop notice effect is continuously executed on the effect display device 25 until the small win game ends, that is, until the game is controlled to a non-progression state.

As shown in FIG. 8, in the gaming machine 10, a stop notice effect is executed by displaying a stop notice image Gb on the effect display device 25. The stop notice image Gb is an image including text information such as "The game will stop after the winning game ends." In this way, the effect display device 25 can execute a stop notice effect as a special effect.

The stop notice effect can be executed when a big win has been awarded. Also, the stop notice effect can be executed when a small win has been awarded. In this way, the special effect can be executed when a win has been awarded. However, if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value while a special game is being played, the game will become unable to proceed without waiting for the special game to end, so the stop notice effect will not be executed while the special game is being played.

The gaming machine 10 can execute an arrival notice effect as a specific effect that allows the player to identify that the maximum difference number is approaching a specified value. The arrival notice effect can also be said to be an effect that notifies the player that the maximum difference number is approaching a specified value. The arrival notice effect is executed in the effect display device 25 when the remaining value until the maximum difference number reaches the specified value is less than a predetermined notice start value. In other words, the arrival notice effect is executed in the effect display device 25 when the remaining value until the maximum difference number reaches the specified value falls below the notice start value. In this embodiment, the notice start value is set to 1000. In this embodiment, the notice start value corresponds to the first value. In the following description, the remaining value until the maximum difference number reaches the specified value is referred to as the "remaining arrival difference number". In addition, when the arrival notice effect is executed, the arrival notice effect is continuously executed in the effect display device 25 until the maximum difference number reaches the specified value.

In the gaming machine 10, when the remaining arrival difference falls below the notice start value while the arrival notice performance is not being executed, the performance display device 25 executes the arrival notice performance. In this manner, in this embodiment, when the remaining value until the specific value reaches a predetermined value falls below the first value while the specific performance is not being executed, the performance execution means executes the specific performance. However, in the gaming machine 10, after the remaining arrival difference falls below the notice start value and the execution of the arrival notice performance is started, the execution of the arrival notice performance may not end even if the remaining arrival difference exceeds the notice start value. Specifically, in the gaming machine 10, after the remaining arrival difference falls below the notice start value of 1000 and the arrival notice performance is executed, even if the remaining arrival difference becomes 1000 or more, it continues to be executed in the performance display device 25 until the remaining arrival difference reaches the notice end value. In this embodiment, the notice end value is set to 2000.

As shown in FIG. 9, in the gaming machine 10, a reach notice performance is executed by displaying a reach notice image Gc on the performance display device 25. The reach notice image Gc is an image including text information such as "The maximum difference number will soon reach the specified value." For example, the reach notice image Gc may be an image including information indicating the remaining reach difference number. In this way, the performance display device 25 is capable of executing a reach notice performance as a specific performance.

The arrival notice performance can be executed when a special game is being played. The arrival notice performance can be executed when a big win game has been awarded. The arrival notice performance can be executed when a small win game has been awarded. In this way, the arrival notice performance can be executed when a special game is being played, when a big win game has been awarded, or when a small win game has been awarded. In other words, the specific performance can be executed at least when a win game has been awarded.

In the gaming machine 10, when a jackpot game is awarded, a warning against addiction may be issued. In particular, in the gaming machine 10, if a jackpot is won and a jackpot game is awarded while the gaming machine 10 is controlled in a normal state, a warning against addiction may be issued while the jackpot game is awarded. On the other hand, in the gaming machine 10, if a jackpot is won and a jackpot game is awarded while the gaming machine 10 is controlled in a game state other than the normal state, a warning against addiction is not issued while the jackpot game is awarded. In addition, in the gaming machine 10, a warning against addiction may be issued when a jackpot game is not awarded. For example, in the gaming machine 10, a warning against addiction may be issued after the jackpot game ends.

As shown in FIG. 10, in the gaming machine 10, a warning image Gd is displayed on the performance display device 25 to warn against addiction. The warning image Gd is an image that includes text information such as "Pachinko and Pachislot are games that should be enjoyed in moderation" and "Be careful not to get addicted." In this way, the performance display device 25 is capable of issuing warnings against addiction. In other words, the gaming machine 10 is equipped with a performance display device 25 that is at least capable of issuing warnings against addiction.

In the gaming machine 10, if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value when a big win is awarded, a warning about addiction may be issued. Incidentally, in the gaming machine 10, if a small win is awarded, a warning about addiction is not issued.

As shown in FIG. 11(a), when a jackpot is won and a jackpot game is awarded while under normal control, if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value at timing tA1 within the opening period of the jackpot game, a warning about addiction is issued at timing tA2 after the opening period ends. Timing tA2 is the timing after the opening period ends and within the round period during which a round game is played before the ending period begins. When a warning about addiction is issued at timing tA2, the time for which the warning about addiction is issued is time Tn. In this embodiment, time Tn is 8 seconds.

In this way, if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value during the opening period of a jackpot game that is awarded upon winning a jackpot in the normal state, a warning about addiction is issued after the opening period ends. After the jackpot game ends, the game is controlled to a non-progression state. In this way, if a specific condition is met during the opening period of a jackpot game that is awarded upon winning a jackpot in the normal state, a warning about addiction is issued after the opening period ends, and the game is controlled to a non-progression state.

As shown in FIG. 11(b), when a jackpot is won and a jackpot game is awarded while under normal control, if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value at timing tB1 while round play is being played in the jackpot game, a warning about addiction is issued at timing tB2 after all round play has ended. Timing tB2 is a timing within the ending period after all round play has ended and before the jackpot game ends. In other words, timing tB2 is a timing after the round period during which round play is played has ended. When a warning about addiction is issued at timing tB2, the time for which the warning about addiction is issued is time Tn.

In this way, if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value while a round of a jackpot game that was awarded upon winning a jackpot in the normal state is being played, a warning about addiction is issued after all rounds of play have ended. After the jackpot game ends, the game is controlled to a non-progression state. In the gaming machine 10, for example, if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value with the ball that entered the game that triggered the first round end condition to be established during the final round of a jackpot game, the first large prize entry port 29 is not opened thereafter, and the game is controlled to a non-progression state. As described above, if a specific condition is established while a round of a jackpot game that was awarded upon winning a jackpot in the normal state is being played, a warning about addiction is issued after all rounds of play have ended, and the game is controlled to a non-progression state.

As shown in FIG. 11(c), when a jackpot is won and a jackpot game is awarded while under normal control, if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value at timing tC1 within the ending period of the jackpot game, a warning about addiction is issued at timing tC2 after the ending period ends. Timing tC2 is the timing after the ending period ends and after the jackpot game ends. If a warning about addiction is issued at timing tC2, the time for which the warning about addiction is issued is time Tn.

In this way, when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value during the ending period of the jackpot game that is awarded by winning a jackpot in the normal state, a warning about addiction is issued at the timing after the ending period ends. Then, the end of the jackpot game is controlled to a non-progression state. In the gaming machine 10, when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value during the ending period of the jackpot game, the first large prize winning port 29 is not opened thereafter, and the game is controlled to a non-progression state. As described above, when a specific condition is established during the ending period of the winning game that is awarded by winning a jackpot in the normal state, a warning about addiction is issued at the timing after the ending period ends, and the game is controlled to a non-progression state. Incidentally, even after the end of the jackpot game, if the game is controlled to a non-progression state, the special game will not be executed even if the execution of the special game was suspended when the jackpot game was awarded. Therefore, in the gaming machine 10, if a special game is not executed after the end of a jackpot game, a warning about addiction is issued after the end of the jackpot game.

In the gaming machine 10, if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value while a jackpot game is awarded, a warning about addiction is issued only when the game state when a jackpot is won is the normal state. In addition, in the gaming machine 10, if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value while a jackpot game is awarded, the gaming machine 10 is controlled to a non-progression state after the jackpot game ends. Therefore, in the gaming machine 10, if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value in a jackpot game awarded by winning a jackpot when in the normal state, a warning about addiction is issued and the gaming machine 10 is controlled to a non-progression state. That is, in this embodiment, if a specific condition is met in a winning game awarded by winning a jackpot when in the normal state, a warning about addiction is issued and the gaming machine 10 is controlled to a non-progression state.

As shown in Figures 11(a) to 11(c), in the gaming machine 10, regardless of the timing during the period during which the jackpot game is awarded, when the maximum difference number reaches the specified value, a warning about addiction is issued for a period of time Tn. In other words, in the gaming machine 10, regardless of the timing during which the jackpot game is awarded and when the maximum difference number reaches the specified value, the time during which a warning about addiction is issued is the same. In this way, in this embodiment, regardless of the timing during which a specific condition is established and when a jackpot game is awarded, the time during which a warning about addiction is issued is the same.

Next, the control relating to the execution of various performances will be described.
The secondary RWM 53 stores information capable of identifying the maximum difference number (hereinafter referred to as secondary maximum difference number information). When the secondary CPU 51 inputs a maximum difference number command, it updates the secondary maximum difference number information. Specifically, when the secondary CPU 51 inputs a maximum difference number command, it identifies the maximum difference number from the maximum difference number command. Then, the secondary CPU 51 updates the secondary maximum difference number information to indicate the identified maximum difference number.

When the maximum difference number identifiable from the updated secondary maximum difference number information exceeds 98,000 while the secondary CPU 51 is not executing the arrival notice performance, the secondary CPU 51 controls the performance display device 25 to start the execution of the arrival notice performance. The secondary CPU 51 displays the arrival notice image Gc on the performance display device 25 and executes the arrival notice performance. The case where the maximum difference number identifiable from the updated secondary maximum difference number information exceeds 98,000 corresponds to the case where the remaining arrival difference number falls below the notice start value of 1,000. Note that the secondary CPU 51 does not end the execution of the arrival notice performance even if the maximum difference number identifiable from the updated secondary maximum difference number information becomes 98,000 or less. When the secondary CPU 51 is executing the arrival notice performance, if the maximum difference number identifiable from the updated secondary maximum difference number information becomes 97,000 or less, the secondary CPU 51 ends the execution of the arrival notice performance. In addition, the secondary CPU 51 ends the execution of the arrival notice performance when a progress impossible command is input. Incidentally, the situation in which the secondary CPU 51 inputs the no-progress command includes a situation in which the maximum difference number reaches a specified value. In addition, the situation in which the secondary CPU 51 inputs the no-progress command includes a situation in which a big win game has been awarded and the maximum difference number reaches a specified value, and the big win game has ended. In addition, the situation in which the secondary CPU 51 inputs the no-progress command includes a situation in which a small win game has been awarded and the maximum difference number reaches a specified value, and the small win game has ended.

When the secondary CPU 51 inputs an impossible-to-progress planned command, it controls the performance display device 25 so that execution of a stop notice performance is started. The secondary CPU 51 causes the performance display device 25 to display a stop notice image Gb and execute a stop notice performance. Circumstances for inputting an impossible-to-progress planned command include a situation in which the maximum difference number reaches a specified value when a big win game is awarded. Also, circumstances for inputting an impossible-to-progress planned command include a situation in which the maximum difference number reaches a specified value when a small win game is awarded. When the secondary CPU 51 inputs an impossible-to-progress command, it ends execution of the arrival notice performance.

When a non-progression planned command is input during the opening period of a jackpot game, the sub-CPU 51 controls the performance display device 25 so that a warning about addiction is issued after the opening period ends. At this time, the sub-CPU 51 starts the execution of a warning about addiction when the first round of play is being played. The sub-CPU 51 displays the warning image Gd on the performance display device 25 and executes a warning about addiction. Also, when a non-progression planned command is input during a round period of a jackpot game, the sub-CPU 51 controls the performance display device 25 so that a warning about addiction is issued after all rounds of play are completed. At this time, the sub-CPU 51 starts the execution of a warning about addiction during the ending period. Also, when a non-progression planned command is input during the ending period of a jackpot game, the sub-CPU 51 controls the performance display device 25 so that a warning about addiction is issued after the ending period ends. At this time, the secondary CPU 51 starts executing a warning about addiction when a predetermined waiting time has elapsed since the end of the jackpot game. When executing a warning about addiction, the secondary CPU 51 controls the warning so that it is executed for a period of time Tn. Specifically, regardless of the timing of inputting the progress-impossible command, the secondary CPU 51 controls the warning about addiction so that it is executed for a period of time Tn.

When the secondary CPU 51 inputs a progress disable command, it controls the performance display device 25 to start executing the stop notification performance. The secondary CPU 51 causes the performance display device 25 to display the stop notification image Ga and execute the stop notification performance.

If a progress disable command is input when a performance symbol is being displayed, the sub-CPU 51 erases the displayed performance symbol. The sub-CPU 51 erases the displayed performance symbol and ends the display of the performance symbol. In this way, in the gaming machine 10, if the gaming machine 10 is controlled to a progress disable state while a performance symbol is being displayed on the performance display device 25, the display of the performance symbol displayed on the performance display device 25 ends. For example, in the gaming machine 10, if the gaming machine 10 is controlled to a progress disable state while a performance symbol is being displayed on the performance display device 25 and a special game is being executed, the display of the performance symbol displayed on the performance display device 25 ends. In this way, the display of the performance symbol is ended, and the currently executed performance game is forcibly ended.

If a progress impossible command is input when a right hit notification effect is being executed, the sub-CPU 51 erases the image YG1 and the text information MJ1, and ends the right hit notification effect. In this way, in the gaming machine 10, if the gaming machine is controlled to a progress impossible state when a right hit notification effect is being executed, the right hit notification effect ends. Similarly, if a progress impossible command is input when a left hit notification effect is being executed, the sub-CPU 51 erases the image YG2 and the text information MJ2, and ends the left hit notification effect. In this way, in the gaming machine 10, if the gaming machine is controlled to a progress impossible state when a left hit notification effect is being executed, the left hit notification effect ends.

