JP2004065993A - Program distribution apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To enable a player to easily know how to play a game. <P>SOLUTION: On a music oriented game machine in which a player steps on a mat shape controller, a left foot image 67L and a right foot image 67R are displayed, overlaid on a controller image 65. When the left foot image 67L or the right foot image 67R of an instructor is brought up from the controller image 65, the left foot image 67L or the right foot image is displayed as enlarged and translucent. When the image is brought down on the controller image 65 again, the left foot image 67L or the right foot image 67R returns to an ordinary size opaque image. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO

Description

The present invention relates to a program distribution apparatus, and more particularly to a technique for teaching a player how to play a game in an easy-to-understand manner.

Music-oriented game devices that use a dedicated controller equipped with a sensor that detects whether or not the player's feet are on the step positions are displayed on the surface. Have won. For example, “Beatmania” (trademark) and “Dance Dance Revolution (trademark)” manufactured and sold by Konami Co., Ltd. are examples. In this game, the player can enjoy the feeling of dancing by taking steps on the dedicated controller according to the game music.

In such a music-oriented game apparatus, the timing at which each step position should 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 in which the step timing gradually arrives at each of the plurality of step positions is displayed on the display. The player puts his or her foot on the step position guided and displayed on the dedicated controller while referring to the display screen and the rhythm of music. Then, the game results are 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 enjoy the feeling of dancing while being worried about the game results.

Thus, the way to play a music-oriented game is as simple as taking steps on a dedicated controller, but it may be difficult for a player who is new to this type of game to learn. In this respect, it is possible to carefully explain the step method in the instruction manual, but it is troublesome to read the instruction manual carefully in order to play the game.

The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a program distribution apparatus that allows a player to easily learn how to play.

(1) In order to solve the above-described problem, a game device according to the present invention is a game device that enjoys steps according to game music, and a foot image display means for displaying a foot image representing a foot, and the foot performs the step. Including foot image moving means for moving the foot image to step on, and foot image display mode changing means for displaying the foot image in a different manner before and after the foot steps on a predetermined step area, and guiding the steps to the player It is characterized by.

An information storage medium according to the present invention is an information storage medium that records a program for causing a computer to function as a game device that enjoys steps in accordance with game music, and displays a foot image representing a foot image. Means, 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 a different manner before and after the foot steps on a predetermined step area. This is a program that records the function to function.

A game distribution device according to the present invention is a game distribution device that distributes a program for causing a computer to function as a game device that enjoys steps according to game music, and a foot image display that displays a foot image representing a foot. Means, 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 a different manner before and after the foot steps on a predetermined step area. It distributes the program for functioning.

The 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 that enjoys steps according to game music, and a foot image display that displays a foot image representing a foot. Means, 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 a different manner before and after the foot steps on a predetermined step area. It distributes the program for functioning.

Furthermore, the game device control method according to the present invention is a game device control method for enjoying a step in accordance with game music, a foot image display step for displaying a foot image representing a foot, and the foot stepping step. A foot image moving step for moving the foot image, and a foot image display mode changing step for displaying the foot image in a different mode before and after the foot steps on a predetermined step region, and guiding the steps to the player Features.

In the present invention, the foot image moves so that the foot steps. At this time, the display mode is different before and after the foot steps on the predetermined step region. In other words, what was in a certain display mode immediately before stepping on the predetermined step region changes to a different display mode when stepping on the predetermined step region. By doing so, it is possible to impress the player 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 in an opaque manner after the foot has stepped on the predetermined step region, and before the foot has stepped on the predetermined step region. The foot image is displayed translucently. In this way, it is possible to further impress the player that the foot represented by the foot image has stepped on the predetermined step area. In addition, since the foot image is displayed in a translucent manner before the step region is stepped on, it is possible to suitably produce a state where the foot is floating from the predetermined step region.

In the aspect of the invention, the foot image display unit displays an image when the foot is viewed from above as the foot image, and the foot image display mode changing unit is configured to display the foot in the predetermined step region. The foot image is enlarged and displayed before the foot steps on the step area as compared with after stepping on. In this way, it is possible to more suitably produce a state where the foot is floating from the predetermined step area.

Further, according to an aspect of the present invention, the image processing apparatus further includes 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 aspect of the present invention, the step region image representing the predetermined step region is displayed in a different manner after the foot has stepped on the predetermined step region and before the foot has stepped on the predetermined step region. It further includes step region image display mode changing means. In this way, it is possible to further impress the player that the foot represented by the foot image has stepped on the predetermined step area.

