JP7570704B2 - Gaming Machines - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an amusement machine.

An example of a gaming machine is a slot machine, and some slot machines have a gaming state called AT (assist time) that notifies the player of the possibility of winning a small prize or a replay prize, which is an advantageous gaming state for the player.
Among such slot machines, there are known ones that generate a CZ state (a so-called chance zone) that increases the probability of transitioning to a gaming state advantageous to the player (for example, Patent Document 1).

JP 2020-171756 A

However, there was room for improvement in these conventional gaming machines.

In order to solve the above problems, the gaming machine of the present invention comprises: a game state control means capable of controlling a game state to any one of a plurality of game states including a first game state and a second game state that is more advantageous than the first game state; a first determination means capable of determining whether to grant a continuation rate of the second game state; an awarding means capable of awarding the continuation rate when the first determination means determines that a continuation rate should be awarded; a counting means capable of counting the continuation rate awarded by the awarding means; and based on the continuation rate counted by the counting means, The present invention is provided with a second determination means capable of determining whether to continue the second gaming state, and a state control means capable of controlling to a first state and a second state different from the first state, the second gaming state being a first second gaming state, a second second gaming state to which a transition can be made from the first second gaming state and which has a lower probability of being determined by the first determination means to provide a continuation rate than the first second gaming state, and a second second gaming state to which a transition can be made from the second second gaming state and which determines whether to continue the second gaming state by the second determination means. and a fourth second game state to which a transition can be made from the third second game state, and the game state control means is capable of controlling the game state to the first game state when it is determined by the second determination means in the third second game state that the second game state will not be continued, and is capable of controlling the game state to the fourth second game state when it is determined by the second determination means in the third second game state that the second game state will be continued. The second second game state is a game state in which one set can be continued for a predetermined number of games, the state control means is capable of controlling the game state to either the first state or the second state within the one set, and the game state does not transition from either the first state or the second state to the other within the one set, and a game state in which a continuation rate is more likely to be determined to be awarded by the first determination means when the game state is controlled to the second state than when the game state is controlled to the first state .

1 is a schematic front view showing the appearance of the gaming machine. 1 is a schematic perspective view showing the internal configuration of the gaming machine; 2 is a block diagram showing the control configuration of the gaming machine. 13 is a diagram showing an internal lottery table. 1 is a diagram showing the arrangement of reel symbols. FIG. 13 is a state transition diagram of the RT state. FIG. 13 is a state transition diagram of the game state. 13 is a diagram showing a state A and state E level lottery table. 13 is a diagram showing a state B level lottery table. 13 is a diagram showing a state C level lottery table. 13 is a diagram showing a state D level lottery table. 13 is a diagram showing a state F level lottery table. 13 is a diagram showing a game state transition lottery table. FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining the control when a rare replay role is won in the normal stage. 13 is a diagram showing a CZ stage B type lottery table. This is a chart showing the CZ Stage B game number addition lottery table. This is a diagram showing the CZ stage B1, B2 bonus award lottery table. A diagram to explain the awarding of benefits in CZ Stage B. 13 is a diagram showing a state-by-state probability lottery table. 13 is a diagram showing an AT continuation rate addition lottery table. 13 is a diagram showing an item lottery table. This is a chart showing a lottery table for adding to the specialized stage B transition rate. This is a chart showing a CB game number addition lottery table. 13 is a diagram showing an EX game number addition lottery table. 13 is a diagram showing a state F probability state transition lottery table. 13 is a diagram showing a lottery table for deriving navigation when matching seven whites. 13 is a diagram showing a continuation battle lottery table. 13 is a diagram showing an AT continuation rate addition lottery table. 13 is a diagram showing an EX game number addition lottery table. 13 is a diagram illustrating the continuation lottery effect using items and the awarding of benefits. FIG.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS A preferred embodiment of a gaming machine according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
First, the overall configuration of the slot machine 1 will be described.
The slot machine 1 is one embodiment of a gaming machine according to the present invention, and is installed in an amusement arcade or the like.
As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the slot machine 1 comprises a front door 1a, a housing 1b, a medal insertion slot 2, a bet button 2a, a medal selector 2b, a performance button 2c, a start lever 3, a drum unit 4, a reel 41, a stop button 5, a display window 6, a medal payout device 7, a hopper 7a, a medal payout outlet 7b, a display 8, a speaker 9, a lamp 11, a navigation lamp 12, an advantageous zone lamp 13, a power supply unit 14, a probability setting device 15, a main control unit 10, a sub-control unit 20, etc.

The main control unit 10 and the sub-control unit 20 each include a memory unit (storage means) and a control unit (control means) and are devices capable of various types of calculation processing and various types of control, and are included in the concept of a computer.
Each storage unit includes a ROM for storing a control program related to the game and various lottery tables, and a RAM having a storage area for temporarily storing various data and a working area for the CPU.
Each control unit includes a CPU, etc. Each control unit appropriately reads out and executes various control programs, etc., stored in the corresponding storage unit, to realize various functions of the present embodiment.

The slot machine 1, like a normal slot machine, has a housing 1b having an opening on the front, and a front door 1a that opens and closes to cover the opening.
A display window 6 through which the rear can be seen is formed in the center of the front door 1a, and the symbols displayed on the reels 41 can be seen through this display window 6.
In addition, below the display window 6, a step is formed that protrudes forward, and the upper surface of this step is provided with a medal insertion slot 2 for inserting medals, a bet button 2a which the player presses to set the number of bets when starting a game, and an effect button 2c which the player operates to change the effects displayed on the display 8.
In addition, on the front surface of the stepped portion, there are provided a start lever 3 which the player operates when starting a game, and a stop button 5 which the player presses to stop the reel 41 .

Additionally, above the display window 6, navigation lamps 12 (navigation lamps 12a, 12b, 12c) capable of informing the player of the operation sequence of the stop buttons 5 are disposed in correspondence with the reels 41a, 41b, 41c. Note that the navigation lamps 12 may be controlled to light up, for example, the "dot" portions of a seven-segment display (also called "7-seg") constituting a push order display section that displays the operation sequence of the stop buttons 5.
A favorable zone lamp 13, for example, composed of an LED, is disposed below the display window 6. The favorable zone lamp 13 is controlled to light up during a favorable zone (described later). Note that instead of the favorable zone lamp 13, for example, a 7-segment "dot" portion constituting a payout number display unit that displays the number of medals paid out, or the like, may be controlled to light up.
In addition, it is not necessary to provide the favorable zone lamp 13, and instead of the favorable zone lamp 13, an AT state lamp that lights up during the AT stage described below may be provided.

A display 8 that functions as a notification means and a display means is provided on the upper portion of the front door 1a.
The display 8 is, for example, a liquid crystal display capable of displaying a plurality of pieces of information, and performs various image-based effects, displays various pieces of information in the game, and the like.
As shown in Fig. 1, one display 8 is provided, but multiple displays may be provided. For example, two displays (a main display and a sub-display) may be provided and arranged side by side, so that the main display and the sub-display function as a single display unit. The sub-display may be disposed closer to the reel 41 than the main display, so that the displayed image can be easily viewed while watching the reel 41 rotate or stop.
Moreover, the display may be provided on a lower panel display, which is a large display section disposed below the slot machine 1 .

Above the display 8, there is a speaker 9 which acts as a notification means by providing sound effects and notifications, and a lamp 11 which emits light when each winning combination is achieved and provides light effects and notifications corresponding to the effects displayed on the display 8.
Further, at the bottom of the front door 1a, there is provided a medal payout opening 7b through which medals are paid out.

The top of the cabinet 1b is equipped with a main control unit 10 that provides overall control of the game, and the top of the front door 1a is equipped with a sub-control unit 20 that controls aspects of the game, etc., under the control of the main control unit 10.
Furthermore, the center of the housing 1b is provided with a drum unit 4 that rotates and drives the reel 41. The drum unit 4 is provided with reels 41a, 41b, and 41c that are arranged in parallel in the horizontal direction, and these reels 41a to 41c are each configured to be rotatable by driving a stepping motor (not shown).

The reels 41a to 41c are an example of a variable display means, and the periphery of the reels 41a to 41c displays a number of (e.g., 20) symbols that serve as identification information, such as "replay,""bell,""BAR,""cherry,""white7," etc.
The configuration of the reels 41a to 41c is not limited to this, and for example, the number of symbols on the periphery may be other than 20.
In addition, the lower part of the cabinet 1b is equipped with a medal payout device 7 that pays out medals, and a hopper 7a that stores medals, and the medals paid out from the medal payout device 7 are paid out to the player via a medal payout outlet 7b.

A power supply unit 14 is provided at the bottom of the housing 1b.
The power supply unit 14 is a device for supplying power to each device including the main control unit 10 and the sub-control unit 20. It monitors the voltage or frequency of the power supply input from outside the slot machine 1, and outputs a power cut-off signal to the main control unit 10 and the sub-control unit 20 indicating that the power supply to the slot machine 1 has been stopped when the voltage or frequency drops below a predetermined value.
Furthermore, when the power supply unit 14 detects a supply of power indicating a voltage or frequency exceeding a predetermined value due to power restoration, it outputs a power restoration signal to the main control unit 10 and the sub-control unit 20 indicating that power supply to the slot machine 1 has started.

Fig. 3 shows the configuration of the control system of the slot machine 1. Note that the same reference numerals are used to designate components that are the same as or correspond to those described in Figs. 1 and 2.
The main control unit 10 performs the drawing of winning roles and control of the progress of the game, while the sub-control unit 20 performs various presentation controls based on the control information from the main control unit 10.
The transmission of control information between the main control unit 10 and the sub-control unit 20 is limited to one direction only, from the main control unit 10 to the sub-control unit 20, thereby preventing the input of unauthorized signals from the sub-control unit 20 to the main control unit 10.
The main control unit 10 is connected to the bet button 2a, medal selector 2b, start lever 3, stop button 5, drum unit 4, medal payout device 7, advantageous zone lamp 13, probability setting device 15 (setting means), and sub-control unit 20 via communication cables, and is capable of controlling each device.

The probability setting device 15 can change the probability of being awarded a game-related status level (described later) in multiple stages (for example, six stages), thereby changing the degree of advantage for the player in multiple stages, and the main control unit 10 stores one of the setting values in the memory unit based on the probability setting operation in the probability setting device 15, and controls the probability of being awarded a bonus based on the stored setting value.
Of the setting values (first setting value, second setting value) set by the probability setting device 15, setting 1 is the lowest probability value, the higher the number, the higher the probability value, and setting 6 is the highest probability value. Therefore, setting 1 is the setting that is most disadvantageous to the player, and the higher the number, the more advantageous it is to the player, with setting 6 being the most advantageous setting to the player.

In addition, by directly or indirectly changing the probability of transitioning to a game state (e.g., the AT stage) that is advantageous to the player, the degree of advantage of the player can be changed in multiple stages by using the setting value in the probability setting device 15.
In addition to the game state, the probability of winning a predetermined small prize (for example, a bell prize) may be made variable in multiple stages (for example, six stages).
In addition, although the setting value can be set in six stages, this is not limited to this, and it may be, for example, four stages (setting values 1, 2, 5, 6) or three stages (setting 1, setting 3, setting 6), or it may be a fixed probability value.

The main control unit 10 performs processes such as starting a game based on a signal from the start lever 3 and sampling random numbers from a random number generator (not shown).The main control unit 10 then performs an internal lottery process based on the sampled random numbers.The main control unit 10 also realizes various functions of the embodiments described below by appropriately reading and executing control programs and the like stored in the storage unit.
That is, the main control unit 10 is equipped with a lottery means for executing a lottery for a role (winning role) related to the identification information displayed in a stopped state on the variable display means (reel 41) in response to the execution of a game, and a judgment means for judging whether or not to grant a privilege such as the right to transition to a game state.
In addition, the selection pattern using random numbers may be other than the patterns described above, and the selection of roles may be based on random numbers generated by software, and the selection of transitions to AT stages, etc. may be based on random numbers generated by a random number generator, or all selections may be performed using random numbers generated by software or random numbers generated by a random number generator.

The main control unit 10 also controls the rotation of the reels 41 based on a signal from the start lever 3. The main control unit 10 detects the rotational position of each of the reels 41a to 41c based on a signal from a sensor (not shown) provided on each of the reels 41a to 41c, and is able to grasp the rotational position of the symbols on each of the reels 41a to 41c. Then, based on a signal from the stop button 5, it performs control to stop the desired symbol in the display window 6.

In addition, the main control unit 10 outputs predetermined signals and commands (control information) to the sub-control unit 20 at predetermined game timings (for example, operation of the start lever, operation of the stop buttons 5a to 5c, transition of game states, etc.).
For example, when the start lever 3 is operated, the main control unit 10 outputs a signal indicating that the start lever has been operated to the sub-control unit 20, and when each of the stop buttons 5a to 5c is operated, the main control unit 10 outputs a signal that enables identification of which stop button 5 was operated and in what order, and when each of the reels 41a to 41c is stopped by operation of the stop button 5, the main control unit 10 outputs information to the sub-control unit 20 that enables identification of which reels 41 have stopped in what order, and the patterns on the top, middle and bottom rows, etc.
Therefore, the sub-controller 20 can recognize the stopping mode of the symbols according to the operation mode of the stop buttons 5a to 5c by the player.
Furthermore, when the game state is changed, the main control unit 10 outputs to the sub-control unit 20 information that enables identification of which game state has been changed to.

The main control unit 10 is also configured to be able to input a power interruption signal and a power restoration signal from the power supply device 14 .
When the main control unit 10 receives the power-off signal, it executes a power-off process to store (save) the game information at the time of the power-off signal. This game information includes, for example, the game state at that time, winning combinations, the stopping state of the reels 41, the number of bets, and the like.
In addition, when the main control unit 10 receives a power return signal, the main control unit 10 executes a power return process to read out the stored (saved) game information and resume the game. That is, when the main control unit 10 receives a power return signal, the main control unit 10 returns the state to the state immediately before the power was turned off based on the read out game information.
Furthermore, in the power recovery process, the main control unit 10 transmits game information to the sub-control unit 20. This allows the sub-control unit 20 to resume presentation based on the game state immediately before the power was cut off.

The sub-controller 20 is connected to the performance button 2c, speaker 9, display 8, lamp 11, and navigation lamp 12 via communication cables and is capable of communicating with them. The sub-controller 20 controls these devices in response to commands (control information) from the main controller 10.

The sub-controller 20 stores various information such as programs relating to performance, performance image data, audio data, etc. in the memory unit.
The sub-controller 20 operates as a presentation control means, and performs processes such as presentations synchronized with the play of the slot machine 1 in response to commands (control information) from the main controller 10. For example, it controls the display 8, the lamp 11, the speaker 9, etc. to output presentation images and sound effects that indicate the transition of the game state, and lamp presentations.