Next, the control performed when the power supply is interrupted and the control performed when the power supply is started will be described.
First, the control that is performed when the power supply is interrupted will be described.

When the power supply to the gaming machine 10 is cut off, the main CPU 41 performs backup processing of the main RWM 43. For example, the power supplied to the gaming machine 10 may be configured to be monitored within the power supply unit 60, and when the power supplied to the gaming machine 10 decreases, control information indicating that the power supply to the gaming machine 10 has been cut off may be output to the main CPU 41. This allows the main CPU 41 to know that the power supply to the gaming machine 10 has been cut off.

In the backup process, the main CPU 41 stores and retains information such as registers and stack pointers in the main RWM 43 in addition to the various types of information stored in the main RWM 43. This causes at least a portion of the information stored in the main RWM 43 to be backed up. For example, the information to be backed up includes a base state flag, a probability state flag, and count information. For example, the information to be backed up includes various random number values (random number information). The information to be backed up includes maximum difference number information. For example, the information to be backed up includes planned inability to proceed information. For example, the information to be backed up includes inability completed information.

The main CPU 41 also calculates the sum value at the time of power cut-off based on the memory contents of the main RWM 43. In this embodiment, the sum value at the time of power cut-off corresponds to the first memory information calculated based on the memory contents of the memory means. The sum value at the time of power cut-off is included in the information to be backed up. In this way, in the gaming machine 10, when the power supply is cut off, the main RWM 43 stores the sum value at the time of power cut-off calculated based on the memory contents of the main RWM 43. That is, in this embodiment, when the power supply is cut off, the memory means stores the first memory information calculated based on the memory contents of the memory means. The memory contents of the main RWM 43 used to calculate the sum value at the time of power cut-off include maximum difference number information. That is, in this embodiment, the memory contents of the memory means used to calculate the first memory information include memory information related to a specific value. After the power supply is cut off, power is supplied from the backup power source 62 to the main RWM 43, and some or all of the information stored in the main RWM 43 at the time the power supply was cut off is stored and held as backup information.

Next, the control that is performed when power supply is started will be described.
When the main CPU 41 is started by a start-up process (boot process) accompanying the start of power supply, it first executes a main power-on process. In the main power-on process, whether or not the main RWM 43 is initialized (RAM clear) is controlled according to the operation state of the clear switch 45 at the start of power supply. When the clear switch 45 is operated to the on state, the main CPU 41 executes RAM clear of the main RWM 43. When RAM clear is executed, the main CPU 41 initializes the stored information by storing initial information in the main RWM 43. As a result, for example, the maximum difference number information is initialized. Furthermore, even if the progress-disabled scheduled information is backed up, the progress-disabled scheduled information is erased from the stored contents of the main RWM 43. Furthermore, even if the disabled information is backed up, the disabled information is erased from the stored contents of the main RWM 43. After that, the main CPU 41 ends the main power-on process. When the RAM clear is executed, neither the special game nor the normal game is executed or reserved, and the state is restored to one in which none of the big win game, the small win game, and the normal win game is being executed. When the RAM clear is performed, the main CPU 41 stores control information (hereinafter referred to as an initialization command) capable of identifying that the RAM clear has been performed in the output buffer.

On the other hand, when the clear switch 45 is in the off state, the main CPU 41 does not perform RAM clearing of the main RWM 43, and calculates the sum value at the start of power supply. In this embodiment, the sum value at the start of power supply corresponds to the second memory information calculated based on the memory contents of the memory means after the start of power supply. The memory contents of the main RWM 43 used to calculate the sum value at the start of power supply include the backed up maximum difference number information. In other words, in this embodiment, the memory contents of the memory means used to calculate the second memory information include information related to a specific value. In this way, the memory contents of the main RWM 43 used to calculate the sum value at the time of power supply interruption and the sum value at the start of power supply include the maximum difference number information. In other words, in this embodiment, the memory contents of the memory means used to calculate the first memory information and the second memory information include memory information related to a specific value.

After calculating the sum value at the start of power supply, the main CPU 41 performs a checksum based on the sum value at the start of power supply and the sum value at the time the power supply is cut off. In this embodiment, the main CPU 41 performs a checksum when the power supply is started, thereby realizing a function as a check means that can perform a checksum when the power supply is started. In this way, when the power supply is resumed, the main CPU 41 performs a checksum based on the sum value at the start of power supply and the sum value at the time the power supply is cut off. That is, in this embodiment, when the power supply is resumed, the check means performs a checksum based on the second stored information calculated based on the memory contents of the memory means after the power supply is started and the first stored information calculated when the power supply is cut off.

If the checksum determines that the sum value at the start of power supply does not match the sum value at the time the power supply is cut off, the main CPU 41 does not perform a recovery based on the backed up memory contents of the main RWM 43. At this time, the main CPU 41 does not end the main power-on process until the power supply is cut off. However, after performing the checksum, the main CPU 41 sets the maximum difference number information to "0" and initializes the maximum difference number information. If the checksum determines that the sum value at the start of power supply does not match the sum value at the time the power supply is cut off, the main CPU 41 stores control information that can identify an unrecoverable state (hereinafter referred to as an unrecoverable command) in the output buffer.

When the checksum is performed and it is determined that the sum value at the start of power supply and the sum value at the time of power supply cutoff match, the main CPU 41 performs recovery based on the backed up memory contents of the main RWM 43 and ends the main power-on process. After performing the checksum, the main CPU 41 sets the maximum difference number information to "0" and initializes the maximum difference number information. When recovery is performed based on the backed up memory contents of the main RWM 43, the main CPU 41 stores control information (hereinafter referred to as a recovery command) that can identify the recovery in the output buffer.

When restoring based on the backed up memory contents of the main RWM 43, if the backed up information contains unprogression scheduled information, the main CPU 41 stores control information (hereinafter referred to as the unprogression scheduled return command) that can identify that unprogression scheduled information has been stored in the output buffer. However, even when restoring based on the backed up memory contents of the main RWM 43, if the backed up information does not contain unprogression scheduled information, the main CPU 41 does not store the unprogression scheduled return command in the output buffer.

When restoring based on the backed up memory contents of the main RWM 43, if the backed up information contains disabled completion information, the main CPU 41 stores control information (hereinafter referred to as a disabled completion command) that can identify that disabled completion information has been stored in the output buffer. However, even when restoring based on the backed up memory contents of the main RWM 43, if the backed up information does not contain disabled completion information, the main CPU 41 does not store the disabled completion command in the output buffer.

If the RAM is not cleared, the state when the power supply was cut off is restored based on the backed up information. For example, if the power supply is cut off while a jackpot game has been awarded, and then the power supply is started and restored based on the backed up information, the state when the jackpot game has been awarded is restored. In other words, if the power supply is cut off while a jackpot game has been awarded and then the power supply is resumed, the gaming machine 10 can return to the state when the jackpot game has been awarded. In other words, this embodiment is configured to be able to return to the state when the jackpot game has been awarded when the power supply is cut off while a jackpot game has been awarded and then the power supply is resumed.

As described above, regardless of whether the sum value at the start of power supply and the sum value at the time of power supply cutoff match when the checksum is performed, the backed up maximum difference number information is initialized after the checksum is performed. That is, in this embodiment, the storage information on the specific value stored and held in the storage means is initialized after the checksum is performed. On the other hand, regardless of whether the sum value at the start of power supply and the sum value at the time of power supply cutoff match when the checksum is performed, even if the progress failure schedule information has been backed up, the progress failure schedule information is not initialized after the checksum is performed and continues to be stored in the main RWM 43. Similarly, regardless of whether the sum value at the start of power supply and the sum value at the time of power supply cutoff match when the checksum is performed, even if the failure completion information has been backed up, the failure completion information is not initialized after the checksum is performed and continues to be stored in the main RWM 43. In this embodiment, at least one of the progress failure schedule information and the failure completion information corresponds to the establishment history information that can identify that a specific condition has been established. And, in this embodiment, the establishment history information stored and held in the storage means is not initialized even after the checksum is performed.

In the gaming machine 10, when a big win is awarded and the power supply is cut off before the maximum difference number reaches a specified value, and then the power supply is resumed, a return command is output from the main board 40 to the sub-board 50. On the other hand, in the gaming machine 10, when a big win is awarded and the power supply is cut off after the maximum difference number reaches a specified value, and then the power supply is resumed, in addition to the return command, a disabled planned return command is output from the main board 40 to the sub-board 50. In this way, in the gaming machine 10, depending on whether the maximum difference number reaches a specified value when a big win is awarded, at least a part of the control information output from the main board 40 to the sub-board 50 when the power supply is cut off when the big win is awarded and then the power supply is resumed is different. Similarly, in the gaming machine 10, when a small win is awarded and the power supply is cut off before the maximum difference number reaches a specified value, and then the power supply is resumed, a return command is output from the main board 40 to the sub-board 50. On the other hand, in the gaming machine 10, when a small win is awarded and the maximum difference number reaches a specified value, the power supply is cut off and then the power supply is resumed, in addition to the return command, a disabled scheduled return command is output from the main board 40 to the sub-board 50. In this way, in the gaming machine 10, depending on whether the maximum difference number reaches a specified value when a small win is awarded, at least a part of the control information output from the main board 40 to the sub-board 50 when the power supply is resumed after the power supply is cut off when the small win is awarded is different. In this embodiment, depending on whether a specific condition is established when the win is awarded, at least a part of the control information output from the first control unit to the second control unit when the power supply is resumed after the power supply is cut off when the win is awarded is different.

As described above, the main CPU 41 stores various control information such as the symbol command, the variable pattern command, the initialization command, the impossible return command, the return command, the impossible planned return command, and the impossible return command in the output buffer and outputs it. Therefore, in this embodiment, the main CPU 41 outputs the control information to the secondary CPU 51, thereby realizing the function of information output means that outputs control information to be output to the second control unit. In this way, in this embodiment, the first control unit has the function of information output means.

When the secondary CPU 51 starts up through the startup process (boot process) associated with the start of power supply, it waits until it receives an initialization command, an unrecoverable command, or a recovery command from the main CPU 41. If an unrecoverable command is received, the secondary CPU 51 controls at least one of the various performance devices 17, 18, 25 so as to notify the user that recovery is not possible. If an initialization command or a recovery command is received, the secondary CPU 51 executes a sub power-on process.

In the sub power-on process, control is performed according to whether an initialization command or a return command has been input. Specifically, when an initialization command has been input, the sub CPU 51 returns based on the initial information and ends the sub power-on process. When a return command has been input, the sub CPU 51 returns based on the control information from the main CPU 41 and ends the sub power-on process. When an initialization command has been input, the game is returned to a state in which no presentation game is being executed and neither the presentation during a big win game nor the presentation during a small win game is being executed. On the other hand, when a return command has been input, the game is returned to the state it was in when the power supply was cut off, based on the game information that has been backed up.

When an initialization command is input, the secondary CPU 51 controls at least one of the various performance devices 17, 18, 25 so as to notify that a RAM clear has been performed. For example, the secondary CPU 51 controls the speaker 18 so as to output a sound that can identify that a RAM clear has been performed. For example, the secondary CPU 51 controls the performance display device 25 so as to display an image that can identify that a RAM clear has been performed.

When a return command is input, the sub-CPU 51 controls at least one of the various presentation devices 17, 18, 25 so as to notify the player that a return will occur based on the backed-up game information. For example, the sub-CPU 51 controls the speaker 18 so as to output a sound that can identify a return based on the backed-up game information. For example, the sub-CPU 51 controls the presentation display device 25 so as to display an image that can identify a return will occur based on the backed-up game information.

When the disabled scheduled return command is input, the secondary CPU 51 controls the performance display device 25 so that the execution of the stop notice performance is started. The secondary CPU 51 causes the performance display device 25 to display the stop notice image Gb and execute the stop notice performance.

When the disable return command is input, the secondary CPU 51 controls the performance display device 25 to start the execution of the stop notification performance. The secondary CPU 51 causes the performance display device 25 to display the stop notification image Ga and execute the stop notification performance.

When power supply starts, the secondary CPU 51 performs an initial operation process to perform an initial operation of the movable body 24. The initial operation of the movable body 24 is also called the initial operation of the movable body 24. The secondary CPU 51 performs the initial operation process when an initialization command, an unrecoverable command, or a recovery command is input. In this embodiment, the secondary CPU 51 controls the operation of the movable body 24, thereby functioning as a movable body control means that controls the operation of the movable body. In this way, the second control unit functions as a movable body control means.

In the initial operation process, the secondary CPU 51 controls the performance actuator EA so that the movable body 24 performs the initial operation. The secondary CPU 51 monitors the transition of the detection signal from the original position sensor GS. The secondary CPU 51 determines that an abnormality has occurred in at least one of the movable body 24 and the performance actuator EA when the detection signal continues to be input from the original position sensor GS until a predetermined operation period has elapsed since the initial operation of the movable body 24 is started. The secondary CPU 51 determines that an abnormality has occurred in at least one of the movable body 24 and the performance actuator EA when the detection signal from the original position sensor GS is no longer input and the detection signal is no longer input again until a predetermined operation period has elapsed since the initial operation of the movable body 24 is started. When it is determined that an abnormality has occurred in at least one of the movable body 24 and the performance actuator EA, the secondary CPU 51 stops the performance actuator EA and stores information (hereinafter referred to as movable body error information) that can identify that there is an abnormality in the operation of the movable body 24 in the secondary RWM 53. If movable body error information is stored in the secondary RWM 53, the secondary CPU 51 will not operate the movable body 24 when various performances are being performed. The movable body error information stored in the secondary RWM 53 is erased from the secondary RWM 53 when the power supply is cut off. Incidentally, the time that constitutes the specified operation period is set to a time longer than the time required for the initial operation of the movable body 24 to be completed normally.