Further, in one aspect of the present invention, the step timing detection means for detecting the step timing of the player, the step timing detected by the step timing detection means, and the timing at which the player should originally take the step are compared, and before and after Timing guide means for guiding the relationship to the player. In this way, the player can be informed whether his step is delayed or early from the original timing, and the player can learn how to play more easily.

(2) Further, the game device according to the present invention displays a controller image display means for displaying a controller image representing the controller and an operation element image representing an element for operating the controller in a game device for enjoying the operation of the controller. Operating element image display means for operating, operating element image moving means for moving the operating element image so that the element operates the controller, and displaying the operating element image in a different manner before and after the element operates the controller. Operating element image display mode changing means for guiding the operation of the controller to the player.

An information storage medium according to the present invention is 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, and displays a controller image representing the controller. Controller image display means for operating, 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 operation of the controller by the element is recorded.

In the present invention, a controller image is displayed, and an element for operating the controller is displayed as an 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, or a hammer. 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 controller is operated. In other words, the display mode that has been displayed until the operation element immediately before the operation of the controller is changed to a display mode that is different from the display mode when the controller is operated. By doing so, it is possible to impress the player that the operation element has operated the controller, and the player can easily learn how to play.

(3) Further, the game device according to the present invention, in a game device that enjoys the operation of the controller in accordance with the timing data, the evaluation history recording means for recording the evaluation history for the operation performed by the controller, An evaluation history display means for displaying the evaluation history with each evaluation content included 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; , Including.

An information storage medium according to the present invention is an information storage medium that records a program for causing a computer including a controller to function as a game device that enjoys operation of the controller in accordance with timing data. Evaluation history recording means for recording an evaluation history for an operation performed, and when the operation timing performed by the controller for each evaluation content included in the evaluation history is earlier and later than the operation timing indicated by the timing data A program for causing the computer to function as an evaluation history display means for displaying the evaluation history in a different display mode is recorded.

In the present invention, the evaluation history for the operation of the controller is recorded, and this evaluation history is displayed. The displayed evaluation history includes evaluation contents 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 differently depending on whether the operation timing is early or late. For example, different colors are displayed for the early case and the late case. In this way, the player can easily learn how to play better by looking at the evaluation history.

Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a game device according to an embodiment of the present invention. In the following, a technique for causing the game apparatus 10 shown in FIG. 1 to function as a music-oriented game apparatus that allows the player to enjoy the steps while listening to the game music will be described. The game apparatus 10 is provided with a “lesson mode” in addition to the “normal mode”. The “Lesson Mode” is an easy-to-understand explanation of the steps that cannot be explained in the instruction manual, using computer graphics. In an arcade game machine, a beginner player can remember a step by looking closely at a step of an advanced player, but the home game machine 11 hardly expects such a situation. According to this “lesson mode”, the player can learn how to play (steps) in a music-oriented game relatively easily. In addition, the game device 10 is configured so that an evaluation history for each operation performed by the controller 32 can be viewed after play. According to this operation history, the player can know the ugly part of his step, which can be used to improve the step.

The game apparatus 10 shown in the figure is configured by mounting a CD-ROM 25 as an information storage medium on a consumer game machine 11 connected to a monitor 18 and a speaker 22. Here, the CD-ROM 25 is used to supply the game program and game data to the consumer game machine 11, but any other information storage medium such as a DVD or a ROM card can be used. Further, as will be described later, a game program and game data can be supplied to the consumer game machine 11 from a remote location via a communication network.

In the consumer game machine 11, a CPU 14, a GPU 16, an SPU 20, a CD-ROM reader 24, a RAM 26, a ROM 28, and an input / output control unit 30 are connected to each other via a bus 12 so that mutual data communication is possible. Is a cord connection. Each component of the consumer game machine 11 other than the controller 32 is accommodated in a predetermined housing. For example, a household television receiver is used as the monitor 18, and its 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 for exchanging addresses and data among the units of the consumer game machine 11. The ROM 28 stores an operating system that is a program necessary for overall operation control of the consumer game machine 11. In addition, a game program and game data read from the CD-ROM 25 are written in the RAM 26 as necessary. The GPU (graphics processing unit) 16 includes 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. The data is output to the monitor 18 at a predetermined timing.

The SPU (Sound Processing Unit) 20 includes a sound buffer, reproduces data such as music and game sound effects read from the CD-ROM 25 and stored in the sound buffer, and outputs the data from the speaker 22. The 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 consumer game device 11, and here, a controller 32 and a memory card 33 are detachably attached. 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 an input means for the player to operate the game. The input / output control unit 30 scans the operation states of the various buttons of the controller 32 at regular intervals (for example, every 1/60 seconds), and passes operation signals representing the scan results to the CPU 14 via the bus 12. The CPU 14 determines the game operation of the player based on the operation signal.

FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the controller 32. The controller 32 shown in the figure is a dedicated controller specially prepared for playing a music-oriented game, and is a mat-like 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, the controller 32 has a substantially circular central area 34C displayed at the center of the surface, and direction button input areas 34U, 34D, 34L, and 34R are displayed separately on the upper, lower, left, and right sides, respectively. Yes. In addition, a round button input area 38A and a cross button input area 38B are displayed on the left and right sides of the direction button input area 34U. Further, a start button input area 36A is displayed above the circle button input area 38A, and a select button input area 36B is displayed above the cross button input area 36B. The direction button input area 34R has a right arrow pattern, the direction button input area 34L has a left arrow pattern, the direction button input area 34U has an up arrow pattern, and the direction button input area 34D has a down arrow pattern. , Each represented. In addition, a circle mark (O) is represented in the round button input area 38A, and a cross mark (X) is represented in the cross button input area 38B. Furthermore, the characters “START” are represented in the start button input area 36A, and the characters “SELECT” are represented in the select button input area 36B.

Sensors are embedded below the direction button input areas 34U, 34D, 34L, and 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 user puts his / her foot on, a message to that effect is sent to the consumer game machine 11 as an operation signal. The direction button input areas 34U, 34D, 34L, and 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 and making various decisions. The select button input area 36B 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 termination of the game.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a game screen generated on the monitor 18 based on the game program and game data read from the CD-ROM 25. The game screen 40 shown in the figure is in the “normal mode”, a background image 46 is displayed on the entire surface, a dance gauge 50, reference arrow marks 48L, 48D, 48U, and 48R, and timing guide arrows are displayed thereon. The marks 44L, 44D, 44U, 44R, the score 42, and the message 52 are superimposed and displayed. The score 42 is displayed at the bottom left side of the game screen 40, and displays the cumulative score so far. The message 52 is displayed in the middle of the left side of the screen, and displays characters having contents corresponding to the skill of the player's operation. For example, characters such as “GREAT”, “PERFECT”, “GOOD”, and “BOO” are 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, when the step receives a high evaluation, the gauge bar extends in the right direction. Conversely, when the step receives only a low evaluation, the gauge bar contracts in the left direction. When the gauge bar becomes shorter than a 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, and 48R are displayed in this order. The reference arrow marks 48L, 48D, 48U, and 48R are references for determining the timing for the player to step.

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 in the direction button input area 34R. Each is associated. In a relatively wide screen area below the reference arrow marks 48L, 48D, 48U, and 48R, timing guide arrow marks 44L, 44D, 44U, and 44R that move upward according to the transition of time are represented. At the timing when the timing guide arrow marks 44L, 44D, 44U, 44R overlap the reference arrow marks 48L, 48D, 48U, 48R, the direction button input areas 34L, 34D corresponding to the reference arrow marks 48L, 48D, 48U, 48R. , 34U, 34R, the dance gauge 50 can be extended with high evaluation by stepping on the foot. 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, high evaluation can be obtained.

Note that a positive evaluation cannot be obtained unless the player operates the controller 32 at a timing at which the timing guide arrow marks 44L, 44D, 44U, and 44R completely overlap the reference arrow marks 48L, 48D, 48U, and 48R. Rather, evaluation is given according to the degree of coincidence. The timing guide arrow marks 44L, 44D, 44U and 44R are displayed based on step data which will be described later.

The timing guide arrow marks 44L, 44D, 44U, and 44R are specifically displayed as follows. When the reproduction of game music is started, for example, when the step timing for two measures after the current time is set as the guidance display range, the CPU 14 reads the step timing included in the range from the step data. Based on the step data, image data representing the timing guide arrow marks 44L, 44D, 44U, 44R is generated. In this image data, the display position is adjusted so that data with step timing farther are arranged in order from the closest step timing to the lower one.

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 step timing to the direction button input area 34D is displayed below the reference arrow mark 48D. Is displayed, a timing guide arrow mark 44U indicating a step timing to the direction button input area 34U is displayed below the reference arrow mark 48U, and a direction is displayed below the reference arrow mark 48R. A timing guide arrow mark 44R representing the step timing for the button input area 34R is displayed. In the figure, one timing guide arrow mark 44L, 44D, 44U, 44R is displayed in each column, but a plurality of timing guide arrow marks 44L, 44D, 44U, 44R may be displayed depending on the arrival status 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 playing position of the game music at that time, and the guidance display range is shifted backward from the beginning of the song by a predetermined amount for each process. Thus, the timing guide arrow marks 44L, 44D, 44U, and 44R gradually move upward as the music progresses. If the timing guide arrow marks 44L, 44D, 44U, and 44R are displayed in this way, the game screen 40 allows the player to easily grasp the arrival status of the step timing.

