JP2005245927A - Game system and game program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game system and a game program which can eliminate tediousness, and increase the amusement of the game since an individual game can be played during a waiting time, and also, by which the individual game and a turn-based game can be enjoyed as one game since the individual capacity value of the individual game can be reflected in the turn-based game. <P>SOLUTION: The game system 10 includes an installation type game device 12, and a plurality of portable type game devices 14 are connected with the game device 12, and at the same time, a monitor 16 is connected with the game device 12. In the game device 12, the turn-based game is performed, and its game screen is displayed on the monitor 16. In the meantime, a player who is waiting for his turn for playing the turn-based game plays the individual game by using the game device 14, and its game screen is displayed on an LCD (liquid crystal display) 20b. The game device 12 acquires the individual game result, i.e., the individual capacity value from all the game devices 14 every time when a turn is completed. Then, the turn-based game is advanced based on the acquired individual capability value and an operation input by the player. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a game system and a game program, and in particular, to a game system and a game program that execute a turn-based game that is played when each of a predetermined number of players makes their turn.

  Conventionally, there are games in which a plurality of players gather and play in turn (in order), for example, party games and strategy simulation games are well known. An example of a party game is disclosed in Non-Patent Document 1, and in this party game (“Mario Party 2” (registered trademark)), four players roll dice in turn, and each player is a player character operated by the player. Can be moved on the map by the number of exited eyes. When all the player characters move on the map, a mini game in which all the player characters participate is performed accordingly.

  An example of a strategy simulation game is disclosed in Non-Patent Document 2. This strategy simulation game (“NES Wars” (registered trademark)) is a game that can be selected as a game for two players and is played in a human-to-human, human-to-computer, or computer-to-computer form. is there. In this game, two players make an attack and a strategy every turn and input a desired command to progress the game.

Furthermore, the battle-type card game executed by the game device disclosed in Patent Document 1 is a game for competing for winning or losing by alternately putting cards selected from the hand into play. In this game apparatus, the neutral screen is displayed when the player changes. While the neutral screen is displayed, consideration is given to the ability to play the card game (turn-based game) without changing the hands of each other by changing the player.
“Nintendo Official Guide Book Mario Party 2” Shogakukan Co., Ltd. January 10, 2000 First edition first print issued P6-P11 “Successful Strategy Famicom Wars” Futabasha Co., Ltd. September 12, 1988 First edition issued P6-P9, P19 JP 2003-260262 A

  However, in the party game described in Non-Patent Document 1, for example, while a player rolls a dice and moves the player character of the player on the map, the other players do nothing and do their turn. Had to wait. Further, when an event of a personal game such as a chance game occurs for a certain player, the other players are further kept waiting.

  Further, in the strategy simulation game published in Non-Patent Document 2, when playing with a person versus a person, the other player waits during the turn of one player. Therefore, the longer the time spent thinking during the turn, the longer the other player is forced to wait.

  Furthermore, in the game device disclosed in Patent Document 1, a neutral screen is displayed so as to prevent other players from knowing the inside of their own hands. While one player is thinking about a strategy, The other player was kept waiting.

  As described above, in a conventional turn-based game, when a certain player is in a game turn, another player is forced to wait until his turn. For this reason, there is a risk that the turn-based game may be painful or the turn-based game may be disliked.

  Therefore, a main object of the present invention is to provide a novel game system and game program.

  Another object of the present invention is to provide a game system and a game program that can improve the game's preference without being bored even during the turn of another player.

  Another object of the present invention is to provide a game system and a game program that can reflect the result of a personal game played during the turn of another player in a turn-based game.

  The invention according to claim 1 is a game system for executing a turn-based game that is played when each of a predetermined number of players turns their turn. The game system includes first display means, second display means, operation means, turn switching notification means, personal game progress means, personal ability value storage means, all individual ability value storage means, turn-based game progression means, and ability value. An acquisition means is provided. The first display means displays the first game screen of the turn-based game. The second display means is provided separately from the first display means, and displays a second game screen of a personal game played by each of a predetermined number of players. The operation means performs an operation input by the player. The turn switching notification means notifies the next player of the turn of the turn-based game and switches the turn if the turn end condition is met while the turn-based game is progressing based on a predetermined operation by a certain player. The personal game progression means advances the personal game in response to an operation input from the player until the next turn is notified after the turn of the turn-based game is completed. The personal ability value storage means stores the ability value of the player that is increased or decreased according to the play result of the personal game. The all personal ability value storage means is provided separately from the individual ability value storage means and stores the ability values of all the players. The turn-based game advancing means, when the turn is switched by the turn switching notification means, all the player ability values stored in the all personal ability value storage means and the turn set to play the turn-based game from the player set. The turn-based game proceeds according to the operation input. Then, the ability value acquisition means acquires the ability value of each player stored in the individual ability value storage means when the turn is switched by the turn switching notification means, and overwrites the entire ability value storage means.

