JP2001232060A - Game device and information storage medium - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game device and an information storage medium capable of easily detecting the operation of a player and appropriately evaluating the operation. SOLUTION: This game device is provided with a detection part 160 for detecting the operation of the player to an operation instruction image displayed matched with music from the inclination of an operation part 120, a judgment part 116 for judging the propriety of the operation on the basis of data 152 for an operation instruction for indicating the operation information of the player, the operation instruction image and an operation timing, a sound generation part 112 and a sound output part 130 for generating and outputting effective sound and an image generation part 118 and a display part 140 for generating and displaying the operation instruction image on the basis of the data 152 for the operation instruction.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a game apparatus and an information storage medium for giving an operation instruction based on music to be played and evaluating a player's operation in response to the operation instruction.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art There has been realized a game apparatus which issues an operation instruction based on music to be played and evaluates a player's operation in response to the operation instruction.

As a method of detecting the operation of the player, for example, a method of detecting an operation of pressing a button, a detection of a stepping operation of the player on a table, and a method of capturing and detecting an operation of the player with a camera can be considered.

[0004] However, pressing a button is the same operation as a normal game device such as a shooting game which is not a music game, and lacks interest for the player.

[0005] In addition, when a stepping operation of a player on a table is detected in order to make the game interesting, the operation is performed only with the feet, and is ineffective in a music game in which the movement of the arms is important.

[0006] Further, in the case of detecting both the movement of the foot and the movement of the arm, if an attempt is made to detect the movement of the player by taking an image of the movement of the player, there is a possibility that the imaging range of the camera may be a factor of noise for the audience. Accurate detection cannot be performed. Moreover,
In order to perform image processing by capturing an image with such a camera, the configuration of the game device itself becomes complicated, and the game device becomes expensive and lacks economy.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and has as its object to provide a game capable of easily detecting a player's movement, particularly a movement of a player's arm, and appropriately evaluating the operation. A device and an information storage medium are provided.

[0008]

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, a game device according to the present invention has a sound generating means for generating a sound for game music, and a player associated with the sound for game music. Operation instruction means for performing an operation instruction; a plurality of input means for detecting movement of the player and inputting operation information of the player; and operation of the player for the operation instruction based on the content of the operation instruction and the operation information The input means includes: an operation unit that moves with the player; and a detection unit that detects at least one of a movement amount, a tilt, a position, and a vibration of the operation unit. The operation instructing means includes, as the operation instruction, one or a plurality of instruction markers for instructing an operation to perform an input, and one or a plurality of instruction markers indicating a timing for performing an input. An instruction using a force sign is performed, and the evaluation unit determines suitability of the player's operation according to a given condition when the instruction sign and the input sign have a given positional relationship. It is characterized by including a determination means.

Further, an information storage medium according to the present invention is a computer-readable information storage medium storing information for evaluating a player's operation in response to an operation instruction associated with a sound for game music. Sound generating means for generating a sound for music, operation instructing means for instructing a player to perform an operation instruction related to the sound for game music, contents of the operation instruction and operation information of the player from predetermined input means Based on the, evaluation means for evaluating the operation of the player with respect to the operation instruction, and information for realizing, the input means, an operation unit that moves with the player, the amount of movement of the operation unit,
A detection unit that detects at least one of tilt, position, and vibration, wherein the operation instruction unit performs, as the operation instruction, one or a plurality of instruction markers that instruct an operation to perform an input; An instruction using one or a plurality of input markers indicating timing is performed, and the evaluation unit determines a player according to a given condition when the instruction marker and the input marker have a given positional relationship. And means for determining suitability of the operation.

Further, the information according to the present invention is characterized in that it includes a program (including a program embodied in a carrier wave) for realizing each of the above means.

According to the present invention, the operation of the player can be grasped by detecting at least one of the movement amount, the inclination, the position, and the vibration of the operation unit in contact with a part of the player's body or clothes.

Thus, for example, the operation of the player's arm can be grasped by attaching the bracelet-shaped operation section to the player's arm and swinging the arm.
Of course, the operation unit can be attached not only to the arm but also to each unit of the body such as a foot, a head, a waist, and a finger, and the operation of each unit can be grasped.

By adopting such a technique, it is more interesting than the conventional technique of detecting only a stepping action or the technique of detecting a button operation, and the evaluation of the motion of various parts such as an arm and a waist can be performed. A game that can be played can be provided.

As such a detecting section, for example, an analog output type rotary encoder, a digital output type rotary encoder using a photo interrupter or the like, a tilt sensor having a mercury switch, a geomagnetic sensor, a gyro, etc. are used. Can be.

As described above, since the operation of the player can be detected by using a simple detection means such as a sensor, the influence of noise is reduced as compared with the case where the operation of the player is detected by taking an image with a camera and performing image processing. It is difficult to detect the player's movement accurately and easily.

Further, according to the present invention, it is possible to instruct the player when to operate. Here, the timing includes not only a timing at a certain point in time but also a timing having a certain width from an evaluation start timing to an operation end timing. That is, for example, an operation instruction for performing a predetermined operation between a certain start time and a certain end time can be given. Thus, the player needs to perform the operation at the same timing, and can enjoy a game full of a sense of urgency.

Further, another game device according to the present invention includes a sound generating means for generating a sound for game music, an operation instructing means for instructing a player to perform an operation instruction associated with the sound for game music, A plurality of input means for detecting movement of the player and inputting operation information of the player, and an evaluation means for evaluating the operation of the player with respect to the operation instruction based on the content of the operation instruction and the operation information. The input unit includes an operation unit that moves with the player, and an amount of movement, an inclination, a position,
A detecting unit for detecting at least one of the vibrations.