The sub-controller 20 is also configured to be able to receive a power-off signal and a power-return signal from the power supply 14. When the sub-controller 20 receives a power-off signal, it stores (backs up) performance information that specifies the performance content being performed at the time of the input. This performance information includes, for example, various information displayed on the display 8.
Furthermore, when the sub-controller 20 receives a power return signal, it resumes presentation based on the presentation information stored (saved) in the game information received from the main controller 10 .

Such a slot machine 1 is capable of executing the following slot machine games under the control of the main control unit 10.
At the start of a game, the number of bets is set using medals (including credit medals).
The number of bets can be set either by inserting medals directly into the medal insertion slot 2 or by pressing the bet button 2a.

In the method of setting the number of bets by inserting medals into the medal insertion slot 2, the inserted medals are detected by the medal selector 2b provided on the back of the front door 1a, and the number of bets corresponding to the number of inserted medals (however, the upper limit is 3 bets corresponding to 3 medals) is set. If medals exceeding 3 bets are inserted, they are internally stored and held as data as credit medals.
The upper limit of the number of bets may be "1", "2", "4" or more.

When the bet button 2a is pressed, a predetermined number (e.g., three) of medals to be used in one game is subtracted from the credit medals stored internally as data, and the subtracted amount is set as a bet of three medals.
In addition, by providing a 2 bet button for setting the number of medals corresponding to 2 medals as the bet button, 2 bets may be set by pressing the 2 bet button once.
In addition, by providing a 1 bet button for setting the number of medals corresponding to one coin as the bet button, a 2 bet may be set by pressing the 1 bet button twice, and a 3 bet may be set by pressing the 1 bet button three times.
Furthermore, credit medals are added by inserting medals through the medal insertion slot 2 or winning, and up to 50 medals, for example, can be credited (stored).

In this way, the number of bets set by directly inserting medals into the medal insertion slot 2 or by pressing each bet button is stored in the memory section of the main control section 10, and the game is ready to start when the number of bets reaches the number sufficient for one game.
When the game can be started, the operation of the start lever 3 is valid, and when the start lever 3 is tilted, the game starts, the reels 41 start to move, and an internal lottery process is executed to determine the lottery result of the current game. In the internal lottery process, the winning combination for the current game is determined by lottery from among a plurality of winning combinations based on a predetermined winning probability.
The reels 41 gradually increase their rotation speed from a stopped state, and then reach a steady state where they rotate at a constant speed. When the steady state rotation is reached, the stop buttons 5a to 5c provided corresponding to each of the reels 41a to 41c become operable by pressing them.

The stop buttons 5a to 5c are an example of an operating means (stop operating means) for performing a stop operation on the reel 41, and when pressed in a state in which they can be pressed, each reel 41a to 41c is controlled to stop with a combination of patterns that is allowed based on the timing of the operation and the lottery results of the internal lottery process (stop control means).
The stopping control of each reel 41a to 41c has a pull-in range set for each, and a predetermined number of symbols (for example, four) in the reverse direction (upward) from the symbol at the time the stopping operation is performed can be pulled in, and only any of the symbols in this pull-in range can be stopped on a winning line (hereinafter also referred to as a winning line).

After the third reel is stopped, the combination of symbols that stop (hereinafter also referred to as the "stop display") on the winning line as a result of the game is determined. If the combination of symbols is a predetermined combination, it is determined to be a winning combination, and a game value (e.g., medals) according to the combination of symbols is awarded.
The third reel refers to the reel that is stopped in the third and final operation when the three reels 41a to 41c are stopped once each for a total of three times. Furthermore, "after the third reel stop operation" refers to the time after the player releases his/her finger from the stop button 5 that was used to stop the third reel.

In this embodiment, winning is determined based on the combination of patterns that stop on the middle line out of a total of five lines: the top, middle and bottom lines, the line that slopes downward to the right, and the line that slopes upward to the right. Of these, only the middle line is considered to be a valid line.
The number of winning lines for determining whether or not a win has been won is not limited to one line, but can be changed as appropriate depending on the relationship between the arrangement of the symbols, the type of symbols, the combination of symbols corresponding to the winning combination, and the like.
The slot machine game is executed in the above manner.

(Winning combination and corresponding symbols)
Next, each winning combination and the symbol combination corresponding to each winning combination will be described.
The winning combination includes, for example, a small combination, a replay combination, a bonus combination, and the like.
The minor roles include, for example, a bell role, a cherry role, a watermelon role, a chance role, a one-coin role, a miss role, and the like.
Also, there are weak cherry roles and strong cherry roles.
In the following description, the cherry role, the watermelon role, and the chance eye role are collectively referred to as "rare roles."

There are two bell roles, each with a different combination of corresponding symbols. For example, there is a common bell role in which the corresponding symbol combination is "bell, replay, bell" in the order of "left reel 41a, middle reel 41b, right reel 41c" on the winning line (same below), and a push order bell role in which the corresponding symbol combination is "bell, bell, bell".

The common bell role is a minor role in which a corresponding combination of symbols stops regardless of the operation sequence (called the push order) of the stop buttons 5a to 5c, and the push order bell role is a minor role in which a corresponding combination of symbols stops by following a specific push order.

The push order bell role has six push order bell roles 1 to 6, in which the corresponding symbol combination ("Bell Bell Bell") is stopped and displayed by operating the stop buttons 5a to 5c in one of six possible push orders (the correct push order).
For such push order bell roles 1 to 6, when the stop buttons 5a to 5c are operated in the other five push orders (incorrect push orders), the corresponding symbol combination is not displayed as stopped, and another symbol combination (push order bell spill or missing symbol) is displayed as stopped.
If the stop buttons 5a to 5c are operated in an incorrect pressing sequence, and the combination of symbols corresponding to the pressing sequence bell spill number ("Bell Bell Replay") cannot be stopped, a spill will occur and a losing combination (such as "Replay Cherry Bell") will be displayed as a stopped combination.
When a combination of symbols corresponding to a push order bell spill number is stopped, one medal is awarded, and when a combination of symbols corresponding to a losing number is stopped, no medal is awarded.

In addition, when the push order bell role is won, regardless of which stop button 5 is operated second or third, if only the first stop button 5 is operated in a specific push order, the reel 41 may be controlled to stop so that the combination of symbols corresponding to the push order bell role stops. In addition, the push order bell role is not limited to six types, and three types of push order bell roles 1 to 3 may be provided.
In the following explanation, push order bell roles 1 to 6 will be collectively referred to simply as the push order bell roles.

In addition, the slot machine 1 according to this embodiment is capable of generating an AT (assist time) as a gaming state related to the push order bell roles 1 to 6.
In the AT, when the push order bell role 1 to 6 is selected through the internal lottery process, the sub-control unit 20 controls the display 8, etc. to notify the user of the order in which to press the stop buttons 5 and the patterns that serve as a guide for pressing the buttons at the correct time.
That is, the main control unit 10 and the sub-control unit 20 execute control to notify information (specific information) regarding the stopping operation to derive the combination of symbols for the push order bell role (bell, bell, bell) as the result of the game.
Therefore, during the AT, the ball dispense speed is faster than during non-AT, and in this embodiment, the game state other than the normal stage described below is controlled by the AT.

For example, when the push order bell role 1 is won, the push order consisting of the text information "1,""2," and "3" is displayed on the display 8 from left to right, the sounds "left,""middle," and "right" are output from the speaker 9, and the navigation lamps 12 are lit in the order of 12a (left), 12b (middle), and 12c (right) to notify the order in which to press the stop buttons 5.
In this embodiment, the navigation of the button press order using notification means such as the display 8, navigation lamp 12, speaker 9, etc. is also referred to as "push order navigation."
In the non-AT state, even if the winning result of the internal lottery process is the push order bell combination 1 to 6, the push order of the stop button 5 is not announced. Therefore, unless the operation order of the stop button 5 operated by the player coincidentally matches the push order corresponding to the winning push order bell combination 1 to 6, the player basically cannot stop and display the combination of symbols corresponding to the winning push order bell combination 1 to 6.
Therefore, the playability of the slot machine 1 is such that the player can increase the number of balls dispensed by staying in the AT state for a long period of time.

In the weak cherry role, the combination of "BAR, Bell, Bell" symbols can stop on the winning line, and the cherry symbol stops on the bottom row of the left reel 41a.
The strong cherry role allows a combination of symbols such as "cherry, bell, bell" to stop on the winning line, and the cherry symbol will stop in the middle of the left reel 41a.
The watermelon role allows the pattern combination of "watermelon, watermelon, watermelon" to stop on the winning line, and the chance role allows the pattern combination of "watermelon, bell, bell" to stop on the winning line.
For the 1-coin role, a combination of symbols will stop and be displayed regardless of the order in which you press the buttons, and the combination of "replay, cherry, and watermelon" symbols can stop on the winning line.

There are two types of replay roles: normal replay roles in which a combination of symbols is achieved regardless of the pressing order, and rare replay roles and special replay roles in which a combination of symbols is achieved by performing a specific pressing order and keystroke operation.
A normal replay role is when the combination of "Replay, Replay, Replay" symbols stops on the winning line.

The rare replay roles include a weak cherry replay role, a strong cherry replay role, and a chance eye replay role.
In the weak cherry replay role, the symbol combination "BAR, replay, replay" can be stopped on the winning line, and the cherry symbol will stop on the bottom row of the left reel 41a.
The strong cherry replay role allows a combination of symbols such as "cherry replay replay" to stop on the winning line, and the cherry symbol stops in the middle of the left reel 41a.
The chance replay role allows a combination of symbols such as "watermelon, replay, replay" to stop on the winning line.

In the rare replay role, the stop button 5 is operated in four (4/6) of six possible push orders ("left → center → right", "left → right → center", "right → center → left", "right → left → center") to stop and display the corresponding symbol combination.
On the other hand, when the stop button 5 is operated in the other two (2/6) pressing sequences ("center → left → right" and "center → right → left" (hereinafter referred to as "center press")), the corresponding symbol combination is not displayed, and the normal replay symbol combination (replay, replay, replay) is stopped.

The special replay roles are White 7 Replay, Fake White 7 Replay, and Special White 7 Replay.
The White 7 Replay role allows the combination of "White 7, White 7, White 7" to stop on the winning line.
The fake white 7 replay role allows a combination of symbols such as "replay, white 7, white 7" to stop on the winning line.
The special white 7 replay role allows a combination of symbols such as "white 7, watermelon, white 7" to stop on the winning line.

When the White 7 Replay role is won, the stop button 5 can be operated in one (1/6) of six possible pressing sequences ("right → center → left" (hereinafter, "reverse pressing")) to stop and display the corresponding symbol combination.
In addition, in order to stop the corresponding symbol combination, a timing operation for the "white 7" symbol is required, and if the timing operation is successful, the white 7 symbols will line up in a straight line on the active line (hereinafter, this stopping pattern will be referred to as "white 7 alignment").
In addition, although details will be described later, in this embodiment, when a set of white sevens is displayed in a stopped state during each stage, an advantageous bonus is awarded to the player.
The fake white 7 replay is provided as a false result of the white 7 replay, and when the fake white 7 replay is won, if the player succeeds in pressing the "white 7" symbol by pressing the reverse button, the corresponding symbol combination will stop. In other words, the "white 7s" will not be displayed, and the player will not receive any special benefit.

When the special white 7 replay role is won, the stop button 5 is operated by pressing it in reverse, so that the corresponding symbol combination can be stopped and displayed.
Also, in order to stop the corresponding symbol combination, a timing operation for the "white 7" symbol is required, and if the timing operation is successful, the "white 7" symbol is stopped and displayed in a diamond shape (hereinafter, this stopping pattern is also referred to as a "special white 7 alignment").
In addition, in the case of the White 7 Replay role, the Fake White 7 Replay role, and the Special White 7 Replay role, if the eye-pressing operation fails, the combination of "Replay Replay Replay" symbols may stop on a specified line.

In this way, the slot machine 1 (main control unit 10) of this embodiment is capable of executing control to cause the reel 41 to produce a first specific stopping pattern (replay, replay, replay) when the result of the role lottery is a normal replay role (normal role).
Furthermore, when the result of the lottery for the role is a specific role (strong cherry replay role), if the operation mode of the stop button 5 by the player is the first operation mode (middle press), control can be executed to cause the reel 41 to produce a first specific stop mode (replay replay replay), and if the operation mode of the stop operation means by the player is the second operation mode (other than middle press), control can be executed to cause the reel 41 to produce a second specific stop mode (cherry replay replay).
In addition, when the result of the lottery is a special role (weak cherry replay role), if the operation mode of the stop operation means by the player is the first operation mode (center push), control can be executed to cause the reel 41 to derive a first specific stop mode (replay, replay, replay), and if the operation mode of the stop operation means by the player is the second operation mode (other than center push), control can be executed to cause the reel 41 to derive a third specific stop mode (BAR, replay, cherry).

The bonus roles include a big bonus role (hereinafter also referred to as a BB role), a regular bonus role (hereinafter also referred to as a RB role), and a single bonus role (hereinafter also referred to as a SB role).
In the following description, when the term "bonus role" is used, it includes the role of BB and the role of RB, but excludes the role of SB.
There are two types of BB roles: the "Blue 7 Big Bonus Role (hereinafter referred to as the Blue BB Role)," in which blue 7 symbols line up in a straight line on the winning line, and the "Red 7 Big Bonus Role (hereinafter referred to as the Red BB Role)," in which red 7 symbols line up in a straight line on the winning line.
There are two types of RB roles: the "Red 7 Regular Bonus Role (hereinafter also referred to as the Red RB Role)," which allows symbol combinations such as "Red 7, Red 7, White 7" to stop on the winning line, and the "White 7 Regular Bonus Role (hereinafter also referred to as the White RB Role)," which allows symbol combinations such as "White 7, White 7, Red 7" to stop on the winning line.

The right to win the bonus role can be carried over as long as the corresponding symbol combination does not stop in the game in which the bonus role was won or in subsequent games. Therefore, the bonus winning state is maintained until the corresponding symbol combination stops to win the bonus role (hereinafter, this state is referred to as the "bonus winning state").
On the other hand, when a bonus role is won and the symbol combination corresponding to the bonus role is stopped and displayed (a prize is won), the player enters a bonus state, and after the bonus state ends, the player enters a non-carry-over state in which the right to win the bonus role is not carried over (hereinafter, this state will be referred to as the "non-bonus winning state").

In addition to being won individually, the bonus role can also be won in combination with a rare role at a predetermined rate.
Specifically, when a weak cherry, strong cherry, or chance eye combination is won, a BB or RB combination is won at a predetermined rate. Also, when a watermelon combination is won, a BB combination is won at a predetermined rate.

When a bonus role overlaps with a rare role and is won, a main control unit 10 performs reel control to stop and display a combination of symbols corresponding to a minor role with priority, and performs reel control with the lowest priority for the combination of symbols corresponding to the bonus role.
Therefore, in a game in which a bonus role is won by overlapping bonus roles, the combination of symbols corresponding to the bonus role cannot basically be stopped, but the combination of symbols corresponding to the rare role will be stopped, and the bonus winning state will continue in subsequent games.