Here, the data stored in the CD-ROM 25 will be described. The CD-ROM 25 stores game music data in addition to a game program, various game sound effect data, and various game image data in order for the consumer game machine 11 to function as a music game.

FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining game music data corresponding to certain game music stored in the CD-ROM 25. FIG. 4A shows game music data related to game music played in the “normal mode”. FIG. 6B shows game music data relating to game music played in the “lesson mode”. As shown in FIG. 5A, the game music data related to the “normal mode” includes original music data, step data, a timing table, and background image data. On the other hand, the 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 or the like saved as original music in the form of PCM stream data. When the original music data is read in accordance with an instruction from the CPU 14, the CD-ROM reader 24 can perform data processing as necessary and supply it directly to the SPU 20 without going through the bus 12. When the SPU 20 receives data directly from the CD-ROM reader 24, the SPU 20 performs D / A conversion and supplies the data to the speaker 22.

Step data defines the procedure that the player should operate when playing the corresponding game music. 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 used depending on the difficulty level, the play mode, and the like. The step data includes a plurality of data blocks corresponding to each measure of the corresponding game music. Each data block includes information that specifies which button of the controller 32 should be operated when a measure of the corresponding game music is divided into a predetermined number of beats, for example, 4 beats or 8 beats. Has been.

The timing table is prepared for timing matching between the corresponding game music and the step data, and the CPU 14 refers to the timing table and specifies the step data corresponding to the current performance position of the corresponding game music. Can be done. On the other hand, the background image data is for displaying the background image 46 in the game screen 40 shown in FIG. 3, for example. The background image data may be moving image data or still image data. A background image that matches the atmosphere is selected for each game music, and the player's mood is visually enhanced.

Also, no background image data is prepared in “Lesson Mode”. This is because all lessons share a simple image as a background image so that players can concentrate on the lesson. The background image data for the “lesson mode” is separately stored in the CD-ROM 25. Furthermore, in the “lesson mode”, lesson data is included in the game music data. The lesson data is for showing the player an example of a corresponding game music step method. The lesson data includes data specifying the positions and directions of both feet at the main performance positions in the corresponding game music. In the “Lesson Mode”, the lesson data is interpolated to calculate the position and direction in which the foot image should be displayed in real time, and the foot image is displayed there. Thus, an example of how to step is shown to the player.

Here, the processing of the game program executed by the consumer game machine 11 will be described. FIG. 5 is a flowchart for explaining the processing of the game program stored in the CD-ROM 25. When the player sets the CD-ROM 25 in the CD-ROM reader 24 and powers on the consumer game machine 11, the operating system stored in the ROM 28 is executed first, and various initialization operations are performed. At this time, a portion of the game program stored in the CD-ROM 25 that is necessary for the current processing is loaded into the RAM 26. In accordance with the game program, the game title and the like are 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 “normal mode”, the game processing of “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 (one or two), difficulty level, etc. (play conditions) (S100). The play conditions are stored in the RAM 26. Next, the CPU 14 displays the titles of a plurality of music (music pieces) scheduled to be played in the “normal mode” and prompts the player to select. Then, when the player selects a music piece by the controller 32 in accordance with this, it is determined as a performance piece (S101). Thereafter, data related to the game music is loaded (S102). Specifically, a group of data shown in FIG. 4A is loaded. Among these, the original music data is directly transferred from the CD-ROM reader 24 to the SPU 20, and reproduction output is immediately started (S103). Other data is loaded into the RAM 26.

Next, the CPU 14 generates image data for step guidance as shown in FIG. 3, for example, based on the step data of the read game music data, and updates the step guidance by outputting it to the monitor 18 ( S104). At this time, the CPU 14 determines the correspondence between the step data and the original music data according to the timing table. As the step data and the timing table, those corresponding to the music selected in S101 and the difficulty selected in S100 are used.

Thereafter, a play evaluation process is performed (S105). FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining the play evaluation process. As shown in the figure, in this play evaluation process, it is first determined whether or not the current performance position belongs to the evaluation period based on the current performance position and 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. When 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 the evaluation period.