Further, another information storage medium according to the present invention includes:
A computer-readable information storage medium storing information for evaluating a player's operation in response to an operation instruction associated with a game music sound, the sound generation means for generating a game music sound; An operation instruction unit for performing an operation instruction associated with the sound for the game music, and the operation of the player with respect to the operation instruction based on the content of the operation instruction and the operation information of the player from a predetermined input unit. Evaluation means;
Wherein the input means includes: an operation unit that moves with the player; and a detection unit that detects at least one of a movement amount, a tilt, a position, and a vibration of the operation unit. It is characterized by.

Further, the other information according to the present invention is characterized in that it includes a program (including a program embodied in a carrier wave) for realizing each of the above means.

According to the present invention, the operation of the player can be grasped by detecting at least one of the movement amount, the inclination, the position, and the vibration of the operation section in contact with a part of the player's body or clothes.

Thus, for example, the operation of the arm of the player can be grasped by attaching the bracelet-shaped operation unit to the arm of the player and shaking the arm.
Of course, the operation unit can be attached not only to the arm but also to each unit of the body such as a foot, a head, a waist, and a finger, and the operation of each unit can be grasped.

By adopting such a method, it is more interesting than the conventional method of detecting only the stepping motion or the conventional method of detecting the button operation, and the evaluation of the motion of various parts such as the arm and the waist can be performed. A game that can be played can be provided.

As such a detection unit, for example, an analog output type rotary encoder, a digital output type rotary encoder using a photo interrupter, a tilt sensor having a mercury switch, a geomagnetic sensor, a gyro, etc. may be used. Can be.

As described above, since the operation of the player can be detected using simple detecting means such as a sensor, the influence of noise is reduced as compared with the case where the operation of the player is detected by taking an image with a camera and performing image processing. It is difficult to detect the player's movement accurately and easily.

It is preferable that the evaluation means evaluates the player's operation based on a combination of operation information from each input means.

Further, for example, the operation information from the input means for the right hand, the operation information from the input means for the left hand, the operation information from the input means for the right foot, the operation information from the input means for the left foot, Is obtained, it is possible to comprehensively evaluate the order and combination of the movements of both hands and feet.

As means for inputting the operation information, not only a wired transmission means such as a cable but also a wireless transmission means can be used.

The game music sounds include, for example, instrument sounds, lyric sounds, chorus sounds, accompaniment sounds, sound effects,
BGM (Back Ground Music) and the like correspond.

Further, the operation section includes an attachment / detachment section detachably formed on each section of the player, and the detection section includes a movement amount of each section of the player to which the operation section is attached by the attachment / detachment section. , Tilt, position, and vibration are preferably detected.

According to this, for example, by attaching the operation section to the arm of the player, the movement of the arm can be easily detected, and the movement of the arm of the player, which has conventionally been difficult to operate and evaluate, can be obtained. It can be a target of operation instructions and evaluation.

As a music game suitable for detecting the movement of the arm, there are, for example, a hula dance game, a para-para dance game, a flamenco game and the like.

Further, it is preferable that the operating section includes a step section having an input instruction mark corresponding to the operation instruction, and the detecting section includes means for detecting contact or pressing of the player with the step section. .

According to this, the motion of the player's foot can be easily detected.

Preferably, the operation instructing means issues one or more operation instructions corresponding to a plurality of operation units.

It is preferable that the operation instruction means issues a plurality of types of operation instructions.

According to this, by giving a plurality of types of operation instructions, the player is enthusiastic about the game in order to select an operation and make the operation timing appropriate. Thereby, a game with an interesting operation can be provided.

Here, the plurality of types of operation instructions include, for example, an instruction to rotate the arm, an instruction to move the arm up, down, left and right, and an operation instruction using a foot using a mat or the like.

Further, the operation instruction means gives an individual operation instruction for each operation unit as the operation instruction, and the evaluation means matches the contents of the operation instruction with the actual operation of the operation unit by the player. It is preferable to evaluate the properties.

According to this, by giving an operation instruction to each of the plurality of operation units, it is possible to provide an interesting game with a variety of instructions and operations.

In particular, such an operation instruction can be given in real time, and the player can enjoy a more nervous game.

It is preferable that the operation instruction means displays a sample operation instruction imitating the operation of the player as the operation instruction before starting input of the player.

According to this, a sample operation instruction imitating the operation of the player is displayed in advance, so that the operation instruction can be easily understood. In addition, the player can confirm his / her actual operation, and can play the game while enjoying the image of the sample operation instruction display and his / her operation.

Further, the operation instructing means includes, as the operation instruction, an instruction using one or more instruction markers for instructing an input operation and one or more input markers for indicating an input timing. Preferably, the evaluation means includes means for determining suitability of a player's operation according to a given condition when the indication marker and the input marker have a given positional relationship.

According to this, it is possible to instruct the player on the timing to be operated. Here, the timing includes not only a timing at a certain point in time but also a timing having a certain width from an evaluation start timing to an operation end timing. That is, for example, an operation instruction for performing a predetermined operation between a certain start time and a certain end time can be given. Thus, the player needs to perform the operation at the same timing, and can enjoy a game full of a sense of urgency.

It is preferable that the indication marker and the input marker are represented so as to simulate a time or timing determination area indicating the instruction and the input.

According to this, by simulating the time indicating the instruction and the input, it is possible to instruct the player to continue the same operation for several seconds, for example.

Similarly, when the timing determination area is simulated, the player can be instructed to continue the same operation for several seconds, for example.

The operation instructing means displays, as the instruction sign, a sign indicating at least one of an input timing, an input time, an input count, an input direction, and an input size for making an input judgment. In a case where the instruction marker and the input marker have a given positional relationship, it is preferable to determine suitability of the player's operation according to given conditions.

According to this, for example, it is possible to set the number of times the player has to perform a specific operation such as turning his hand. For example, an operation instruction for performing a predetermined operation three times within a predetermined time can be given.
Accordingly, the player needs to perform the specified operation within a limited time, and can enjoy a game that is more tense.