Here, based on Figs. 12(a) to 12(c), an example will be described in which the power supply is cut off and then resumed before the maximum difference number reaches a specified value when a jackpot has been awarded, and an example will be described in which the power supply is cut off and then resumed after the maximum difference number reaches a specified value when a jackpot has been awarded.

As shown in FIG. 12(a), assume that in the normal state, a special game is being executed based on a jackpot being won. Also assume that during the execution of this special game, a reach notice effect is being executed on the effect display device 25. By executing this reach notice effect, the player can determine that the maximum difference number is approaching a specified value.

Then, after the special game based on winning the jackpot is completed, the jackpot game is awarded. The arrival notice effect that was being executed before the jackpot game was awarded continues to be executed on the effect display device 25 even after the awarding of the jackpot game has started.

The jackpot game is made up of an opening period, a round period during which the round game is played, and an ending period. In FIG. 12(a), it is assumed that the maximum difference number reaches a specified value at timing t11 during the round period. When the jackpot game is awarded, the maximum difference number reaches the specified value at timing t11, and thus the main RWM 43 stores planned inability to proceed.

When the maximum difference number reaches a specified value at timing t11, a warning about addiction is issued at timing t12 after all rounds of play have been completed. In this way, in the gaming machine 10, if the power supply is not cut off within the period until all rounds of play are completed after the maximum difference number reaches a specified value in a situation in which a round of play of a jackpot game that was awarded by winning a jackpot in a normal state is being played, a warning about addiction is issued at the timing after all rounds of play have been completed. That is, in this embodiment, if the power supply is not cut off within the period until all rounds of play are completed after the specific condition is established in a situation in which a round of play of a winning game that was awarded by winning a jackpot in a normal state is being played, a warning about addiction is issued at the timing after all rounds of play have been completed. Incidentally, in this embodiment, even if timing t11 is different from timing tB1 shown in FIG. 11(b), timing t12 is the same as timing tB2 shown in FIG. 11(b). The warning about addiction that begins at timing t12 continues for time Tn.

When the maximum difference number reaches a specified value at timing t11, the execution of the reach notice performance ends, and the performance display device 25 starts executing the stop notice performance. This stop notice performance continues to be executed even after the ending period has begun. Then, during the ending period, a warning about addiction is executed, and the stop notice performance is executed. That is, the performance display device 25 executes the stop notice performance in parallel with the warning about addiction. Then, at timing t11 when a jackpot game is awarded, the maximum difference number reaches a specified value, and after the jackpot game ends, the game is controlled to a progress-impossible state. Also, as the game is controlled to a progress-impossible state, the stop notice performance ends, and the performance display device 25 starts executing the stop notification performance.

As described above, in the gaming machine 10, when a big win is awarded and the maximum difference number reaches a specified value, if the power supply is not cut off between the time when the maximum difference number reaches the specified value and the time when the big win is ended, the machine is controlled to a non-progress state after the big win is ended. Also, although not shown, in the gaming machine 10, when a small win is awarded and the maximum difference number reaches a specified value, if the power supply is not cut off between the time when the maximum difference number reaches the specified value and the time when the small win is ended, the machine is controlled to a non-progress state after the small win is ended. In this embodiment, when a specific condition is met when a win is awarded and the power supply is not cut off between the time when the specific condition is met and the time when the win is ended, the machine is controlled to a non-progress state after the win is ended.

Here, we will explain the case where the power supply is cut off at timing tX1 before timing t11 when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value while a jackpot game is awarded. Note that timing tX1 is within the round period and is a timing before timing t11. In the gaming machine 10, when the power supply is cut off at timing tX1, the sum value at the time of power supply cut off, including the maximum difference number information, is calculated.

As shown in FIG. 12(b), when power supply is restarted after being cut off at timing tX1, a sum value including the maximum difference number information at the start of power supply is calculated. After that, in the gaming machine 10, a checksum is performed using the sum value at the time when power supply was cut off and the sum value at the time when power supply was started. In addition, after the checksum is performed, the maximum difference number information is initialized, and the maximum difference number becomes "0".

When the power supply is resumed after being cut off at time tX1, a recovery command is output from the main board 40 to the sub-board 50. As previously assumed, the maximum difference number has not reached the specified value when the power supply is cut off at time tX1, so for example, a failure planned recovery command is not output from the main board 40 to the sub-board 50. Furthermore, when the power supply is resumed after being cut off at time tX1, the arrival notice performance that was being executed when the power supply was cut off is not executed by the performance display device 25. Furthermore, when the power supply is resumed after being cut off at time tX1, the stop notice performance is also not executed by the performance display device 25.

When the power supply is interrupted at timing tX1 and then resumed, the secondary CPU 51 performs an initial operation process, and the movable body 24 performs an initial operation. Also, when the power supply is interrupted at timing tX1 and then resumed, the game is not controlled to a progress-disabled state after the end of the jackpot game. Therefore, the stop notification effect is not executed after the end of the jackpot game.

Next, a case will be described where the power supply is cut off at timing tX2, which is after timing t11, when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value, while a jackpot has been awarded. Note that timing tX2 is within the round period and is after timing t11. In the gaming machine 10, when the power supply is cut off at timing tX2, the sum value at the time of power supply cut off, including the maximum difference number information, is calculated.

As described above, when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value at timing t11 when a big win game is awarded, the main RWM 43 stores planned non-progression information. Then, when the power supply is cut off at timing tX2, the main RWM 43 stores and holds the planned non-progression information. In this way, when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value when a big win game is awarded and the power supply is cut off before the big win game ends, the main RWM 43 stores and holds the planned non-progression information. Incidentally, although not shown, when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value when a small win game is awarded and the power supply is cut off before the small win game ends, the main RWM 43 stores and holds the planned non-progression information. That is, when a specific condition is established when a winning game is awarded and the power supply is cut off before the winning game ends, the storage means stores and holds establishment history information that can identify that a specific condition has been established.

As shown in FIG. 12(c), when the power supply is restarted after being cut off at timing tX2, a sum value including the maximum difference number information at the start of the power supply is calculated. After that, the gaming machine 10 performs a checksum using the sum value at the time the power supply was cut off and the sum value at the time the power supply was started. In addition, after the checksum is performed, the maximum difference number information is initialized, and the maximum difference number becomes "0".

When the power supply is restarted after being cut off at timing tX2, a recovery command is output from the main board 40 to the sub-board 50. Furthermore, since the maximum difference number reaches a specified value at timing t11 as premised, when the power supply is restarted after being cut off at timing tX2, a planned failure recovery command is output from the main board 40 to the sub-board 50. In this way, at least some of the control commands output from the main board 40 to the sub-board 50 differ between the case where the power supply is restarted after being cut off at timing tX1 and the case where the power supply is restarted after being cut off at timing tX2.

If the power supply is interrupted at timing tX2 and then resumed, a stop notice performance is executed. The stop notice performance that was being executed when the power supply was interrupted at timing tX2 is executed again after the power supply is resumed. In this way, in the gaming machine 10, if the power supply is interrupted when a jackpot game has been awarded and a stop notice performance is being executed, the stop notice performance can be executed again in the performance display device 25 after the power supply is resumed. That is, in this embodiment, if the power supply is interrupted when a jackpot game has been awarded and a special performance is being executed, the special performance can be executed again in the performance execution means after the power supply is resumed.

As described above, when the power supply is interrupted at timing tX1 and then resumed, the stop notice performance is not executed on the performance display device 25, and the arrival notice performance that was executed when the power supply was interrupted is also not executed on the performance display device 25. On the other hand, when the power supply is interrupted at timing tX2 and then resumed, the stop notice performance is not executed on the performance display device 25, and the stop notice performance that was executed when the power supply was interrupted is executed again on the performance display device 25. In other words, when a jackpot game is awarded, the display content of the performance display device 25 when the power supply is interrupted before the maximum difference number reaches the specified value and then resumed is at least a display content in which neither the arrival notice performance nor the stop notice performance is executed. On the other hand, when a jackpot game is awarded, the display content of the performance display device 25 when the power supply is interrupted after the maximum difference number reaches the specified value and then resumed is at least a display content in which the stop notice performance is executed. In this way, the display content of the effect display device 25 when the power supply is cut off and then resumed after the maximum difference number reaches a specified value when a jackpot game is awarded is different from the display content of the effect display device 25 when the power supply is cut off and then resumed before the maximum difference number reaches a specified value when a jackpot game is awarded. That is, in this embodiment, the display content of the display means when the power supply is cut off after a specific condition is met when a jackpot game is awarded, the power supply is resumed, and the situation where a jackpot game is awarded is restored is different from the display content of the display means when the power supply is cut off and then resumed when a specific condition is not met when a jackpot game is awarded, and the situation where a jackpot game is awarded is restored.

When the power supply is interrupted at timing tX2 and then resumed, the secondary CPU 51 performs the initial operation process, and the initial operation of the movable body 24 is performed. As described above, even when the power supply is interrupted at timing tX1 and then resumed, the secondary CPU 51 performs the initial operation process, and the initial operation of the movable body 24 is performed. In this way, the secondary CPU 51 controls the initial operation of the movable body 24 in both cases when the power supply is interrupted and resumed after the maximum difference number reaches a specified value when a jackpot game is awarded, and when the power supply is interrupted and resumed before the maximum difference number reaches a specified value when a jackpot game is awarded. That is, the movable body control means controls the initial operation of the movable body in both cases when the power supply is cut off after a specific condition is met while a winning game is awarded, and then the power supply is resumed to return to a state in which a winning game is awarded, and when the power supply is cut off after a specific condition is not met while a winning game is awarded, and then the power supply is resumed to return to a state in which a winning game is awarded.

When the power supply is interrupted at timing tX2 and then resumed, a warning about addiction is issued at timing t12 after all rounds of play have been completed. In this way, in the gaming machine 10, if the power supply is interrupted within the period until all rounds of play are completed and the power supply is resumed and the jackpot game is awarded after the maximum difference number reaches a specified value in a situation in which a round of play of a jackpot game that was awarded by winning a jackpot in the normal state is being played, a warning about addiction is issued at the timing after all rounds of play have been completed. That is, in this embodiment, if the power supply is interrupted within the period until all rounds of play are completed and the power supply is resumed and the jackpot game is awarded after the specific condition is established in a situation in which a round of play of a winning game that was awarded by winning a jackpot in the normal state is being played, a warning about addiction is issued at the timing after all rounds of play have been completed.

As described above, if the power supply is not cut off within the period until all rounds of play are completed after the maximum difference number reaches a specified value in a situation in which rounds of play of a jackpot game that was awarded upon winning a jackpot in the normal state are being played, a warning about addiction is issued at the timing after all rounds of play are completed. In other words, in the gaming machine 10, in either the case where the power supply is not cut off within the period until all rounds of play are completed after the maximum difference number reaches a specified value in a situation in which rounds of play of a jackpot game that was awarded upon winning a jackpot in the normal state are being played, or the case where the power supply is cut off within the period until all rounds of play are completed and then resumed when the jackpot game is awarded, a warning about addiction is issued at the timing after all rounds of play are completed. That is, in this embodiment, in a situation where a round of play of a winning game that was awarded by winning in a normal state is being played after a specific condition is met, if the power supply is not cut off within the period until all rounds of play are completed, or if the power supply is cut off within the period until all rounds of play are completed and then resumed, returning to a situation where a winning game is awarded, a warning about addiction is issued at the timing after all rounds of play are completed. Incidentally, in this embodiment, timing t12 in FIG. 12(a) is the same as timing t12 shown in FIG. 12(c). The warning about addiction that is started at timing t12 is executed for the time Tn.

The stop notice performance that was executed when the power supply was resumed after being cut off at timing tX2 continues to be executed even after the ending period begins. Then, during the ending period, a warning about addiction is issued and the stop notice performance is executed. That is, the performance display device 25 executes the stop notice performance in parallel with the warning about addiction. Then, since the maximum difference number has reached the specified value, the game is controlled to a progress-impossible state after the end of the jackpot game. As the game is controlled to a progress-impossible state, the stop notice performance ends, and the performance display device 25 starts executing the stop notification performance.

In this way, in the gaming machine 10, when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value while a big win game is awarded, if the power supply is cut off between the time when the maximum difference number reaches the specified value and the time when the big win game is finished, and then the power supply is resumed and the situation where the big win game is awarded is restored, the machine is controlled to a non-progress state after the big win game is finished. Also, although not shown, in the gaming machine 10, when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value while a small win game is awarded, if the power supply is cut off between the time when the maximum difference number reaches the specified value and the time when the small win game is finished, and then the power supply is resumed and the situation where the small win game is awarded is restored, the machine is controlled to a non-progress state after the small win game is finished. In this embodiment, when a specific condition is met while a winning game is awarded, if the power supply is cut off between the time when the specific condition is met and the time when the winning game is finished, and then the power supply is resumed and the situation where the winning game is awarded is restored, the machine is controlled to a non-progress state after the winning game is finished.