The SB role is a winning role that ends after a predetermined number of games (for example, one game) without carryover control of the winning state.
For example, four SB roles 1 to 4 are provided, and SB role 1 displays the symbol combination of "replay, BAR, BAR" stationary on the winning line, SB role 2 displays the symbol combination of "bell, BAR, BAR" stationary on the winning line, SB role 3 displays the symbol combination of "watermelon, BAR, BAR" stationary on the winning line, and SB role 4 displays the symbol combination of "cherry, BAR, BAR" stationary on the winning line.

Based on the combination of symbols as described above, the presence or absence of a win of a small role, a replay role, a bonus role, or an SB role is determined. If it is determined that a win has been achieved as a result of the determination, a game value is awarded (a medal is paid out). That is, the main control unit 10 includes a game value awarding means for awarding a game value (a medal) according to the stopping mode of the symbols.
For example, in the case of a bell role (common bell role, push order bell role), when the corresponding symbol combination is displayed, 8 medals are paid out. On the other hand, when the push order bell role is won, if the stop buttons 5a to 5c are operated in an incorrect push order and the push order bell spill stops, 1 medal is paid out.
In addition, when a combination of symbols corresponding to the watermelon role is stopped, three medals are paid out, and when a combination of symbols corresponding to each of the winning roles of the weak cherry role, strong cherry role, chance eye role and 1 coin role is stopped, one medal is paid out.
Furthermore, by displaying a combination of symbols corresponding to a replay role, the player can play the next game again without inserting a medal.
In addition, when a combination of symbols corresponding to a bonus role and an SB role is stopped, no medals are paid out.

The number of medals paid out when a combination of symbols corresponding to each winning role is stopped and displayed may be other than the above numbers.
In addition, the symbol combinations corresponding to the respective winning roles may be other than those described above and can be set as appropriate.
Furthermore, in this embodiment, it is assumed that the number of medals paid out is the same regardless of the number of bets, but the number of medals paid out may be varied depending on the number of bets.

(Observations of each winning combination)
Next, the probability of winning each winning combination will be described with reference to FIG. 4A.
Figure 4A shows the "internal lottery table" used to draw each winning role in each bonus-related state (bonus non-winning state (RT0-RT4), bonus winning state (RT5), bonus state (RB, BB)) and the SB state (RT0SB-RT4SB).
The internal lottery table indicates the range (number) of random numbers obtained in the internal lottery process by the main control unit 10 to be 65,536, and the number of winning values (winners) out of that.
In addition, the internal lottery table shown in Figure 4A shows the winning probability of each winning role in a 3-bet game, and shows a case where the setting values set by the probability setting device 15 are the same for all settings 1 to 6.

For example, the probability of winning each winning role excluding the bonus role and the SB role is set in the non-bonus winning state (RT0-RT4) as follows: Push Order Bell role > Replay role > Common Bell role, 1 coin role > Weak Cherry role > Watermelon role > Chance Eye role > Strong Cherry role. In other words, the Push Order Bell role is set to be the most likely to win and the Strong Cherry role is set to be the least likely to win.
In addition, the replay role is different for each RT state described later. For example, the strong cherry replay role is only available for selection during RT4. In addition, the white 7 replay role and the fake white 7 replay role are only available for selection during RT2-4, and the special white 7 replay role is only available for selection during RT2 and RT3.
In addition, if a random number other than that for each winning combination is drawn, the lottery result is set to be a losing combination.
In addition, the internal lottery table shown in FIG. 4A shows only the winning probability of each winning role in RT0SB among RT0SB-RT4SB in the SB state, and omits the other RT1SB-RT4SB.
In addition, the winning probability of each winning role in RT1SB-RT4SB is set to the same as that of RT0SB, except for the replay role, which is set to the same winning probability as that of RT1-RT4.

The relationship between the winning probabilities of each winning combination may be other than that shown in FIG. 4A.
In addition, it is assumed that the winning probability is the same for all set values, but this is not limited to the above, and there may be winning roles whose winning probability varies depending on the set value and winning roles whose winning probability does not vary depending on the set value.
For example, the higher the setting of some rare roles, the higher the probability of winning may be set, or the lower the setting, the higher the probability of winning a rare role.
In addition, for winning roles other than rare roles, the higher the setting, the higher the probability of winning may be set, or the lower the probability of winning may be set.

(Normal area, advantageous area)
The main control unit 10 according to this embodiment is equipped with a zone control means capable of controlling the game zone to either a normal zone or an advantageous zone.
The normal zone is a game zone in which push order navigation related to the push order bell role is not executed, and begins when the favorable zone end condition is met, and ends when the favorable zone transition condition is met.
In this embodiment, the condition for transitioning to the advantageous zone is met when a bell role (push order bell role, common bell role) or a rare role is won in the internal lottery, and after the third reel is stopped in the winning game, the transition from the normal zone to the advantageous zone occurs.
In addition, in the initial state (when reset) of the main control unit 10, it is controlled to the normal zone, and in the normal zone, the favorable zone lamp 13 is controlled to an off state.

Although the conditions for transition to the advantageous zone are met when a bell or rare role is won, this is not limited to the above, and the transition may be made when, for example, a combination of symbols corresponding to a predetermined winning role is displayed in a stopped state or a combination of symbols not corresponding to a predetermined winning role (for example, a missing number or a bell that is dropped in the push order).
In addition, the player may be transitioned to an advantageous zone on the condition that the player has entered a gaming state that is advantageous to the player in terms of increasing the number of medals, and the advantageous zone may be continued if the advantageous gaming state continues.

The advantageous zone is a play zone in which push order navigation related to the push order bell role can be executed, and is a play zone that is more advantageous to the player than the normal zone because push order navigation is executed.
In addition, the advantageous zone ends when a predetermined advantageous zone end condition is satisfied after the advantageous zone transition condition is satisfied in the normal zone.
The condition for the end of the advantageous period is, for example, when the slot machine 1 (main control unit 10) is reset (including when the settings are changed), the advantageous period ends and the normal period begins.
In addition, the condition for the end of the advantageous period is that a specified game state (e.g., AT stage, CZ stage, bonus) has ended, and the advantageous period ends and transitions to the normal period after the third reel of the winning game is stopped.
In addition, if a predetermined number of games (e.g., 300 games) are played in the normal stage, the advantageous period may end and the player may transition to the normal period.

Also, as a condition for ending the advantageous zone, if the advantageous zone limiter is reached, the advantageous zone ends and transitions to the normal zone.
A favorable zone limiter is one that meets one of the following conditions: "The number of games played during one favorable zone (number of favorable zone games) reaches the upper limit number of games (e.g., 4,000 games)," or "The number of coins won during one favorable zone (the difference in number of coins (number of medals inserted - number of medals paid out)) reaches the upper limit number of coins (e.g., 2,400 coins)."
In addition, the advantageous zone limiter may omit either the maximum number of games or the maximum number of coins.
In addition, the condition for the upper limit number of coins may be "the number of coins won during one advantageous period (net increase in number of coins (so-called MY)) has reached the upper limit number of coins (for example, 2,400 coins)."

In addition, the above-mentioned conditions for ending the advantageous zone are merely examples, and may include, for example, "at least one push order bell has been announced,""a combination of symbols corresponding to a bonus role has been displayed in a stopped state," etc.
In addition, when a specified winning role (a role that transitions to the normal zone) is won during the advantageous zone, the advantageous zone may end and the player may transition to the normal zone.

In the favorable zone, the favorable zone lamp 13 is controlled to be lit.
However, without being limited to this, the advantageous zone lamp 13 may start to light up when the game state becomes advantageous for the player after the transition to the advantageous zone, in which the number of medals increases.
In addition, the favorable zone lamp 13 may not be turned on even when a transition to a favorable zone has occurred, or it may be turned on only when a transition to an AT state has occurred even when a transition to a favorable zone has occurred.
In addition, it is not necessary to provide the favorable zone lamp 13, but instead it is preferable to provide an AT state lamp controlled by the main control unit 10 and turn on the AT state lamp during the AT state.

(Game-related counter)
During the favorable zone, the main control unit 10 operates as a counting means and stores information regarding the counters shown below in the memory unit.
Counter A: Counts the number of games played during the favorable zone. Counter B: Counts the number of coins won (difference in number of coins) during the favorable zone. Counters A and B are counters related to the favorable zone limiter (maximum number of games played during the favorable zone).
When the main control unit 10 transitions from the normal zone to the advantageous zone, it begins counting the number of games played during the advantageous zone (counter A) and the number of medals won during the advantageous zone (counter B), and when the value indicated by counter A reaches a limit value (4,000 games) or when the value indicated by counter B reaches a limit value (2,400 medals), it forcibly ends the advantageous zone.
Counter A and Counter B also function as ending limiters (maximum number of games played until the ending in the advantageous zone). For example, when the value indicated by Counter A reaches a predetermined number (e.g., 3950 games), or when the value indicated by Counter B reaches a predetermined number (e.g., 2300 coins), the main control unit 10 controls the game to forcibly transition to Ending B, which will be described later.
In addition, the values of counter A and counter B are erased (initialized) when the favorable period ends.

In addition to the above configuration, the slot machine 1 according to this embodiment has the following game states and characteristic game characteristics based on these game states.
Each game state is controlled (hereinafter also referred to as transition) to the respective game state by the main control unit 10 operating as a game state control means.

(RT state)
With reference to FIG. 5, the RT (replay time) state (hereinafter, simply referred to as RT) of the slot machine 1 according to this embodiment will be described.
The slot machine 1 according to this embodiment has RT states RT0 to RT5. Note that, although there are six RT states in this embodiment, there may be other than six.

RT1 begins when the bonus ends.
In addition, when the SB role is won, RT1 ends when the combination of symbols corresponding to the SB role cannot be stopped (the SB spill symbol is displayed as stopped), and transitions to RT0 (arrow a in Figure 5).
In addition, RT1 ends when a combination of symbols corresponding to a weak cherry role stops, and transitions to RT2 (arrow b in Figure 5).
In addition, RT1 ends when a combination of symbols corresponding to a chance role stops, and transitions to RT3 (arrow c in Figure 5).
In addition, in the RT1, if a bonus role is won, the RT1 transitions to RT5 (arrow g in FIG. 5), and if a SB role is won, the RT1 transitions to SB (arrow j in FIG. 5).
In this way, RT1 is not a finite gaming state with a predetermined gaming period, but an infinite gaming state (infinite RT) that does not transition to another gaming state unless a specific trigger occurs.

RT0 is entered when the slot machine 1 (main control unit 10) is reset, or when the set value is changed (including when the same set value is set again (re-entering the set value)). Note that when the set value is changed, the game may enter the RT before the set value was changed.
In addition, RT0 is entered when the SB spill symbol stops displaying in RT1, RT2 or RT3, or when 10 games have been played in RT4.
In addition, RT0 ends when a combination of symbols corresponding to a weak cherry role stops, and transitions to RT2 (arrow b in Figure 5).
In addition, RT0 ends when a combination of symbols corresponding to a chance role stops, and transitions to RT3 (arrow c in Figure 5).
In addition, RT0 ends when the push order bell spill stops, and transitions to RT1 (arrow f in Figure 5).
In addition, RT0 transitions to RT5 (arrow g in FIG. 5) if a bonus role is won, and transitions to SB (arrow j in FIG. 5) if a SB role is won.
In this way, RT0 is not a finite gaming state with a predetermined gaming period, but an infinite gaming state (infinite RT) that does not transition to another gaming state unless a specific trigger occurs.
In addition, in RT0, the transition to RT2 or RT3, which is advantageous to the player, is triggered by the winning of a rare role (weak cherry role, chance eye role), which can further increase the player's expectations of winning a rare role.

RT2 is entered when a combination of symbols corresponding to a weak cherry role stops in RT0.
RT3 is entered when a combination of symbols corresponding to a chance eye role stops in RT0.
In addition, RT2 and RT3 end when a combination of symbols corresponding to a weak cherry replay role, a chance eye replay role, or a special white 7 replay role stops, and transition to RT4 occurs (arrow d in Figure 5).
In RT2 or RT3, when a combination of symbols corresponding to the special white 7 replay role (special white 7s lined up) comes to a halt, the player can be made to recognize that he or she has moved to an advantageous state (RT4).

Furthermore, RT2 and RT3 end when the SB spill symbol is stopped and displayed, and transition to RT0 occurs (arrow a in FIG. 5).
In addition, RT2 and RT3 end when the push order bell spill stops, and transition to RT1 occurs (arrow f in Figure 5).
In addition, RT2 ends when a combination of symbols corresponding to a chance eye role stops, and transitions to RT3 (arrow c in Figure 5).
In addition, RT3 ends when a combination of symbols corresponding to a weak cherry role stops, and transitions to RT2 (arrow b in Figure 5).
In addition, in RT2 and RT3, if a bonus role is won, the reel transitions to RT5 (arrow g in FIG. 5), and in the case of winning an SB role, the reel transitions to SB (arrow j in FIG. 5).
In this way, RT2 and RT3 are not finite gaming states with a predetermined gaming period, but are infinite gaming states (infinite RT) that do not transition to other gaming states unless a specific trigger occurs.

RT4 is entered when a combination of symbols corresponding to a weak cherry replay, a chance eye replay, or a special white 7 replay stops in RT2 or 3.
In addition, RT4 ends when 10 games have been played, and transitions to RT0 (arrow e in FIG. 5). Note that the number of games played in RT4 is not limited to 10 games, and may be any number of games.
In addition, in RT4, if a bonus role is won, the reel transitions to RT5 (arrow g in FIG. 5), and if a SB role is won, the reel transitions to SB (arrow j in FIG. 5).
In this way, RT4 is a finite game state (finite RT) that ends when a predetermined number of games are played.

In addition, RT4 is a state in which the probability of winning a replay role is higher than in other RTs, and is an advantageous state for the player (a specific gaming state).
Specifically, as shown in Fig. 4A, the strong cherry replay role is set to be won only in RT4, and the weak cherry replay role and the white 7 replay role are set to be won with a high probability.
Therefore, in each stage, the game progresses advantageously during RT4. For example, in the normal stage, it becomes easier to transition to the CZ stage. In the CZ stage, it becomes easier to receive benefits related to the AT stage. In the AT stage, it becomes easier to continue the AT stage.

RT5 is entered when a bonus role is won in RT0-4.
In addition, RT5 ends when a combination of symbols for a bonus role stops, and a transition to a bonus occurs (arrow h in FIG. 5).
That is, RT5 continues from when a bonus role is won until the bonus role is won, and in RT5, the game proceeds in a state in which the bonus role is internally won (bonus winning state).
In this way, RT5 is a bonus winning state, but is not a finite gaming state with a pre-determined gaming period, but an infinite gaming state (infinite RT) that does not transition to another gaming state unless a bonus role is won.