The operation instructing means may include, as the operation instruction, at least one of an instruction to move a hand in a left-right direction or an up-down direction, an instruction to turn a hand clockwise or counterclockwise, and an instruction to move a hand zigzag. It is preferable to give an instruction.

According to this, since the movement of the arm can be detected and evaluated, it is possible to give more various and complicated movements even when giving an operation instruction.

Therefore, by giving an operation instruction such as an instruction to move the hand in the left-right direction or the up-down direction, it is possible to provide an interesting game without reducing the interest of the player.

The detecting section includes a sensor for detecting and outputting, as digital information, at least one of a moving amount, a tilt, a position, and a vibration of each part of the player to which the operating section is attached by the attaching / detaching section. Is preferred.

According to this, since the movement of the player can be represented as digital information, the movement can be easily digitized.

Further, the detection section includes a sensor for detecting and outputting, as analog information, at least one of a movement amount, a tilt, a position, and a vibration of each part of the player to which the operation section is attached by the attachment / detachment section. Is preferred.

According to this, since the movement of the player can be represented as analog information, continuous movement can be easily grasped.

Further, it is preferable that the detection section includes an inclination sensor for detecting at least one of the vertical and horizontal directions of the arm of the player to which the operation section is attached by the attachment / detachment section.

According to this, the movement of the left and right arms, the movement of the upper and lower arms, and the movement of the upper, lower, left and right arms can be grasped. This makes it possible to detect complicated operations such as turning the hand and moving the hand in a zigzag manner.

Incidentally, as such a tilt sensor,
For example, an inclination sensor having a mercury switch can be used. More specifically, for example, when detecting the movement of the player's arm using a tilt sensor having a mercury switch, using a tilt sensor having four mercury switches corresponding to each of the up, down, left and right directions, The movement of the arm in each of the left and right directions can be detected.

[0060] Preferably, the detection unit includes a rotary encoder for detecting a movement amount of a player's arm to which the operation unit is attached by the attachment / detachment unit.

According to this, the amount of movement of the arm can be detected. Thereby, the movement of the arm can be grasped, and in particular, the speed of the movement of the arm can be grasped.

As such a rotary encoder, for example, an analog output type rotary encoder, a digital output type rotary encoder using a photo interrupter or the like can be applied. For example, when a digital output type rotary encoder using a photo interrupter is used, it is possible to determine in which direction the movement has been made based on how the values such as 00, 01, and 11 change.

Preferably, the detection section does not output the detected value of the movement of the player when the detected value is not within a predetermined effective range.

According to this, when a value out of the valid range is detected, it is possible to prevent erroneous evaluation due to not outputting a value, and to perform appropriate evaluation.

When a game is played simultaneously by a plurality of players,
It is preferable that the evaluation means performs the evaluation in consideration of the suitability of the operations of the plurality of persons.

According to this, when a game is played by a plurality of players, good evaluation cannot be obtained unless they cooperate with each other, so that the game can be played in a friendly atmosphere.

[0067]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings, taking an example in which the present invention is applied to a music game device.

FIG. 1 is an external view of a game device 100 according to an example of the present embodiment.

The music game of the present embodiment is a music game for hula dancing. A hula dance BGM (Back Ground Music) flows from the game device 100, and the player operates the operation unit in response to an operation input instruction displayed in accordance with the BGM, and if the operation matches the operation instruction, the game is played. The device 100 outputs a sound effect such as a singer's voice.

The game apparatus 100 includes a speaker 6 which is a part of sound generating means for generating a BGM and a sound effect, and a display 1 which is a part of an operation instruction means for giving an operation instruction related to the BGM to a player. It is comprised including.

The player inserts a coin through the coin insertion slot, selects a desired song from a menu displayed on the display 1 by operating buttons, and plays the game.

In particular, when a music game is to be performed with a lot of arm movements such as hula dance, it is necessary to instruct the movement of the arm as an operation instruction and appropriately evaluate the movement of the arm of the player. It's important to show the fun to the players.

In this embodiment, the stepping action of the foot and the movement of the hand are detected.

As operation units of the game apparatus 100, an arm operation band 2 and a foot operation panel 3 which are part of a plurality of input means for detecting player movement and inputting player operation information are provided. I have.

The player places an arm operating band 2 on the right arm.
1. Attach the arm operation band 2-2 to the left arm. The arm operation band 2 is formed in a tape shape so as to be detachable from the arm.

Each arm operating band 2 is provided with a tilt sensor 8 including a mercury switch and functioning as detecting means for detecting the tilt of the player's arm.

The foot operation panel 3 is provided on the operation console 5 and includes a right foot foot operation panel 3-1 and 3-2 and a left foot foot operation panel 3-3 and 3-4. It is configured. The foot operation panel 3-1 and the foot operation panel 3-
2. Foot operation panel 3-3 for left foot and foot operation panel 3
-4 each have a different indicator on the top surface.

The player looks at the operation instructions displayed on the display 1 and, if there is an instruction for arm operation, swings the arm to operate the arm operation band 2, and if there is an instruction for leg operation, Then, the user steps on the foot operation panel 3 having an instruction sign corresponding to the operation instruction.

The player's operation information from the arm operation band 2 is sent to a processing unit inside the housing 9 via the cable 4 connected to the arm operation band 2, and is transmitted from the foot operation panel 3. The operation information of the player is sent to the processing unit inside the housing 9 connected to the operation console 5 via the operation console 5.

The processing section in the housing 9 is provided with an evaluation means for evaluating the operation of the player in response to the operation instruction based on the contents of the operation instruction and the operation information of the player.

In the present embodiment, a detection unit for detecting the inclination of the arm operation band 2 within the arm operation band 2, specifically, four mercury switches are provided corresponding to the up, down, left, and right inclinations. ing.

By configuring the game apparatus 100 in this manner, the operation of the arm of the player can be grasped by detecting the inclination of the arm operating band 2 in contact with the arm of the player.