  In the first aspect of the present invention, the game system (10: reference numeral in the embodiment; the same applies hereinafter) executes a turn-based game that is played when each of a predetermined number of players turns around. In this game system (10), the first display means (16, 112) displays the first game screen of the turn-based game. The second display means (20b, 114) is provided separately from the first display means (16, 112), and displays a second game screen of a personal game played by each of a predetermined number of players. The operation means (20a, 120) performs an operation input by the player. When the turn switching notification means (12a, 142, S15, S21, S77, S89) meets a turn end condition when a turn-based game is progressing based on a predetermined operation by a certain player (in S13 or S75, “ YES ”), notifies the next player of the turn of the turn-based game and switches the turn. The personal game progression means (20c, 142, S37) advances the personal game according to the operation input from the player until the next turn is announced after the turn of the turn-based game is finished. That is, a personal game can be played during the turn-based game waiting time. The personal ability value storage means (20d, 148) stores the ability value of the player that is increased or decreased according to the play result of the personal game. The all personal ability value storage means (12b, 148) is provided separately from the individual ability value storage means (20d, 148), and stores the ability values of all players. When the turn is switched by the turn switching notification means (12a, 142, S15, S21, S77, S89), the turn-based game progress means (12a, 142, S9, S71) The turn-based game proceeds according to the ability values of all the players stored in 148) and the operation input from the player set with the turn for playing the turn-based game. The ability value acquisition means (12a, 148, S17, S19, S79, S81) is a personal ability value storage means when the turn is switched by the turn switching notification means (12a, 142, S15, S21, S77, S89). The ability value of each player stored in (20d, 148) is acquired and overwritten in all ability value storage means (12b, 148).

  According to the invention of claim 1, since the personal game can be played during the waiting time of the turn-based game, the boredom can be eliminated and the preference of the turn-based game can be improved. Further, since the play result of the personal game, that is, the personal ability value is reflected in the common game, the relationship between the turn-based game and the personal game can be strengthened and enjoyed as one game.

  The invention of claim 2 is dependent on claim 1, and the game system further includes a participation number detecting means, a computer player setting means, a personal game play time calculating means, a personal game play time storage means, and a personal game play time setting means. Prepare. The participation number detecting means detects the number of players participating in the turn-based game. The computer player setting means sets an insufficient player as a computer player when the number of players detected by the participant number detection means is less than a predetermined number. When the computer player set by the computer player setting means plays the turn-based game, the personal game play time calculating means stores the personal game play time in which the player other than the computer player plays the personal game in the personal ability value storage means. Calculation is based on the stored ability value. The personal game play time storage means stores the personal game play time calculated by the personal game play time calculation means for each player. The personal game play time setting means sets the personal game play time stored in the personal game play time storage means when the computer player plays a turn-based game. When the computer player plays the turn-based game, the turn switching notification means notifies the next player of the turn of the turn-based game when the personal game play time set by the personal game play time setting means has elapsed. .

  In the invention of claim 2, the participation number detecting means (12a, 142, S51) detects the number of players participating in the turn-based game. The computer player setting means (12a, 142, S51) sets an insufficient player as a computer player when the number of players detected by the participant number detection means (12a, 142, S51) is less than a predetermined number. When the computer player set by the computer player setting means (12a, 142, S51) plays a turn-based game, the personal game play time calculation means (20d, 142, S121) allows a player other than the computer player to play the personal game. Is calculated based on the ability value stored in the individual ability value storage means (20d, 148). The personal game play time storage means (20d, 148) stores the individual game play time calculated by the personal game play time calculation means (20c, 142, S121) for each player. The personal game play time setting means (12a, 142) sets the personal game play time stored in the personal game play time storage means (20d, 148) when the computer player plays a turn-based game. The turn switching notification means (12a, 142, S15, S21, S77, S89), when the computer player plays a turn-based game, the personal game play set by the personal game play time setting means (12a, 142). When the time has elapsed, the next player is notified of the turn-based game turn.