As described above, in the gaming machine 10, when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value while a jackpot game is awarded, the game is controlled to a non-progress state after the end of the jackpot game in either of the following cases: when the power supply is not cut off between the time when the maximum difference number reaches the specified value and the time when the jackpot game ends, and when the power supply is cut off between the time when the maximum difference number reaches the specified value and the time when the jackpot game ends, and then the power supply is resumed and the game returns to a state in which the jackpot game is awarded. Also, although not shown, in the gaming machine 10, when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value while a small jackpot game is awarded, the game is controlled to a non-progress state after the end of the small jackpot game in either of the following cases: when the power supply is not cut off between the time when the maximum difference number reaches the specified value and the time when the small jackpot game ends, and when the power supply is cut off between the time when the maximum difference number reaches the specified value and the time when the small jackpot game ends, and then the power supply is resumed and the game returns to a state in which the small jackpot game is awarded. In this embodiment, if a specific condition is met while a winning game is awarded, the machine is controlled to a non-progressable state after the winning game ends in either the case where the power supply is not cut off between the time the specific condition is met and the time the winning game ends, or the case where the power supply is cut off between the time the specific condition is met and the time the winning game ends, and then the power supply is resumed, restoring the situation to one where the winning game is awarded.

Next, with reference to Figures 13(a) and 13(b), an example of whether or not to execute the arrival notice performance according to the change in the maximum difference number will be described.
As shown in FIG. 13(a), the maximum difference number changes as the game is played. For example, when the arrival notice performance is not being executed, and at timing t101 when the maximum difference number is Xn, which is greater than 97000 and less than 98000, the performance display device 25 does not execute the arrival notice performance. When the arrival notice performance is not being executed, and the maximum difference number reaches 98000 at timing t102, the performance display device 25 starts executing the arrival notice performance. Assume that the maximum difference number reaches 98000 at the following timing t103. In this case, the arrival notice performance continues to be executed in the performance display device 25 at timing t103. Furthermore, assume that the maximum difference number falls again to Xn at the following timing t104. In this case, the arrival notice performance continues to be executed in the performance display device 25 at timing t104.

When the maximum difference number reaches 98,000, this corresponds to the remaining reaching difference number reaching the predicted start value of 1,000, in other words, the remaining reaching difference number reaching the first value. When the maximum difference number is Xn, this corresponds to the remaining reaching difference number being greater than 1,000 and less than 2,000, and in the following explanation, this corresponds to the remaining reaching difference number being Xd. Incidentally, in this embodiment, when the remaining reaching difference number is Xd, this corresponds to the remaining reaching difference number being the second value.

After that, when the maximum difference number reaches the specified value of 99,000 at timing t105, the arrival notice performance ends. If either a big win or a small win has been awarded at timing t105, the arrival notice performance ends and the stop notice performance is executed in the performance display device 25. In other words, if a specific condition is met when a win has been awarded, the specific performance ends and the special performance is executed in the performance execution means.

On the other hand, at timing t105, when neither a big win game nor a small win game has been awarded, the arrival notice performance ends, and a stop notification performance is executed in the performance display device 25. For example, when a special game is being executed at timing t105, the arrival notice performance ends, and a stop notification performance is executed in the performance display device 25. In other words, when a specific condition is met while a variable game is being executed, the specific performance ends, and a stop display performance is executed in the performance execution means.

As described above, in the gaming machine 10, in a situation where the remaining reach difference becomes Xd, which is greater than 1000, after the remaining reach difference falls below 1000 and the reach notice performance is executed, the performance display device 25 executes the reach notice performance. In this embodiment, the "situation where the remaining reach difference becomes Xd, which is greater than 1000, after the remaining reach difference falls below 1000 and the reach notice performance is executed" corresponds to the "first situation where the remaining value until the specific value reaches the predetermined value falls below a first value and the specific performance is executed, and then the remaining value until the specific value reaches the predetermined value becomes a second value, which is greater than the first value." For example, timing t104 corresponds to the first situation. And in this embodiment, in the first situation, the specific performance is executed in the performance execution means.

On the other hand, in the gaming machine 10, in a situation where the remaining reach difference is Xd without falling below 1000, the arrival notice performance is not executed in the performance display device 25. In this embodiment, the "situation where the remaining reach difference is Xd without falling below 1000" corresponds to the "second situation where the remaining value until the specific value reaches the predetermined value is a second value that is greater than the first value without falling below the first value." For example, timing t101 corresponds to the second situation. And in this embodiment, in the second situation, the specific performance is not executed in the performance execution means. In this way, even when the remaining reach difference is Xd, in the gaming machine 10, whether or not the arrival notice performance is executed depends on whether the remaining reach difference is Xd after falling below the notice start value.

As shown in FIG. 13(b), for example, when the power supply is stopped at timing t101 and then resumed, the arrival notice performance is not executed in the performance display device 25. Similarly, for example, when the power supply is stopped at any of timings t104 and then resumed, the arrival notice performance is not executed in the performance display device 25. In this way, in the gaming machine 10, even if the power supply is cut off at either timing t101 or timing t104, when the power supply is subsequently resumed and restored, the arrival notice performance is not executed in the performance display device 25. That is, in this embodiment, even if the power supply is cut off in either the first situation or the second situation, when the power supply is subsequently resumed and restored, the specific performance is not executed in the performance execution means.

However, even if the power supply is interrupted and then resumed at either timing t101 or timing t104, if the maximum difference number reaches 98,000 at the subsequent timing tZ, the arrival notice performance is executed in the performance display device 25. That is, in this embodiment, even if the power supply is interrupted and then resumed in either the first situation or the second situation, if the remaining value until the specific value reaches the predetermined value falls below the first value, the specific performance is executed in the performance execution means.

According to this embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.
(1) When the maximum difference number reaches a specified value while a jackpot game is awarded, the game is controlled to a non-progress state after the end of the jackpot game in either case of the following: when the power supply is not cut off between the time when the maximum difference number reaches the specified value and the time when the jackpot game ends, and when the power supply is cut off between the time when the maximum difference number reaches the specified value and the time when the jackpot game ends, and then the power supply is resumed and the game returns to a state in which the jackpot game is awarded. In other words, even if the power supply is cut off because the maximum difference number reaches a specified value while a jackpot game is awarded, it is not possible to cancel the fact that the maximum difference number has reached the specified value, that is, the game is controlled to a non-progress state after the end of the jackpot game. This prevents, for example, the power supply being cut off and the game being controlled to a non-progress state because the maximum difference number has reached a specified value while a jackpot game is awarded from being illegally canceled, and allows for appropriate control.

(2) In the case where the maximum difference number reaches a specified value while a small win game is awarded, the game is controlled to a non-progression state after the end of the small win game in either the case where the power supply is not cut off between the time when the maximum difference number reaches the specified value and the time when the small win game ends, or the case where the power supply is cut off between the time when the maximum difference number reaches the specified value and the time when the small win game ends, and then the power supply is resumed and the game returns to a state in which a small win game is awarded. In other words, even if the power supply is cut off because the maximum difference number reaches a specified value while a small win game is awarded, it is not possible to cancel the fact that the maximum difference number has reached the specified value, that is, the game is controlled to a non-progression state after the end of the small win game. This prevents, for example, the power supply being cut off and the game being controlled to a non-progression state because the maximum difference number has reached a specified value while a small win game is awarded from being illegally canceled, and allows for appropriate control.

(3) For example, if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value during the execution of a special game in which a big win has been won, and the game becomes unable to proceed after the special game ends, it is possible that the game will be controlled to the unable to proceed state after the big win has been won, which may reduce interest. Similarly, if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value during the execution of a special game in which a small win has been won, and the game becomes unable to proceed after the special game ends, it is possible that the game will be controlled to the unable to proceed state after the small win has been won, which may reduce interest. However, when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value during the execution of a special game, the game is controlled to the unable to proceed state without waiting for the special game to end. This makes it impossible to know whether the special game that was being executed when the maximum difference number reached the specified value was executed based on the winning of a big win or a small win, which can suppress the decrease in interest caused by the game being controlled to the unable to proceed state despite the winning of a big win or a small win, and can be appropriately controlled.

(4) In a normal state, when a round of a jackpot game that was awarded after a jackpot has been won is being played, if the power supply is not cut off within the period until all rounds of play are completed after the maximum difference number reaches a specified value, a warning about addiction is issued after all rounds of play are completed. Similarly, even if the power supply is cut off within the period until all rounds of play are completed after the maximum difference number reaches a specified value during a round of a jackpot game that was awarded after a jackpot has been won in a normal state, and then the power supply is resumed and the situation returns to one in which a jackpot game is awarded, a warning about addiction is issued after all rounds of play are completed. In other words, if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value during a round of play that was awarded after a jackpot has been won in a normal state, a warning about addiction is issued after all rounds of play are completed, regardless of whether the power supply is cut off before all rounds of play are completed. In this way, if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value at the time of the first hit and the game falls into a situation where it is controlled to an impossible state to proceed, even if the power supply is cut off during the big hit game, it is possible to effectively prevent addiction and appropriately control the game by issuing a warning about addiction.

(5) Depending on whether the maximum difference number reached a specified value when a jackpot game was awarded, at least a portion of the control information output from the main board 40 to the sub-board 50 when the power supply is resumed after the power supply is cut off while the jackpot game is awarded is configured to differ. This makes it possible for the sub-board 50 to determine, for example, whether the maximum difference number had already reached a specified value when the power supply was cut off, based on the control information input when the power supply was resumed. This makes it possible for the sub-board 50 to perform appropriate control depending on whether the maximum difference number had already reached a specified value when the power supply was cut off.

(6) Depending on whether the maximum difference number reached a specified value when a small win game was awarded, at least a portion of the control information output from the main board 40 to the sub-board 50 when the power supply is resumed after the power supply is cut off while the small win game is awarded is configured to differ. This makes it possible for the sub-board 50 to determine, for example, whether the maximum difference number had already reached the specified value when the power supply was cut off, based on the control information input when the power supply was resumed. This makes it possible for the sub-board 50 to perform appropriate control depending on whether the maximum difference number had already reached the specified value when the power supply was cut off.

(7) The display content of the effect display device 25 when the power supply is cut off after the maximum difference number reaches a specified value while a jackpot game is awarded, and then the power supply is resumed and the situation where a jackpot game is awarded is restored differs from the display content of the effect display device 25 when the power supply is cut off after the maximum difference number has not reached the specified value while a jackpot game is awarded, and then the power supply is resumed and the situation where a jackpot game is awarded is restored. For this reason, by checking the display content of the effect display device 25 when the power supply is resumed, it is possible to determine whether the maximum difference number has reached the specified value. As a result, it is possible to prevent the player from becoming confused by being suddenly controlled to a state where progress cannot be made after the end of a jackpot game, and it is possible to perform appropriate control.

(8) The display content of the performance display device 25 when the power supply is cut off and then resumed after the maximum difference number has reached a specified value while a small win game is awarded differs from the display content of the performance display device 25 when the power supply is cut off and then resumed while the maximum difference number has not reached the specified value while a small win game is awarded. Therefore, by checking the display content of the performance display device 25 when the power supply is resumed, it is possible to determine whether the maximum difference number has reached the specified value. As a result, it is possible to prevent the player from becoming confused by being suddenly controlled to a state where progress cannot be made after the end of a small win game, and appropriate control can be performed.

(9) When a jackpot game is awarded and the maximum difference number has reached a specified value, the power supply is cut off and then resumed, restoring the situation to a jackpot game, and when a jackpot game is awarded and the maximum difference number has not reached the specified value, the power supply is cut off and then resumed, restoring the situation to a jackpot game, the initial operation of the movable body 24 is performed in both cases. In other words, even if the maximum difference number has reached a specified value when a jackpot game is awarded and the game is controlled to a progress-impossible state after the jackpot game ends, by performing the initial operation of the movable body 24, it is possible to quickly notice any malfunction of the movable body 24 and control it appropriately.

(10) When a small win game is awarded and the maximum difference number has reached a specified value, the power supply is cut off and then resumed, restoring the situation in which a small win game is awarded, and when a small win game is awarded and the maximum difference number has not reached the specified value, the power supply is cut off and then resumed, restoring the situation in which a small win game is awarded, the initial operation of the movable body 24 is performed in both cases. In other words, even in a situation in which the maximum difference number has reached a specified value when a small win game is awarded and the game is controlled to a progress-impossible state after the end of the small win game, by performing the initial operation of the movable body 24, it is possible to quickly notice any malfunction of the movable body 24 and control it appropriately.

(11) In a first situation in which the remaining reach difference number is greater than the notice start value (here, shown as a virtual value) after the remaining reach difference number falls below the notice start value and the arrival notice performance is executed, the performance display device 25 executes the arrival notice performance. In a second situation in which the remaining reach difference number does not fall below the notice start value and is the virtual value, the performance display device 25 does not execute the arrival notice performance. In this way, even when the remaining reach difference number is a virtual value, whether or not the arrival notice performance is executed depends on whether it fell below the notice start value and then became the virtual value. For this reason, even if the remaining reach difference number repeatedly falls below and exceeds the notice start value, the arrival notice performance continues to be executed, which can suppress the annoyance caused by, for example, the arrival notice performance being repeatedly executed and not executed, and makes it possible to appropriately control.

And, regardless of whether the power supply is cut off in the first or second situation, when the power supply is subsequently resumed and restored, the arrival notice performance will not be executed on the performance display device 25. In other words, when the power supply is cut off while the remaining arrival difference number is a virtual value, the arrival notice performance will not be executed when the power supply is resumed and restored, regardless of whether the arrival notice performance was being executed when the power supply was cut off. This makes it possible to prevent players from being confused by the arrival notice performance being executed when the power supply is resumed and restored, and allows for appropriate control.