As a result, it is more interesting than the conventional method of detecting only the stepping action or the conventional method of detecting the button operation.
In addition, it is possible to provide a game capable of evaluating the motion of various parts such as an arm and a waist.

In particular, since the inclination of the arm operating band 2 in contact with the player's arm can be detected, various operation instructions such as moving the hand left and right, moving the hand up and down, and turning the hand can be performed. .

As a result, the interest of the player is not reduced,
You can enjoy the game longer.

Next, functional blocks for realizing such functions will be described.

FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of the game device 100 according to an example of the present embodiment.

The game apparatus 100 responds to an operation input instruction displayed on the screen in time with music to be played.
An operation unit 120 including an arm operation band 2 and a foot operation panel 3 on which a player operates, and a detection unit 160 that detects an inclination and the like of the operation unit 120 to detect an operation of the player.
And a processing unit 110 that generates an image and a sound based on the operation information from the detection unit 160, determines the suitability of the operation, and the like.

The processing unit 110 determines the suitability of the player's operation based on the player's operation information transmitted from the arm operation band 2 and the like and the operation instruction data 152 indicating the content and timing of the operation instruction.
And a sound generation unit 112 that generates a sound effect using the sound generation data 156 based on the determination result of the determination unit 116.

The processing section 110 includes an image generation section 118 for displaying an operation input instruction, a character and the like based on the operation instruction data 152 and the image generation data 154.

Further, the processing section 110 is configured to include a calculation section 119 for calculating a score or the like based on the determination result.

[0092] Further, the game device 100 is configured to include a display section 140 for displaying the generated image and a sound output section 130 for outputting the generated sound.

The operation instruction data 152, image generation data 154, and sound generation data 156 are stored in the storage unit 15.
0 is stored.

[0094] From another point of view, the game device 100
A sound generation unit 112 and a sound output unit 130 functioning as sound generation means for generating sound for game music, and an image generation functioning as an operation instruction means for giving an operation instruction related to the sound for game music to the player Unit 118, a display unit 140, and a determination unit 116 that functions as an evaluation unit that evaluates the operation of the player with respect to the operation instruction based on the content of the operation instruction and the operation of the player.
It is configured to include a calculation unit 119, an image generation unit 118, a display unit 140, an operation unit 120 that functions as a plurality of input means for detecting player movement and inputting player operation information, and a detection unit 160. I have.

[0095] The determination section 116 and the like can be realized by reading information from the information storage medium 180.

Here, the information includes, for example, a sound generating means for generating a sound for game music, an operation instructing means for instructing a player to perform an operation instruction associated with the sound for game music, Information for realizing, based on operation information from a plurality of input means for detecting the content of the instruction and the movement of the player and inputting operation information of the player, an evaluation means for evaluating the operation of the player with respect to the operation instruction; Can be adopted.

The information stored in the information recording medium 180 may be embodied in a carrier wave. That is, the game device can realize the above-described various functions by reading information not from the information storage medium 180 but from, for example, a predetermined host terminal or the like via a network.

[0098] Instead of the information stored in the information storage medium 180, a program for realizing the above means can be applied.

Next, the actual operation instruction will be specifically described.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a game image according to the present embodiment.

The game image 11 displays an evaluation area 10 in which a rank such as "A rank" or a score such as "102360 points" is displayed, and input instructions 200 to 205 which are operation indicators for the player. Instruction area 2
0, and a timing area 30 which is an input sign indicating that an operation for the input instructions 200 to 205 in the area is to be performed.

Ranks such as "A rank" increase as C, B, and A increase in evaluation of the player's operation, and decrease as A, B, and C as evaluation decreases.

A high evaluation can be obtained if the player performs an operation suitable for the instruction sign while the instruction sign is on the input sign.

Also, the score such as “102360 points” increases as the evaluation of the player's operation is higher.
The lower the rating, the lower the rating.

The instruction area 20 is provided with a left foot instruction area 22, a left hand instruction area 24, a left foot instruction area 26, and a left foot instruction area 28 corresponding to each operation means.

The input instructions 200 to 205 are displayed at the top of each instruction area when they appear, are moved and displayed from top to bottom, and disappear when passing the timing area 30.

Note that the timing area 30 has a predetermined range, and allows the player to input instructions 200 to 205.
Is configured to perform an operation corresponding to each of the input instructions 200 to 205 while in the range.

In order to generate a game image as shown in FIG. 6, the operation instruction data 152 has the following data structure.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of the operation instruction data 152 according to an example of the present embodiment.

The operation instruction data 152 includes items as:
It has “operation type” indicating the content of the operation instruction, and “time” indicating the timing and number of operations.

Further, the "operation type" is classified into "object", "detail", and "direction".

The "target" indicates the target of the operation. "Target"
Specifically, for example, "right hand", "left hand",
"Right foot", "left foot", etc. correspond.

"Details" indicates details of the "object", and indicates an operation method and an operation position. As the “details”, specifically, for example, operation methods such as “zigzag” and “rotation” and operation positions such as “front” and “back” correspond.

"Time" is "0-5" seconds, "6-1".
0 seconds and 11-15 seconds.

The operation instruction data 152 is configured such that an operation instruction can be given according to the game execution time point using the "operation type" and "time" as indexes.

Specifically, in the example shown in FIG. 6, there is an input instruction 202 in the timing area 30 and the input instruction 202
Is given a numerical value of 3. This indicates that the content of the operation instruction indicated by the input instruction 202 needs to be performed three times while the input instruction 202 exists in the timing area 30. The content of the operation instruction indicated by the input instruction 202 is “turn the left hand outward three times”.

In order to issue such an operation instruction, in the operation instruction data 152 shown in FIG.
The operation that “detail” is “rotation” and “direction” is “outward rotation” is performed “3” times within “0 to 5” seconds.

All other operations during "0-5" seconds are "0".

As a result, if the operation instruction image is generated based on the operation instruction data 152, the input instruction displayed in the timing area 30 between 0 and 5 seconds after the game starts is changed to the input instruction 202. Only.