  According to the invention of claim 2, since the time for the computer player to play the turn-based game, that is, the personal game play time is set, even when the computer player participates, You can enjoy turn-based games and personal games.

  The invention of claim 3 is dependent on claim 2, and further comprises personal ability value updating means for updating the ability value of each player stored in the personal ability value storage means while the computer player plays the turn-based game.

  In the invention of claim 3, the individual ability value updating means (20c, 142, S119) is the ability of each player stored in the individual ability value storage means (20d, 148) while the computer player plays the turn-based game. Update the value. That is, the ability value of the personal game can be updated.

  According to the invention of claim 3, since the ability value of the personal game can be updated while the computer player plays the turn-based game, the player can enjoy the turn-based game in the same manner as when the player plays the turn-based game. Can do.

  The invention of claim 4 is a game program of a game system for executing a turn-based game that is played when each of a predetermined number of players turns around. The game system is provided separately from first display means and first display means for displaying a first screen of a turn-based game, and displays a second game screen of a personal game played by each of a predetermined number of players. 2 display means, operation means for performing operation input by the player, and storage means. This game program causes a computer of the game system to execute a turn switching notification step, a personal game progress step, a personal ability value storage step, an all personal ability value storage step, a turn-based game progress step, and an ability value acquisition step. The turn switching notification step notifies the next player of the turn of the turn-based game and switches the turn when the turn end condition is met while the turn-based game is progressing based on a predetermined operation by a certain player. In the personal game progress step, the personal game is advanced in accordance with the operation input from the player until the next turn is notified after the turn of the turn-based game is finished. In the personal ability value storage step, the ability value of the player that is increased or decreased according to the play result of the personal game is stored in the storage means. The all personal ability storage step stores the ability values of all players in a different area from the ability value stored by the individual ability value storage step. The turn-based game progress step is performed when the turn is changed by the turn change notification step, and the ability values of all the players stored in the all personal ability value storage step and the turn from which the turn for playing the turn-based game is set. The turn-based game proceeds according to the operation input. Then, the ability value acquisition step acquires the ability value of each player stored by the individual ability value storage step when the turn is switched by the turn switching notification step, and overwrites the storage means.

  Similarly to the invention of claim 1, the invention of claim 4 can eliminate the boredom in the waiting time of the turn-based game, and can improve the preference of the turn-based game. In addition, the relationship between the turn-based game and the personal game can be strengthened and enjoyed as one game.

  According to the present invention, since it is possible to enjoy a personal game during the turn of another player, the boredom of waiting time can be eliminated, and the game's preference can be improved. Moreover, since the result of the personal game played in the waiting time can be reflected in the common game, the personal game and the common game can be enjoyed as one game.

  The above object, other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of embodiments with reference to the drawings.

<First embodiment>
Referring to FIG. 1, a game system 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a stationary game apparatus 12, and the stationary game apparatus 12 includes a plurality of (in this first embodiment, four) portable devices. The game device 14 is connected using a connection cable 22. As this portable game device 14, a portable game device such as Game Boy Advance (trade name) manufactured and sold by the applicant can be applied. Further, a CRT monitor (typically a television monitor) 16 is connected to the stationary game apparatus 12. Further, in the stationary game apparatus 12, a storage medium (disk) 18 storing a game program and data (see FIG. 4) for executing a virtual game is mounted on a disk drive unit 12f (see FIG. 2) described later. .

  The portable game apparatus 14 includes a housing 20, and an operation switch 20 a is provided on the surface of the housing 20, and a color liquid crystal display (hereinafter simply referred to as “LCD”) 20 b is provided. The operation switch 20a includes, for example, one cross key and six push buttons. The cross key functions as a digital joystick, and operates one of the four pressing portions to instruct the moving direction of the game character displayed on the CRT monitor (hereinafter simply referred to as “monitor”) 16 or the LCD 20b. Or move the cursor.