(12) When a jackpot game is awarded and the maximum difference number reaches a specified value, the reach notice effect is switched to a stop notice effect. In this way, when a jackpot game is awarded, by appropriately executing effects according to the respective situations before and after the maximum difference number reaches the specified value, it is possible to effectively increase interest and provide appropriate control.

(13) When a small win is awarded and the maximum difference number reaches a specified value, the reach notice effect is switched to a stop notice effect. In this way, when a small win is awarded, effects are appropriately executed according to the respective situations before and after the maximum difference number reaches the specified value, thereby effectively increasing interest and enabling appropriate control.

(14) If the power supply is cut off when a jackpot game has been awarded and the stop notice performance is being executed, the power supply is resumed and the situation in which the jackpot game has been awarded is restored, and then the stop notice performance can be executed again on the performance display device 25. This makes it possible to appropriately control the game, and to prevent the player from being confused by being controlled to a progress-disabled state without realizing that the game will be controlled to a progress-disabled state after the end of the jackpot game, for example, if the power supply is cut off when a jackpot game has been awarded and the maximum difference number has reached a specified value, and the power supply is resumed and the situation in which the jackpot game has been awarded is restored.

(15) If the power supply is cut off when a small win has been awarded and the stop notice performance is being executed, the power supply is resumed and the situation in which the small win has been awarded is restored, and then the stop notice performance can be executed again on the performance display device 25. This makes it possible to appropriately control the game, and to prevent the player from being confused by being controlled to a progress-disabled state without realizing that the game will be controlled to a progress-disabled state after the small win ends, for example, if the power supply is cut off when a small win has been awarded and the maximum difference number has reached a specified value, and the player is controlled to a progress-disabled state without realizing that the game will be controlled to a progress-disabled state after the small win has ended, after the power supply is resumed and the situation in which the small win has been awarded is restored.

(16) The memory contents of the main RWM 43 used to calculate the sum value when the power supply is cut off and the sum value when the power supply is started include maximum difference number information that can change as the game progresses. In this way, when calculating the sum value when the power supply is cut off and the sum value when the power supply is started, the maximum difference number that serves as a trigger for control to a progress-disabled state is used, thereby improving security and enabling appropriate control.

(17) The maximum difference number information stored in the main RWM 43 is initialized after a checksum is performed. In other words, the maximum difference number information is initialized after it is used to calculate the sum value at the start of power supply. In this way, by not continuing to hold the maximum difference number information even after calculating the sum value at the start of power supply, security can be improved while the maximum difference number can be changed again after power supply is resumed, allowing for appropriate control.

(18) When the maximum difference number reaches a specified value while a jackpot game is being awarded, and if the power supply is cut off before the jackpot game ends, the main RWM 43 stores and holds planned non-progression information. The planned non-progression information stored and held in the main RWM 43 is not initialized even after a checksum is performed. This makes it possible to perform appropriate control after the power supply is resumed, for example, depending on whether the maximum difference number had reached a specified value when the jackpot game was awarded before the power supply was cut off.

(19) When the maximum difference number reaches a specified value while a small win game is being awarded, and if the power supply is cut off before the small win game ends, the main RWM 43 stores and holds planned non-progression information. The planned non-progression information stored and held in the main RWM 43 is not initialized even after a checksum is performed. This makes it possible to perform appropriate control after the power supply is resumed, for example, depending on whether the maximum difference number reached a specified value when a small win game was awarded before the power supply was cut off.

(20) When the maximum difference number reaches a specified value in a jackpot game that is awarded upon winning a jackpot in a normal state, a warning against addiction is issued and the game is controlled to an unprogressable state. In this way, by issuing a warning against addiction before the game is controlled to an unprogressable state, addiction to games on other gaming machines can be suppressed after the game is unprogressable, and appropriate control can be achieved.

(21) For example, if the time at which the warning about addiction is issued is changed depending on the timing when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value while the jackpot is awarded, the player may be distracted by the time at which the warning about addiction is issued, which may confuse the player and make it difficult to achieve the purpose of the warning about addiction. However, regardless of the timing at which the maximum difference number reaches the specified value while the jackpot is awarded, the time at which the warning about addiction is issued is the same. This makes it possible to prevent players from being confused by changing the time at which the warning about addiction is issued depending on the timing at which the maximum difference number reaches the specified value while the jackpot is awarded, and allows for appropriate control to make it easier to achieve the purpose of the warning about addiction.

(22) In the normal state, when a round of play for a jackpot game that was awarded upon winning is being played and the maximum difference number reaches a specified value, a warning about addiction is issued after all rounds of play have been completed, and the game is controlled to a state in which progress cannot be made. In this way, a warning about addiction is issued after all rounds of play have been completed. This allows the player to focus on the round play while it is being played, and then to pay attention to the warning about addiction afterwards, allowing the player to enjoy the round play while issuing a warning about addiction and appropriately controlling it.

(23) When controlled to an impossible-to-progress state, in this impossible-to-progress state, even if a game ball enters the starting hole 26, 27, the execution of the special game is not put on hold. In this way, when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value and the impossible-to-progress state is reached, the execution of the special game is not put on hold even if a game ball enters the starting hole 26, 27. For this reason, for example, if the execution of the special game is put on hold even when the impossible-to-progress state is reached, it is possible to prevent players from feeling anticipation for the special game, which would ultimately cause discomfort, and appropriate control can be performed.

(24) When the game is controlled to a non-progression state, the game ball will not be launched even if the launch handle 16 is operated in the non-progression state. Therefore, for example, even if the game is controlled to a non-progression state, the game ball will be launched even if the launch handle 16 is operated, which can prevent a player from misunderstanding that the game can proceed, and appropriate control can be performed.

(25) For example, in a configuration in which the game ball is not launched by not executing hammer control to strike the game ball at launch position W2 with the hammer portion 72a, if ball forwarding control is performed, the game ball may be sent to launch position W2, making it impossible to retrieve the game ball at launch position W2. However, when the game ball is controlled to a non-advancement state, the game ball is not launched by not executing ball forwarding control even if the launch handle 16 is operated, so that it is possible to prevent the game ball from being sent to launch position W2 after the game ball is controlled to a non-advancement state, and appropriate control can be performed.

(26) For example, even if the game ball cannot be released due to an inability to proceed state, if the right hit notification lamp 22g continues to light, the game ball cannot be released even if the right hit notification lamp 22g is lit and the player tries to hit the right, which may cause discomfort. However, the right hit notification lamp 22g is turned off when the game ball is controlled to be in an inability to proceed state. This makes it possible to prevent discomfort and to perform appropriate control.

(27) For example, even if the game is controlled to a non-progression state and the game ball cannot be launched, if the right-hit notification effect continues to be executed, there is a risk of causing discomfort because the game ball cannot be launched even though the right-hit notification effect is being executed. For this reason, if the game is controlled to a non-progression state and the right-hit notification effect is being executed, the right-hit notification effect is terminated. This makes it possible to prevent discomfort caused by the right-hit notification effect continuing to be executed even though the game ball cannot be launched due to the non-progression state, and allows for appropriate control.

(28) For example, even if the game ball cannot be launched due to control to a non-progression state, if the left-hit notification effect continues to be executed, the game ball cannot be launched despite the left-hit notification effect being executed, which may cause discomfort. For this reason, if the game ball is not able to be launched due to control to a non-progression state when the left-hit notification effect is being executed, the left-hit notification effect is terminated. This makes it possible to prevent discomfort caused by the left-hit notification effect continuing to be executed despite the game ball not being able to be launched due to the non-progression state, and allows for appropriate control.

(29) If the maximum difference number reaches a specified value while a jackpot game is being awarded, the game is not controlled to a state in which progress cannot be made until the jackpot game that has been awarded ends, and the awarding of the jackpot game continues. In this way, even when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value and is controlled to a state in which progress cannot be made, if a jackpot game is being awarded, the jackpot game is allowed to continue. This makes it possible to prevent discomfort caused by, for example, the jackpot game being stopped midway when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value during the jackpot game, and allows for appropriate control.

(30) If the maximum difference number reaches a specified value while a small win is being awarded, the small win will continue to be awarded without being controlled to a non-progression state until the small win that has been awarded ends. In this way, even when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value and is controlled to a non-progression state, the large win will continue if a small win is being awarded. This makes it possible to prevent discomfort caused by, for example, the large win being stopped midway when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value during a small win, and allows for appropriate control.

(31) If the maximum difference number reaches a specified value while a special game is being played, the game is controlled to an unprogressable state upon the reaching of the specified value, and the special game being played is forcibly terminated. This makes it possible to suppress the discomfort caused by the special game continuing to be played despite being controlled to an unprogressable state, which may create anticipation that the special game will be a jackpot, and thus allows for appropriate control.

(32) For example, if the initial operation of the movable body 24 is not performed because it has been controlled to an unprogressable state, there is a risk that when the game returns from the unprogressable state, a malfunction of the movable body 24 will be noticed and it will take time before normal gameplay can be performed. For this reason, even if the movable body 24 has been controlled to an unprogressable state when the power supply is cut off and is controlled to an unprogressable state again when the power supply is resumed, the initial operation of the movable body 24 is performed. This makes it possible to prevent the time required before normal gameplay can be performed.

The above embodiment can be modified as follows: The above embodiment and the following modifications can be combined with each other to the extent that no technical contradiction occurs.
The timing of issuing a warning about addiction after the end of the opening period may be changed according to the timing when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value during the opening period. For example, in FIG. 11(a), the timing tA2 may be changed according to the timing tA1. Similarly, the timing of issuing a warning about addiction after the end of the round period may be changed according to the timing when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value during the round period. For example, in FIG. 11(b), the timing tB2 may be changed according to the timing tB1. Also, the timing of issuing a warning about addiction after the end of the ending period may be changed according to the timing when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value during the ending period. For example, in FIG. 11(c), the timing tC2 may be changed according to the timing tC1.

- If the maximum difference number reaches a specified value while a jackpot game is awarded, the system may be configured to start a warning about addiction when the maximum difference number reaches the specified value. For example, if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value during an ending period, the system may be configured to start a warning about addiction during that ending period.

The time for which the warning against addiction is issued may be varied depending on the timing when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value while the jackpot is being awarded. For example, the earlier the maximum difference number reaches a specified value while the jackpot is being awarded, the longer the time for which the warning against addiction is issued may be configured.

- When a small win is awarded, a warning about addiction may be issued. For example, when a small win is won and a small win is awarded in a normal state, a warning about addiction may be issued. For example, when a small win is won and a small win is awarded in a normal state, and the maximum difference number reaches a specified value while the small win is awarded, a warning about addiction may be issued. In this case, the warning about addiction may be issued while the small win is awarded, or after the small win has ended.

- Even if the game state when a jackpot is won is different from the normal state, if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value when a jackpot game is awarded, a warning about addiction may be issued. For example, regardless of the game state when a jackpot is won, if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value when a jackpot game is awarded, a warning about addiction may be issued.

- If the power supply is cut off when a jackpot game is awarded, even if the power supply is resumed and the jackpot game is awarded, the warning about addiction in the jackpot game may not be executed. For example, if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value during the opening period, when the power supply is cut off before the warning about addiction is executed, even if the power supply is resumed and the jackpot game is awarded, the warning about addiction in the jackpot game may not be executed. For example, if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value during the round period, when the power supply is cut off before the warning about addiction is executed, even if the power supply is resumed and the jackpot game is awarded, the warning about addiction in the jackpot game may not be executed. For example, if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value during the ending period, and the power supply is cut off before the warning about addiction is issued, the warning about addiction during the jackpot game may be configured not to be issued even if the power supply is later resumed and the situation returns to one in which the jackpot game is awarded.

- In a first situation in which the remaining reach difference number becomes a value greater than the notice start value (here, shown as a virtual value) after the remaining reach difference number falls below the notice start value and the arrival notice performance is executed, the performance display device 25 may be configured not to execute the arrival notice performance. For example, in both the first situation in which the remaining reach difference number becomes a virtual value after the remaining reach difference number falls below the notice start value and the arrival notice performance is executed, and the second situation in which the remaining reach difference number does not fall below the notice start value and is the virtual value, the arrival notice performance may not be executed.

In addition, in either the first situation or the second situation, when the power supply is interrupted and then resumed, the performance display device 25 may be configured to execute an arrival notice performance.In addition, in either the first situation or the second situation, when the power supply is interrupted and then resumed, the performance display device 25 may be configured to execute an arrival notice performance.

- The default value may be changed. The notice start value may be changed. The notice end value may be changed. It is preferable that the notice end value is equal to or greater than the notice start value. For example, the notice start value and the notice end value may be the same value.

- If the power supply is cut off while the game is in an unplayable state, and then the power supply is resumed, the execution of the stop notification effect may be configured to start after the initial operation of the movable body 24 is completed. For example, if the initial operation of the movable body 24 is performed at a timing after the stop notification effect is executed, there is a risk that the player feels uncomfortable that the initial operation of the movable body 24 has started even though the game cannot progress. However, if the execution of the stop notification effect is configured to start after the initial operation of the movable body 24 has finished, it is possible to prevent the player from feeling uncomfortable that the initial operation of the movable body 24 has started even though the game cannot progress.

- When a jackpot game is awarded and the maximum difference number reaches a specified value, and the power supply is then cut off before the jackpot game ends, and the power supply is then resumed to restore the situation in which the jackpot game is awarded, the execution of the stop notice performance may be configured to start after the initial operation of the movable body 24 ends. For example, if the initial operation of the movable body 24 is performed at a timing after the stop notice performance is executed, there is a risk that a sense of incongruity will be felt because the initial operation of the movable body 24 has started despite the fact that it has been determined that the movable body 24 will be controlled to an unprogressable state. However, if the execution of the stop notice performance is configured to start after the initial operation of the movable body 24 ends, it is possible to prevent a sense of incongruity from being felt because the initial operation of the movable body 24 has started despite the fact that it has been determined that the movable body 24 will be controlled to an unprogressable state.