If the current performance position belongs to the evaluation period, the operation state of the controller 32 is acquired (S201), and the player's step is evaluated based on it (S202). That is, according to the step data, it is understood which of the direction button input areas 34L, 34U, 34D, and 34R is currently in the evaluation period. Therefore, here, it is determined whether or not the direction button input areas 34L, 34U, 34D, and 34R to be evaluated are actually stepped on, and how much the step timing differs from that defined in the step data. Find out. Then, the smaller the deviation is, the higher evaluation is given. For example, when the deviation is zero, the highest point, when the deviation is maximum, the zero point, and when only the wrong direction button input area 34 is stepped on or when nothing is stepped on, the dance gauge is reduced. . When a step related to a plurality of direction button input areas 34 is an evaluation target, the evaluation is performed in the same manner 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 the total score is obtained. This total result is displayed as a score 42 (S203). At this time, the display state of the dance gauge 50 is also updated. That is, when a high evaluation is obtained, the gauge bar is extended in the right direction. Conversely, when only a low evaluation is obtained, the gauge bar is contracted in the left direction. Further, the message 52 is displayed on the game screen 40 in accordance with the evaluation obtained in step S202. Furthermore, the step timing is stored in the RAM 26 as an evaluation history as to whether the step timing falls within a certain range of error, or is earlier or later than that defined in the step data.

Returning to FIG. 5, after that, the CPU 14 determines whether the game play satisfies the end condition (S106). 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 is finished. If the game play satisfies the end condition, a comprehensive evaluation of the entire play is performed based on the contents of the RAM 26, and this is displayed on the monitor 18 as a play result (S107). On the other hand, if the game play does not satisfy the end condition, the process returns to S104.

This game apparatus 10 can display the evaluation history of each step input by the controller 32 on the monitor 18 after play in the “normal mode”. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the evaluation history display screen. In the figure, the number indicated by the arrow 68 represents the number of measures of the game music that the player enjoyed the step. On the display screen of the evaluation history, by scrolling with the controller 32, all the timing guidance arrow marks 72, 74, 76, 78 based on the timing data can be displayed for each game music. The timing guide arrow mark displayed in the display row 70L corresponds to the timing guide arrow mark 44L in FIG. The timing guidance arrow mark displayed on the display row 70D corresponds to the timing guidance arrow mark 44D in FIG. The timing guide arrow mark displayed in the display row 70U corresponds to the timing guide arrow mark 44U in FIG. The timing guide arrow mark displayed on the display row 70R corresponds to the timing guide arrow mark 44R in FIG. Here, the timing guidance arrow marks 72, 74, 76, 78 are displayed in different modes. The timing guide arrow mark 72 is displayed in orange (black in FIG. 7), indicating that “JUST !!!!”, that is, the step timing deviation is within a predetermined range. The timing guide arrow mark 74 is displayed in blue (halftone dot in FIG. 7), indicating “EARLY”, that is, that the player's step timing is earlier than that defined in the timing data. The step timing guidance arrow mark 76 is displayed in pink (slashed in FIG. 7), indicating “LATE”, that is, that the player's step timing is later than that defined in the timing data. The step timing guide arrow mark 78 is displayed in red (white in FIG. 7), indicating “MISS...”, That is, the player should have stepped but not stepped. As described above, on the display screen of the evaluation history, the evaluation contents for the individual operations on the controller 32 are displayed in different modes (colors) depending on whether the timing is earlier or later than the original operation timing. For this reason, the player can clearly recognize whether his or her step timing is late or early by looking at this evaluation history, so that he / she can easily learn good steps. Here, the step timing guidance arrow marks 72, 74, 76, 78 are displayed in different colors depending on whether they are earlier or later than the original operation timing. You may make it display in distinction.

Here, the “lesson mode” which is a characteristic play mode of the game apparatus 10 will be described. 8 to 10 are diagrams showing examples of game screens displayed on the monitor 18 in the “lesson mode”. FIG. 8 shows a game screen at the start of the lesson. In the “lesson mode” game screen, a timing guide 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 guidance area, reference arrow marks 48L, 48D, 48U, and 48R are displayed in this order from the left as in the game screen shown in FIG. In the lower screen area, timing guidance arrow marks 44L, 44D, 44U, and 44R are displayed as in the game screen shown in FIG. The timing guide arrow marks 44L, 44D, 44U, and 44R are displayed based on the step data and timing table included in the game music data shown in FIG. The display procedure is the same as in 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 specifically take the steps guided on the left side of the screen, and a controller image 65 is displayed.