The bonus is triggered when a combination of bonus symbols stops (wins) in RT5.
Furthermore, the bonus ends when a predetermined number of medals are paid out, and the game moves to RT1 (arrow i in FIG. 5).
In this way, the bonus is a gaming state that ends when a predetermined number of medals are paid out.

SB is entered when the SB role is won in RT0-4 and the SB role is won in that game. On the other hand, if the SB role is not won in the winning game, the right to transition to SB is extinguished and there is no transition to SB.
There are five SBs, RT0SB-RT4SB, and the SB is entered according to the RT in which the player was staying when entering SB. Specifically, if the player was staying in RT0, the SB is entered, if the player was staying in RT1, the RT1SB is entered, if the player was staying in RT2, the RT2SB is entered, if the player was staying in RT3, the RT3SB is entered, and if the player was staying in RT4, the RT4SB is entered.
In addition, the SB ends when one game is played, and transitions (returns) to the RT before the start (arrow k in FIG. 5).
In addition, when the SB role is won, the player may be notified by a lamp 11 or the like not to win the SB role.

In this manner, in this embodiment, multiple RT states with different degrees of advantage are provided, and the player is transitioned from an RT that is relatively unfavorable to the player to an RT that is relatively favorable to the player, and the game has a feature in which, by winning a bonus role in RT0 to RT4, the player is transitioned to a bonus via RT5.
In such a game, staying in RT4 is an advantageous game state for the player, and furthermore, repeating a loop in which the game transitions (returns) to RT4 again at RT0, which is transitioned to after the end of RT4, allows the game to proceed advantageously for the player. Therefore, in RT2 or RT3, which can transition to RT4, it is preferable for the player not to transition (fall) to RT1 by stopping the push order bell spill.
In the above RT transition, the description has been given of a case where control is exercised to allow transitions from RT0 and RT1 to RT2 and RT3, and between RT2 and RT3, control is exercised to allow transitions between the two. However, this is not limited to the above, and transitions to RT2 and RT3 may be triggered by the winning of a role that can only be won at RT0 (for example, a special replay role, etc.), and transitions to RT2 and RT3 may be exercised only from RT0.

(Details of each game state (stage))
Next, with reference to FIG. 6, a description will be given of each game state of the slot machine 1 according to this embodiment, transitions between each game state, and game characteristics based on each game state.
In addition, the main control unit 10 can independently perform transition control between normal zones and advantageous zones, transition control of RT, and transition control between each game state (stage).
Unless otherwise specified below, the timing of transition from each game state to another game state is basically after the third reel is stopped in the game in which the transition condition is met (or after the medals are paid out). However, this is not limited to this, and transition may occur from the next game after the transition condition is met.

As shown in FIG. 6, the game of the slot machine 1 of this embodiment is executed in a plurality of game states (stages) including a normal stage, a CZ stage, an AT stage, an ending, and a bonus.
The main control unit 10 operates as a game state control means, and is capable of controlling a transition from one game state to another game state based on the establishment of a predetermined transition condition.
The normal stage is controlled as a non-AT. Therefore, the longer a player stays in the normal stage, the longer the period during which the player's medals are difficult to increase becomes, which is disadvantageous to the player. On the other hand, stages other than the normal stage are controlled as an AT. Therefore, the player plays the game with the aim of moving from the normal stage to the CZ stage or AT stage, and in particular, with the aim of staying in the AT stage for a long time.
In addition, some stages other than the normal stages may be non-AT or partially AT (for example, 50% may be AT).

(Normal stage)
The normal stage (normal game state) is entered when the slot machine 1 is reset, when the setting value is changed (including re-entering the setting value), or when the advantageous zone ends.
It may also enter after the end of the CZ stage, AT stage, and Ending B.
When the slot machine 1 (main control unit 10) is reset, the slot machine 1 (main control unit 10) is in the normal stage, which is controlled to be in the normal zone. When the conditions for transition to the advantageous zone are met in the normal stage during the normal zone, the main control unit 10 controls the slot machine 1 to transition from the normal zone to the advantageous zone.
In other words, during the normal stage, the time spent in the normal zone is extremely short, and the player will spend most of the time in the advantageous zone.
In addition, in the normal stage, it may be possible to make it impossible to distinguish from the outside that the game is being controlled in the normal zone. For example, the display screen displayed on the display 8 may have the same background image during the normal zone and during the advantageous zone. In this way, by sharing the display screen, it is possible to make it difficult to recognize the transition from the normal zone to the advantageous zone.

(Processing when moving to favorable zone)
Next, we will explain the processing that is executed when the favorable zone transition condition is met in the normal stage.
When the conditions for transition to the advantageous zone are met, the main control unit 10 executes a state level lottery.
The state level is a parameter that is referenced in each stage when a predetermined condition is met during the advantageous period, and that affects the progress of the game. For example, there are levels for six types of states (states A to F) as shown below. Details of each state level will be described later.
・ State A level (level related to state A, which indicates the ease of adding AT continuation rate)
・ State B level (a level related to state B that indicates the ease of acquiring an item)
・ State C level (a level related to state C that indicates the ease of transition to specialization stage B)
・ State D level (level related to state D, which indicates the ease of adding CB game numbers)
・ State E level (a level related to state E, which indicates the ease of adding EX games)
・State F level (a level related to state F, which indicates the likelihood of a navigation with 7 whites)

Each status level is set, for example, in three stages (Level 1 to Level 3), and based on the relationship of Level 1 < Level 2 < Level 3, the higher the level value determined, the easier it is for the player to progress in the game.
However, the number of status levels is not limited to these, and any desired number of status levels may be provided, and may be five or less, or seven or more.

The main control unit 10 determines the level value of each status level in the status level lottery.
The level value of each status level determined in the status level lottery is maintained until the advantageous zone ends. However, this is not limited to this, and each status level may be re-determined at a predetermined timing during the advantageous zone.
Furthermore, the timing for determining each status level is not limited to when the favorable zone transition condition is met, but may be other timing (for example, when the AT stage starts).

(Status level lottery)
The state level lottery for each state will now be described in detail.
The main control unit 10 refers to the "Status A, Status E Level Selection Table" shown in Figure 7 to simultaneously determine the status A level and status E level by lottery based on the setting values set in the probability setting device 15, and stores the result in the memory unit of the main control unit 10.
For example, as shown in FIG. 7, when level pattern 6 is determined, "level 2" is determined as the condition A level, and "level 3" is determined as the condition E level.
Although detailed explanation is omitted, the other level values are also determined simultaneously as the state A level and state E level according to the level pattern selected based on each selection rate shown in the figure.
Details will be described later, but the state A level is referenced in the lottery for adding on the AT continuation rate performed in the AT stage or specialized stage A, and the state E level is referenced in the lottery for adding on the number of EX games performed in the AT stage or specialized stage B. The higher the level that is determined, the easier it is for the AT stage to be continued (extended).

In the state A and state E level lottery, as shown in FIG. 7, both the state A level and the state E level are set so that they are difficult to determine at a high level.
This is because state A and state E are indicators that are directly related to the number of balls won, and if the state levels of both states were frequently determined to be high level values, the probability that a player would win a large number of balls would become significantly higher. Therefore, in order to appropriately adjust the profit balance between the gaming facility and the player, the state levels of both states are unlikely to be determined to be high level values.
In the above description, the state A and state E level lottery involves determining the state A level and state E level simultaneously, but this is not limiting and the state A level and state E level may be determined separately.
In addition, although the above description concerns a case in which both the state A level and the state E level are set so that they are unlikely to be determined at high level values, this is not limited to the above, and the higher the setting value set in the probability setting device 15, the more likely it is that both will be determined at high level values.

The main control unit 10 determines the state B level by lottery based on the setting value set in the probability setting device 15 by referring to the "state B level lottery table" shown in Figure 8, and stores the result in the memory unit of the main control unit 10.
For example, as shown in FIG. 8, "Level 2" is more likely to be selected for even number settings (settings 2, 4, and 6), while "Level 1" and "Level 3" are more likely to be selected for odd number settings (settings 1, 3, and 5), with "Level 1" being more likely to be selected than "Level 3."
As will be described in more detail later, the state B level is referenced in the item acquisition lottery carried out in the AT stage, and the higher the level that is determined, the easier it is to acquire items that will give an advantage in the battle stage described below.

The main control unit 10 determines the state C level by lottery based on the setting value set in the probability setting device 15 by referring to the "state C level lottery table" shown in Figure 9, and stores the result in the memory unit of the main control unit 10.
For example, as shown in FIG. 9, "Level 2" is more likely to be selected for even number settings (settings 2, 4, and 6), while "Level 1" and "Level 3" are more likely to be selected for odd number settings (settings 1, 3, and 5), with "Level 1" being more likely to be selected than "Level 3."
As will be described in detail later, the state C level is referenced in the additional lottery for the specialized stage B transition rate carried out in the AT stage, and the higher the level that is determined, the easier it is to transition to specialized stage B.

The main control unit 10 determines the status D level by lottery based on the setting value set in the probability setting device 15 by referring to the "status D level lottery table" shown in Figure 10, and stores the result in the memory unit of the main control unit 10.
For example, as shown in FIG. 10, "Level 1" is more likely to be selected for odd-number settings (setting 1, setting 3, setting 5), while "Level 2" and "Level 3" are more likely to be selected for even-number settings (setting 2, setting 4, setting 6), with "Level 2" being more likely to be selected than "Level 3."
As will be described in detail later, the state D level is referenced in the lottery for adding the number of CB games executed in the AT stage, and the higher the level that is determined, the easier it is to add on the number of CB games.

The main control unit 10 determines the state F level by lottery based on the setting value set in the probability setting device 15 by referring to the "state F level lottery table" shown in Figure 11, and stores the result in the memory unit of the main control unit 10.
For example, as shown in FIG. 11, "Level 1" is likely to be selected in the case of odd-number settings (setting 1, setting 3, setting 5), "Level 2" is likely to be selected in the case of even-number settings (setting 2, setting 4, setting 6), and "Level 3" is unlikely to be selected in the case of setting 6.
As will be described in detail later, the state F level is referenced in the lottery for deriving the white 7 matching navigation executed in the AT stage, and the higher the level that is determined, the more likely it is that a navigation that allows the matching of white 7s (hereinafter referred to as the white 7 matching navigation) will occur.

In this way, at the time of transition from the normal zone to the advantageous zone, the level values of states A to F within the current advantageous zone are determined.
This makes it possible to generate, during the normal stage, an effect suggesting the degree of expectation in the next AT stage to which the player will move, based on the determined level value of each state.
For example, when a high level value is selected for the state A level, it is possible to generate an effect that suggests that the next AT stage to be transitioned to is likely to loop (continue).
This makes the player think, "I want to move to the AT stage within this advantageous zone," thereby increasing his/her motivation to continue playing and improving the operating rate of the gaming machine.
Furthermore, by providing a plurality of status levels, it is possible to realize a wide variety of game contents, which prevents the game from becoming monotonous and makes it possible to increase the interest of the game.

In addition, the normal stage has a plurality of probability states, for example, a normal probability state and a high probability state are set. The probability of transition to the CZ stage or the AT stage is controlled to be higher when the high probability state is controlled than when the normal probability state is controlled. In addition, during the high probability state, the probability of winning the bonus role may be increased.
The transition of the probability state is controlled so that, for example, a transition (promotion) from the normal probability state to the high probability state occurs at a predetermined probability when a rare role is won, while, for example, a transition (demotion) from the high probability state to the normal probability state occurs at a predetermined probability when a replay role, a bell role, or a miss role is won.
In addition, the transition of the probability state is not limited to being based on a winning combination, and the probability state may be switched every predetermined number of games.
When the probability state transitions from the normal probability state to the high probability state, a notification that the state is in the high probability state is displayed on the display 8 under the control of the sub-control unit 20. For example, the high probability state is notified by changing the background of the stage from a daytime background to an evening background.

The normal stage includes a normal stage A and a normal stage B.
(Normal Stage A)
The normal stage A is the first gaming state in which the player remains after entering the normal stage.
In the normal stage A, a lottery for transition to the normal stage B and the CZ stage is performed based on the winning combination in the internal lottery process. In the transition lottery, the winning probability differs based on the current probability state and the current play period.
Specifically, when the player is in the normal zone, a lottery is conducted based on a predetermined probability of winning when a rare role is won in the internal lottery process by referring to the "Game State Transition Lottery Table (Normal Zone)" shown in FIG. 12(a).
For example, it is easier to win based on the relationship of watermelon role < weak cherry role < chance eye role < strong cherry role.
In addition, if a rare replay role is won, the transition lottery is controlled so that it is not held.

In addition, when the player is in the advantageous zone and in the normal probability state, a lottery is conducted based on a predetermined probability of winning when a rare role or rare replay role is won in the internal lottery process by referring to the "game state transition lottery table (advantageous zone + normal probability state)" shown in Figure 12 (b).
For example, it is easier to win based on the relationships of Watermelon role < Weak Cherry role, Weak Cherry Replay role < Chance Eye role, Chance Eye Replay role < Strong Cherry Replay role < Strong Cherry role.

In addition, when the player is in the advantageous zone and in a high probability state, a lottery is conducted based on a predetermined probability of winning when a rare role or rare replay role is won in the internal lottery process by referring to the "game state transition lottery table (advantageous zone + high probability state)" shown in Figure 12 (c).
For example, it is easier to win based on the relationship of Weak Cherry role, Weak Cherry Replay role < Watermelon role < Chance Eye role < Chance Eye Replay role < Strong Cherry role < Strong Cherry Replay role.

As shown in Figures 12 (b) and (c), in normal stage A, while remaining in the advantageous zone, the probability of transitioning to normal stage B or the CZ stage is controlled so that the high probability state is higher than the normal probability state.
If the transition lottery is won, the main control unit 10 controls the transition from normal stage A to normal stage B or the CZ stage (arrows a and c in Figure 6).

(Press order guessing performance)
In the normal stage A, in addition to being able to transition to the CZ stage by winning the transition lottery mentioned above, it may also be possible to transition to the CZ stage.
In normal stage A, if the push order bell role is won, a push order guessing effect is executed with a predetermined probability.
The push order guessing effect is an effect state in which the player can correctly guess the push order for the push order bell role on his or her own, and for example, the display 8 displays a predetermined effect image (6-choice challenge!) and a push order navigation as "?".

In the button press order guessing performance, if the button press order is correct, the main control unit 10 controls the transition to the CZ stage (arrow c in Figure 6).
On the other hand, if the button press order is incorrect in the button press order guessing performance, the main control unit 10 continues to control to normal stage A.
In addition, if the push order is incorrect in the push order guessing performance, the stage may be controlled to transition to the normal stage B. This allows the player to continue in a state where there is a high expectation of transitioning to the CZ stage even if the push order is incorrect.

In addition, the "predetermined probability" that the push order guessing effect can occur changes depending on the occurrence of SB spills in the advantageous zone.
Specifically, the probability increases as the number of consecutive SB spill symbols stops increases. For example, when the SB spill symbols stop three times in a row, the probability is 30%, and when the SB spill symbols stop four times in a row, the probability is 50%.
In addition, if a number other than the SB spill number is displayed, the probability is reset (0%).