- When a big win is awarded and the maximum difference number reaches a specified value, a stop notice display may be executed in addition to the arrival notice display. Similarly, when a small win is awarded and the maximum difference number reaches a specified value, a stop notice display may be executed in addition to the arrival notice display.

- If the power supply is cut off when a big win has been awarded and the stop notice performance is being executed, the performance display device 25 may be configured not to execute the stop notice performance when the power supply is resumed. Similarly, if the power supply is cut off when a small win has been awarded and the stop notice performance is being executed, the performance display device 25 may be configured not to execute the stop notice performance when the power supply is resumed.

- In the above embodiment, depending on whether the maximum difference number reaches a specified value when a jackpot game is awarded, at least a part of the control information output from the main board 40 to the sub-board 50 when the power supply is resumed after the power supply is cut off when the jackpot game is awarded is different. At this time, the number of control information output from the main board 40 to the sub-board 50 may be the same depending on whether the maximum difference number reaches a specified value when a jackpot game is awarded. In other words, depending on whether the maximum difference number reaches a specified value when a jackpot game is awarded, the number of control information output from the main board 40 to the sub-board 50 is the same when the power supply is resumed after the power supply is cut off when the jackpot game is awarded, while at least a part of the type of the control information may be different. Also, regardless of whether the maximum difference number reaches a specified value when a jackpot game is awarded, the control information output from the main board 40 to the sub-board 50 when the power supply is resumed after the power supply is cut off when the jackpot game is awarded may be the same. In addition, although a big win is given as an example here, a small win may be substituted and configured in the same way. For example, the number of control information items output from the main board 40 to the sub-board 50 may be the same depending on whether the maximum difference number reaches a specified value when a small win game is awarded.

・Even if the power supply is cut off after the maximum difference number reaches a specified value when a big win game is awarded, and then the power supply is resumed to return to a situation where a big win game is awarded, the performance display device 25 may be configured not to execute a stop notice performance. For example, the display content of the performance display device 25 when the power supply is cut off after the maximum difference number reaches a specified value when a big win game is awarded, and then the power supply is resumed may be the same as the display content of the performance display device 25 when the power supply is cut off after the maximum difference number has not reached the specified value when a big win game is awarded, and then the power supply is resumed. Note that, although a big win is given as an example here, a small win may be replaced and configured in the same way. For example, even if the power supply is cut off after the maximum difference number reaches a specified value when a small win game is awarded, and then the power supply is resumed to return to a situation where a small win game is awarded, the performance display device 25 may be configured not to execute a stop notice performance.

- When a big win is awarded, if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value and the power supply is cut off and then resumed to restore the situation in which the big win is awarded, the initial operation of the movable body 24 may not be performed. When a big win is awarded, if the maximum difference number has not reached the specified value and the power supply is cut off and then resumed to restore the situation in which the big win is awarded, the initial operation of the movable body 24 may not be performed. When a small win is awarded, if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value and the power supply is cut off and then resumed to restore the situation in which the small win is awarded, the initial operation of the movable body 24 may not be performed. When a small win is awarded, if the maximum difference number has not reached the specified value and the power supply is cut off and then resumed to restore the situation in which the small win is awarded, the initial operation of the movable body 24 may not be performed.

・When the maximum difference number reaches a specified value while a jackpot game is awarded, if the power supply is cut off between the time when the maximum difference number reaches the specified value and the time when the jackpot game is finished and then the power supply is resumed and the situation where the jackpot game is awarded is restored, the game may be configured not to be controlled to a non-progression state after the jackpot game is finished. Also, when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value while a jackpot game is awarded, if the power supply is not cut off between the time when the maximum difference number reaches the specified value and the time when the jackpot game is finished, the game may be configured not to be controlled to a non-progression state after the jackpot game is finished. For example, when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value while a jackpot game is awarded, if the power supply is not cut off between the time when the maximum difference number reaches the specified value and the time when the jackpot game is finished and then the power supply is resumed and the situation where the jackpot game is awarded is restored, the game may be configured to be controlled to a non-progression state after the jackpot game is finished in either one of the following cases: when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value while a jackpot game is awarded, the power supply is not cut off between the time when the maximum difference number reaches the specified value and the time when the jackpot game is finished and then the power supply is interrupted between the time when the maximum difference number reaches the specified value and the time when the jackpot game is finished and then the power supply is resumed and the situation where the jackpot game is awarded is restored. Similarly, when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value while a small win game is awarded, if the power supply is cut off between the time when the maximum difference number reaches the specified value and the time when the small win game is finished, and then the power supply is resumed and the situation where the small win game is awarded is restored, the game may be configured not to be controlled to a non-progression state after the small win game is finished. Also, when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value while a small win game is awarded, if the power supply is not cut off between the time when the maximum difference number reaches the specified value and the time when the small win game is finished, the game may be configured not to be controlled to a non-progression state after the small win game is finished. For example, when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value while a small win game is awarded, if the power supply is not cut off between the time when the maximum difference number reaches the specified value and the time when the small win game is finished, and if the power supply is cut off between the time when the maximum difference number reaches the specified value and the time when the small win game is finished, and then the power supply is resumed and the situation where the small win game is awarded is restored, the game may be configured to be controlled to a non-progression state after the small win game is finished.

- The memory contents of the main RWM 43 used to calculate the sum value when the power supply is cut off and the sum value when the power supply is started may not include maximum difference number information. In addition, even if a checksum is performed, the maximum difference number information may be configured not to be initialized. For example, after a checksum is performed, the maximum difference number information may be configured to be initialized when an initialization condition is met. After a checksum is performed, the maximum difference number information may be configured to be initialized when the first special game is played since the power supply was started.

- The planned non-progression information stored in the main RWM 43 may be configured to be initialized after a checksum is performed. In addition, the planned non-progression information may be configured to be initialized instead of being stored in the main RWM 43 if the power supply is cut off.

- The disablement information stored in the main RWM 43 may be configured to be initialized after a checksum is performed. Also, if the power supply is cut off, the disablement information may be configured to be initialized instead of being stored in the main RWM 43.

- Even if the game is controlled to a state where progress cannot be made while the right-hit notification effect is being executed, the right-hit notification effect may be configured to continue to be executed. Similarly, even if the game is controlled to a state where progress cannot be made while the left-hit notification effect is being executed, the left-hit notification effect may be configured to continue to be executed.

- The gaming machine 10 may be configured so that the effect display device 25 notifies the player that the execution of a special game is on hold. For example, when the game machine 10 is notified that the execution of a special game is on hold, if the game machine is controlled to an unprogressable state, the notification that the execution of a special game is on hold may be terminated. For example, the gaming machine 10 may be configured so that when the game machine 10 is on hold, the number of special games on hold is notified. For example, when the game machine 10 is notified that the execution of a special game is on hold, if the game machine is controlled to an unprogressable state, the notification that the number of special games on hold is terminated.

- When controlled to an unprogressable state, the information display panel 22 may not be turned off, and the display content of the information display panel 22 may be maintained. In other words, even when controlled to an unprogressable state, the lighting state of the light-emitting elements constituting the various display sections provided on the information display panel 22 may be maintained. If the display content of the information display panel 22 is maintained even when controlled to an unprogressable state, it becomes easier to guess under what circumstances the information display panel 22 was controlled to an unprogressable state.

- When controlled to a progress-impossible state, if a game ball enters at least one of the first starting hole 26 and the second starting hole 27, the ball entry may be used as a trigger to put the execution of the special game on hold. That is, for example, when controlled to a progress-impossible state, if a game ball enters the first starting hole 26, the ball entry may be used as a trigger to put the execution of the first special game on hold. Similarly, for example, when controlled to a progress-impossible state, if a game ball enters the second starting hole 27, the ball entry may be used as a trigger to put the execution of the second special game on hold.

- Even when controlled to a non-progression state, the game ball may be launched by operating the launch handle 16. For example, even when controlled to a non-progression state, the game ball may be configured to be able to be sent by operating the launch handle 16.

- When the game is controlled to the non-progression state, the hammer control may not be executed, so that the game ball is not launched, even if the launch handle 16 is operated. In this case, for example, even when the game is controlled to the non-progression state, the ball forwarding control may be executed by operating the launch handle 16, or the ball forwarding control may not be executed. For example, when the game is controlled to the non-progression state, the ball forwarding control may not be executed, but the hammer control may be executed. This makes it possible to prevent the game ball located at launch position W2 from becoming non-progression without being launched. Note that even if the game ball at launch position W2 is launched after being controlled to the non-progression state in this way, since the game ball is not controlled to continue to be launched, it can be considered that the game ball is not launched when the game is controlled to the non-progression state.

- The launch handle 16 may be provided with a stop button that can be operated by the player. For example, even if the game is not controlled to a non-progression state and the launch handle 16 is operated by the touch sensor TS, the game ball may not be launched when the stop button is operated. When such a stop button is provided in the above embodiment, "the launch handle 16 is operated" corresponds to a time when the stop button is not operated and the launch handle 16 is operated.

- When the maximum difference number reaches a specified value, the special game that has already been put on hold may be configured to be executed even after the maximum difference number has reached the specified value. In this case, the special game that has already been put on hold may be configured to be executed after being controlled to an unprogressable state.

・When the maximum difference number reaches a specified value when a jackpot game is awarded, the special game that has already been put on hold may be configured to be executed after the jackpot game ends. At this time, for example, the special game that has already been put on hold may be executed after the jackpot game ends, after being controlled to a non-progression state. In addition, after the jackpot game ends, the special game that has already been put on hold may be executed and then controlled to a non-progression state. Also, when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value when a jackpot game is awarded, the special game that has been put on hold after the maximum difference number reaches a specified value may be configured to be executed after the jackpot game ends. At this time, for example, the special game that has been put on hold may be executed after the maximum difference number reaches a specified value, after being controlled to a non-progression state after the jackpot game ends. In addition, after the jackpot game ends, the special game that has been put on hold may be executed after the maximum difference number reaches a specified value, after being controlled to a non-progression state. Note that here, a jackpot is given as an example, but a small jackpot may be substituted for the same configuration. For example, if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value while a small win is being awarded, the special game that was already on hold may be configured to be executed after the small win ends.

- If the maximum difference number reaches a specified value when a big win game is awarded, the game may be configured to be controlled to an inoperable state before the big win game that has been awarded ends. In this configuration, especially when the maximum difference number is approaching the specified value, even when a big win game is awarded, the player can be entertained by being drawn to the timing at which the maximum difference number reaches the specified value and the timing at which the game is controlled to an inoperable state. Note that while a big win is used as an example here, the same configuration may be used for a small win instead. For example, if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value when a small win game is awarded, the game may be configured to be controlled to an inoperable state before the game is completed.

- When a jackpot game is awarded, the timing of control to the non-progression state may be different depending on the timing when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value. For example, when a jackpot game is awarded and the maximum difference number reaches a specified value before a special condition is met, the game may be configured to be controlled to the non-progression state before the jackpot game ends. On the other hand, for example, when a jackpot game is awarded and the maximum difference number reaches a specified value after a special condition is met, the game may be configured to be controlled to the non-progression state after the jackpot game ends. Conversely, when a jackpot game is awarded and the maximum difference number reaches a specified value before a special condition is met, the game may be configured to be controlled to the non-progression state after the jackpot game ends. On the other hand, for example, when a jackpot game is awarded and the maximum difference number reaches a specified value after a special condition is met, the game may be configured to be controlled to the non-progression state before the jackpot game ends. At this time, when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value due to the establishment of the special condition, the game may be configured to be controlled to a non-progress state after the big win game ends, or may be configured to be controlled to a non-progress state before the big win game ends. Controlling to a non-progress state before the big win game ends corresponds to the first big win opening 29 not being opened thereafter. Therefore, for example, when a winning game is awarded, if a specific condition is established due to the establishment of a special condition, the big win opening may be configured not to be opened in the winning game thereafter. At this time, for example, when a winning game is awarded, if a specific condition is established before the establishment of a special condition, the big win opening may be configured to be opened in the winning game thereafter. Also, for example, when a winning game is awarded, if a specific condition is established after the establishment of a special condition, the big win opening may be configured not to be opened in the winning game thereafter.

For example, the special condition may be established by starting the first round of the jackpot game. In this case, for example, when a jackpot game is awarded and the maximum difference number reaches a specified value before the first round of the game is started, the game may be controlled to a non-progression state before the jackpot game ends. At this time, the game may be controlled to a non-progression state without the first large prize winning port 29 being opened even once. On the other hand, for example, when a jackpot game is awarded and the maximum difference number reaches a specified value after the first round of the game is started, the game may be controlled to a non-progression state after the jackpot game ends. Conversely, for example, when a jackpot game is awarded and the maximum difference number reaches a specified value before the first round of the game is started, the game may be controlled to a non-progression state after the jackpot game ends. On the other hand, for example, when a jackpot game is awarded and the maximum difference number reaches a specified value before the first round of the game is started, the game may be controlled to a non-progression state before the jackpot game ends. Here, the example is given in which the special condition is established by the start of the first round game, but the special condition may be established by the end of half of the round games (for example, the fifth round game) without being limited to the first round game. For example, the special condition may be established by the end of the majority of the round games (for example, the sixth round game), or the special condition may be established by the end of the final round game. In addition, the example is given in which the round game is given, but the example is not limited to the round game, but the special condition may be established by the start of the opening period, or the special condition may be established by the end of the opening period. For example, the special condition may be established by the start of the ending period, or the special condition may be established by the end of the ending period. In addition, the special condition may be established by the first round end condition being established in a specific round game among multiple round games. For example, the special condition may be established by the first round end condition being established in the first round game. For example, the special condition may be established by the first round end condition being established in the final round game. For example, the special condition may be established when an interval period between rounds of play begins, or when an interval period between rounds of play ends.