  The push buttons include, for example, a start button, select button, A button, B button, L button, and R button. The start button is used for instructing the start of the game. The select button is used for selecting a game mode. The A button is used for causing the game character (player character) displayed on the monitor 16 or the LCD 20b to perform arbitrary actions such as hitting, shooting, throwing, grabbing, jumping, jumping, sword cutting, and talking. . The B button is used for changing the game mode selected by the select button, canceling the action determined by the A button, or the like. The L button and the R button can be used for the same operation as the A button and the B button, and can also be used for auxiliary operations of the A button and the B button.

  The electrical configuration of the game system 10 is shown as in FIG. Referring to FIG. 2, stationary game apparatus 12 includes a CPU 12a, and CPU 12a is connected to RAM 12b and image processing unit 12c via an internal bus. The RAM 12b functions as a buffer memory or a work memory, and temporarily stores programs and data to be processed by the CPU 12a. Based on an instruction from the CPU 12a, the image processing unit 12c processes the image data stored in the RAM 12b to generate game image data and message image data. The generated game image data and message image data are output to the monitor 16 via the video coder 12d.

  Although illustration is omitted, the stationary game apparatus 12 is further provided with a sound unit, and the sound unit is connected to the CPU 12a via an internal bus. The sound unit reads out music data from the RAM 12b based on an instruction from the CPU 12a, and outputs the music data to a speaker (for example, a speaker provided in a television monitor). Therefore, sounds necessary for the game, such as game music (BGM), sound effects, game character sounds or onomatopoeia sounds, are output from the speakers.

  An interface (I / O) 12e is connected to the CPU 12a and the RAM 12b. A disk drive unit 12f is connected to the interface 12e. As described above, the disk 18 is loaded in the disk drive unit 12f, and the game program and data stored in the disk 18 are read by the disk drive unit 12f based on instructions from the CPU 12a and transferred (stored) to the RAM 12b. Is done. Further, game data (intermediate data and result data) generated in accordance with the progress of the game (a common game to be described later) is updated on the RAM 12b, and further externally stored according to a predetermined event or according to a player or user operation. The data is saved (saved) in a medium (for example, a memory card) 24.

  Further, the portable game device 14 is connected to the CPU 12a via the interface 12a, the connection cable 22, and the like. The portable game device 14 has a CPU 20c built therein. The CPU 20c is connected to the RAM 20d via the internal bus and to the image processing unit 20e. The RAM 20d functions as a buffer memory or a work memory, temporarily stores a game program and data (see FIG. 5) transmitted from the stationary game apparatus 12, and plays a game (a personal to be described later) executed on the portable game apparatus 14. Game data (intermediate data and result data) generated as the game progresses is temporarily stored. The image processing unit 20e generates game image data and message image data based on the image data temporarily stored in the RAM 20d based on an instruction from the CPU 20c. The generated game image data and message image data are output to the LCD 20b by the LCD driver 20g. Therefore, a game image and a message image are displayed on the LCD 20b.

  Although illustration is omitted, the portable game apparatus 14 is further provided with a sound unit and a speaker, and the sound unit is connected to the CPU 20c via an internal bus. The sound unit reads music data from the RAM 20d based on an instruction from the CPU 20c and outputs the music data to the speaker. Therefore, sounds necessary for the game, such as game music (BGM), sound effects, game character sounds or onomatopoeia sounds, are output from the speakers.

  The CPU 20c is connected to the operation switch 20a described above via the interface 20h. Therefore, the CPU 20c receives operation information (operation data) input from the operation switch 20a and temporarily stores it in the RAM 20d. Then, the CPU 20c executes (progresses) the game process of the personal game according to the operation data temporarily stored in the RAM 20d, or transmits the operation data temporarily stored in the RAM 20d to the stationary game apparatus 12. That is, the portable game device 14 not only functions as a game device, but also functions as an input device for the stationary game device 12.

  In the game system 10 having such a configuration, a game (a common game or a turn system) that is played by each of a plurality of players (2 to 4 players in this embodiment) when their turn (turn) turns. A game (individual game) that is individually played while waiting for the turn of the game) and the common game is executed. The game process of the common game is executed by the stationary game apparatus 12, and the game screen of the common game (hereinafter referred to as “common game screen”) is displayed on the monitor 16 (see FIG. 3). On the other hand, the game process of the personal game is executed in each portable game device 14 used by the player, and the game screen of the personal game (hereinafter referred to as “personal game screen”) is displayed on the LCD 20b of the portable game device 14. Is displayed (see FIG. 3). However, as described above, the portable game device 14 is used as an input device of the stationary game device 12 when playing a common game.