(Normal stage B)
Normal stage B is a gaming state that can be entered from normal stage A and can be stayed in for a predetermined number of games (10 games + α).
The normal stage B ends when the SB spill symbol stops or the SB ends after 10 games. Specifically, if the SB role is not won after 10 games, the normal stage B ends, but if the SB role is won after 10 games, the normal stage B continues without ending.
In other words, even after 10 games have been played, the normal stage B can be extended by an additional number of games by the SB spill symbol stopping display or by winning the SB role.
In addition, if a rare combination is won during the SB entered after 10 games have been played, control is again set to the normal stage B. In other words, "10 games + α" is reset. However, without being limited to this, if a rare combination is won during the SB, it may be continued until the SB spill stop display or the SB combination is won again.

In normal stage B, when a rare role is won in the internal lottery process, a lottery is held to transition to the CZ stage based on a predetermined probability of winning.
In other words, in the normal stage B, the game is played with the aim of acquiring the right to move to the CZ stage within "10 games + α".
For example, it is easier to win based on the relationship of Watermelon role < Weak Cherry role < Chance Eye role < Strong Cherry role, and it is set to have a higher probability of winning than the transition lottery normally held in Stage A.
If the transition lottery is won, the main control unit 10 controls the transition from normal stage B to the CZ stage (arrow d in Figure 6), and if the transition lottery is not won, the main control unit 10 controls the transition to normal stage A (arrow b in Figure 6).

(Control when rare replay is won in normal stages)
Next, with reference to FIG. 13, a characteristic control when a rare replay role is won in the normal stage will be described.
For example, after the AT stage ends, the RT state may move to the normal section and normal stage while remaining in RT4 (specific game state). During RT4, as described above, the player can win a special role (for example, a strong cherry replay role) that is very advantageous to the player.
Also, as described above, during the normal section and normal stage, even if a specific role (strong cherry replay role) is won, the lottery for transition to the normal stage B or CZ stage is not executed.
In other words, if a specific role is won in the normal stage during RT4, there is a high probability that a bonus (the right to transition to another game state) will be awarded if the player is controlled to the advantageous zone, but if the player is controlled to the normal zone, no bonus will be awarded.

Therefore, when the slot machine 1 (sub-control unit 20) of this embodiment wins a specific role while in RT4 and during the normal section, it notifies the player of specific information (push order navigation) (hereinafter referred to as push order avoidance navigation) that prompts the player to operate using the first operation mode (middle push) (A in Figure 13).
Then, when the player performs a stop operation in accordance with the push sequence avoidance navigation, the first specific stop mode (replay, replay, replay) will be displayed as stopped.
As a result, while in RT4 and in the normal section, it is possible to avoid the second specific stop mode (Cherry Replay Replay) which is very advantageous to the player when the strong Cherry Replay role is won, and it is possible to prevent the player from feeling a sense of loss due to the winning of the specific role.

In addition, when in RT4 and during the normal section, the specific information (push order avoidance navigation) that is notified when a specific role is won can include setting value information regarding the setting value set by the probability setting device 15.
For example, when displaying the push order consisting of text information such as "1", "2", "3" etc. on the display 8 as a push order avoidance navigation, a predetermined image (e.g., a character image) may also be displayed. The character image to be displayed is selected according to each setting value, and the setting value can be predicted to some extent from the displayed character.
In addition, without being limited to this, as a push order avoidance navigation, the voices of "left,""middle," and "right" output from the speaker 9 may include other sound effects and voices to make it possible to predict the setting value.
Furthermore, when reporting the setting value information, the reliability may be varied. For example, the reliability may be varied depending on the facial expression of the character, or the type of voice to be output.
As a result, when a specific role is won during the normal period while in RT4, the setting value set by the probability setting device 15 can be suggested to the player, thereby preventing the player from feeling a sense of loss due to winning the specific role.

In addition, when a specific role is won during RT4 and in the normal section, if the setting value set by the probability setting device 15 is a specific setting value (the second setting value (e.g., setting 6)), the push order avoidance navigation can be prevented from being announced.
This allows the second specific stop pattern (Cherry Replay Replay) to be displayed even if a specific role is won, and can be associated with "the second specific stop pattern being displayed during the normal period = high setting confirmed."
As a result, the specific set value can be definitively notified to the player, and a sense of loss due to winning a specific combination can be prevented.

In addition, in the normal stage, when a specific combination is won during RT4 and in the advantageous zone, specific information (push order avoidance navigation) that prompts the first operation mode (center push) is not announced (B in FIG. 13). In other words, the stop display of the second specific stop mode (Cherry Replay Replay) is permitted.
In this case, a cut-in effect for notifying the player that a specific combination has been won is executed on the main screen of the display device 8. The cut-in effect is executed, for example, by displaying a predetermined character image for an instant (for example, one second).
This allows the player to recognize that he has won a specific combination and cause the second specific stop pattern (Cherry Replay Replay) to be stopped and displayed, which is very advantageous to the player.
In addition, in the normal stage, when you are in RT4 and in the advantageous zone, even if you win a special role such as a weak cherry replay role or a chance eye replay role, the push order avoidance navigation will not be announced (D in Figure 13).

In addition, in the normal stage, when staying in RT4 and in the normal section, if a special role (for example, a weak cherry replay role) is won, specific information (push order avoidance navigation) that prompts the operation by the first operation mode (middle push) is not notified (C in FIG. 13). In other words, when a special role is won, the stop display of the third specific stop mode (BAR, replay, cherry) is allowed.
This is for the following reasons.
As shown in Figures 12(b) and (c), when a special role is won while in the advantageous zone, the probability of being granted a privilege (the right to transition to another game state) is set lower than when a specific role is won.
Therefore, since the player feels less of a loss when a special role is won compared to when a specific role is won, the third specific stop mode is permitted to be displayed without announcing the push order avoidance navigation.
This allows the player to recognize when a special role has been won even during the normal interval, and can be used, for example, to determine the current RT state or setting.
In addition, without being limited to this, if a special role such as a weak cherry replay role or a chance eye replay role is won during RT4 and in the normal section, a push order avoidance navigation may be announced.

(CZ Stage)
The CZ stage (first game state) is a game state entered from the normal stage and controlled by the AT.
Also, in the CZ stage, if you are in RT2 or RT3, you can avoid the display of the push order bell spill, making it easier to transition to RT4, and the game will progress in an advantageous manner for the player.

The CZ stage is composed of a first half (CZ stage A) and a second half (CZ stage B), and the second half (CZ stage B) is further composed of CZ stage B1 (normal first game state) and CZ stage B2 (special first game state).
Each CZ stage continues until a specified number of games set for each stage has been played, and after the end of CZ stage A, the main control unit 10 controls the transition to CZ stage B1 or CZ stage B2 (arrows e and f in Figure 6).

The transition destination from CZ stage A (CZ stage B1 or CZ stage B2) is determined when the transition to the CZ stage is confirmed during the normal stage.
Specifically, the main control unit 10 determines by lottery whether it is CZ stage B1 or CZ stage B2 based on the setting value set in the probability setting device 15 by referring to the "CZ stage B type lottery table" shown in Figure 14.
For example, as shown in FIG. 14, the CZ stage B2 is set to be more likely to be selected in the odd number settings (setting 1, setting 3, setting 5) than in the even number settings (setting 2, setting 4, setting 6).
However, without being limited to this, the setting may be made so that CZ stage B2 is more likely to be selected when an even number is set than when an odd number is set, and the ease of selection may be set to be the same for CZ stage B1 and CZ stage B2.

(CZ Stage A)
In CZ stage A, play continues for a specified number of games (e.g., 10 games).
In CZ Stage A, the number of games to be played in CZ Stage B is determined.
Specifically, the main control unit 10 determines by lottery whether or not to add the number of games to the initial number of games (10 games) in CZ Stage B by referring to the "CZ Stage B Game Number Addition Lottery Table" shown in Figure 15.
For example, as shown in FIG. 15, based on the relationship of rare roles, non-common bell roles < common bell roles < watermelon roles, weak cherry roles < chance eye roles < strong cherry roles, the likelihood of winning the additional lottery is increased.
In addition, the rare combination that triggers the additional lottery includes a rare replay combination. However, the rare replay combination may be excluded from the lottery.
If the additional lottery is won, "1 game" will be added to the initial number of games. In other words, if the additional lottery is won for all games (10 games) in CZ Stage A, the number of games stayed in CZ Stage B will be 20 games (initial number of games (10 games) + additional number of games (10 games)). Note that the number of games added is not limited to 1 game, and may be 2 or more games.

(CZ Stage B)
CZ stage B is entered after the end of CZ stage A, and the game is played in CZ stage B1 or CZ stage B2 determined by a CZ stage B type lottery. In addition, the game continues for the number of games stayed determined in CZ stage A.
CZ stage B1 is a game state in which the right to transition to the AT stage (second game state) is not granted at the start of play, and CZ stage B2 is a game state in which the right to transition to the AT stage is granted at the start of play.
Therefore, while in CZ stage B1, the player will play in the hope of being granted at least the right (privilege) to transition to the AT stage before the number of games played is played.

Specifically, the main control unit 10 operates as a judgment means, and judges (by lottery) whether or not to grant a special benefit (such as the right to transition to the AT stage, the right to transition to a specialized stage (third game state), or an extension benefit to extend the AT stage) when a white 7 replay role, a common bell, or a rare role (including a rare replay role) is won.
During your stay in CZ Stage B1, a lottery is held to determine whether or not to award a bonus by referring to the "CZ Stage B1 Bonus Awarding Lottery Table" shown in Figure 16 (a).
For example, the winning is likely based on the relationship of Common Bell, Watermelon, Weak Cherry < Chance Eye < Strong Cherry < White 7 Replay. If the White 7 Replay wins, the winning is confirmed.
During your stay in CZ Stage B2, a lottery will be held to determine whether or not to award a bonus by referring to the "CZ Stage B2 Bonus Awarding Lottery Table" shown in Figure 16 (b).
For example, the win is likely to occur based on the relationship of the common bell role, watermelon role, weak cherry role < chance eye role < strong cherry role, and white 7 replay role. If the white 7 replay role or strong cherry role is won, the win is confirmed.
16(a) and (b), the probability of winning is set to be higher in CZ stage B2 than in CZ stage B1. If a player wins the lottery, at least one of a number of special prizes will be awarded.

(Granting of benefits in CZ Stage B)
Next, the characteristic control when a bonus is awarded in CZ stage B will be described.
When the main control unit 10 wins the above-mentioned bonus awarding lottery, it operates as a bonus awarding means and is able to award at least one bonus from among multiple bonuses based on a bonus awarding order that specifies the order in which the bonuses are to be awarded.
Information regarding the order of awarding bonuses is stored in the memory unit of the main control unit 10, and it is specified that the bonuses are awarded in the following order, for example (see Figure 17): "Right to transition to AT stage (first bonus)" → "Right to transition to specialized stage A (second bonus)" → "Right to transition to specialized stage B (second bonus)" → "Number of games added to the number of EX games (third bonus)" → "Number of games added to the number of EX games (third bonus)" ...

The bonuses specified in this order can be awarded each time the bonus lottery is won. Specifically, the bonuses awarded at the end of the CZ stage B will differ depending on the number of times the bonus lottery is won.
In this way, the content of the bonus awarded changes depending on the number of times the bonus lottery is won while in CZ Stage B, thereby increasing the interest of the game and the player's sense of anticipation.

In addition, the main control unit 10 controls the order in which the benefits are awarded to differ when the player is staying at CZ stage B1 from when the player is staying at CZ stage B2.
For example, during a stay in CZ stage B1, benefits are granted based on the first order of the benefit granting sequence.
The first order is an order in which the bonus can be awarded starting from a predetermined order in the bonus awarding order, for example, the bonus is awarded starting from the first bonus (predetermined order) in the bonus awarding order.
That is, in the CZ stage B1, as shown in FIG. 17, the "right to transition to the AT stage" is granted first, and thereafter, the granted privilege changes in sequence each time the privilege granting lottery is won.

Specifically, if the bonus lottery is won once while in CZ stage B1, the main control unit 10 will grant the "right to transition to the AT stage" as a bonus, and will control the transition to the AT stage after the end of CZ stage B1 (arrow g1 in Figure 6).
In addition, if the bonus lottery is won twice, the main control unit 10 will grant the ``right to transition to specialized stage A'' as a bonus, and control the transition to specialized stage A after the end of CZ stage B1 (arrow g2 in Figure 6).
In addition, if the bonus lottery is won three times, the main control unit 10 will grant the ``right to transition to specialized stage B'' as a bonus, and control the transition to specialized stage B after the end of CZ stage B1 (arrow g2 in Figure 6).
In addition, if the number of times the bonus lottery is won is four or more, the main control unit 10 awards the "number of games added to the number of EX games (for example, 10 games)" as a bonus, and controls the game to transition to the AT stage after the end of the CZ stage B1 (arrow g1 in FIG. 6). In other words, the "number of games added to the number of EX games" can be awarded a predetermined number of times in succession.
Also, if there are zero bonus lotteries during the stay in CZ stage B1, the main control unit 10 controls the transition to normal stage A after the end of CZ stage B1 (arrow h in Figure 6).

On the other hand, during stay in CZ stage B2, benefits are granted based on the second order of the benefit granting order.
The second order is an order in which the privilege can be granted in the order starting from a specific order defined after the predetermined order, for example, granting the privilege starting from the third order (specific order) in the privilege granting order.
That is, in CZ stage B2, as shown in FIG. 17, first the "right to transition to specialized stage B" is granted, and thereafter, the granted privilege changes in sequence each time the privilege granting lottery is won.

Specifically, if the bonus lottery is won once while in CZ stage B2, the main control unit 10 will grant the ``right to transition to specialized stage B'' as a bonus, and will control the transition to specialized stage B after the end of CZ stage B1 (arrow g2 in Figure 6).
In addition, if the bonus lottery is won two or more times, the main control unit 10 will award an "extra number of games on top of the EX game number (e.g., 10 games)" as a bonus, and control the transition to the AT stage after the end of the CZ stage B1 (arrow g1 in Figure 6).
In other words, while in CZ stage B2, the first (right to transition to AT stage) and second (right to transition to specialized stage A) bonuses will be omitted in the bonus granting order.

Details will be given later, but after the end of the specialized stage, you will transition (return) to AT stage B, so the "right to transition to specialized stage A" and "right to transition to specialized stage B" granted as bonuses mean that the "right to transition to the AT stage" is also granted as a bonus.
In addition, regarding the "number of games added to the number of EX games", the "right to move to the AT stage" is also essentially granted as a privilege. However, this is not limited to this, and only the "number of games added to the number of EX games" may be granted.