・If the maximum difference number reaches a specified value during the period from when a special game based on winning a jackpot starts until the special game ends and the jackpot game is awarded, the game may be configured not to be controlled to a non-progression state at least until the jackpot game ends. For example, if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value during the execution of a special game based on winning a jackpot, the game may be configured not to be controlled to a non-progression state at least until the jackpot game ends. Note that although a jackpot is used as an example here, a small jackpot may be substituted and configured in the same way. For example, if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value during the period from when a special game based on winning a small jackpot starts until the special game ends and the small jackpot game is awarded, the game may be configured not to be controlled to a non-progression state at least until the small jackpot game ends. As described above, if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value during the period from when a variable game based on winning a jackpot starts until the variable game ends and the jackpot game is awarded, the game may be configured not to be controlled to a non-progression state at least until the variable game ends.

- If the maximum difference number reaches a specified value while a special game is being played, the game may be configured to wait for the special game to end before being controlled to an unprogressable state. At this time, if the special game being played is a special game that results in a jackpot, the game may be configured to be controlled to an unprogressable state after the jackpot game that is awarded after the special game ends. On the other hand, if the special game being played is a special game that results in a loss, the game may be configured to be controlled to an unprogressable state after the special game ends.

・The main CPU 41 may be configured to determine the execution of some of the effects executed in the effect display device 25. For example, the main CPU 41 may be configured to determine the execution of an effect that can specify the award of a jackpot game. An effect that can specify the award of a jackpot game (hereinafter referred to as a jackpot effect) is also called a jackpot confirmation effect or a premium effect. When the main CPU 41 determines to execute a jackpot effect, it stores control information that instructs the execution of the jackpot effect in an output buffer and outputs it to the sub-CPU 51. When control information that instructs the execution of a jackpot effect is input, the sub-CPU 51 may be configured to control the effect display device 25 on which the jackpot effect is executed. In this case, after the execution of a special game based on winning a jackpot is started, the timing at which the game is controlled to a non-progress state may be changed depending on the relationship between the timing at which the maximum difference number reaches a specified value and whether or not the jackpot effect is executed. For example, if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value after the execution of a special game based on winning a jackpot has started and the execution of the jackpot performance has started, the game is controlled to a non-progress state after the jackpot game ends. On the other hand, if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value after the execution of a special game based on winning a jackpot has started and before the jackpot performance has been executed, the game may be configured to be controlled to a non-progress state before the jackpot game starts. In other words, if a specific condition is established after the execution of a winning performance (jackpot performance) has started and the variable game based on winning has started, the game is controlled to a non-progress state after the winning game ends, while if a specific condition is established before the execution of the winning performance (jackpot performance) has started, the game may be configured to be controlled to a non-progress state before the winning game is awarded. By configuring as described above, it is possible to focus attention on the timing of the execution of the jackpot performance, thereby improving interest.

As described above, when the jackpot performance is a jackpot confirmation performance, it may be configured to be executed in a manner that allows identification that it is a jackpot confirmation performance. For example, the jackpot performance may be an performance expressed in colors that imitate a rainbow (so-called rainbow). For example, the jackpot performance may be an performance using a character unique to the manufacturer of the gaming machine 10. The jackpot performance may be an performance that is executed when a jackpot game is awarded. For example, the jackpot performance may be a part or all of the opening performance, the round performance, and the ending performance. In addition, the jackpot performance may be, for example, an performance that is executed when the execution of the special game in which the jackpot is won starts, or an effect that is executed when the execution of the special game in which the jackpot is won ends.

- Even when controlled to an unprogressable state, a specific error may be detected. And even when controlled to an unprogressable state, if an error is detected, at least one of the various performance devices 17, 18, 25 may be configured to notify the occurrence of the error. The specific error here may be, for example, a door open error that can be detected by a sensor that detects the opening of at least one of the middle frame 13 and the front frame 14 (e.g., a door open detection means that detects the opening of the door member). Alternatively, the specific error may be a magnetic error that can be detected by a sensor that detects magnetism (e.g., a magnetic detection means that detects magnetism). As described above, when a specific error is detected, even when controlled to an unprogressable state, it is possible to prevent fraudulent acts from being committed when controlled to an unprogressable state.

- The unprogressable state may be configured to be resolved by cutting off the power supply without executing a RAM clear. In this case, if the unprogressable state is reached, cutting off the power supply makes it possible to end the unprogressable state.

- If the game is controlled to be in a non-progression state while a special game is being played, when a game ball enters any of the start holes 26, 27, the big prize holes 29, 31, and the general prize holes 34, 35, a prize ball may be awarded in response to the ball entering the start hole 26, 27, the big prize hole 29, 31, and the general prize hole 34, 35.

- When a jackpot game is awarded, after the maximum difference number reaches a specified value, when the jackpot game is awarded, the awarding of prize balls triggered by balls entering prize ports other than the large prize ports 29 and 31 (prize ports other than the large prize ports 29 and 31) may be limited. For example, when a jackpot game is awarded, after the maximum difference number reaches a specified value, when the jackpot game is awarded, prize balls may not be awarded even if a game ball enters the start port 26 or 27. For example, when a jackpot game is awarded, after the maximum difference number reaches a specified value, when the jackpot game is awarded, prize balls may not be awarded even if a game ball enters the general prize port 34 or 35.

The conditions under which the disabled information is stored in the main RWM 43 may be changed. In other words, the circumstances under which a specific condition is met may be changed. For example, the disabled information may be stored in the main RWM 43 when the total number of prize balls awarded within a specified period of time reaches a specified number. For example, the disabled information may be stored in the main RWM 43 when the number of game balls consumed within a specified period of time reaches a specified number. Note that the specified period in this modified example may be the period from when the first jackpot game is awarded after power supply is started, or the period from when power supply is started.

- If the special game is controlled to an unprogressable state during execution, a losing symbol may be displayed as a fixed stop, and the special game being executed may be forcibly terminated. For example, if the special game is controlled to an unprogressable state during execution, a losing symbol may be displayed as a fixed stop on both special symbol display sections 22a and 22b.

- The scheduled non-progression information may be configured not to be backed up. In this case, if the power supply is cut off during the period from when the scheduled non-progression information is stored until when the machine is controlled to the non-progression state, the machine will return to a state in which the scheduled non-progression information is not stored in the main RWM 43 after the power supply is resumed. As a result, even if the scheduled non-progression information is stored when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value while a jackpot game is being awarded, if the power supply is cut off before the machine is controlled to the non-progression state, that is, before the jackpot game ends, the machine will not be controlled to the non-progression state.

- When returning when a jackpot game has been awarded, the sub-CPU 51 may control the performance display device 25 to execute a performance for returning that notifies the player that a jackpot game has been awarded. For example, the performance for returning may be configured to be executed by displaying on the performance display device 25 an image including text information "A jackpot game has been awarded," which can identify that a jackpot game has been awarded, and text information "Please hit right," which can identify that hitting right is recommended. For example, the performance for returning may be configured to be executed continuously until the sub-CPU 51 inputs any one of a round command, an ending command, a variation pattern command, and a progress-impossible command.

- The timing at which the initial operation of the movable body 24 starts may be the same as the timing at which the display of the stop notification image Ga starts. The timing at which the initial operation of the movable body 24 starts may be a timing later than the timing at which the display of the stop notification image Ga starts. The timing at which the initial operation of the movable body 24 starts may be the same as the timing at which the display of the stop warning image Gb starts. The timing at which the initial operation of the movable body 24 starts may be a timing later than the timing at which the display of the stop warning image Gb starts.

- When the movable body error information is stored in the secondary RWM 53, the secondary CPU 51 may be configured to control at least one of the various performance devices 17, 18, 25 so that a performance is executed to notify that an error has occurred regarding the movable body. For example, if the power supply is cut off after the movable body is controlled to an unprogressable state, and then an error occurs during the initial operation of the movable body that is performed when the power supply is resumed, the performance display device 25 may be configured to execute a stop notification performance and a performance to notify that an error has occurred regarding the movable body. An error regarding the movable body can also be said to be an error regarding the operation of the movable body.

-When the maximum difference number reaches a specified value as a result of a ball entering the starting hole 26, 27 (when a specific condition is met), prize balls may not be awarded as a result of the ball entering the starting hole 26, 27. When the maximum difference number reaches a specified value as a result of a ball entering the starting hole 26, 27, prize balls may be awarded as a result of the ball entering the starting hole 26, 27. In this way, when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value as a result of a ball entering the starting hole 26, 27, prize balls may be awarded as a result of the ball entering the starting hole 26, 27. For example, when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value as a result of a ball entering the starting hole 26, 27, prize balls may be awarded as a result of the ball entering the starting hole 26, 27, but prize balls may not be awarded as a result of subsequent balls entering the starting hole 26, 27.

-When the maximum difference number reaches a specified value as a result of a ball entering the general winning opening 34, 35 (when a specific condition is met), prize balls may not be awarded as a result of the ball entering the general winning opening 34, 35. When the maximum difference number reaches a specified value as a result of a ball entering the general winning opening 34, 35, prize balls may be awarded as a result of the ball entering the general winning opening 34, 35. In this way, when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value as a result of a ball entering the general winning opening 34, 35, prize balls may be awarded as a result of the ball entering the general winning opening 34, 35. For example, when the maximum difference number reaches a specified value as a result of a ball entering the general winning opening 34, 35, prize balls may be awarded as a result of the ball entering the general winning opening 34, 35, but prize balls may not be awarded as a result of subsequent balls entering the general winning opening 34, 35.

- If the maximum difference number reaches a specified value as a result of a ball entering the starting hole 26, 27, the execution of the special game triggered by the ball entering the starting hole 26, 27 may not be put on hold. If the maximum difference number reaches a specified value as a result of a ball entering the starting hole 26, 27, the execution of the special game triggered by the ball entering the starting hole 26, 27 may be put on hold. For example, even if the maximum difference number reaches a specified value as a result of a ball entering the first starting hole 26, if the first special hold number has reached the upper limit, the execution of the first special game triggered by the ball entering the first starting hole 26 may not be put on hold.

- The large prize opening that opens when a large prize game is played and the large prize opening that opens when a small prize game is played may be the same. There may be only one large prize opening. Alternatively, when a large prize game based on some types of large prizes is played, the large prize opening that opens when a small prize game is played may be configured to open. Similarly, when a small prize game based on some types of small prizes is played, the large prize opening that opens when a large prize game is played may be configured to open.

- The prize balls added to the maximum difference number are not limited to the prize balls that are awarded when balls enter all winning slots, but may be the prize balls that are awarded when balls enter some of the winning slots. For example, the prize balls paid out in response to balls entering general winning slots 34 and 35 may be configured not to be added to the maximum difference number.

- In the above embodiment, the degree of advantage of winning a jackpot in a jackpot lottery triggered by a ball entering the second starting hole 27 may be different from the degree of advantage of winning a jackpot in a jackpot lottery triggered by a ball entering the first starting hole 26. For example, the ratio for determining the type of jackpot or the type of jackpot that can be determined may be different between winning a jackpot in a jackpot lottery triggered by a ball entering the second starting hole 27 and winning a jackpot in a jackpot lottery triggered by a ball entering the first starting hole 26.

- In the above embodiment, the second special game is executed with priority over the first special game, but the first and second special games may be executed in the order in which they were put on hold, regardless of the type of special game. The first special game may be executed with priority over the second special game. In addition, the first and second special games may be configured to be executable simultaneously, and for example, a presentation game corresponding to the first special game may be executed in a low base state, while a presentation game corresponding to the second special game may be executed in a high base state.

- The gaming machine of the above embodiment may be embodied as a pachinko gaming machine that can be controlled to a state (so-called small win rush) in which the number of times (frequency) a small win is won per unit time or the number of times (frequency) a small win game is awarded per unit time is increased compared to the normal state, for example. Also, it may be configured so that a small win lottery may be held regardless of whether the first special game or the second special game is executed. It may be configured so that a small win lottery may be held only when the first special game of the first special game or the second special game is executed. Also, it may be configured so that the high base state may end depending on the number of times a small win is won. In addition, it may be controlled to the high base state depending on the number of times a small win is won.

- The gaming machine of the above embodiment may be embodied as a pachinko gaming machine that does not perform a small win lottery. In other words, the gaming machine of the above embodiment may be embodied as a pachinko gaming machine that does not award a small win game. In this case, the jackpot lottery corresponds to a winning lottery, and the jackpot game corresponds to a winning game. Incidentally, in a pachinko gaming machine that is capable of performing both a jackpot lottery and a small win lottery, such as the gaming machine of the above embodiment, either the jackpot lottery or the small win lottery can be considered as a winning lottery, and both the jackpot lottery and the small win lottery can be considered as winning lotteries. In other words, in a pachinko game machine that can award both a big win game and a small win game, like the game machine of the above embodiment, either the big win game or the small win game can be considered as a winning game, or both the big win game and the small win game can be considered as winning games.