The same applies to 6 seconds and later. Although the operation instruction data 152 shown in FIG. 3 is simplified, only data up to 15 seconds is shown. However, in practice, at least one song data is input to the operation instruction data 152. Is held.

Next, the flow of an actual process using the above-described determination unit 116 and the like will be described.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing according to an example of the present embodiment.

The image generation unit 118 and the display unit 140
The input instruction 200 and the like are displayed based on the operation instruction data 152 (step S2).

The player determines the operation target, the operation method, and the operation timing of the input instruction 200 and the like, and performs an operation using the arm operation band 2 and the foot operation panel 3 that match the operation instruction.

For example, when the player operates the arm operating band 2, the detecting unit 16 built in the tilt sensor 8
The operation is detected by the mercury switch functioning as a part of the zero (Step S4).

Specifically, in the case of the input instruction 202, the mercury switch of the arm operation band 2-2 for the left hand is used for the left, upper,
If the inclination is detected in the order of right and down, it can be determined that the outer turning operation is performed with the left hand.

Next, the determination section 116 determines whether or not the operation has been performed within the instruction range, that is, while the input instruction 202 is within the timing area 30 shown in FIG. Then, it is determined whether a tilt is detected in the order of left, upper, right, and lower (step S6).

If this condition is satisfied, the determination unit 1
In step S8, the number of instructions is compared with the number of actual player operations (step S8).

If the designated number of times matches the actual number of operations performed by the player, the score is added using the arithmetic unit 119, and the display of the rank is changed (upgraded) using the image generating unit 118 and the display unit 140, and An effect such as output of a sound effect at the time of adaptation using the sound generation unit 112 and the sound output unit 130 is generated (step S12).

If the designated number is larger than the number of operations, the number of operations is increased by one (step S10). Thereafter, the next operation detection (step S4) is performed.

If the number of instructions is smaller than the number of operations, it can be determined that the player has performed an operation by mistake. Therefore, the score is subtracted using the arithmetic unit 119 and the image generating unit 118 and the display unit 140 are used. Change of display of rank (downgrade), sound generation unit 112 and sound output unit 130
To produce an effect such as output of a sound effect at the time of non-conformity (step S14).

As in the case where the operation of the player is detected outside the designated range (step S6), the score is subtracted (step S14).

[0133] These processes are terminated (step S1).
Repeat until 6).

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the movement of the arm of the player can be grasped by attaching the arm operating band 2 to the arm of the player and swinging the arm.

By adopting such a method, it is more interesting than the conventional method of detecting only the stepping action or the conventional method of detecting the button operation, and the evaluation of the operation of various parts such as the arm and the waist can be performed. A game that can be played can be provided.

Further, since the operation of the player can be detected by using a simple detection means such as a sensor, it is less susceptible to the influence of noise as compared with a case where the operation of the player is detected by taking an image with a camera and performing image processing. The movement of the player can be detected accurately and easily.

Further, in addition to the arm operation band 2, a foot operation panel 3 functioning as a stepping step having an input instruction sign corresponding to an operation instruction is provided, and a pressure-sensitive sensor detects a stepping operation of the player on the foot operation panel 3. Thus, the movement of the player's foot can be easily detected.

As shown in FIG. 6, in the present embodiment, a plurality of types of input instructions 200 and the like corresponding to a plurality of operation types including elements such as rotation and direction are displayed on the display. 1 is displayed.

According to this, by giving a plurality of types of operation instructions, the player is enthusiastic about the game in order to select an operation and make the operation timing appropriate. Thereby, a game with an interesting operation can be provided.

Further, in the present embodiment, individual operation instructions are given for each operation section of the arm operation band 2 and the foot operation panel 3, and the judgment section 116 determines the contents of the operation instructions and the actual Is evaluated for compatibility with the operation of the operation unit.

According to this, by giving an operation instruction to each of the plurality of operation units, it is possible to provide an interesting game with a variety of instructions and operations.

In particular, such an operation instruction can be given in real time, and the player can enjoy a more nervous game.

Further, in the present embodiment, as in the timing area 30 shown in FIG. 6, a timing to be operated by the player is instructed as an operation instruction, and the determination unit 116 determines the content of the operation instruction and the actual operation of the player. Evaluate compatibility with timing.

According to this, it is possible to give an operation instruction for performing a predetermined operation from a certain start point to a certain end point. Thus, the player needs to perform the operation at the same timing, and can enjoy a game full of a sense of urgency.

The operation instruction data 152 shown in FIG.
The number of times the player should perform a predetermined operation within a predetermined time is held as an operation instruction, and the input instruction 200 in which the content of the operation instruction and the number of times are integrated by the image generation unit 118.
Are generated.

Then, the determination unit 116 evaluates the compatibility between the content of the operation instruction and the actual number of operations by the player.

[0147] According to this, it is possible to instruct the player how many times to perform a specific operation, and the player needs to perform the instructed operation within a limited time. You can enjoy games full of feeling.

Next, an example of a hardware configuration of a main part of the functional block shown in FIG. 2 will be described.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a hardware configuration of a game device according to an example of the present embodiment.

The information storage medium 430 mainly stores programs, image data, sound data (tone data, score data, waveform data) and the like, and includes a CD-ROM, a game cassette, an IC card, an MO, an FD, and the like. , DVD-RO
M, a memory, and the like are used. For example, in a home game machine, C is used as an information storage medium for storing a game program and the like.
A D-ROM, a DVD-ROM, and a game cassette are used, and a memory such as a ROM is used in an arcade game device.

The control device 400 corresponds to an operation panel or the like, and is a device for inputting a result of a determination made by a player in accordance with the progress of a game to the main body of the device.

A plurality of mercury switches 410 are provided inside the arm operation band 2, and a pressure-sensitive sensor 4 for sensing pressure is provided on the back side of each panel on the foot operation panel 3.
12 are provided.