In addition, if the bonus lottery is won during CZ stage B, a presentation will be executed to inform the player of the win.
Specifically, when the white 7 replay role is won and the bonus lottery is won, an effect is executed to notify the white 7 matching navigation. For example, based on the operation of the start lever 3, an image is displayed on the display 8 to encourage the player to stop the "white 7" symbol ("Aim for the white 7!") and an operation image is displayed to encourage the player to perform a reverse push operation. Then, when the white 7 matching symbol is stopped as a result of a successful push operation, an image showing the bonus to be awarded is displayed on the display 8.
In addition, when a bonus lottery is won due to a win other than the White 7 Replay role, a button effect is executed. For example, based on the operation of the start lever 3, an image imitating an operation button that prompts the operation of the effect button 2c, or an operation image consisting of text information (e.g., "PUSH") instructing the operation, is displayed on the display 8. Then, an image representing the bonus to be awarded is displayed on the display 8 by operating the effect button 2c.

In this manner, the slot machine 1 (main control unit 10) according to this embodiment controls the order of the awards to be given to differ for each stage in which the player remains.
This allows the types of bonuses to be awarded to be different even if the number of bonus lottery wins is the same in CZ stage B1 and CZ stage B2. This prevents the game from becoming monotonous and makes it more interesting to play.
In addition, the type of the bonus given changes depending on the number of times the bonus lottery is won, which can increase the interest of the game and the player's sense of expectation. In particular, in the CZ stage B1 where the transition to the AT stage is not confirmed, the bonus that can be obtained is not limited to the fixed bonus of the CZ stage = "right to transition to the AT stage", but can be an unexpected bonus such as "right to transition to a specialized stage" or "addition to the number of EX games", which can increase the interest of the game.
In addition, a common table can be used to determine the bonuses to be awarded in the CZ stage B1 and the CZ stage B2. This eliminates the need to prepare separate tables for each stage, thereby reducing the storage area required for table data.

In addition, the "granting of benefits in CZ Stage B" may be modified as shown below.
In the above description, one bonus is awarded according to the number of times the bonus lottery is won, but this is not limiting, and all bonuses may be awarded according to the number of times the bonus lottery is won. For example, in the CZ stage B1, if the bonus lottery is won five times, all of the following may be awarded: "acquisition of the right to move to the AT stage", "right to move to the specialized stage A", "right to move to the specialized stage B", "number of games added to the number of EX games (10 games)", and "number of games added to the number of EX games (10 games)". In this case, only one of the bonuses "right to move to the specialized stage A" and "right to move to the specialized stage B" may be awarded.
In the above description, the effect of notifying the player that the bonus lottery has been won is executed for all triggers, but the present invention is not limited to this. The effect may be executed only when the bonus lottery is won due to the winning of the White 7 Replay combination, and may not be executed when the bonus lottery is won due to the winning of a combination other than the White 7 Replay combination. In other words, the winning result may be hidden from the player.
In addition, the benefits that can be granted in CZ Stage B are not limited to those mentioned above, and may be, for example, "an increase in the AT continuation rate,""an item to be consumed in the battle stage,""the right for the AT to continue until a bonus role is won," etc.

In the above description, a fixed bonus is awarded depending on the number of times the bonus lottery is won, but the present invention is not limited to this and may be determined by lottery from among a number of bonuses. For example, in the case of winning the bonus lottery twice in the CZ stage B1, a bonus determined by lottery from among "the right to move to the specialized stage A" and "an additional number of EX games" may be awarded.
In addition, the "EX game number addition" may be a total number of games awarded depending on the number of times the bonus lottery is won. For example, in the CZ stage B2, if the bonus lottery is won four times, 30 games (10 games + 10 games + 10 games) may be awarded.
In addition, the "addition of the number of EX games" may be changed according to an increase in the number of times the bonus lottery is won. For example, it may be different, such as 20 games, 30 games, or 40 games.
In addition, if the number of times the bonus lottery is won reaches a specific number (for example, 7 times) or more, the ending B described below may be determined. In this case, even if the ending B is determined, it is preferable to control the AT stage to proceed normally without notifying the player of the determination, so as to avoid a feeling of chore.

(AT stage)
The AT stage is entered from the CZ stage and is a game state in which it is extremely easy to win medals.
The AT stage (special game state) is composed of AT stage A, AT stage B (first special game state) and battle stage (second special game state), and a series of games are realized in the three stages, and the game progresses with these games as one set.
Normally, the game progresses in the order of AT stage A → AT stage B → battle stage, and if the AT continuation lottery held in the battle stage is won, after the battle stage ends, the game will move to AT stage A, allowing one set of play to be played again.
Also, as will be described in more detail later, in the AT continuation lottery in the battle stage, players with a higher AT continuation rate are more likely to win, and players who possess items are also more likely to win.
Therefore, by increasing the AT continuation rate through additional lotteries or the like and acquiring many items before entering the battle stage, the game will progress to the player's advantage.
In addition, the bonus and specialized stage A are game states that can add a large amount to the AT continuation rate, and entering these game states during the AT stage will give you an even greater advantage.

(AT Stage A)
AT stage A is the first stage that the player remains in after entering the AT stage, and the player remains in the AT stage until the specified number of games (12 games) are played. After the specified number of games are played, the player is controlled to move to AT stage B (arrow i in Figure 6).

While staying in AT stage A, a predetermined effect is executed on the display 8.
The effects that are executed correspond to the number of times the AT stage A is entered, and are composed of six types (episode 1 to episode 6). In addition, each episode is set so that the contents of the effects (display contents of the display device 8, story, BGM, etc.) are different.
When AT stage A is entered for the first time, the performance of Episode 1 is executed, and from the next time onwards, each time the player moves to AT stage A, the performance is executed in the order of "Episode 2 → Episode 3 → ... → Episode 6."
In addition, the player may be allowed to freely select an episode when entering the first AT stage A. This allows the player to select the presentation of the first episode, so that the player can reliably see the presentation of all episodes even if the AT stage A does not continue.

In the AT stage A, a lottery is held to add to the AT continuation rate.
Specifically, the main control unit 10 determines by lottery the rate of addition to the AT continuation rate based on the winning combination of the current game.
For example, when a normal replay role or a push order bell role is won, a lottery is held to select an additional AT continuation rate based on a predetermined winning probability. If the lottery is won, an additional rate of 1% to 5% is selected.
In addition, although details will be described later, the AT continuation rate is the winning probability of the AT continuation lottery executed in the battle stage. For example, if the AT continuation rate is 20%, there is a 20% probability of winning the continuation lottery when the push order bell role is won.
In addition, the initial value of the AT continuation rate is assumed to be set to "0%" when entering AT stage A, but it is not limited to this, and a predetermined probability may be set as the initial value. In addition, the initial value may be set according to the setting value set in the probability setting device 15 or the level value of the state A level.

In addition, in the AT stage A, a lottery for adding the number of EX games is executed.
Specifically, the main control unit 10 determines by lottery the number of additional games to be added to the number of EX games, based on the winning combination of the current game.
For example, when a rare combination is won, an additional lottery for the number of EX games is performed based on a predetermined probability of winning. For example, the relationship of the watermelon combination < weak cherry combination < chance eye combination < strong cherry combination makes it easier to win.
If the lottery is won, the number of additional games will be selected from 1, 2, 5, 10, or 20 games.
As will be described in detail later, the number of EX games is the number of games in which a player can stay in AT stage B, so the more EX games there are, the longer the player can stay in AT stage B.
In addition, the initial value of the number of EX games is assumed to be set to "0 games" when entering AT stage A, but it is not limited to this, and a predetermined number of games may be set as the initial value. In addition, the initial value may be set according to the setting value set in the probability setting device 15 or the level value of the state E level.

(AT Stage B)
The AT stage B is entered from the AT stage A, and remains there until a specified number of games (initial number of games (30 games) + EX number of games) are played, and after the specified number of games is played, the player transitions to the battle stage (arrow j in Figure 6).
In addition, the AT stage B has a so-called ST type game feature, and when the white 7s are displayed in a stopped state as a result of winning the white 7 replay role, the initial number of games (30 games) is reset.
That is, in AT stage B, the initial number of games is reset by the display of a complete line of white 7s, thereby extending the duration of AT stage B, while aiming to increase the AT continuation rate during that time.

The EX game number is managed separately from the initial game number, and is the number of games that consumption begins when the initial game number has been consumed (when the remaining game number becomes zero).
Therefore, even if the initial number of games has been played, if the white 7s are displayed in a stopped state before the number of EX games has been played, the AT stage B will continue. In this case, the remaining number of EX games will be carried over to the next AT stage B.
In addition, the slot machine 1 according to this embodiment is configured to add to the number of EX games among the specified number of games in the AT stage B, without adding to the initial number of games.
This prevents the number of games from being added to the initial number of games by a large amount, so that the player does not stay in one AT stage B for a long period of time, and prevents the game from becoming monotonous. Also, a tense gameplay can be achieved during a short stay.
In addition, a larger bonus may be added when the set of white 7s is displayed while the EX number of games is being played (for example, resetting the initial number of games + adding an EX game), compared to when the set of white 7s is displayed while the initial number of games is being played. This can attract the expectation of the player who is playing the EX number of games.

Next, various lottery processes executed during the AT stage B will be described.
In the AT stage B, a state-specific probability state lottery is executed only at the first entry in one set of play.
Specifically, the main control unit 10 determines the probability state (low probability or high probability) of each of states A to E by lottery, by referring to the "state-specific probability state lottery table" shown in FIG.
18, for example, the higher the state level for each of states A to E, the more likely it is that "high probability" will be selected. If high probability is selected, it becomes easier to obtain advantageous lottery results in various lotteries executed during the AT stage B, and the game of the AT stage can be advantageously played.
In this way, the probability state of each state is determined for each set as follows: state A = low probability, state B = high probability, ... state E = low probability, so that each set can have a wide variety of playability, thereby increasing the interest of the game.
For example, in a set where state A = low probability and state F = high probability are determined, the AT continuation rate is unlikely to be increased, but gameplay can be created in which it is easy to get a line-up of white 7s.
In addition, in a set where state A = high probability and state B = low probability are determined, the AT continuation rate is likely to be increased, but gameplay can be created in which it is difficult to obtain items.

In addition, in the AT stage B, a lottery is held to add to the AT continuation rate.
Specifically, when a normal replay role, a push order bell role, or a 1-coin role is won, the main control unit 10 determines by lottery the rate of addition to the AT continuation rate based on the probability state of state A by referring to the "AT continuation rate addition lottery table" shown in Figure 19.
For example, as shown in Fig. 19, the probability state of state A is set so that it is easier to win the bonus lottery when the probability is high than when the probability is low. Also, if the lottery is won, one of the bonus rates from 1% to 5% is selected.

In addition, in AT stage B, a lottery for acquiring items is held.
An item is a parameter that influences the AT continuation lottery that is carried out in the battle stage described below, and the likelihood of winning the AT continuation lottery differs depending on whether or not an item is present.
The items are defined in accordance with the winning combination, and for example, there are four types: a bell item (first item) corresponding to the bell combination, a cherry item (first item) corresponding to the cherry combination, a watermelon item (second item) corresponding to the watermelon combination, and a chance eye item (first item) corresponding to the chance eye combination. Note that the items are not limited to these, and may be set appropriately, and may be other than four types.

Specifically, the main control unit 10 operates as an item granting means, and when a common bell role, weak cherry role (including weak cherry replay role), or watermelon role is won, the main control unit 10 determines by lottery whether or not to grant an item based on the probability state of state B by referring to the "item lottery table (weak rare role)" shown in Figure 20 (a).
In addition, if a chance eye role or a strong cherry role (including a strong cherry replay role) is won, by referring to the "item lottery table (strong rare role)" shown in Figure 20 (b), it is determined by lottery whether or not to award an item based on the probability state of state B.

As shown in FIG. 20, the probability state of state B is set so that it is easier to win when the probability is high than when the probability is low.
In addition, it is set so that it is easier to win a strong rare role than to win a weak rare role.
In this way, when a rare role is won, there is also the expectation of acquiring an item, which can increase interest during AT stage B.
The item awarded as a result of winning the lottery is held until the battle stage ends and is displayed so as to be visible to the player (see FIG. 29). However, this is not limited to this, and the item may be held until the AT stage ends or the advantageous zone ends.
In addition, in this embodiment, it is assumed that each item has an equal probability of winning, but this is not limited to the above, and the probability of winning may be different for each item, or the probability of winning may be different for each winning role.

In addition, in the AT stage B, a lottery is held to add to the specialized stage B transition rate.
The transition rate to specialized stage B is the probability of transitioning to specialized stage B when a line of white 7s is displayed in a stopped state during AT stage B.
In addition, the transition rate to specialized stage B is carried over without being reset after entering the AT stage until transition to specialized stage B or until the advantageous zone ends.
The initial value of the transition rate to the specialized stage B is assumed to be set to "0%" when entering the AT stage, but it is not limited to this, and a predetermined probability may be set as the initial value. Also, the initial value may be set according to the setting value set in the probability setting device 15 or the level value of the state C level.

Specifically, when the SB role or a losing role is won multiple times in a row, the main control unit 10 determines by lottery the rate of addition to the transition rate to the specialized stage B.
For example, when the SB role or the losing role is won three or four times in a row, the add-on rate is determined by lottery based on the probability state of state C by referring to the "Specialized Stage B Transition Rate Add-on Lottery (3, 4 consecutive)" shown in Fig. 21 (a). In this case, the probability state of state C is set so that it is easier to win when the probability is high than when the probability is low.
In addition, if the SB role or a losing role is won five or more times in a row, the add-on rate is determined by lottery based on the probability state of state c by referring to the "Specialized Stage B Transition Rate Add-on Lottery (Five or more consecutive wins)" shown in Figure 21 (b).
If the player wins five or more times in a row, the player is guaranteed to win, and a bonus rate of 1% to 5% is selected. In this case, the player is set so that a larger bonus rate is more likely to be selected when the probability state of state C is high than when it is low.

In addition, in AT stage B, a lottery is held to add to the number of CB games.
The CB game number is the number of games that specifies the playing period that increases the probability of winning in the lottery that derives the White 7 Match Navigation, which will be described later, and consumption begins after the additional lottery is won.
In other words, the more CB games there are, the longer the period in which the white 7 matching navigation can be derived when the white 7 replay role is won, thereby increasing the probability of moving to the specialized stage.
Specifically, when a weak cherry role (including a weak cherry replay role) or a watermelon role is won, the main control unit 10 determines by lottery the number of added games to be added to the number of CB games.
For example, by referring to the "CB Game Number Addition Lottery Table" shown in Fig. 22, the number of added games is determined by lottery based on the probability state of state D. In this case, the probability state of state D is set so that it is easier to win when the probability is high than when the probability is low.
If the player wins the lottery, the number of additional games will be selected from among 10, 20, or 30 games.
In addition, the initial value of the CB game number is assumed to be set to "0 games" when entering AT stage B, but is not limited to this, and a predetermined number of games may be set as the initial value. In addition, the initial value may be set according to the setting value set in the probability setting device 15 or the level value of the state D level.