The controller image 65 imitates the controller 32. The direction button image 63L (step area image) corresponding to the direction button input area 34L, the direction button image 63U (step area image) corresponding to the direction button input area 34U, the direction A direction button image 63D (step area image) corresponding to the button input area 34D, a direction button image 63R (step area image) corresponding to the direction button input area 34R, and a center area image 63C corresponding to the center area 34C are included. Inside the central area image 63C, a left foot image 67L representing the left foot of the instructor, a right foot image 67R representing the right foot, and a head image 61 representing the head are superimposed and displayed. These images are generated by attaching a texture to a polygon. At the time of landing of the instructor shown in the figure, the left foot image 67L is colored opaque green, and the letter “L” is shown in the center. The right foot image 67R is colored in opaque orange, and the letter “R” is shown 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 are arranged such that the toes point upward on the screen at a landing position (frontward on the paper) that is slightly higher than the central region image 63C. . On the other hand, the head image 61 shows a human face viewed from above, and a translucent color attribute is given to emphasize the movement of both feet of the instructor. The head image 61 is arranged in a virtual three-dimensional space at a position higher than the left foot image 67L and the right foot image 67R so that the face faces upward. Since the viewpoint is set above the head of the instructor, the left foot image 67L and the right foot image 67R can be seen through from the head image 61. Note that 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 depends on the height of the left foot image 67L and the height of the right foot image 67R. The height of is set.

The message 69 sends a meaningful message to the player to the lesson. The skill of the step being performed by the player is evaluated based on an operation signal input from the controller 32, and the evaluation result is displayed in text. Characters for displaying the start or end of the lesson to the player are displayed. In the figure, a game screen at the start of a lesson is shown, and a message “Lesson Start!” Is displayed as a message 69.

Fig. 9 shows the instructor raising his right foot in "Lesson Mode". In FIG. 10 and FIG. 10, the head image 61 is not shown for simplicity. In FIG. 9, a timing guidance arrow mark 44U is displayed in the timing guidance area. The timing guide arrow mark 44U moves upward with time. Here, the timing guide arrow mark 44U is going to overlap the reference arrow mark 48U, and it is guided that the step timing is approaching. For this reason, in the lesson area shown on the right side of the figure, the state where the right foot of the instructor tries to step on the direction button image 63U is shown. In this case, the right foot image 67R is given a translucent attribute and is further enlarged. In this state, the right foot image 67R moves in the direction of the direction button image 63U. In this way, the instructor's right foot is lifted from the position of the center area image 63C, and is lowered again at the position of the direction button image 63U. Note that the right foot image 67R is close to the viewpoint direction (front side of the paper) with the foot raised, so it is enlarged even in normal three-dimensional image processing. However, in this game apparatus 10, the right foot of the instructor is certainly In order to deform the swinging up, the right foot image 67R is further enlarged and displayed. Although not shown in the figure, in the state shown in the figure, the head image 61 corresponds to the instructor's swinging up the right foot and stepping forward, with the face slightly facing to the left in the screen, The display will be slightly enlarged.

Fig. 10 shows how the instructor steps down his right foot forward in "Lesson Mode". The game screen shown in the figure is displayed on the monitor 18 immediately after the game screen shown in FIG. In the drawing, a right foot image 67R is superimposed and displayed on the direction button image 63U corresponding to the timing guide arrow mark 44U. In FIG. 9, the right foot image 67R is displayed in a translucent enlarged manner, whereas in the same figure, the right foot image 67R is again displayed in an opaque non-enlarged manner. Further, from the timing when the right foot image 67R is placed on the direction button image 63U, the luminance of the direction button image 63U is increased. 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. Is surely recognized by the player that the player has stepped on the direction button image 63. Thus, the player can easily grasp the steps by the instructor. In the game screen shown in FIG. 6, since the step actually performed on the controller 32 by the player is earlier than that defined in the step data, the message 69 is displayed as “a little faster”.

Here, the specific process of “Lesson Mode” will be explained based on the flow chart. FIG. 11 is a flowchart for explaining a portion related to the “lesson mode” in the processing of the game program stored in the CD-ROM 25. When the player selects the “lesson mode” with the controller 32 in a state where the main menu is displayed, the “lesson mode” game process is started. In this process, first, a difficulty level setting menu is displayed on the monitor 18 (S300). In “Lesson Mode”, there are three levels from Lesson 1 to Lesson 3. By playing in order from Lesson 1 to Lesson 3, you can enjoy songs of normal difficulty in “Normal Mode”. Steps are to improve. In this difficulty level setting menu, the player selects 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 are each composed of a plurality of sections. In S301, the player selects one of the sections by the controller 32. Each section has various personalities, such as practice for taking timing and practice for a form close to actual game play.