The menu selection information from the control device 400, the arm movement detection information from the mercury switch 410, and the foot movement detection information from the pressure-sensitive sensor 412
02 is input.

Further, the CPU 402 controls the entire apparatus, performs various data processing, and performs game calculation processing in accordance with programs stored in the information storage medium 430, signals input by the control device 400, and the like. The data and the like read from the information storage medium 430 are temporarily stored in, for example, a RAM (not shown) serving as storage means. This RAM is also used as a work area for the CPU 402, the image generation IC 404, and the sound processing IC 414.

Furthermore, the game device has an image generation IC.
A 404 and a sound processing IC 414 are provided so that sound and images can be suitably output. As such an image generation IC 404 and a sound processing IC 414, for example, a dedicated IC, CPU, DSP, or the like can be used.

The image generation IC 404 includes a RAM (not shown)
And an integrated circuit that generates pixel information to be output to the display 406 based on image data sent from the information storage medium 430 or the like. As the display 406, a so-called head-mounted display (HMD) can be used.

The sound processing IC 414 includes instructions from the CPU 402, programs from the RAM and the information storage medium 430,
Various processes for generating game sounds such as game music, sound effects, and voices are performed based on tone color data, score data, and the like.

The PCM sound source 416 is output based on the processing result of the sound processing IC 414 and the waveform data (data representing the actual physical waveform of a sound such as a drum or violin) from the information storage medium 430 or the like. A digital signal of a sound to be generated is generated and output to the D / A converter 418.

The D / A converter 418 converts this digital signal into an analog signal and outputs it to the low-pass filter 420. The output of the low-pass filter 420 is input to the electronic volume 422.

The electronic volume 422 is connected to the sound processing IC 41
The sound volume is adjusted according to the instruction from 4. The output of the electronic volume 422 is input to the speaker 426 via the amplifier 424, so that game music, sound effects,
Sound and the like are output to the outside.

As described above, for example, the operation unit 1
20 is a control device 400, a mercury switch 410,
The pressure-sensitive sensor 412, the information storage medium 180 and the storage unit 150 are the information storage medium 430, the determination unit 116 and the calculation unit 119 are the CPU 402, and the sound generation unit 112 is the sound processing I.
C414, PCM sound source 416, D / A converter 418, low-pass filter 420, and sound output unit 130
4. The electronic volume 422, the speaker 426, the image generation unit 118 can be realized by using the image generation IC 404, and the display unit 140 can be realized by using the display 406.

The present invention is not limited to those described in the above embodiments, and various modifications can be made.

For example, if the vibration of the player's arm is simply detected, a vibration sensor may be used instead of the mercury switch 410, for example.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a configuration of an example of the vibration sensor 411.

The vibration sensor 411 is a hollow type case 4.
11a, a spherical weight contact 411b containing metal, a support member 411c for the weight contact 411b, and a support member 411c.
Fixing member 41 for fixing and holding the case to the case 411a
1d.

[0166] The case 411a includes a metal or at least a metal-coated surface on the inner surface of the cavity.
The metal surface is grounded to ground to form a ground contact.
The support member 411c includes a rod-shaped, plate-shaped or coil-shaped spring member, and has an appropriate elastic coefficient and a damper coefficient for flexibly supporting the weight contact 411b having a predetermined weight.

Thus, for example, the weight contact 411b does not contact the ground contact 411a with a vibration (acceleration) of 1/2 cycle or less and does not follow the vibration (acceleration) of 5 cycles or more.

The contact signal of the weight contact 411b is input to the Schmitt trigger circuit ST via the pull-up resistor R1 to increase the noise resistance. And the output signal S
Is input to the CPU 402 via the cable 4.

In this way, the movement of the player's arm can be detected by using the vibration sensor 411 as in the case of the mercury switch 410.

[0170] For example, instead of individually giving an operation instruction for each operation means described with reference to FIG. 6, it is also possible to instruct the player to operate a plurality of operation means collectively.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing another example of the game image according to the present embodiment.

For example, as shown in a game image 12 shown in FIG. 7, a character 40 simulating a hula dance is displayed in the instruction area 21, and the character 40 is operated to give the player an example of the operation of the character 40. , Can be instructed to imitate the action of the character 40.

According to this, by displaying a sample operation instruction display imitating the operation of the player, an easy-to-understand operation instruction can be performed. In addition, the player can confirm his / her actual operation, and can play the game while enjoying the image of the sample operation instruction display and his / her operation.

Of course, the operation instruction shown in FIG. 6 and the character 40 shown in FIG. 7 may be displayed on one screen. According to this, it is possible to perform operation instructions that are both strict and easy to understand.

Further, a simpler operation instruction can be given.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing another example of the game image according to the present embodiment.

Input instructions 210 to 214, which are instruction markers displayed in the instruction area 50 of the game image 13, are displayed as bars extending in the horizontal direction.

These input instructions 210 to 214 are input to the left foot instruction area 23 and the left hand instruction area 2 for each operation means.
5. Displayed in the right hand instruction area 27.

The timing area 32 which is an input marker
Is displayed as an elongated bar extending from the left end to the right end of the game image 13. Thus, by being formed in the shape of an elongated bar, the player needs to perform an operation at a certain point in time. In this regard, timing region 3
2 is different from the timing area 30 in which the movement time (scroll time) of the input instruction 20 or the like from the start to the end has a predetermined range of 5 seconds.

As described above, since the operation must be performed at a certain point in time, the player can enjoy the game with a sense of tension.

Further, the operation instruction may be given by simultaneously displaying the image for the operation instruction and the character image operating in synchronization with the operation timing of the player.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing another example of the game image according to the present embodiment.

In the game image 14 shown in FIG. 9, input instructions 220 to 222 for the right hand and input instructions 223 to 223 for the left hand are displayed in the instruction area 60 in which an image for giving an instruction before the player's operation is displayed. 225 is displayed.