In addition, in AT stage B, a lottery for adding the number of EX games is executed.
Specifically, when a common bell role or a rare role (including a rare replay role) is won, the main control unit 10 determines by lottery the number of added games to be added to the number of EX games.
For example, by referring to the "EX game number addition lottery table" shown in Fig. 23, the number of added games is determined by lottery based on the probability state of state E. In this case, the probability state of state E is set so that it is easier to win when the probability is high than when the probability is low.
If the player wins the lottery, the number of additional games will be selected from among 5, 10, or 20 games.

In addition, in AT stage B, a probability state transition lottery for state F is executed.
Specifically, when a 1-coin role is won, the main control unit 10 executes a lottery to transition (promote) the probability state of state F from low probability to high probability, and when a normal replay role is won, the main control unit 10 executes a lottery to transition (downgrade) the probability state of state F from high probability to low probability.
For example, when a one-coin combination is won, by referring to the "State F Probability State Transition Lottery (Low Probability)" shown in Fig. 24(a), it is determined by lottery whether or not to transition (promote) to a high probability based on the state F level. In this case, it is set so that the higher the state F level, the easier it is to be promoted.
In addition, when a normal replay role is won, by referring to the "State F Probability State Transition Lottery (High Probability)" shown in Fig. 24(b), it is determined by lottery whether or not to transition (demotion) to a low probability based on the state F level. In this case, it is set so that the lower the state F level, the easier it is to be demoted.

In addition, in AT stage B, a lottery is carried out to determine the white 7 matching navigation.
First, the control when a set of seven white symbols is displayed in a stopped state in the AT stage will be described.
In the AT stage, when the white 7s are displayed in a stopped state, the transition to the specialized stage is confirmed. As will be described in detail later, after the specialized stage ends, the initial number of games (30 games) is reset and the game transitions (returns) to the AT stage B.
In other words, as a bonus for getting all seven white symbols, the player is granted the opportunity to move to a specialized stage and replay AT stage B.
Therefore, the player plays the game in the hope that the white sevens will stop in a line in the AT stage.
However, in order to stop displaying the line of white 7s, in a winning game for the white 7 replay role, it is necessary to press the buttons in the reverse order to accurately match the "white 7" symbol, so it is necessary to derive a white 7 navigation system that shows the timing when the white 7s can be displayed.
In addition, if the White 7 matching navigation is always derived when the White 7 replay role is won, there is a risk that excessive benefits will be given to the player.

Therefore, the slot machine 1 (main control unit 10) according to this embodiment is configured to determine by lottery whether or not the White 7 matching navigation can be derived when the White 7 replay role is won.
Specifically, when the White 7 replay role is won, the main control unit 10 determines the derivation of the White 7 matching navigation based on the number of CB games by referring to the "White 7 matching navigation derivation lottery table" shown in Figure 25.
For example, when the number of CB games is 1 or more, the probability of winning (deriving the white 7 matching navigation) is 32/256, when the number of CB games is zero, the probability of winning is 1/256 when state F is a low probability, and when state F is a high probability, the probability of winning is 8/256.
In this way, it is set up so that those who have the CB game number are more likely to win than those who do not have the CB game number.

In addition, if the lottery is not won (the white 7 matching navigation is not derived), a push order avoidance navigation is announced. For example, a push order other than reverse push is announced, or an image such as "!" is displayed instead of the push order image.
On the other hand, if the lottery is won (the white 7s navigation is derived) and the white 7s are displayed in a stopped state, the main control unit 10 executes a lottery for transition to specialized stage B.
Specifically, the main control unit 10 conducts a lottery for transition to specialized stage B based on the transition rate of specialized stage B, and if the lottery is won, controls the transition to specialized stage B, and if the lottery is not won, controls the transition to specialized stage A (arrow m in Figure 6).
In addition, in the AT stage B, when the fake white 7 replay role is won, the white 7 matching navigation is derived. This leads to the announcement of the white 7 matching navigation similar to that when the white 7 replay role is won, so that the player's sense of expectation can be attracted.

(Battle Stage)
The battle stage is entered from AT stage B and is a gaming state that can be continued for a period of seven games.
In the battle stage, an AT continuation lottery is held to determine whether the AT stage set will continue.
If the AT continuation lottery is won, the main control unit 10 controls the transition to AT stage A after the battle stage ends (arrow k in Figure 6).
In addition, when the number of times that the AT stage A has been entered reaches a specific number of times (for example, six times), after the battle stage ends, the game is controlled so that the game moves to the AT stage A via Ending A (arrow l in FIG. 6). In Ending A, a performance is executed on the display 8 to celebrate the completion of the six types of episodes.
On the other hand, if the AT continuation lottery is not won, the main control unit 10 controls the transition to normal stage A after the battle stage ends (arrow o in Figure 6).

The AT continuation lottery executed in the battle stage includes an AT continuation lottery based on a winning combination and a continuation lottery based on an AT continuation rate.
(AT continuation lottery based on winning role)
During your time in the Battle Stage, a lottery will be held for each game to determine whether or not the set will continue, based on the winning role.
In addition, in the continuation lottery, the probability of winning differs depending on whether or not the player possesses an item.
Specifically, the main control unit 10 operates as a judgment means, and when a normal replay role or a miss role is won, or when a common bell role, weak cherry role, strong cherry role, watermelon role or chance eye role is won (including rare replay role) and the player does not possess the item corresponding to the winning role, the main control unit 10 performs a continuation lottery by referring to the "continuation lottery table (no item)" shown in Figure 26 (a).
For example, it is easier to win based on the relationship of normal replay role, miss role < common bell role < watermelon role, weak cherry role < chance eye role < strong cherry role.

In addition, when the main control unit 10 wins the common bell role, weak cherry role, strong cherry role, watermelon role or chance eye role (including rare replay role) and has an item corresponding to the winning role, the main control unit 10 performs a continuation lottery by referring to the "continuation lottery table (with item)" shown in Figure 26 (b).
For example, it is easier to win based on the relationship of watermelon role < common bell role < weak cherry role < chance eye role, strong cherry role. If the chance eye role or strong cherry role is won, the win is confirmed.

As shown in FIGS. 26(a) and 26(b), the probability of winning the continuation lottery is higher when an item corresponding to a winning combination is held than when an item corresponding to a winning combination is not held.
In other words, the expected continuation probability of the AT stage differs depending on whether or not the player possesses a bell item corresponding to the common bell role, a cherry item corresponding to the weak cherry role and the strong cherry role, a watermelon item corresponding to the watermelon role, and a chance eye item corresponding to the chance eye role.
In this way, the gameplay can be diversified depending on the types of winning roles over the seven games and the presence or absence of items corresponding to those winning roles, thereby increasing the excitement of the game and the player's expectations.

In addition, in a continuation lottery that is executed when an item corresponding to a winning role is held, the main control unit 10 may operate as a bonus awarding means and award a bonus in addition to winning the continuation lottery.
The bonuses to be awarded include a number of bonuses including an additional number of EX games (first bonus) and a right to transition to a specialized stage (second bonus). For example, as shown in FIG. 26(b), there are the additional number of EX games (5 games), the additional number of EX games (10 games), the right to transition to specialized stage A, the right to transition to specialized stage B, the right to transition to specialized stage A + the additional number of EX games (5 games), and the right to transition to specialized stage B + the additional number of EX games (10 games).
In addition, if a player possesses a bell item, a cherry item, or a chance item (first item), the number of additional EX games is set to be awarded with a higher probability than the right to move to a specialized stage.
On the other hand, when the player possesses the watermelon item (second item), the right to move to the specialized stage is set to be granted with a higher probability than the additional number of games added to the number of EX games.
In this way, depending on whether or not the winning role that triggers the continuation lottery is won, different types of benefits (additional EX game numbers, the right to move to a specialized stage) may be awarded in addition to the right to continue the AT stage.
This makes it possible to draw attention to winning combinations during the battle stage, and when a combination corresponding to an item held by the player is won, it is possible to further increase the player's sense of anticipation.

(Continuation lottery using items and bonuses)
Next, with reference to FIG. 29, a continuation lottery effect using items and the awarding of a benefit will be described.
FIG. 29 shows an example of the flow of presentation and the awarding of benefits after entering AT stage B.
29A shows a state at the start of AT stage B. During AT stage B, for example, the number of remaining games 81 and the number of remaining EX games 82 are displayed in the upper left corner of the screen of the display 8.
In addition, an item display area 90 is displayed in the upper right corner of the screen.
In the item display area 90, a bell item display area 91, a watermelon item display area 92, a cherry item display area 93, and a chance eye item display area 94 are displayed in this order from the left side of the screen.

During AT stage B, if a rare role or the like is won and a lottery to win an item is won, a notification will be displayed on the display 8 indicating that the item has been won.
For example, the example shown in Figure 29 (b) shows the state where a bell item has been acquired, and an image (e.g., an emphasis image) indicating that the item has been acquired is displayed in the bell item display area 91.
Similarly, when a watermelon item, a cherry item, or a chance item is acquired, an image indicating that the item has been acquired is displayed in the watermelon item display area 92, the cherry item display area 93, or the chance item, respectively.
In this way, the player can grasp the status of acquisition of items that affect the set continuation lottery of the AT stage.
Although it is assumed that only one of each item is held, this is not limiting, and multiple items may be held. In this case, the number of each item held may be displayed so that it can be recognized.

Once the specified number of games (initial number of games + EX number of games) in AT stage B has been played, the game moves to the battle stage.
During the battle stage, for example, the number of remaining games 85 is displayed in the upper left corner of the screen of the display device 8, and the item display area 90 continues to be displayed in the upper right corner of the screen (FIG. 29(c)).
The example shown in FIG. 29(c) shows a state in which a bell item, a watermelon item, and a cherry item have been acquired before the start of the battle stage.
Also, in the battle stage, for example, a battle presentation in which a main character 83 and an enemy character 84 repeatedly battle each other is executed on the display device 8. The outcome of the battle is based on the result of a continuation lottery executed during the battle stage, and if the continuation lottery is won, a presentation in which the main character 83 wins is executed, and if the continuation lottery is not won, a presentation in which the main character is defeated at the end of the battle stage is executed.

The example shown in FIG. 29(d) illustrates a case where the watermelon role is won during the battle stage.
In this case, the continuation lottery is executed by consuming one of the watermelon items held. At this time, it is preferable that the main character 83 is given an advantageous position.
If the continuation lottery is won, a victory image 86 (for example, text information saying "WIN!") in which the main character wins is displayed on the display 8, as shown in FIG. 29(e).
Thereafter, the stage transitions from the battle stage to AT stage A, and the performance of AT stage A begins on the display 8 (see FIG. 29(f)).
29(e) shows a state in which the cherry item remains. It is assumed that the items are reset (initialized) at the end of the battle stage, but this is not limited thereto, and they may be carried over to the next set, or may be converted into the number of EX games, the number of CB games, the AT continuation rate, etc.

Also, as described above, in the continuation lottery that is executed by consuming an item, in addition to winning the continuation lottery, a bonus may also be awarded.
The example shown in Figure 29(g) shows a case where a player wins the continuation lottery using a watermelon item but is not awarded a special bonus, and a case where a player wins the continuation lottery using a watermelon item and is also awarded a special bonus (in Figure 29(g) , the right to move to specialized stage A).
If no special benefit is given, the game moves to AT stage B after the end of AT stage A. On the other hand, if a special benefit is given, the game moves to specialized stage A after the end of AT stage A.

However, without being limited to this, if a player wins a continuation lottery using an item, a bonus may be given without fail.
In addition, even if the player wins the continuation lottery using an item and is awarded a bonus, the game may move to AT stage B after the end of AT stage A based on a predetermined probability (for example, 10%), and then, after a predetermined number of games have elapsed, the player may be notified that the bonus has been awarded (transition to specialized stage A). This allows the player to have a sense of anticipation for the award of the bonus.

Furthermore, if a player wins a continuation lottery using an item, the victory image 86 may be displayed in a display mode different from the normal display mode.
For example, if a player wins a continuation lottery without using an item, the victory image 86 may be displayed in a display mode (normal display mode) consisting of only the text information "WIN!", whereas if a player wins a continuation lottery using an item, the victory image 86 may be displayed in a display mode (special display mode) including an ally character image, as shown in Fig. 29(e). This allows the player to expect the acquisition of a special prize.
In addition, if a player wins the continuation lottery using an item and is further awarded a bonus, the player may be informed of the bonus by displaying another character, multiple characters, text images, etc.
Further, the indication or notification may be a voice (dialogue) using the speaker 9 or light emitted from the lamp 11, or these may be combined.
Furthermore, if a player wins a continuation lottery using an item, a different victory image 86 may be displayed depending on the winning combination (item).

(AT continuation lottery based on AT continuation rate)
While in the battle stage, if the push order bell role is won, a lottery will be held to determine whether or not the set will continue.
Specifically, when the push order bell role is won, the main control unit 10 performs a lottery for continuation based on the current AT continuation rate. If the AT continuation rate is 80% or more, the win (continuation for one set) is confirmed, and if it is 79% or less, a lottery is performed based on the AT continuation rate.
If the AT continuation rate is 80% or more, if the lottery is not won within 7 games, a continuation confirmation effect will be executed after 7 games have been played, and the game will transition from the battle stage to AT stage A (see Figure 29 (f)).
Also, during the battle stage, if the player "wins the Push Order Bell role for seven consecutive games" or "does not win the Push Order Bell role for seven consecutive games," a win (continuation of one set) is confirmed.

In addition, when the AT continuation rate is 80% or more, the music played during the battle stage may be replaced with a specific music (for example, a premium music) to suggest to the player that the game will continue. In addition, when the AT continuation rate reaches 80% or more during the AT stage B, the music may be changed in the same manner.
In addition, when the AT continuation rate exceeds a predetermined value (for example, 100%), the AT continuation rate that exceeds the predetermined value is carried over to the next set. Note that the predetermined value is not limited to 100%, but can be changed as appropriate, and may be 128% or 256%.

(Specialized stage)
The specialized stage (special game state) has specialized stage A and specialized stage B, and since there is a high probability of adding to the AT continuation rate and the number of EX games, it is positioned as a "specialized zone" specialized in adding to the AT continuation rate and the number of EX games.
Entry into specialized stage A or specialized stage B is possible, for example, when a bonus lottery is won in CZ stage B (arrow g2 in Figure 6), or when a line of white 7s is displayed in a stopped state in AT stage B (arrow m in Figure 6).

Specialized stage A and specialized stage B can each be stayed in for a specified number of games (10 games + α).
Specifically, if the SB role is not won after 10 games, the specialized stage ends. On the other hand, if the SB role is won after 10 games, the specialized stage continues without ending.
In other words, even after 10 games have been played, the reel can be extended by an additional number of games by displaying a stopped SB spill symbol or winning an SB role.
Also, if a rare role is won during the SB that is entered after 10 games have been played, "10 games + α" will be reset and the specialized stage will continue.
After the specialized stage ends, the main control unit 10 controls the transition to the AT stage B (arrow n in FIG. 6). In this case, as described above, in the AT stage B after the transition, the initial number of games (30 games) is reset.