- Pachinko gaming machines that can be controlled to a high probability state include those that are controlled to a high probability state until the next big win is awarded, those that are controlled to a high probability state until a fall lottery is won (fall machine), and those that are controlled to a high probability state until a predetermined number of special games have been completed (ST machine). Pachinko gaming machines that can be controlled to a high probability state include those that are controlled to a high probability state when a game ball passes through a specific area (V high probability machine). The pachinko gaming machine of the above embodiment may be embodied as a pachinko gaming machine of any of these specifications. It may also be a pachinko gaming machine of a specification that combines the fall machine and the V high probability machine described above. The V high probability machine has a specification that is equipped with a single big prize opening and generates a specific round of play. The V-type probability change machine has a specification that generates a specific round game by having multiple large prize winning ports, consisting of a large prize winning port (V prize winning port) that opens in a specific round game and a large prize winning port that opens in a round game other than the specific round game. Each embodiment may be embodied in a V-type probability change machine of any specification.

- The machine may be configured to be controllable to a high base state based on the number of times the special game has been played, even if the jackpot has not been won. For example, the above embodiment may be applied to a gaming machine that is controlled to a low-probability, high-base state when the number of times the special game has been played in a non-probability state reaches a predetermined number.

-Even if a jackpot is not won, the machine may be configured to be controllable to a high base state based on a special pattern (e.g., a chance pattern) different from the jackpot pattern being displayed as a confirmed stop in a special game. The chance pattern here is different from the jackpot pattern and also different from a miss pattern. Furthermore, the chance pattern is different from a small win pattern. For example, the above embodiment may be applied to a gaming machine that is controlled to a low probability high base state when a chance pattern is displayed as a confirmed stop in a special game during a normal state.

The above embodiment may be embodied in a pachinko gaming machine in which a virtual medium composed of electronic data is dispensed when a gaming ball is dispensed. In other words, the above embodiment may be embodied in a pachinko gaming machine in which no physical gaming medium is dispensed (a so-called managed gaming machine). Such a pachinko gaming machine is configured to convert the virtual medium into a gaming ball that can be fired by using the virtual medium, and to be able to fire the gaming ball. For example, when the machine is controlled to an unprogressable state, the virtual medium may be configured to be unconvertible into a gaming ball.

- In the above embodiment, the sub-substrate 50 may be a sub-general control substrate, and a display control substrate that specializes in controlling the performance display device 25, a light emission control substrate that specializes in controlling the decorative lamps 17, a sound control substrate that specializes in controlling the speakers 18, and a movable body control substrate that specializes in controlling the movable body 24 may be provided separately from the sub-substrate 50. Such a sub-general control substrate and substrates that control other performances may be included in the sub-substrate. Also, the main CPU 41 of the main substrate 40 and the sub-CPU 51 of the sub-substrate 50 may be mounted on a single substrate. The display control substrate, light emission control substrate, sound control substrate, and movable body control substrate may be combined in any manner to form a single or multiple substrates.

- The information display panel 22 may be provided with a remaining number display section that displays the number of prize balls remaining to be paid out to the player. The information display panel 22 may be provided with a round number display section that displays the number of rounds played during a jackpot game. In addition, the various display sections of the information display panel 22 do not need to be provided on the same member (the information display panel 22 in the above embodiment), and for example, some or all of the display sections may be provided on a member separate from the other display sections.

Next, the technical ideas that can be understood from the above embodiment and other examples will be described below.
(A-1) A gaming machine that can be controlled to an unprogressable state in which it is impossible to progress with a game and that can award a winning game, comprising: an unprogressable control means that controls the machine to the unprogressable state when a specific condition is met; and a winning awarding means that awards a winning game, and is configured to be able to return to a state in which the winning game is awarded when the power supply is resumed after the power supply is cut off when the winning game is awarded, and is characterized in that when the specific condition is met when the winning game is awarded, the machine is controlled to the unprogressable state after the winning game ends in either of the following cases: when the power supply is not cut off between the time the specific condition is met and the time the winning game ends, and when the power supply is cut off between the time the specific condition is met and the time the winning game ends and then the power supply is resumed, restoring the state in which the winning game is awarded.

(A-2) A gaming machine according to the technical idea (A-1) configured such that, in the event of a winning prize, the winning prize is awarded after the variable game ends, and if the specific condition is met during the execution of the variable game, the gaming machine is controlled to the disabled state without waiting for the variable game to end.

(A-3) A gaming machine according to technical idea (A-1) or technical idea (A-2), which is equipped with a game state control means for controlling the game state including the normal state, and a display means capable of issuing at least a warning against addiction, and in which multiple rounds of play are played in a winning game, and in which a warning against addiction is issued at a timing after all rounds of play have ended in either case of the power supply not being cut off within the period until all rounds of play are ended after the specific condition is met in a situation in which a round of play of a winning game that was awarded upon winning in the normal state is being played, or the power supply being cut off within the period until all rounds of play are ended and then the power supply is resumed, returning to a situation in which a winning game has been awarded.

(B-1) A gaming machine that can be controlled to a progress-impossible state in which it is impossible to progress in a game and that can award a winning game, comprising a first control unit and a second control unit capable of inputting control information from the first control unit, the first control unit having a function as a means for controlling the game to the progress-impossible state when a specific condition is met, a function as a means for awarding a winning game, and a function as an information output means for outputting control information to be output to the second control unit, and configured to be able to return to a state in which a winning game has been awarded when the power supply is cut off while a winning game has been awarded and then resumed, and when a winning game has been awarded, A gaming machine characterized in that, depending on whether the specific condition is satisfied, at least a part of the control information output from the first control unit to the second control unit when the power supply is restarted after the power supply is cut off while the winning game is awarded is different, and when the specific condition is satisfied while the winning game is awarded, the game machine is controlled to the non-progression state after the winning game ends in either of the following cases: when the power supply is not cut off between the satisfaction of the specific condition and the end of the winning game, and when the power supply is cut off between the satisfaction of the specific condition and the end of the winning game, and then the power supply is restarted to return to a state in which the winning game is awarded.

(B-2) A gaming machine according to technical idea (B-1) that includes a display means, the second control unit has a function as a display control means for controlling the display means, and the display content of the display means when the power supply is cut off after the specific condition is met when a winning game is awarded, and then the power supply is resumed and the winning game is restored is different from the display content of the display means when the power supply is cut off after the specific condition is not met when a winning game is awarded, and then the power supply is resumed and the winning game is restored.

(B-3) A gaming machine according to technical idea (B-1) or technical idea (B-2), which includes a movable body, and the second control unit has a function as movable body control means for controlling the operation of the movable body, and the movable body control means controls the initial operation of the movable body in either case of when the power supply is cut off after the specific condition is met when a winning game is awarded, and then the power supply is resumed to restore the situation in which the winning game is awarded, or when the power supply is cut off after the specific condition is not met when a winning game is awarded, and then the power supply is resumed to restore the situation in which the winning game is awarded.

(C-1) A gaming machine that can be controlled to a progress-disabled state in which it is impossible to progress in a game is provided with a disabling control means for controlling the progress-disabled state when a specific condition is met, a performance execution means, and a performance control means for controlling the performance execution means, the specific condition being met when a specific value reaches a predetermined value, the performance execution means being capable of executing a specific performance that allows a player to identify that the specific value is approaching the predetermined value, and when the specific performance is not being executed and the remaining value until the specific value reaches the predetermined value falls below a first value, the performance execution means executes the specific performance, and the remaining value until the specific value reaches the predetermined value falls below a first value. In a first situation in which the specific performance is executed after the specific value falls below the first value and the remaining value until the specific value reaches the predetermined value becomes a second value greater than the first value, the specific performance is executed by the performance execution means, and in a second situation in which the remaining value until the specific value reaches the predetermined value does not fall below the first value and the remaining value until the specific value reaches the predetermined value is the second value, the specific performance is not executed by the performance execution means, and even if the power supply is cut off in either the first situation or the second situation, when the power supply is subsequently resumed, the specific performance is not executed by the performance execution means.

(C-2) A gaming machine according to technical idea (C-1) that includes a winning awarding means for awarding a winning game, the specific performance can be executed at least when a winning game is awarded, and if the specific condition is met when a winning game is awarded, the machine is configured to be controlled to the non-progression state after the winning game ends, and the performance execution means can execute a special performance that the player can specify as being controlled to the non-progression state after the winning game ends, and if the specific condition is met when a winning game is awarded, the specific performance ends and the special performance is executed by the performance execution means.

(C-3) A gaming machine according to the technical idea (C-2) in which, if the power supply is cut off when a winning game has been awarded and the special effect is being executed, the special effect can be executed again by the effect execution means after the power supply is resumed and the situation returns to one in which the winning game has been awarded.

(D-1) A gaming machine that can be controlled to a non-progression state where it is impossible to proceed with a game, the gaming machine includes: a non-progression control means that controls the game to the non-progression state when a specific condition is met; a storage means that can store and hold stored information even after the power supply is cut off; and a check means that can perform a checksum when the power supply is started; the specific condition is met when a specific value reaches a predetermined value, the specific value being a value that can change as the game progresses; when the power supply is cut off, the storage means stores first stored information that is calculated based on the stored contents of the storage means; when the power supply is resumed, the check means is configured to perform a checksum based on second stored information that is calculated based on the stored contents of the storage means after the power supply is started and the first stored information calculated when the power supply was cut off; and the stored contents of the storage means that are used to calculate the first stored information and the second stored information include stored information related to the specific value.

(D-2) A gaming machine according to the technical idea (D-1), in which the memory information regarding the specific value stored in the memory means is initialized after a checksum is performed.
(D-3) A gaming machine described in the technical idea (D-2) which is equipped with a winning awarding means for awarding a winning game, and is configured to be able to return to a state in which the winning game has been awarded when the power supply is resumed after being cut off while the winning game has been awarded, and when the specific condition is established while the winning game has been awarded and the power supply is cut off before the winning game is finished, the memory means stores and retains establishment history information which can identify that the specific condition has been established, and the establishment history information stored and retained in the memory means is not initialized even after a checksum is performed.

(E-1) A gaming machine that can be controlled to a disabled state where it is impossible to progress in a game and can award a winning game, the gaming machine is characterized in that it is equipped with a game state control means for controlling a game state including a normal state, an inability control means for controlling the game state to the disabled state when a specific condition is met, a winning awarding means for awarding a winning game, and a display means for issuing at least a warning about addiction, and that when the specific condition is met in a winning game that is awarded as a result of a winning win in the normal state, a warning about addiction is issued and the gaming machine is controlled to the disabled state.

(E-2) A gaming machine as described in technical concept (E-1) in which the time for issuing a warning about addiction is the same regardless of when the specific condition is met while a winning game is awarded.

(E-3) A gaming machine according to technical idea (E-1) or technical idea (E-2), in which multiple rounds of play are played in the winning game, and if the specific condition is met while a round of play of the winning game that was awarded upon winning is being played in the normal state, a warning about addiction is issued after all rounds of play have ended, and the machine is controlled to the non-progression state.

10...Amusement machine 17...Decorative lamp 18...Speaker 22...Information display panel 22a...First special symbol display section 22b...Second special symbol display section 22c...First special hold display section 22d...Second special hold display section 22e...Normal symbol display section 22f...Normal hold display section 22g...Right hit notification lamp 24...Movable body 25...Performance display device 26...First start port 27...Second start port 29...First large prize port 31...Second large prize port 33...Gate 34...First general prize port 35...Second general prize port 40...Main board 41...Main CPU 42...Main ROM 43...Main RWM 45...Clear switch 50...Sub-board 51...Sub CPU 52...Sub ROM 53...Sub RWM 60...Power supply unit 61...Power switch 62...Backup power supply 70...Launch device SE1...First start sensor SE2...Second start sensor SE3...First count sensor SE4...Second count sensor SE5...Gate sensor SE6...First general sensor SE7...Second general sensor SE8...Out sensor

Claims (2)

In a gaming machine that can be controlled to a state where a game cannot be played and can award a winning game,
A first control unit;
A second control unit capable of receiving control information from the first control unit;
A display means capable of issuing a warning about at least addiction;
The first control unit has a function as a game state control means for controlling a game state including a normal state, a function as an inability control means for controlling the game state to the inability to proceed state when a specific condition is satisfied, a function as a win awarding means for awarding a win game, and a function as an information output means for outputting control information to be output to the second control unit,
The period during which the winning game is awarded includes at least the ending period.
When the power supply is interrupted while a winning game is being awarded, and then the power supply is resumed, the winning game can be restored to the state where the winning game is being awarded.
Depending on whether the specific condition is established when a winning game is awarded, at least a part of the control information output from the first control unit to the second control unit when the power supply is resumed after the power supply is cut off when the winning game is awarded is different;
In the case where the specific condition is established while a winning game is awarded, the game is controlled to the non-progression state after the winning game ends in either of the following cases: when the power supply is not cut off between the establishment of the specific condition and the end of the winning game, or when the power supply is cut off between the establishment of the specific condition and the end of the winning game and then the power supply is resumed, restoring the situation to the state in which the winning game is awarded ;
When the specific condition is met in a winning game that is awarded in the normal state, a warning against addiction can be issued.
This gaming machine is characterized in that, regardless of the timing at which the specific condition is established when a winning game is awarded, the time during which a warning against addiction is executed is the same, and the time is shorter than the time for the ending period . In the winning game, multiple rounds of play are played,
The gaming machine of claim 1, wherein, after the specific condition is met in a situation in which a round of play of a winning game that was awarded upon winning is being played in the normal state, if the power supply is not cut off within the period until all rounds of play are completed, a warning regarding addiction is issued at a timing after all rounds of play are completed, and, if the power supply is cut off within the period until all rounds of play are completed and then power supply is resumed and the situation returns to one in which a winning game is awarded, a warning regarding addiction is not issued after all rounds of play are completed .

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