In the initial state, the input instructions 220 and 223 are moved to the positions of the input instructions 221 and 224 in the lower left direction, and are moved and displayed from there to the positions of the input instructions 222 and 225 in the upper left direction.

This instructs the player to move his right hand and left hand once to the lower left, and then to the upper left.

On the other hand, the player who sees the operation instruction such as the input instruction 220 moves the right hand and the left hand to which the arm operation band 2-1 and the arm operation band 2-2 are attached once to the lower left, and thereafter, Move to upper left.

Each arm operating band 2 is provided with a tilt sensor 8 including a mercury switch and functioning as detecting means for detecting a tilt.

In the game image 14, a character 42 is displayed in an instruction area 70 in which an image for performing an operation instruction is displayed in synchronization with the operation of the player.

The movement of the character 42 to the position of the input instructions 222 and 225 is completed, and the operation of the character 42 is started when a series of operation instructions is completed.

The character 42, like the player,
It operates according to the movement of the input instruction 220 and the like.

Therefore, the player first sees the input instruction in the instruction area 60 and is instructed on how to move his arm.
The operation according to the instruction can be performed. Further, the player can confirm the entire operation in the form of a person by using the character 42 in the instruction area 70 even while the player is operating.

In particular, when hand movements are important, such as hula and para-para dance, and when playing a music game in a complicated situation, the player can move in the form of a person even while he or she is moving. It is possible to check again and play the game well.

In the embodiment described above, the operation unit 120
Although the arm operating band 2 is to be wrapped around the arm, the operation unit 120 may be attached to not only the arm but also each part of the body such as a foot, a head, a waist, a finger, etc. to grasp the operation of each part. it can. For example, in the case of hula, the movement of the waist is important. Therefore, if the operation unit 120 is attached to the waist, the movement of the waist can be detected.

In the above-described embodiment, the detecting unit 160
Although the tilt sensor 8 including the mercury switch 410 and the pressure-sensitive sensor 412 have been described as specific examples that function as
The operation is not limited to these as long as at least one of the movement amount, the inclination, the position, and the vibration of the operation unit in contact with a part of the player's body or clothes is detected to grasp the operation of the player.

Specifically, for example, a rotary encoder of an analog output type, a rotary encoder of a digital output type using a photo interrupter, a tilt sensor having a mercury switch, a geomagnetic sensor, a gyro, a vibration sensor, an infrared sensor, etc. Can be used.

For example, when an infrared sensor is applied instead of the tilt sensor 8, a light receiving means for detecting infrared light from the infrared sensor is provided on the housing 9, and the output of the light receiving means is used by the player. A change in the position of the arm can be detected.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, the arm operating band 2 is used as a detachable portion to the player. However, other than the arm operating band 2, for example, a clip fastened to a cuff of a player's clothes, a player's wrist may be used. Covered ring-shaped ones in which the end points of the ring are fitted to each other, footwear such as sandals, hats, helmets, and the like are also applicable.

It is preferable that the detecting section 160 does not output the detected value of the movement of the player when the detected value is not within the predetermined effective range.

According to this, when a value out of the valid range is detected, it is possible to prevent erroneous evaluation due to not outputting a value, and to perform appropriate evaluation.

When a game is played simultaneously by a plurality of players,
It is preferable that the determination unit 116 makes the determination in consideration of the suitability of the operations of the plurality of persons.

According to this, when a game is played by a plurality of players, good evaluation cannot be obtained unless they cooperate with each other, so that the game can be played in a friendly atmosphere.

For example, when a game is played by two players at the same time, when only one player performs an appropriate operation as an image display, “GOOD” is displayed. , "GOOD COMBINATION".

As described above, by giving a different view from the case where the game is played by one person in consideration of the suitability of the operation of a plurality of people, the player can be motivated to play the game by a plurality of people. , Players can enjoy the game more.

The game device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is a game device for playing a game by one person. However, when playing a game by two people at the same time, the arm operation band 2, the foot operation panel 3 and the like are used. May be provided for two people.

As means for inputting the operation information, not only a wired transmission means such as the cable 4 but also a wireless transmission means can be used, but it is preferable to use a wired transmission means such as the cable 4. . This is because operation information can be easily and economically transmitted, and maintenance is easy.

Further, the application of the present invention is not limited to the game for dance, but can be applied to various games for detecting the action of the player.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is an external view of a game device according to an example of the present embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of a game device according to an example of the embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of operation instruction data according to an example of the embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of a process according to an example of the present embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a hardware configuration of a game device according to an example of the embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a game image according to the embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing another example of the game image according to the embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing another example of the game image according to the embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing another example of the game image according to the embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an example of a vibration sensor.

[Explanation of symbols]

 112 sound generation unit 116 determination unit 118 image generation unit 119 calculation unit 120 operation unit 152 operation instruction data 160 detection unit

Continued on the front page F-term (reference) 2C001 AA00 AA03 AA16 BA00 BA06 BA07 BB00 BB05 BB06 BB08 BD05 CA00 CA01 CA09 CB01 CC02 CC08

Claims (22)