(Specialized Stage A)
Specialized stage A is a game state in which the AT continuation rate is highly likely to be increased.
In the specialized stage A, a lottery for adding to the AT continuation rate is executed.
Specifically, the main control unit 10 determines by lottery the addition rate to be added to the AT continuation rate based on the winning role of the current game by referring to the "AT continuation rate addition lottery table" shown in Figure 27.
For example, as shown in FIG. 27, if the push order bell role or rare role is won, the win is confirmed, and if other winning roles (other than the push order bell role and rare role) are won, the probability of winning is 128/256.
If the lottery is won, one of the add-on rates of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 30, or 50% is selected, and if a rare role is won, a larger add-on rate is selected.

(Specialized Stage B)
The specialized stage B is a gaming state in which the number of EX games is likely to be increased with a high probability.
In the specialized stage B, a lottery for adding the number of EX games is carried out.
Specifically, the main control unit 10 refers to the "EX game number addition lottery table" shown in Figure 28 and determines by lottery the number of additional games to be added to the EX game number based on the winning combination of the current game.
For example, as shown in FIG. 28, it is set up so that an additional number of games is added no matter which winning role is won, and in particular, when a rare role is won, a large number of additional games is selected.
If the lottery is won, the number of additional games will be selected from 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, or 30 games.

(bonus)
The bonus is a game state that is advantageous to the player in that it is possible to expect an increase in gaming media. It is entered when a combination of symbols corresponding to a bonus role stops at each stage (arrow q in Figure 6), and ends when a predetermined number of coins are paid out.
There are two types of bonuses: big bonus (blue BB, red BB) and regular bonus (red RB, white RB).
The bonus is controlled so that the bell role has a high probability of winning, and if the push order bell role is won, it will definitely be won, just like the common bell role.
The big bonus ends when a predetermined number of medals (e.g., 252 medals) or more have been paid out, and the regular bonus ends when a predetermined number of medals (e.g., 96 medals) or more have been paid out.

During the bonus, various lotteries will be held depending on the stage you were on when the bonus began.
For example, when the reel is started from the normal stage, a lottery for transition to the AT stage is held during the big bonus and regular bonus. In this case, during the big bonus, the blue BB is set to have a higher winning expectation than the red BB.
In addition, when entering from the AT stage, a lottery for adding the number of EX games is held during the big bonus and regular bonus.
In addition, when entering from specialized stage A, a lottery is held to add to the AT continuation rate, and when entering from specialized stage B, a lottery is held to add to the number of EX games.
It should be noted that the various selections that are held during the bonus are not limited to those described above, and for example, selections for winning items may also be held.
After the bonus ends, if the game state transition lottery is not won, the game state transition (return) occurs to the stage before the bonus (arrow r in FIG. 6).

(Ending B)
Ending B is a game state to which a player can transition when approaching the end of an advantageous zone, and is positioned as the end of a game state that is advantageous to the player in a series of games.
Specifically, if the ending limiter is reached during the advantageous zone, it will be entered from each game state (stage) and continue until the advantageous zone limiter.
Then, when the favorable zone limiter is reached, the main control unit 10 controls the end of the favorable zone and transition to normal stage A (arrow p in Figure 6).
In addition, during Ending B, basically, the lottery process regarding the balls to be dispensed is not executed.

(Modification)
Next, a modification of this embodiment will be described.
The slot machine 1 according to this embodiment can also be modified as follows.
(1) Selection state for the CZ stage In the above embodiment, a case was described in which the normal stage is controlled to multiple probability states including a normal probability state and a high probability state, but instead of or in addition to this, the selection state for the CZ stage may be managed.
Specifically, there is state A which manages the probability of transition to the CZ stage, and state B which manages the probability of transition to the AT stage during the CZ stage.
Furthermore, state A and state B are set in a number of stages (levels), with the higher the level determined, the more advantageous it is for the player to progress in the game.
The level of state A changes when a rare combination is won, and the level of state B changes depending on the number of games played (zone).
In this way, by separately managing the ease of transition to the CZ stage and the breakthrough rate of the CZ stage, a variety of games can be played, making it possible to increase the interest of the game.

(2) Transition to CZ stage by special white 7s aligned: When a combination of symbols corresponding to the special white 7 replay role (special white 7s aligned) is displayed in a stopped state during the normal stage, the reel may be controlled to transition to the CZ stage.
As mentioned above, the special white 7 replay role can only be drawn while in RT2 or RT3, and when the special white 7 combination stops, the player will transition to a state (RT4) that is advantageous to the player.
Therefore, when the special white 7s stop lining up during the normal stage, it is possible to make the player recognize that they have moved to the CZ stage as well as to RT4.
As a result, when staying in RT4 during the CZ stage, as described above, it is easy to transition to the AT stage, which can increase the interest of the game and the player's sense of expectation.

(3) Avoidance of high probability of bonus addition just before the end of the bonus During the bonus, points may be awarded according to the establishment of a predetermined condition, and a special privilege (e.g., a right to transition to another game state) may be awarded according to the accumulated points. Also, a high probability of point addition may be provided.
The high-probability point state continues for, for example, three games, during which a high-probability effect (continuous effect) different from the normal effect during the bonus is executed. Also, the high-probability point state can be repeatedly continued (consecutive wins) by deciding whether or not to continue to the next set during the three games.
In a bonus having such game characteristics, when it is determined that the high point probability state will continue (continuous win) just before the end of the bonus, a normal presentation is executed without executing a high probability presentation.
This makes it possible to prevent the high probability performance from ending midway when the bonus ends, and makes it possible to execute a highly entertaining performance that allows the player to enjoy the conclusion of the high probability performance to the very end, which heightens the sense of expectation.

(4) Granting of benefits according to the difference in number of coins during the favorable zone In the above-described embodiment, when the value indicated by counter B, which is the count value of the difference in number of coins during the favorable zone (number of coins inserted - number of coins paid out), is negative, it is assumed that the value indicated by counter B is set to zero. However, this is not limited to this, and it is also possible to count negative values and store them in the memory unit.
In other words, the difference in number of coins during the advantageous period will be negative if the "total number of coins paid out < the total number of coins inserted", and will be positive if the "total number of coins paid out > the total number of coins inserted".
In this way, when a negative value is counted as the difference in the number of coins during the advantageous period, the proportion of the bonus awarded may be varied depending on the difference in the number of coins during the advantageous period.
Specifically, the probability of awarding a bonus in various lottery tables referenced during the advantageous period can be changed depending on whether the difference in number of coins during the advantageous period is less than a predetermined value (for example, -3000).
For example, when the difference in number of coins during the favorable zone is "-3000" or less, in the "game state transition lottery table" shown in Figures 12 (b) and (c), the probability of "non-winning" being selected may be reduced by half, and that probability may be allocated to the probability of "normal stage B" or "CZ stage" being selected.
In addition, in the "CZ Stage B1, B2 Benefit Granting Lottery Table" shown in Figure 16, the probability of "No Win" being selected may be halved, and that probability may be allocated to the probability of "Win" being selected.
In addition, in the "EX Game Number Add-On Lottery Table" shown in Figure 23, the probability of "0" being selected may be halved, and that probability may be allocated to the probability of another number of added games (for example, "5") being selected.
In this way, by making it easier for bonuses to be awarded when the difference in the number of coins during the advantageous zone is below a predetermined value, it is possible to provide relief to players who have not progressed to the AT stage for a long period of time, thereby preventing a decline in players' motivation to play.

It is assumed that counter B is set to zero at the start of the favorable zone, but this is not limited to this and another initial value (for example, 9000) may be set.
In this case, when the value indicated by counter B exceeds 11,400, it can be assumed that the favorable zone limiter (11,400 = 9,000 + 2,400) has been reached.
In this way, by setting an initial value other than zero, the process of calculating negative values can be omitted, thereby reducing the processing load and the capacity of the storage unit.

As explained above, the present invention includes a game state control means (main control unit 10) capable of controlling the game state to any one of a plurality of game states including a first game state (CZ stage) and a second game state (AT stage) that is more advantageous to the player than the first game state, a judgment means (main control unit 10) capable of executing a judgment (a lottery for granting a bonus) as to whether or not to grant a bonus related to the second game state (a right to transition to the AT stage, a right to transition to a specialized stage, an extension benefit for extending the AT stage) in the first game state, and a judgment means (main control unit 10) capable of executing a lottery for granting a bonus when the judgment means determines that a bonus will be granted. and a bonus granting means capable of granting at least one of a plurality of bonuses based on a bonus granting order that specifies the order in which the bonuses are to be granted when the bonus is granted. The first gaming state includes a normal first gaming state (CZ stage B1) and a special first gaming state (CZ stage B2) in which the probability of granting a bonus is higher than in the normal first gaming state. The bonus granting means is configured to grant a bonus based on a first order of the bonus granting order in the normal first gaming state and to grant a bonus based on a second order of the bonus granting order in the special first gaming state.

The slot machine 1 according to the present invention having such a configuration can be controlled so that the order of awards differs depending on the gaming state (stage) in which the player is currently playing.
This allows the type of benefit to be given to be different even if the number of times the benefit-granting lottery is won is the same in the normal first gaming state and the special first gaming state, which prevents the game from becoming monotonous and makes the game more entertaining.
In addition, the type of the bonus given varies depending on the number of times the bonus lottery is won, which can increase the interest of the game and the player's sense of expectation. In particular, in the normal first game state where the transition to the AT stage is not confirmed, it is possible to give an unexpected bonus, not just a fixed bonus such as the "right to transition to the AT stage", which can increase the interest of the game.

In response to this, Patent Document 1 discloses a gaming machine that executes a transition lottery for every game in a CZ state, which is easier to transition to the ART state than the normal state, and transitions to the ART state if the lottery is won.
However, in this gaming machine, even if the player wins the lottery for transitioning to the game every time while in the CZ state, the player is simply controlled to the ART state (AT), i.e., only the fixed privilege of "AT rights" is granted, which makes the game monotonous and leads to a decrease in interest.
In this way, according to the slot machine 1 of this embodiment, it is possible to solve all or part of the problems that need to be improved in conventional gaming machines.

The above describes a preferred embodiment of the gaming machine of the present invention. However, it goes without saying that the gaming machine of the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the present invention.
For example, in the above-described embodiment, it is assumed that the push sequence avoidance navigation is notified using the display 8 and the speaker 9, but instead of or in addition to this, the notification may be made by turning on the navigation lamp 12.
In the above description, the navigation lamp 12 is controlled by the sub-controller 20, but the present invention is not limited to this and may be controlled by the main controller 10.

In addition, in the above-described embodiment, the number of games is used as a value that can manage the AT, but this is not limited to this, and the AT may be managed using at least one of, for example, the difference in number of coins, the number of times that push order navigation occurs, the number of times that small winnings are won, the number of medals won, the number of medals paid out, etc.
In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiment, a game number subtraction method is applied during the AT stage, but this is not limited to the above, and a game number addition method in which the AT state ends when the number of games added for each game reaches an upper limit number may also be used.

In addition, in the above embodiment, it is assumed that the normal stage is controlled to be in a normal zone or an advantageous zone, and the CZ stage, AT stage, ending, and bonus are controlled to be in an advantageous zone, but this is not limiting, and each game state may be controlled to be in either or both of the normal zone and the advantageous zone.

In addition, in the above-described embodiment, the tables referenced in the various processes are merely examples, and are not limited to the tables described above. Furthermore, the winning probabilities related to the various tables are not limited to the values described above, and can be changed as appropriate.

In addition, a vibration means may be provided on the front door 1a to vibrate the front door 1a by activating a motor, speaker, etc., so that when a relatively highly anticipated performance is performed, the vibration means may be activated to increase the player's sense of anticipation.
In addition, a ventilation means may be provided on the front door 1a to blow air toward the player, so that when a relatively highly anticipated performance is performed, the ventilation means may be activated to increase the player's sense of anticipation.

In addition, in the above-described embodiment, the main control unit 10 performed operations as various means such as a game status control means, but the sub-control unit 20 may perform some or all of these operations and operate as various means.
Conversely, while the sub-control unit 20 operates as a means for executing a presentation on the display device 8 etc., the main control unit 10 may perform some or all of this, and the main control unit 10 may operate as various means.

In the above embodiment, the gaming machine is a slot machine, but the gaming machine is not limited to this and may be, for example, a pachinko machine, a ball slot machine, or other gaming machines.
The gaming machine may be a so-called medal-less gaming machine that can execute a game using a pseudo gaming medium in the form of data, without using actual gaming media such as medals. Furthermore, the gaming machine may be a so-called sealed gaming machine that can execute a game by circulating gaming media such as gaming balls internally, without dispensing them to the outside. Note that such medal-less gaming machines may have different upper limits for the number of coins difference and the number of games in the advantageous zone from the upper limits of gaming machines that use actual objects such as medals.

In addition, in the above embodiment, the reel 41 driven and controlled by a motor is used as the variable display means, but instead of or in addition to this, the display 8 such as a liquid crystal display can be used as the variable display means for the identification information by displaying an image in which the patterns of the reel or the like change.

1. Slot machine (amusement machine)
41 Reel 5 Stop button 10 Main control unit

Claims (1)

a game state control means capable of controlling the game state to any one of a plurality of game states including a first game state and a second game state more advantageous than the first game state;
A first determination means capable of determining whether to award a continuation rate of the second gaming state;
an awarding means for awarding a continuation rate when the first determination means determines that a continuation rate is to be awarded;
A counting means capable of counting the continuation rate awarded by the awarding means;
A second determination means for determining whether to continue the second gaming state based on the continuation rate counted by the counting means;
A state control means capable of controlling the device to a first state and a second state different from the first state;
Equipped with
The second gaming state is
a first second gaming state;
a second game state to which a transition can be made from the first game state, and which has a lower probability of being determined by the first determination means to award a continuation rate than the first game state;
a third second gaming state to which a transition can be made from the second second gaming state, and to which the second determination means can determine whether to continue the second gaming state;
a fourth second gaming state to which a transition can be made from the third second gaming state;
Including,
The game state control means includes:
In the third second gaming state, when the second determination means determines that the second gaming state is not to be continued, the game state can be controlled to the first gaming state;
In the third second gaming state, when the second determination means determines that the second gaming state is to be continued, the fourth second gaming state can be controlled ;
The second gaming state is
a game state in which one set can continue for a predetermined number of games, and the state control means can control the game state to either the first state or the second state within the set, and the game state does not transition from either the first state or the second state to the other within the set;
A game state in which the probability of the first determination means determining that a continuation rate is to be awarded is higher when the game state is controlled to the second state than when the game state is controlled to the first state.
A gaming machine characterized by:

Images