JP2001246154A - Game device, information recording medium, game distributing device, game distribution method, and control method of game device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game for which a player can easily learn how to play. SOLUTION: This game device is for a music oriented game in which a player steps on a mat type controller. The left foot image 67L and the right foot image 67R are displayed overlappingly on a controller image 65. When the left foot image 67L and the right foot image 67R are floated from the controller image 65, these foot images are displayed as enlarged and half- transparent. When these foot images come down on the controller image 65 again, the left foot image 67L and the right foot image 67R come back to an opaque normal size image.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a game device, an information storage medium, a game distribution device, a game distribution method, and a control method of a game device, and more particularly to a technique for teaching a player how to play a game in an easy-to-understand manner.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art A mark for indicating a plurality of step positions is displayed on a surface, and a music-oriented using a dedicated controller provided with a sensor for detecting whether or not a player's foot is placed on those step positions. Type game machines are gaining in popularity. For example, "Beat Mania (trademark)" and "Dance Dance
Revolution ™ is that. In this game, the player can feel like dancing by stepping on the dedicated controller in time with game music.

In such a music-oriented game device, the timing at which each step position is to be stepped is determined in accordance with the rhythm of the game music, and is converted into data. Then, based on the timing data, a state where the step timing gradually arrives at each of the plurality of step positions is displayed on the display. The player places his or her foot on the step position indicated on the dedicated controller while referring to the display screen and the rhythm of the music. The game score is evaluated based on the difference between the step timing defined by the timing data and the step timing actually performed by the game player by the dedicated controller. In this way, the player can feel like dancing, worried about the game results.

[0004]

As described above, the way of playing a music-oriented game is as simple as stepping on a dedicated controller, but it is difficult for a player who is new to this kind of game to learn. It may be. In this regard, it is conceivable to carefully explain the step method in the instruction manual, but it is troublesome to have to carefully read the instruction manual in order to play the game.

The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and has as its object to provide a game apparatus, an information storage medium, a control method for a game apparatus, a game distribution apparatus, and a game, which allow a player to easily learn how to play. To provide a distribution method.

[0006]

Means for Solving the Problems (1) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, a game device according to the present invention is a game device for enjoying a step in time with game music. Display means, foot image moving means for moving the foot image so that the foot steps, and foot image display mode changing means for displaying the foot image in different modes before and after the foot steps on a predetermined step area, And guide the player to steps.

[0007] An information storage medium according to the present invention is an information storage medium storing a program for causing a computer to function as a game device for enjoying steps in accordance with game music, and displays a foot image representing a foot. Foot image display means, foot image moving means for moving the foot image so that the foot steps, and foot image display mode changing means for displaying the foot image in different modes before and after the foot steps on a predetermined step area, A program for causing the computer to function.

[0008] A game distribution device according to the present invention is a game distribution device for distributing a program for causing a computer to function as a game device for enjoying steps according to game music, and displays a foot image representing a foot. Foot image display means, foot image moving means for moving the foot image so that the foot steps, and foot image display mode changing means for displaying the foot image in different modes before and after the foot steps on a predetermined step area, And a program for causing the computer to function.

Further, a game distribution method according to the present invention is a game distribution method for distributing a program for causing a computer to function as a game device for enjoying steps in accordance with game music, and displays a foot image representing a foot. Foot image display means, foot image moving means for moving the foot image so that the foot steps, and foot image display mode changing means for displaying the foot image in different modes before and after the foot steps on a predetermined step area, And a program for causing the computer to function.

Further, a method of controlling a game device according to the present invention is a method of controlling a game device which enjoys steps in accordance with game music, wherein a foot image displaying step of displaying a foot image representing a foot is provided. A foot image moving step of moving the foot image so as to perform a step, and a foot image display mode changing step of displaying the foot image in different modes before and after the foot steps on a predetermined step area, and guides the player to the steps. It is characterized by doing.

In the present invention, the foot image moves so that the foot steps. At this time, the display mode differs before and after the foot steps on the predetermined step area. In other words, the display mode is a certain display mode immediately before stepping on the predetermined step area, but changes to a different display mode when stepping on the predetermined step area. This makes it possible to give the player an impression that the foot represented by the foot image has stepped on the predetermined step region, and the player can easily learn how to play.

In one aspect of the present invention, the foot image display mode changing means displays the foot image opaque after the foot steps on the predetermined step area, and the foot displays the predetermined step area. Before stepping, the foot image is displayed translucently. This makes it possible to give the player a stronger impression that the foot represented by the foot image has stepped on the predetermined step region. In addition, since the foot image is displayed translucently before stepping on the step area, it is possible to suitably produce a state in which the foot is floating from the predetermined step area.

In one aspect of the present invention, the foot image display means displays an image of the foot when viewed from above the head as the foot image. The foot image is enlarged and displayed before the foot steps on the step area as compared to after stepping on a predetermined step area. With this configuration, it is possible to more suitably produce a state in which the foot is floating from the predetermined step region.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus further comprises a step region image display means for displaying a step region image representing the predetermined step region. This makes it possible for the player to clearly understand the positional relationship between the predetermined step region and the foot.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the step area image representing the predetermined step area is different after the foot steps on the predetermined step area and before the foot steps on the predetermined step area. And a step area image display mode changing means for displaying the step area image. This makes it possible to give the player a stronger impression that the foot represented by the foot image has stepped on the predetermined step region.

Further, according to one aspect of the present invention, a step timing detecting means for detecting a player's step timing, and a step timing detected by the step timing detecting means are compared with a timing at which the player should take a step. And timing guide means for guiding the player to the context. In this way, the player can be notified whether his or her step is behind or earlier than the original timing, and the player can easily learn how to play.

(2) The game device according to the present invention is:
In a game device which enjoys operation of a controller, controller image display means for displaying a controller image representing the controller, operation element image display means for displaying an operation element image representing an element for operating the controller, and the element is a controller. An operation element image moving unit that moves the operation element image to operate, and an operation element image display mode changing unit that displays the operation element image in different modes before and after the element operates the controller, The operation of the controller is guided to a player.