[Claims] 1. A sound generating means for generating a sound for game music, an operation instructing means for instructing a player to perform an operation instruction associated with the sound for game music, A plurality of input means for inputting information; and an evaluation means for evaluating an operation of the player with respect to the operation instruction based on the content of the operation instruction and the operation information, wherein the input means moves together with the player. And an operation unit for detecting at least one of a movement amount, a tilt, a position, and a vibration of the operation unit. The operation instruction unit instructs an operation to perform an input as the operation instruction. An instruction is performed using one or a plurality of instruction markers and one or a plurality of input markers indicating a timing of performing an input. Wherein in a case where the input label is in a given positional relationship, the game apparatus characterized by comprising determination means for determining suitability of the player's operation in accordance with the given condition. 2. A sound generating means for generating a sound for game music, an operation instructing means for instructing a player to perform an operation instruction associated with the sound for game music, A plurality of input means for inputting information; and an evaluation means for evaluating an operation of the player with respect to the operation instruction based on the content of the operation instruction and the operation information, wherein the input means moves together with the player. A game device comprising: an operation unit that performs the operation, and a detection unit that detects at least one of a movement amount, a tilt, a position, and a vibration of the operation unit. 3. The operation unit according to claim 1, wherein the operation unit includes an attachment / detachment unit detachably formed at each part of the player, and the detection unit includes A game device for detecting at least one of a moving amount, a tilt, a position, and a vibration of each part of an attached player. 4. The method according to claim 1, wherein the operation unit includes a step unit having an input instruction mark corresponding to the operation instruction, and wherein the detection unit detects whether the player touches the step unit. A game device comprising means for detecting pressing. 5. The game device according to claim 1, wherein the operation instruction unit issues one or more operation instructions corresponding to a plurality of operation units. 6. The operation instruction means according to claim 1, wherein the operation instruction means displays at least one of a display simulating a color, a pattern, or an input operation, and a display of the number of inputs, as the operation instruction. A game device characterized by performing: 7. The operation instruction unit according to claim 1, wherein the operation instruction unit displays a sample operation instruction imitating the operation of the player as the operation instruction before starting input of the player. A game device characterized by the above-mentioned. 8. The method according to claim 2, wherein the operation instruction unit includes, as the operation instruction, one or a plurality of instruction markers for instructing an operation to perform an input, and one indicating a timing for performing the input. Or, performing an instruction using a plurality of input signs, the evaluation means, when the instruction sign and the input sign are in a given positional relationship, the suitability of the player's operation according to given conditions A game device, comprising: a determination unit for determining the game device. 9. The game device according to claim 8, wherein the instruction marker and the input marker are represented so as to simulate a time or timing determination area indicating an instruction and an input. 10. The operation instruction unit according to claim 8, wherein the operation instruction means includes an input timing, an input time, an input count, an input direction, and an input magnitude for performing an input determination. Displaying a sign indicating at least one of them, and determining a suitability of a player's operation according to a given condition when the instruction sign and the input sign are in a given positional relationship. Game device. 11. The device according to claim 3, wherein the detection unit determines at least one of a movement amount, a tilt, a position, and a vibration of each part of the player to which the operation unit is attached by the attachment / detachment unit. And a sensor for detecting and outputting digital information. 12. The device according to claim 3, wherein the detection unit determines at least one of a movement amount, a tilt, a position, and a vibration of each part of the player to which the operation unit is attached by the attachment / detachment unit. And a sensor that detects and outputs analog information. 13. A computer-readable information storage medium storing information for evaluating a player's operation in response to an operation instruction associated with a game music sound, wherein the sound generation unit generates a game music sound. Means, an operation instructing means for instructing a player to perform an operation instruction associated with the sound for game music, and the player responding to the operation instruction based on the contents of the operation instruction and the player's operation information from a predetermined input means. And an evaluation unit for evaluating the operation of the operation unit. The input unit includes: an operation unit that moves together with the player; and at least one of a movement amount, a tilt, a position, and a vibration of the operation unit. And a detection unit for detecting, wherein the operation instruction means includes one or more of: An instruction sign and an instruction using one or a plurality of input signs indicating the timing of performing an input are performed. The evaluation unit includes: when the instruction sign and the input sign are in a given positional relationship, An information storage medium comprising: means for determining suitability of a player's operation according to given conditions. 14. A computer-readable information storage medium storing information for evaluating a player's operation in response to an operation instruction associated with a game music sound, wherein the sound generation generates a game music sound. Means, an operation instructing means for instructing a player to perform an operation instruction associated with the sound for game music, and the player responding to the operation instruction based on the contents of the operation instruction and the player's operation information from a predetermined input means. And an evaluation unit for evaluating the operation of the operation unit. The input unit includes: an operation unit that moves together with the player; and at least one of a movement amount, a tilt, a position, and a vibration of the operation unit. An information storage medium, comprising: a detection unit for detecting. 15. The operation unit according to claim 13, wherein the operation unit includes an attachment / detachment unit detachably formed at each part of the player, and the detection unit is configured such that the operation unit is provided by the attachment / detachment unit. An information storage medium for detecting at least one of a movement amount, a tilt, a position, and a vibration of each part of a player attached thereto. 16. The method according to claim 13, wherein the operation unit includes a step unit having an input instruction mark corresponding to the operation instruction, and wherein the detection unit detects contact of the player with the step unit or An information storage medium comprising means for detecting pressure. 17. The information storage medium according to claim 13, wherein said operation instruction means issues one or more operation instructions corresponding to a plurality of operation units. 18. The display device according to claim 13, wherein the operation instruction means displays at least one of a display simulating a color, a pattern, or an input operation, and a display of the number of inputs, as the operation instruction. An information storage medium characterized by performing: 19. The operation instruction means according to claim 13, wherein the operation instruction means displays a sample operation instruction imitating the operation of the player as the operation instruction before starting input of the player. An information storage medium characterized by the above-mentioned. 20. The operation instruction means according to claim 14, wherein the operation instruction means includes one or more instruction markers for instructing an operation to perform an input, and one or more indicators indicating an input timing. Or, performing an instruction using a plurality of input signs, the evaluation means, when the instruction sign and the input sign are in a given positional relationship, the suitability of the player's operation according to given conditions An information storage medium including means for determining 21. The information storage medium according to claim 20, wherein the instruction marker and the input marker are represented so as to simulate a time or timing determination area indicating an instruction and an input. 22. The operation instruction means according to claim 20, wherein the operation instruction means includes an input timing, an input time, an input count, an input direction, and an input magnitude for making an input determination. Displaying a sign indicating at least one of them, and determining a suitability of a player's operation according to a given condition when the instruction sign and the input sign are in a given positional relationship. Information storage medium.