Thereafter, data related to game music is loaded in accordance with the setting contents in S300 and S301 (S302). Specifically, a group of data shown in FIG. 4B is loaded. Among these, the original music data is directly passed from the CD-ROM reader 24 to the SPU 20, and reproduction output is immediately started (S303). Other data is loaded into the RAM 26. Next, the CPU 14 generates image data for step guidance as shown in FIG. 3, for example, based on the step data of the read game music data, and updates the step guidance by outputting it to the monitor 18 ( S304).

Thereafter, lesson processing is performed (S305). FIG. 12 is a flowchart for explaining this lesson processing. As shown in the figure, in this lesson process, first, the foot position is calculated (S400). When the reproduction of the game music is started in S303, the CPU 14 can grasp the current performance position of the game music, and the positions and directions of the left foot image 67L and the right foot image 67R at the performance position are calculated. . This calculation is performed by interpolating the lesson data shown in FIG. That is, since the lesson data includes data for specifying the positions and directions of the left foot image 67L and the right foot image 67R at the main performance positions, the left foot image 67L and the right foot image at any performance position are interpolated by interpolating this data. The position and direction of 67R are calculated.

Next, the enlargement ratio of the left foot image 67L and the right foot image 67R is determined (S401). Specifically, the enlargement ratio corresponding to the height from the central region image 63C of the left foot image 67L and the right foot image 67R calculated in S400 is determined. Thereafter, the colors of the left foot image 67L and the right foot image 67R are determined (S402). Specifically, the transparency corresponding to the height from the central region image 63C of the left foot image 67L and the right foot image 67R calculated in S400 is determined. 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, as the foot is raised higher, the transparency of the left foot image 67L and the right foot image 67R increases.

Next, the head position is calculated (S403). This calculation is performed based on the positions and directions of the left foot image 67L and the right foot image 67R calculated in S400. 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 height of the original head image 61 (at the time of landing on both feet). Is calculated. Further, the plane position of the head image 61 (the position in the plane parallel to the central region image 63C) is set to the midpoint of the center of gravity of the left foot image 67L and the right foot image 67R. Furthermore, 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.

Furthermore, the enlargement ratio of the head image 61 is determined (S404). Specifically, for example, the transparency corresponding to the height from the central region image 63C of the left foot image 67L and the right foot image 67R (for example, proportional to the average of these heights) is set. 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. Further, the color of the controller image 65 is determined (S405). That is, in this game apparatus 10, when the instructor lowers his / her foot, the brightness of the direction button image 63 at that position increases. For this reason, in S405, it is determined whether the position of the left foot image 67L and the right foot image 67R calculated in S400 is close to any of the direction button images 63. If they are close, the brightness of the direction button image 63 is determined. Raise. This luminance information is given as a texture display attribute used for the direction button image 63. Thereafter, based on the values calculated in S400 to S404, 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 (S406).

Then, returning to FIG. 11, a play evaluation process is performed (S306). This play evaluation process is the same as the process shown in FIG. Here, in particular, in S202, it is evaluated whether the player's step timing is within a certain range of error, earlier or later, compared to what is defined in the step data, and in S203 A message 69 is displayed on the game screen according to the evaluation result. By doing so, the player can grasp whether his step is delayed or early from the original step timing while viewing the message 69, and can learn the steps more efficiently.

Thereafter, the CPU 14 determines whether the game play satisfies the end 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 is finished. If the game play satisfies 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 end condition, the process returns to S304.

According to the game apparatus 10 described above, since the steps can be taught to the player by computer graphics in the “lesson mode”, it is relatively easy even for a player who is new to this kind of music game. You will be able to learn how to play. In the lesson area on the game screen of “Lesson Mode”, when the instructor steps down and the left foot image 67L and the right foot image 67R are placed on the direction button image 63, the left foot image 67L and the right foot image 67R are halved. 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 the timing, the player can clearly recognize the instructor's footsteps. In addition, since the left foot image 67L and the right foot image 67R are displayed in an enlarged and translucent manner during the course of walking, it can be suitably produced that the foot is in the middle of walking.

Note that the present invention is not limited to the embodiment described above.

For example, the above description is about an example in which the present invention is implemented using the home-use game machine 11, but the present invention can be similarly applied to an arcade game device. In this case, it is desirable to use a faster 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 game data is used in the consumer game machine 11, but an information storage medium storing the game program and game data such as a personal computer is read, Any computer capable of information processing based on the read contents can be used.