An information storage medium according to the present invention is an information storage medium storing a program for causing a computer having a controller to function as a game device for enjoying the operation of the controller, wherein the controller represents the controller. Controller image display means for displaying an image, operation element image display means for displaying an operation element image representing an element for operating the controller, operation element image moving means for moving the operation element image so that the element operates the controller, And a program for causing the computer to function as operation element image display mode changing means for displaying the operation element image in different modes before and after the element operates the controller.

In the present invention, the controller image is displayed, and the element for operating the controller is displayed as the operation element image. The operation element image is, for example, a body part such as a finger, a palm, or a foot, or a game tool such as a bat, a drumstick, a hammer, or the like. Then, the operation element image is moved so that the operation element operates the controller. At this time, the operation element images are displayed in different modes before and after the operation of the controller. In other words, the display mode is changed from a certain display mode until immediately before the operation element operates the controller to a different display mode when the controller is operated. This makes it possible to give the player an impression that the operating element has operated the controller, and the player can easily learn how to play.

(3) The game device according to the present invention is:
In a game device that enjoys operation of a controller in accordance with timing data, an evaluation history recording unit that records an evaluation history of an operation performed by the controller, and each evaluation content included in the evaluation history is performed by the controller. An evaluation history display unit configured to display the evaluation history in different display modes depending on whether the operation timing is earlier or later than the operation timing indicated by the timing data.

Further, an information storage medium according to the present invention is an information storage medium storing a program for causing a computer having a controller to function as a game device for enjoying the operation of the controller in accordance with timing data, An evaluation history recording unit that records an evaluation history of an operation performed by the controller; and an operation timing at which each of the evaluation contents included in the evaluation history is performed by the controller is earlier than an operation timing indicated by the timing data. A program for causing the computer to function as evaluation history display means for displaying the evaluation history in different display modes depending on the case and the case where the display is slow.

In the present invention, an evaluation history for the operation of the controller is recorded, and the evaluation history is displayed. The displayed evaluation history includes the evaluation content for each operation on the controller. Each evaluation content includes an evaluation of whether the operation timing by the controller is earlier or later than the operation timing indicated by the timing data. Each evaluation content is displayed in a different manner depending on whether the operation timing is early or late. For example, the color is displayed differently depending on whether it is early or late. In this way, the player can easily learn a better play style by looking at the evaluation history.

[0023]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a game device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Hereinafter, a technique for causing the game device 10 shown in FIG. 1 to function as a music-oriented game device that allows a player to enjoy steps while listening to game music will be described. This game device 10
In addition to the "normal mode", a "lesson mode" is provided. The “lesson mode” is a method for explaining a step (stepping) method that cannot be completely explained in the instruction manual to the player using computer graphics. In an arcade game machine, a beginner player can learn the steps by looking at the steps of an advanced player up close, but it is difficult to expect such a situation in the home game machine 11. According to the "lesson mode", the player can relatively easily learn how to play (step) a music-oriented game. In addition, the game device 10 allows the user to see the evaluation history of each operation performed by the controller 32 after playing.
According to this operation history, the player can know a bad part of his / her step, which can be used to improve the step.

The game device 10 shown in FIG.
And the home game machine 11 connected to the speaker 22,
It is configured by mounting a CD-ROM 25 as an information storage medium. Here, in order to supply a game program and game data to the home game machine 11, a CD-R
Although the OM 25 is used, any other information storage medium such as a DVD or a ROM card can be used. In addition, as described later, a game program and game data can be supplied to the consumer game device 11 from a remote place via a communication network.

The home game machine 11 includes a CPU 14, a GP
U16, SPU20, CD-ROM reader 24, RA
The M26, the ROM 28, and the input / output control unit 30 are connected to each other via the bus 12 so that mutual data communication is possible, and the controller 32 is connected to the input / output control unit 30 by code. Each component of the consumer game machine 11 other than the controller 32 is accommodated in a predetermined housing. Monitor 18
For example, a home-use television receiver is used, and the built-in speaker is used as the speaker 22, for example.

The CPU 14 includes a microprocessor, and controls each part of the consumer game machine 11 based on an operating system stored in the ROM 28 and a game program read from the CD-ROM 25. The bus 12 is used for exchanging addresses and data between the units of the consumer game machine 11. The ROM 28 stores an operating system which is a program necessary for controlling the overall operation of the consumer game machine 11. The RAM 26 has a CD-R
The game program and game data read from the OM 25 are written as needed. The GPU (graphics processing unit) 16 is configured to include a frame buffer, receives image data sent from the CPU 14, draws a game screen on the frame buffer, and converts the content into a predetermined video signal. Output to the monitor 18 at a predetermined timing.

The SPU (sound processing unit) 20 includes a sound buffer.
Data such as music and game sound effects read from the CD-ROM 25 and stored in the sound buffer is reproduced and output from the speaker 22. CD-ROM reader 24
Reads a game program and game data recorded on the CD-ROM 25 in accordance with an instruction from the CPU 14.

The input / output control unit 30 is an interface for connecting one or more external input / output devices to the home game device 11, and here a controller 32 and a memory card 33 are detachably mounted. An auxiliary storage device other than the memory card 33 or an external communication device such as a modem or a terminal adapter may be connected. The controller 32 is input means for the player to perform a game operation. The input / output control unit 30 has a constant period (for example, 1
(/ Every 60 seconds), the operation state of various buttons of the controller 32 is scanned, and an operation signal representing the scan result is passed to the CPU 14 via the bus 12. The CPU 14 determines a game operation of the player based on the operation signal.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the controller 32. The controller 32 shown in the figure is a dedicated controller especially prepared for playing a music-oriented game, and is a mat-shaped member having a size suitable for a dance stage. When the player steps on the controller 32, an operation signal indicating the position of both feet is sent to the consumer game machine 11.
As shown in the figure, in the controller 32, a substantially circular central area 34C is sectioned and displayed at the center of the surface, and direction button input areas 34U, 34D, 34
L and 34R are displayed in sections. Also, a circle button input area 3 is provided on the left and right of the direction button input area 34U.
8A and a cross button input area 38B are sectioned and displayed. Further, above the round button input area 38A, a start button input area 36A and a cross button input area 36B
A select button input area 36B is sectioned and displayed above the area. Also, the direction button input area 34R
Shows a right arrow pattern, a left arrow pattern in the direction button input area 34L, an up arrow pattern in the direction button input area 34U, and a down arrow pattern in the direction button input area 34D. A circle (○) is shown in the circle button input area 38A, and the cross button input area 38
B indicates a cross (x). Further, the character "START" is displayed in the start button input area 36A, and "SEL" is displayed in the select button input area 36B.
The character “ECT” is shown.