  That is, the player can play the common game and play the personal game while waiting for the turn of the common game. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the first player (1P) waiting for the turn of the common game can selectively play a personal game such as a weight lifting game, a shooting game, or a slot game. FIG. 3 shows an example of a personal game screen displayed on the LCD 20b of the portable game device 14. The personal game play result, that is, the ability value (individual ability value) is acquired by the stationary game apparatus 12 every time the common game turn ends (1), and is reflected in the 1P individual ability value in the common game. . Although illustration is omitted, the second player (2P), the third player (3P), and the fourth player (4P) can also play a personal game while waiting for a common game, like 1P. Each time the turn ends, the personal ability value is acquired by the stationary game apparatus 12.

  In the common game, for example, the game is progressed by attacking other players, forming alliances with other players, trading with other players, defending other players' attacks, Eventually, the player who has the maximum individual ability value (level and financial strength) in the common game or the player who has achieved the final goal first wins.

  FIG. 3 also shows an example of a common game screen displayed on the monitor 16. As shown in this common game screen, when playing a common game, each player can select “attack”, “alliance”, “trade”, “defense” commands in their turn, Develop that strategy. The personal ability value in the common game corresponds to these commands. In other words, the individual ability value in the common game is the attack power (level and HP), the power to tie up alliances or negotiation power (level), the power to trade or negotiation power or power (level and financial power), and the defense power (level and life). These parameters.

  Each parameter reflects the individual ability value in the individual game (2). For example, the HP or level acquired in the weight lifting game is reflected in the defense power (level or life) of the common game. Further, the attack power or level acquired in the shooting game is reflected in the attack power (level or HP) of the common game. Further, the financial power or level in the slot game is reflected in the trading power (finance power or level) in the common game.

  As a matter of course, the personal ability value in the common game also changes according to the progress of the common game. That is, the individual ability value of each player (player character) in the common game is changed not only by the progress of the common game but also by the play result of the individual game.

  Further, the weight lifting game, the shooting game, and the slot game are merely examples, and need not be limited to these, and another personal game may be prepared.

  Furthermore, in this embodiment, the play result of the personal game is reflected in any one parameter of the personal ability value in the common game, but may be reflected in two or more parameters. .

  As described above, the reason why the personal game can be played during the waiting time of the common game is to eliminate the boredom of the waiting time. In addition, the result of the personal game is reflected in the content of the common game because the play time of the common game is relatively increased by increasing the personal ability value as the play time of the personal game becomes longer. This is to make the player who waits for the common game order more advantageous than the long player in the common game. However, when the personal ability value in the personal game is reduced, a player who waits for the order of the common game may be disadvantaged in the common game. In this way, the relevance between the common game and the personal game can be strengthened, and the fun as one game can be increased.

  FIG. 4 shows a memory map of the RAM 12 d provided in the stationary game apparatus 12. Referring to FIG. 4, RAM 12 d includes a program storage area 30 and a data storage area 32. The program storage area 30 stores a game program for the common game. The game program of this common game includes a player number detection program 30a, an individual play game download program 30b, a common game progress program 30c, a turn switching determination program 30d, a turn notification program, an operation input acquisition program 30f, an individual ability value acquisition program 30g, and The personal ability value update program 30h is used.

  The number-of-players detection program 30a is a program that detects the number of players (participants) who play a common game. For example, the number of players is detected according to the number of portable game devices 14 connected to the stationary game device 12. The personal game download program 30 b is a program for downloading personal game data (download data 32 e described later) to the portable game device 14 connected to the stationary game device 12.

  The common game progress program 30c is a program for progressing the common game, and progresses the common game according to the player's operation input (operation data), generates a predetermined event, and further displays the common game screen. Or update. The turn switching determination program 30e determines whether or not the turn end condition is satisfied for the player who is currently playing the common game or the player character operated by the player, and switches the player of the common game when the turn end condition is satisfied. It is a program for. Here, the turn end condition differs depending on the type of common game. For example, in a party game such as Sugoroku game, a certain player rolls a dice, moves on the map by the number corresponding to the outcome, and finishes the processing for the event set at the stop square (position) The end of the turn. In the strategy simulation game, a turn ends when a certain player sets a predetermined number of desired commands and completes processing corresponding to the commands.