Further, in the above description, the present invention is applied to the game apparatus 10 that can enjoy the feeling of dancing, but a drum game apparatus that enjoys tapping a controller imitating a drum pad with a drumstick, and a piano keyboard 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 device that hits the controller. In this case, a controller image is displayed, and an operation element image representing elements for operating the controller such as fingers, palms, and feet is displayed. Then, the operation element image is moved so that the operation element operates the controller. At this time, the display mode of the operation element image and the controller image is changed before and after the operation on the controller. By doing so, it is possible to impress the player that the controller has been operated, and it is possible to suitably provide operation guidance. In this case, operation guidance can be more suitably performed by displaying an image representing a part of the controller in a different manner before and after the operation like the direction button image 63 described above.

Further, in the above description, the evaluation history is presented to the player in the game apparatus 10 that can enjoy the feeling of dancing. However, in all types of games, is the operation timing earlier or later than the original operation timing? It can be evaluated for each operation whether it is within a predetermined range or the history can be presented to the player. In this way, the player can easily learn the operation of the controller.

Furthermore, in the above description, the game program and game data are supplied from the CD-ROM 25, which is an information storage medium, to the home game machine 11, but the game program and game data are distributed to the home or the like via a communication network. You can also. 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 54, a server 56, a communication network 60, a personal computer 62, a consumer game machine 64, and a PDA (personal digital assistant) 66. Among these, 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, the game database 54 stores game programs and game data similar to those stored in the CD-ROM 25. Then, when a consumer makes a game distribution request using the personal computer 62, the home game machine 64, the PDA 66, or the like, it is transmitted to the server 56 via the communication network 60. Then, the server 56 reads out the game program and game data from the game database 54 in response to the game distribution request, and transmits it to the game distribution request source such as the personal computer 62, the home game machine 64 or the PDA 66. Here, the game delivery is performed in response to the game delivery request, but the server 56 may send the game unilaterally. Moreover, it is not always necessary to distribute all the game programs and game data necessary for realizing the game at a time, and a necessary portion may be distributed according to the game situation. If the game is distributed via the communication network 60 in this way, the consumer can easily obtain the game program and game data for playing the music game.

It is a figure which shows the structure of the game device which concerns on one embodiment of this invention. It is a general-view figure which shows an example of a controller. It is a figure which shows an example of a game screen. It is a figure which shows the structure of game music data. It is a flowchart explaining operation | movement in "normal mode" of the game device which concerns on one embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart explaining play evaluation processing. It is a figure which shows an example of the display screen of play evaluation history. It is a figure which shows an example of the game screen of "lesson mode." It is a figure which shows an example of the game screen of "lesson mode." It is a figure which shows an example of the game screen of "lesson mode." It is a flowchart explaining the operation | movement in "lesson mode" of the game device which concerns on one embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart explaining a lesson process. It is a figure which shows the whole structure of the game program delivery system which concerns on other embodiment of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

10 game devices, 11, 64 consoles, 12 buses, 14 CPUs, 16 graphics processing units, 18 monitors, 20 sound processing units, 22 speakers, 24 CD-ROM readers, 25 CD-ROMs, 26 RAMs, 28 ROM, 30 I / O controller, 32 controller, 33 memory card, 34L, 34U, 34D, 34R direction button input area, 34C central area, 36A start button input area, 38A round button input area, 38B cross button input area, 40 Game screen, 42 Score, 44D, 44R, 44L, 44U, 72, 74, 76, 78 Timing guidance arrow mark, 46 Background image, 48D, 48R, 48L, 48U Standard arrow mark, 50 Dan Gauge, 52, 69 message, 53 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 center Area image, 65 controller image, 66 PDA, 67L left foot image, 67R right foot image, 68 bars, 70L, 70D, 70U, 70R display columns.

Claims (1)

A database storing game programs for causing a computer to function as a game device that enjoys steps according to game music, and a server,
The database includes
Means for storing lesson data including data for specifying the positions and directions of the left foot and the right foot at the main performance positions in the game music, for showing an example of the game music step method to the player ,
A left foot image and a right foot image, which are images when the left foot and the right foot are viewed from above according to respective heights from the landing positions of the left foot and the right foot acquired based on the lesson data, Means for determining the magnification and transparency of each of the
Foot image display means for displaying the left foot image and the right foot image in a manner based on the magnification and transparency of the left foot image and the right foot image to be determined;
Means for determining the position and direction of the head image based on the position and direction of the left foot image and the right foot image acquired based on the lesson data;
Means for determining an enlargement ratio of a head image representing the head according to a height from a landing position of the left foot and the right foot acquired based on the lesson data; and
Means for displaying the head image in a manner based on the position and direction of the head image to be determined and an enlargement ratio;
A program for causing the computer to function as is stored as at least a part of the game program,
The server reads the game program from the database in response to a game distribution request, and distributes the game program via a communication network.
A program distribution apparatus characterized by the above.

Images