Direction button input areas 34U, 34D, 34
Sensors are embedded below the L, 34R, the round button input area 38A, the cross button input area 38B, the start button input area 36A, and the select button input area 38B. When the player puts his or her foot on each area, the effect is indicated. It is sent to the home game machine 11 as an operation signal. The direction button input areas 34U, 34D, 34L, 34R are mainly used for inputting dance steps, but are also used for selecting various menus. The start button input area 36A is used for starting a game, making various decisions, and the like. Select button input area 36B
It is mainly used for calling various menu screens. The round button input area 38A is mainly used for various determinations, and the cross button input area 38B is used for various cancellations and forced game termination.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a game screen generated on the monitor 18 based on a game program and game data read from the CD-ROM 25. The game screen 40 shown in the figure is in the “normal mode”, and a background image 46 is displayed on the entire surface, on which a dance gauge 50 and reference arrow marks 48L, 48D, 48 are placed.
U, 48R and timing guide arrow marks 44L, 44
D, 44U, 44R, score 42, and message 52
And are superimposed. Score 42 is game screen 4
It is displayed at the bottom of the left side of 0, and indicates the cumulative score so far. The message 52 is displayed on the display in the middle part on the left side of the screen, and displays characters having contents corresponding to the skill of the player's operation. For example, "GRE
AT "," PERFECT "," GOOD "," BO
A character such as "O" is displayed.

The dance gauge 50 is displayed at the upper left of the screen, and includes a gauge bar that expands and contracts according to the skill of the step. For example, if a step receives a high rating, the gauge bar extends to the right. Conversely, if a step receives only a low rating, the gauge bar contracts to the left. When the gauge bar becomes shorter than the predetermined length, the game is over, and the player can determine whether the game is over by looking at the dance gauge 50. Below the dance gauge 50, reference arrow marks 48L, 48D, 48U, 48R are displayed in this order. Reference arrow marks 48L, 48D, 48U,
48R is a criterion for determining the timing at which the player steps.

That is, the reference arrow mark 48L is in the direction button input area 34L, the reference arrow mark 48D is in the direction button input area 34D, the reference arrow mark 48U is in the direction button input area 34U, and the reference arrow mark 48R is the direction button input area. 34R, respectively.
Then, the reference arrow marks 48L, 48D, 48U, 48
In a relatively large screen area below R, a timing guide arrow mark 44 that moves upward according to the transition of time.
L, 44D, 44U, 44R are shown, and the timing guide arrow marks 44L, 44D, 44U, 44R are shown.
Are overlapped with the reference arrow marks 48L, 48D, 48U, 48R, the reference arrow marks 48L, 4R.
Direction button input area 3 corresponding to 8D, 48U, 48R
By stepping on the 4L, 34D, 34U, 34R with a foot, the dance gauge 50 can be extended with high evaluation. For example, in the figure, the timing guide arrow mark 44U is about to overlap the reference arrow mark 48U. A little later, when the player steps on the direction button input area 34U of the controller 32, a high evaluation can be obtained.

Note that the timing guide arrow marks 44L, 44D, 44U, and 44R are not necessarily reference arrow marks 48.
If the player does not operate the controller 32 at a timing completely overlapping with L, 48D, 48U, 48R, a positive evaluation cannot be obtained, but an evaluation is given according to the degree of coincidence. . The timing guide arrow marks 44L, 44D, 44
U and 44R are displayed based on step data described later.

Timing guide arrow marks 44L, 44
D, 44U and 44R are specifically displayed as follows. When the reproduction of the game music is started, for example, if a step timing of two bars after the present is set as the guide display range, the CPU 14 reads the step timing included in the range from the step data. Then, based on the step data, the timing guide arrow mark 4
Image data representing 4L, 44D, 44U, and 44R is generated. The display position of this image data is adjusted such that the image data having the step timings closer to each other are arranged in order from the one with the closest step timing to the one with the farther step timing.

At this time, a timing guide arrow mark 44L indicating a step timing to the direction button input area 34L is displayed below the reference arrow mark 48L, and a direction button input area 3 is displayed below the reference arrow mark 48D.
A timing guide arrow mark 44D representing a step timing to 4D is displayed, and a timing guide arrow mark 44U representing a step timing to the direction button input area 34U is displayed below the reference arrow mark 48U.
Below the reference arrow mark 48R, a timing guide arrow mark 44R indicating a step timing to the direction button input area 34R is displayed. In the figure, one timing guide arrow mark 44L, 44D, 44U, 4
Although 4R is displayed, a plurality of 4Rs may be displayed depending on the arrival state of the step timing. The generated image data is superimposed on the background image 46 and forms a part of the game screen 40. The above processing is repeated at a predetermined cycle.

The beginning of the guidance display range corresponds to the current playing position of the game music, and the guidance display range is shifted backward by a predetermined amount from the beginning of the music for each process. Thus, the timing guide arrow marks 44L, 44D, 44
U and 44R gradually move upward as the music progresses. Thus, the timing guide arrow mark 44L,
If 44D, 44U, and 44R are displayed, the game screen 40
Thereby, the player can easily grasp the arrival situation of the step timing.

Here, the data stored in the CD-ROM 25 will be described. In order to make the home game machine 11 function as a music game, the CD-ROM 25
In addition to game programs, various game sound effects data, various game image data, game music data are stored.

FIG. 4 is stored in the CD-ROM 25.
FIG. 7A is a diagram for explaining game music data corresponding to a certain game music. FIG. 7A shows game music data relating to game music played in a “normal mode”, and FIG. This is game music data relating to game music to be played. As shown in FIG. 3A, the game music data according to the “normal mode” includes original music data, step data, a timing table, and background image data. On the other hand, game music data related to the “lesson mode” includes original music data, step data, a timing table, and a lesson mode.

The original music data is, for example, general popular music stored as original music in the form of PCM stream data. Upon reading the original music data in accordance with the instruction from the CPU 14, the CD-ROM reader 24 performs data processing as necessary, and directs the data processing to the SPU 20 without passing through the bus 12.
Can also be supplied. When the SPU 20 receives the data directly from the CD-ROM reader 24, the SPU 20 converts it into a D / A
The signal is converted and supplied to the speaker 22.

The step data defines a procedure to be operated by the player when the corresponding game music is reproduced. This step data is created according to the rhythm of the corresponding game music. Note that a plurality of sets of step data may be prepared for one game music, and may be selectively used according to the difficulty level, the play mode, or the like. The step data includes a plurality of data blocks corresponding to each bar of the corresponding game music. Each data block is configured to include information for specifying which button of the controller 32 should be operated at which beat when a bar of the corresponding game music is decomposed into a predetermined number of beats, for example, 4 beats or 8 beats. Have been.

The timing table is prepared for adjusting the timing between the corresponding game music and the step data. The CPU 14 refers to the timing table to store the step data corresponding to the current playing position of the corresponding game music. Can be identified.
On the other hand, the background image data is for displaying a background image 46 of the game screen 40 shown in FIG. 3, for example. This background image data may be moving image data or still image data. For each game music,
The background image that matches the mood is selected, and the mood of the player is visually enhanced.

In the "lesson mode", background image data is not prepared. This is because all the lessons share a simple image as a background image so that the player can concentrate on the lesson. The background image data for this "lesson mode"
It is stored in the ROM 25. In the “lesson mode”, lesson data is included in the game music data. The lesson data is for showing the player an example of how to play the corresponding game music steps. The lesson data includes data for specifying the position and direction of each foot at the main playing position in the corresponding game music. In the “lesson mode”, the position and direction in which the foot image should be displayed are calculated in real time by interpolating the lesson data, and the foot image is displayed there. Thus, an example of how to do the step is shown to the player.

Here, the processing of the game program executed by the home game machine 11 will be described. FIG. 5 shows the CD
FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating processing of a game program stored in ROM 25. Player is CD-ROM25
Is set in the CD-ROM reader 24 and the power of the consumer game machine 11 is turned on, first, the operating system stored in the ROM 28 is executed, and various initialization operations are performed. At this time, a part of the game program stored in the CD-ROM 25 that is necessary for the current process is loaded into the RAM 26. In accordance with the game program, a game title or the like is displayed on the monitor 18, and then the main menu is displayed automatically or in accordance with an operation by the controller 32. Here, when the player selects the “normal mode”, the game processing of the “normal mode” is started.

In this process, first, a play condition setting menu is displayed on the monitor 18. Here, the player sets and inputs the number of players (for one or two players), the difficulty level, etc. (play conditions) (S100). This play condition is R
Stored in the AM 26. Next, the CPU 14 executes a plurality of music (music pieces) scheduled to be performed in the “normal mode”.
And prompt the player to make a selection. Then, in response to this, when the player selects a music by the controller 32, the music is determined as a performance music (S1).
01). After that, data relating to the game music is loaded (S102). Specifically, a group of data shown in FIG. 4A is loaded. Among them, the original music data is sent from the CD-ROM reader 24 to the S
The data is directly passed to the PU 20 and the reproduction output is started immediately (S103). Other data is loaded into the RAM 26.

Next, the CPU 14 generates image data for step guidance, for example, as shown in FIG. 3 based on the step data in the read game music data, and outputs it to the monitor 18 to provide step guidance. Update (S104). At this time, the CPU 14 determines the correspondence between the step data and the original music data according to the timing table. The step data and the timing table are the tune selected in S101 and S1
The one corresponding to the difficulty selected at 00 is used.

Thereafter, a play evaluation process is performed (S1).
05). FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating the play evaluation processing. As shown in the figure, in this play evaluation processing, it is first determined whether or not the current performance position belongs to the evaluation period based on the current performance position and the step data (S200). The evaluation period is a period in which the player's step timing is compared with the timing defined in the step data. If a certain moment is defined as step timing in the step data, a period of a predetermined time width before and after that is set as an evaluation period.

When the current performance position belongs to the evaluation period,
The operation state of the controller 32 is acquired (S201), and the steps of the player are evaluated based on the acquired operation state (S20).
2). That is, according to the step data, what is in the evaluation period is the direction button input areas 34L and 34L.
It can be determined which of U, 34D, and 34R the step relates to. For this reason, here, it is determined whether or not the direction button input areas 34L, 34U, 34D, 34R to be evaluated are actually depressed, and how much the step timing deviates from that defined in the step data. Find out if. The smaller the deviation, the higher the evaluation. For example, when the deviation is zero, the highest point is obtained, when the deviation is the maximum, the zero point, and when only the wrong direction button input area 34 is depressed or nothing is depressed, the dance gauge is reduced. . If the steps related to the plurality of direction button input areas 34 are to be evaluated, the evaluation is similarly performed for each direction button input area 34. The evaluation result is stored in the RAM 26, and the current score is added to the previous score stored in the RAM 26, and this is used as the total score. This total result is displayed as the score 42 (S203). At this time, the display state of the dance gauge 50 is also updated. That is, if a high evaluation is obtained, extend the gauge bar to the right,
Conversely, if only a low rating is obtained, the gauge bar is contracted to the left. Further, a message 52 is displayed on the game screen 40 according to the evaluation obtained in step S202. Furthermore, whether the step timing is within a certain range of error, earlier or later than that defined in the step data is stored in the RAM 26 as an evaluation history.

Returning to FIG. 5, thereafter, the CPU 14 determines that the game play satisfies the termination condition (S10).
6). Specifically, the game play ends when the player keeps pressing the cross button input area button 38B of the controller 32 for a predetermined time or when the performance music ends. If the game play satisfies the termination condition, comprehensive evaluation of the entire play is performed based on the contents of the RAM 26, and the result is displayed on the monitor 18 as a play result (S107). On the other hand, if the game play does not satisfy the termination condition, the process returns to S104.

After playing in the "normal mode", the game apparatus 10 can display the evaluation history of each step inputted by the controller 32 on the monitor 18. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of the evaluation history. In FIG.
The number indicated by 8 represents the number of measures of the game music in which the player enjoyed the steps. On the display screen of the evaluation history, all the timing guide arrow marks 72, 74, 76, and 7 based on the timing data for each game music are scrolled by the controller 32.
8 can be represented. Display column 7
The timing guide arrow mark displayed at 0L corresponds to the timing guide arrow mark 44L in FIG. The timing guide arrow mark displayed in the display column 70D is the timing guide arrow mark 44 in FIG.
This corresponds to D. The timing guide arrow mark displayed on display column 70U corresponds to timing guide arrow mark 44U in FIG. Display column 70
The timing guide arrow mark displayed on R corresponds to the timing guide arrow mark 44R in FIG. Here, the timing guide arrow marks 72, 74,
76 and 78 are displayed in different modes. The timing guide arrow mark 72 is orange (black in FIG. 7).
, Indicating that “JUST !!”, that is, the deviation of the step timing is within a predetermined range. The timing guide arrow mark 74 is blue (FIG. 7).
(Dots in the figure), and indicates "EARLY", that is, the step timing of the player is earlier than that defined in the timing data. The step timing guide arrow mark 76 is displayed in pink (hatched in FIG. 7), indicating "LATE", that is, indicating that the player's step timing is later than the one defined in the timing data. The step timing guide arrow mark 78 is displayed in red (open in FIG. 7), indicating "MISS ...", that is, indicating that the player should have made a step even though the player should have made a step. As described above, on the display screen of the evaluation history, the evaluation content for each operation on the controller 32 is displayed in a different form (color) depending on whether the operation is earlier or later than the original operation timing. For this reason, by looking at the evaluation history, the player can clearly recognize whether his or her step timing is late or early, so that the player can easily learn good steps. Here, the step timing guide arrow marks 72, 74, 76, 78 are displayed in different colors depending on whether the operation timing is earlier or later than the original operation timing. You may make it distinguish and display.

Here, the "lesson mode", which is a characteristic play mode of the game apparatus 10, will be described.
8 to 10 show the monitor 1 in the “lesson mode”.
FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a game screen displayed on 8. FIG.
Shows the game screen at the start of the lesson. In the game screen in the “lesson mode”, a timing guidance area is provided on the left side of the screen, and a lesson area is provided on the right side. A message 69 is displayed at the bottom of the screen. Above the timing guide area, the reference arrow marks 48L, 48L are provided, as in the game screen shown in FIG.
D, 48U, and 48R are displayed in this order from the left. In the lower screen area, similarly to the game screen shown in FIG. 3, the timing guide arrow marks 44L, 44D, 4
4U, 44R is displayed. The timing guide arrow marks 44L, 44D, 44U, 44R are displayed based on the step data and the timing table included in the game music data shown in FIG. The display procedure is the same as in the case of the “normal mode”. on the other hand,
The lesson area displayed on the right side of the screen is for teaching the player how to concretely take steps guided on the left side of the screen.
Is displayed.

The controller image 65 is the controller 32
And a direction button image 63L (step area image) corresponding to the direction button input area 34L, and a direction button image 63U corresponding to the direction button input area 34U.
(Step area image), direction button image 63D corresponding to direction button input area 34D (step area image), direction button image 63 corresponding to direction button input area 34R
R (step area image), which includes a central area image 63C corresponding to the central area 34C. A left foot image 67 representing the left foot of the instructor is provided inside the central area image 63C.
L, a right foot image 67R representing the right foot thereof, and a head image 61 representing the head thereof are displayed in a superimposed manner. These images are generated by attaching textures to polygons. At the time of the landing of the instructor shown in the figure, the left foot image 67L is colored opaque green, and a letter "L" is displayed at the center. The right foot image 67R is colored opaque orange, and a letter “R” is displayed in the center.

At the time of landing, in the virtual three-dimensional space (game space), the left foot image 67L and the right foot image 67R
Is disposed at a landing position (frontward on the paper) slightly higher than the center area image 63C so that the toe points upward in the screen.
On the other hand, the head image 61 shows a state in which a person's face is viewed from above the head, and a translucent color attribute is given to emphasize the movement of both feet of the instructor. Also, the head image 61
Is arranged at a position higher than the left foot image 67L and the right foot image 67R in the virtual three-dimensional space so that the face faces upward in the screen. And since the viewpoint is set above the instructor's head, the left foot image 67L from the head image 61
And the right foot image 67R can be seen through.
The positions and directions of the left foot image 67L and the right foot image 67R are determined based on the lesson data shown in FIG. The position and direction of the head image 61 are determined according to the positions and directions of the left foot image 67L and the right foot image 67R. Specifically, the face of the head image 61 faces in a direction that bisects the toe direction of the left foot image 67L and the toe direction of the right foot image 67R, and the head image 61 according to the height of the left foot image 67L and the height of the right foot image 67R. Height is set.

The message 69 is used to send a meaningful message to the lesson to the player. The skill of the step performed by the player is evaluated based on an operation signal input from the controller 32, and the evaluation result is displayed in characters. Or display characters to inform the player of the start or end of the lesson. In the figure, the game screen at the start of the lesson is shown, and the message “lesson start!” Is displayed as the message 69.

FIG. 9 shows a state in which the instructor raises the right foot in the “lesson mode”. In addition,
In FIG. 10 and FIG. 10, illustration of the head image 61 is omitted for simplicity. In FIG. 9, a timing guide arrow mark 44U is displayed in the timing guide area.
The timing guide arrow mark 44U moves upward with time. Here, the timing guide arrow mark 44U is about to overlap the reference arrow mark 48U, which indicates that the step timing is approaching. Therefore, in the lesson area shown on the right side of the figure,
This shows that the right foot of the instructor tries to step on the direction button image 63U. In this case, the translucent attribute is given to the right leg image 67R, and the right leg image 67R is further enlarged and displayed. In this state, the right foot image 67R is moving in the direction of the direction button image 63U. Thus,
The effect is that the right leg of the instructor rises from the position of the central area image 63C and lowers again at the position of the direction button image 63U. The right foot image 67
Since R approaches the viewpoint direction (the front side of the paper) with the foot swung up, it is enlarged and displayed even in the ordinary three-dimensional image processing. However, in this game device 10, the instructor's right foot is certainly swung up. To deform this, the right foot image 67R is further enlarged and displayed. Although not shown, the head image 61 in the state shown in FIG.
In response to the instructor swinging his right foot and stepping forward, his face turns slightly to the left of the screen, and is slightly enlarged.

FIG. 10 shows a state where the instructor steps down the right foot forward in the “lesson mode”. The game screen shown in FIG. 9 is displayed on the monitor 18 immediately after the game screen shown in FIG. In the figure, the timing guide arrow mark 44U
, The right foot image 67R is superimposed on the direction button image 63U. In FIG. 9, the right foot image 67R
Are translucently enlarged, whereas in the same figure, the right foot image 67R is again displayed in an opaque non-enlarged state. Further, from the timing when the right foot image 67R is placed on the direction button image 63U, the brightness of the direction button image 63U increases. As described above, the display mode of the left foot image 67L and the right foot image 67R is changed before and after the instructor steps down on the direction button image 63, and the display mode of the direction button image 63 is further changed. Can surely be recognized by the player as having been stepped down on the direction button image 63. Thus, the player can easily grasp the steps by the instructor. In the game screen shown in the figure, the step actually performed by the player on the controller 32 was earlier than the step defined in the step data.
Is displayed as "Slightly early".

Here, the specific processing of the "lesson mode" will be described with reference to a flowchart. FIG. 11 shows a CD-RO
It is a flowchart explaining the part relevant to "lesson mode" in the processing of the game program stored in M25.
When the player selects “lesson mode” with the controller 32 while the main menu is displayed,
The game process in the “lesson mode” is started. In this process, first, a difficulty setting menu is displayed on the monitor 18 (S300). In "Lesson mode", three levels from Lesson 1 to Lesson 3 are prepared. By playing from Lesson 1 to Lesson 3 in order, you can enjoy songs of normal difficulty in "Normal mode" The steps are improving. In this difficulty setting menu, the player selects any one of the lessons using the controller 32.

Next, the CPU 14 displays a section setting menu on the monitor 18 (S301). Lessons 1 to 3 each include a plurality of sections. In this step S301, the player selects one of the sections using the controller 32. Each section has a variety of personalities, such as for practicing time and for practicing in a manner similar to actual game play.

Thereafter, data relating to game music is loaded according to the settings in S300 and S301 (S302). Specifically, a group of data shown in FIG. 4B is loaded. Among them, the original music data is sent from the CD-ROM reader 24 to the SPU2.
0 and the reproduction output is immediately started (S30).
3). Other data is loaded into the RAM 26. Next, the CPU 14 generates image data for step guidance, for example, as shown in FIG. 3 based on the step data in the read game music data, and updates the step guidance by outputting it to the monitor 18 ( S
304).

Thereafter, a lesson process is performed (S30).
5). FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating the lesson process. As shown in the figure, in this lesson process, first, the calculation of the foot position is performed (S400). When the reproduction of the game music is started in S303, the CPU 14 can grasp the current playing position of the game music, and the left foot image 67L and the right foot image 67 at this playing position are provided.
The position and direction of R are calculated. This calculation is
It is calculated by interpolating the lesson data shown in FIG. That is, since the lesson data includes data for specifying the position and direction of the left foot image 67L and the right foot image 67R at the main performance position, this data is interpolated to obtain the left foot image 67L and the right foot image at an arbitrary performance position. The position and direction of 67R are calculated.

Next, the left foot image 67L and the right foot image 67R
Is determined (S401). Specifically, S40
An enlargement ratio corresponding to (for example, proportional to) the height of the left foot image 67L and the right foot image 67R calculated from 0 from the center area image 63C is determined. Thereafter, the colors of the left foot image 67L and the right foot image 67R are determined (S402). Specifically, the transparency is determined according to (for example, in proportion to) the height of the left foot image 67L and the right foot image 67R calculated in S400 from the center area image 63C. This transparency is given as a display attribute of the texture used for each of the left foot image 67L and the right foot image 67R. Thus,
The higher the height of the foot, the higher the transparency of the left foot image 67L and the right foot image 67R.

Next, the head position is calculated (S40).
3). This calculation is based on the left foot image 67 calculated in S400.
This is performed based on the position and direction of L and the right foot image 67R. First, for the height of the head image 61, for example, an amount proportional to the average height of the left foot image 67L and the right foot image 67R from the central region image 63C is added to the original (at the time of landing on both feet) head image 61. It is calculated by Further, the plane position of the head image 61 (the position in a plane parallel to the central region image 63C) is set at the center of the center of gravity of the left foot image 67L and the right foot image 67R. Further, the direction of the head image 61 is set to a direction that bisects the toe direction of the left foot image 67L and the toe direction of the right foot image 67R.

Further, the magnification of the head image 61 is determined (S404). Specifically, for example, transparency is set according to the height of the left foot image 67L and the right foot image 67R from the central region image 63C (for example, proportional to the average of these heights). This transparency is based on the left foot image 67L and the right foot image 67R.
Is given as a display attribute of the texture used for each of them. Further, the color of the controller image 65 is determined (S405). That is, the game device 1
At 0, the brightness of the direction button image 63 at that position is increased when the instructor drops the foot. For this reason, in this S405, it is determined whether the positions of the left foot image 67L and the right foot image 67R calculated in S400 are close to any of the direction button images 63, and if they are, the brightness of the direction button image 63 is determined. Raise. This luminance information is given as a display attribute of the texture used for the direction button image 63. Then, S400 to S40
Based on the values calculated in step 4, the left foot image 67L, the right foot image 67R, the head image 61, and the controller image 65 are drawn in the frame buffer included in the GPU 16 (S40).
6).

Thereafter, returning to FIG. 11, a play evaluation process is performed (S306). This play evaluation processing is the same as the processing shown in FIG. Here, in particular, in S202, whether the step timing of the player is within a certain range of error, earlier or later than that defined in the step data is evaluated. In S203, A message 69 is displayed on the game screen according to the evaluation result. This allows the player to know whether the step is behind or earlier than the original step timing while watching the message 69, so that the step can be learned more efficiently.

Thereafter, the CPU 14 determines whether the game play satisfies the termination condition (S307; FIG. 11).
Specifically, the game play ends when the player keeps pressing the cross button input area button 38B of the controller 32 for a predetermined time or when the performance music ends. If the gameplay meets the end condition,
A comprehensive evaluation of the entire lesson is performed based on the contents of the RAM 26, and the result is displayed on the monitor 18 as a play result (S308). On the other hand, if the game play does not satisfy the termination condition, the process returns to S304.

According to the game device 10 described above,
In the "lesson mode", the player can teach steps (stepping) by computer graphics, so that even a player who is new to this kind of music game can learn how to play relatively easily. In the lesson area on the game screen of the “lesson mode”, when the instructor steps down and the left foot image 67L or the right foot image 67R is placed on the direction button image 63, the left foot image 67L or the right foot image 67R is moved halfway. Since the display is changed from the transparent display to the opaque display, and the brightness of the direction button image 63 is also increased at that timing, the player can clearly recognize the step of the instructor.
Further, during the stepping, the left foot image 67L and the right foot image 67L are displayed.
Since R is displayed in an enlarged translucent manner, it is possible to suitably produce an effect that the player is in the middle of walking.

The present invention is not limited to the embodiment described above.

For example, while the above description is of an example in which the present invention is implemented using the consumer game machine 11,
The present invention is similarly applicable to arcade game devices.
In this case, it is desirable to use a higher-speed storage device instead of the CD-ROM 25 and to integrally form the monitor 18 and the speaker 22.

In the above description, the CD-ROM 25 storing the game program and the game data is used in the home game machine 11. However, an information storage medium storing the game program and the game data, such as a personal computer, is used. Any computer that can read and process information based on the read content can be used.

Further, in the above description, the present invention is applied to the game apparatus 10 which can enjoy the feeling of dancing, but the present invention is applied to a drum game apparatus which enjoys hitting a controller simulating a drum pad with a drum stick, and a piano with fingers. The present invention can be applied to all kinds of games that enjoy the operation of the controller, such as a piano game machine that hits a controller imitating a keyboard. In this case, in addition to displaying the controller image, an operation element image representing an element for operating the controller, such as a finger, a palm, or a foot, is displayed. Then, the operation element image is moved so that the operation element operates the controller. At this time, before and after the operation on the controller, the display mode of the operation element image and the controller image is changed. In this way, it is possible to impress the player that the controller has been operated, and it is possible to appropriately provide operation guidance. In this case, if an image representing a part of the controller is displayed in a different manner before and after the operation as in the above-described direction button image 63, the operation guidance can be more suitably performed.

Further, in the above description, the evaluation history is presented to the player in the game apparatus 10 which allows the player to enjoy the feeling of dancing, but in all kinds of games, the operation timing is earlier than the original operation timing. It can be evaluated for each operation whether it is slow or within a predetermined range, and the history can be presented to the player. This allows the player to easily learn the operation of the controller.

Further, in the above description, the game program and the game data are stored in the CD-ROM 25 as an information storage medium.
, The game program and the game data can be distributed to a home or the like via a communication network. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an overall configuration of a game program distribution system using a communication network. As shown in the figure, the game program distribution system 53 includes a game database 5
4, server 56, communication network 60, personal computer 6
2, home game machine 64, PDA (portable information terminal) 66
Contains. The game database 54 and the server 56 constitute a game program distribution device 58. The communication network 60 is, for example, the Internet or a cable television network. In this system, a game program and game data similar to the storage contents of the CD-ROM 25 are stored in the game database 54. Then, when the consumer makes a game distribution request using the personal computer 62, the home game machine 64, the PDA 66, or the like, the request is transmitted to the server 56 via the communication network 60. Then, the server 56 reads the game program and the game data from the game database 54 in response to the game distribution request, and transmits them to the game distribution request source such as the personal computer 62, the home game machine 64, or the PDA 66. Here, the game distribution is performed in response to the game distribution request, but the server 56 may unilaterally transmit the game. Also, it is not always necessary to distribute all the game programs and game data necessary for realizing the game at once, and a necessary portion may be distributed according to the game phase. By distributing the game via the communication network 60 in this manner, a consumer can easily obtain a game program and game data for playing a music game.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a game device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a controller.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a game screen.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a configuration of game music data.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an operation in a “normal mode” of the game device according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a play evaluation process.

FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen of a play evaluation history.

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a game screen in a “lesson mode”.

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a game screen in a “lesson mode”.

FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a game screen in a “lesson mode”.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an operation in a “lesson mode” of the game device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a lesson process.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an overall configuration of a game program distribution system according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

10 Game device, 11, 64 Consumer game machine, 12
Bus, 14 CPU, 16 graphics processing unit, 18 monitor, 20 sound processing unit, 22 speakers, 24 CD-RO
M reader, 25 CD-ROM, 26 RAM, 28
ROM, 30 I / O controller, 32 controller, 3
3 Memory card, 34L, 34U, 34D, 34R
Direction button input area, 34C center area, 36A Start button input area, 38A round button input area, 38B
X button input area, 40 game screens, 42 scores, 44D, 44R, 44L, 44U, 72, 74, 7
6,78 Timing guide arrow mark, 46 background image, 48D, 48R, 48L, 48U Reference arrow mark, 50 dance gauge, 52, 69 message, 5
3 game program distribution system, 54 game database, 56 server, 58 game program distribution device, 60 communication network, 61 head image, 62
Personal computer, 63L, 63U, 63D, 63R Direction button image, 63C central area image, 65 controller image, 66 PDA, 67L left foot image, 67R right foot image, 68 measures, 70L, 70D, 70U, 70R
Display column.

 ──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continued on front page (72) Inventor Akinori Tamura 3-25 Kanda Jimbocho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo Konami Computer Entertainment Inc. Tokyo (72) Inventor Yasumi Takase 3-25 Kanda Jimbocho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo Konami Computer Entertainment Tokyo, Japan (72) Inventor Takashi Nishibori 3-25, Kanda Jimbocho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo Konami Computer Entertainment Inc. Tokyo (72) Inventor Kei Kei Nagaoka 3-25, Kanda Jimbocho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo Konami Computer Entertainment Tokyo, Japan (72) Inventor Yoshiko Wada 3-25 Kanda Jimbocho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo Konami Computer Entertainment Tokyo, Japan (72) Inventor Yumi Ta 3-25, Kanda Jimbocho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo F-term in Konami Computer Entertainment Tokyo Co., Ltd. (reference) 2C001 AA00 AA16 AA17 BA00 BA01 BA05 BA06 BA07 BB00 BB05 BB06 BB08 BC00 BC06 CA01 CA06 CB01 CB06 H02 KK62

Claims (14)

[Claims] 1. A game device for enjoying steps in accordance with game music, a foot image display means for displaying a foot image representing a foot, a foot image moving means for moving the foot image so that the foot steps. And a foot image display mode changing means for displaying the foot image in different modes before and after the foot steps on a predetermined step area, and guides the player to steps. 2. The game device according to claim 1, wherein the foot image display mode changing means displays the foot image opaque after the foot steps on the predetermined step area,
The game device, wherein the foot image is displayed translucently before the foot steps on the predetermined step area. 3. The game device according to claim 1, wherein the foot image display means displays an image when the foot is viewed from above the head as the foot image, and the foot image display mode changing means includes: A game device, wherein the foot image is enlarged and displayed before the foot steps on the step area compared to after the foot steps on the predetermined step area. 4. The game apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a step area image display unit that displays a step area image representing the predetermined step area. 5. The game device according to claim 4, wherein the step area image representing the predetermined step area after the foot steps on the predetermined step area and before the foot steps on the predetermined step area. Characterized by further comprising a step area image display mode changing means for displaying the step area image in a different mode. 6. The game device according to claim 1, wherein a step timing detecting means for detecting a step timing of the player; a step timing detected by the step timing detecting means; And a timing guiding means for comparing the timing with which the player should step on and guiding the player about the context. 7. An information storage medium storing a program for causing a computer to function as a game device for enjoying steps in accordance with game music, a foot image display means for displaying a foot image representing a foot, wherein the foot is a step. A program for causing the computer to function as: foot image moving means for moving the foot image so as to step on the foot image; and foot image display mode changing means for displaying the foot image in different modes before and after the foot steps on a predetermined step region. Information storage medium on which is recorded. 8. A game distribution device for distributing a program for causing a computer to function as a game device that enjoys steps in accordance with game music, a foot image display means for displaying a foot image representing a foot, A program for causing the computer to function as: foot image moving means for moving the foot image so as to step on the foot image; and foot image display mode changing means for displaying the foot image in different modes before and after the foot steps on a predetermined step region. A game distribution device, which distributes a game. 9. A game distribution method for distributing a program for causing a computer to function as a game device for enjoying a step in accordance with game music, a foot image display means for displaying a foot image representing a foot, A program for causing the computer to function as: foot image moving means for moving the foot image so as to step on the foot image; and foot image display mode changing means for displaying the foot image in different modes before and after the foot steps on a predetermined step region. And a game distribution method. 10. A method of controlling a game device for enjoying a step according to game music, comprising: a foot image display step of displaying a foot image representing a foot; and a foot image for moving the foot image so that the foot steps. A method of controlling a game device, comprising: a moving step; and a foot image display mode changing step of displaying the foot image in different modes before and after the foot steps on a predetermined step area, and guiding the player to the steps. . 11. A game device for enjoying operation of a controller, wherein: controller image display means for displaying a controller image representing the controller; operation element image display means for displaying an operation element image representing an element for operating the controller; An operation element image moving unit that moves the operation element image so that the element operates the controller; and an operation element image display mode changing unit that displays the operation element image in different modes before and after the element operates the controller. A game device, comprising: guiding a player to operate the controller. 12. An information storage medium storing a program for causing a computer equipped with a controller to function as a game device for enjoying the operation of the controller, wherein the controller image display means displays a controller image representing the controller. Operating element image display means for displaying an operating element image representing an element for operating the controller; operating element image moving means for moving the operating element image so that the element operates the controller; and operating the controller for the element. An information storage medium storing a program for causing the computer to function as operation element image display mode changing means for displaying the operation element image in different modes before and after the operation. 13. A game device for enjoying an operation of a controller in accordance with timing data, wherein: an evaluation history recording unit that records an evaluation history of an operation performed by the controller; Evaluation history display means for displaying the evaluation history in different display modes depending on whether the operation timing performed by the controller is earlier or later than the operation timing indicated by the timing data. Game equipment. 14. An information storage medium storing a program for causing a computer including a controller to function as a game device for enjoying the operation of the controller in accordance with timing data, wherein the computer evaluates the operation performed by the controller. An evaluation history recording unit that records a history; and a display mode in which each evaluation content included in the evaluation history is different depending on whether the operation timing performed by the controller is earlier or later than the operation timing indicated by the timing data. An information storage medium storing a program for causing the computer to function as evaluation history display means for displaying the evaluation history.