  The turn notification program 30e determines that the turn (turn) of the common game has come to the next player who should play the common game when the turn change determination program 30d determines the turn change (turn end). This is a program for notifying the player. For example, a turn notification command or data (for example, message data) is transmitted to the portable game device 14 used by the player. The operation input acquisition program 30f is a program for acquiring the operation input of the player. Specifically, the operation input acquisition program 30f acquires operation data from the portable game device 14 used by the player of the current turn in the common game, which will be described later. As described above, it is stored (temporarily stored) in the data storage area 32.

  The personal ability value acquisition program 30g is a program for acquiring the individual ability values of all players. In the first embodiment, each time the turn-type game device 12 ends, the stationary game device 12 plays a personal game result from all the portable game devices 14 connected to it, that is, a personal ability value (personal ability value data described later). 42b) is acquired (collected). The personal ability value update program 30h is a program for updating the individual ability values of all players. Specifically, the individual ability values (individual ability value data 42b) for the individual games of all players collected according to the individual ability value acquisition program 30g are overwritten on the individual ability value data 32d for all players described later, The individual ability values of all players in the common game are updated.

  Although not shown, the program storage area 30 also stores programs such as an image generation program, an image display program, a sound control program, and a backup program. The image generation program uses image data (not shown) stored in the data storage area 32 to use a game image, that is, a map (background) image of a common game, a player character or a non-player character appearing in the common game. This is a program for generating an image, an image of an item character, and the like. The image display program is a program for displaying the game image generated by the image generation program on the monitor 16. The sound control program is a program for controlling the output of sound necessary for the game using sound data (not shown) stored in the data storage area 32. The backup program is a program for storing (saving) game data, which is sequentially updated as the game progresses, in the memory card 24 according to a predetermined event or according to the operation of the player.

  The data storage area 32 stores data such as player management data 32a, turn management data 32b, operation data 32c, personal ability value data 32d, and download data 32e.

  The player management data 32a is data for managing players. Specifically, it is data in which the identification information of the portable game device 14 connected to the stationary game device 12 and the order in which the common game is played are assigned to the identification information. For example, the identification information is a unique number assigned in advance for each portable game device 14 or a unique number assigned to each portable game device 14 by the stationary game device 12 prior to the start of the common game. .

  The turn management data 32b is data for managing the order of playing the common game. Specifically, the turn management data 32b includes a register having a number of bits (4 bits) corresponding to the maximum number of players (for example, 4 players) of the common game. Then, the data value of the bit corresponding to the player who should play the common game is set to “1”, and the data value of the bit corresponding to another player, that is, the player waiting for the common game is set to “0”. In the first embodiment, the most significant bit corresponds to the first player (1P), the next bit corresponds to the second player (2P), and the next bit corresponds to the third player (3P). Correspondingly, the least significant bit corresponds to the fourth player (4P). Therefore, for example, when the player who should play the common game is 2P, the turn management data 32b, that is, the data value of the register is “0100”. The turn management data 32b is updated according to the above-described turn switching determination program 30d, and the above-described turn notification program 30e notifies the player who should play the common game according to the turn management data 32b.

  The operation data 32c is operation information (operation data) obtained by the player according to the operation input recording program 30f described above, that is, operation data input from the portable game device 14 operated by the player of the current turn in the common game. When the common game is processed based on the operation data, it is deleted.

  The personal ability value data 32d is personal ability value data for all players who play the common game. As described above, the personal ability value data 32d is collected from the portable game device 14 used by each player in accordance with the personal ability value acquisition program 30g, and is updated in accordance with the personal ability value update program 30h.

  The download data 32e is data downloaded to the portable game device 14 used by each player. Specifically, a game program and various data (see FIG. 5) for executing a personal game on the portable game device 14.

  Although not shown, the data storage area 32 stores personal ability value data of each player (player character) in the common game, the above-described image data, sound data, and game data, and flag data necessary for the game. Is also remembered.

  FIG. 5 shows a memory map of the RAM 20 d provided in the portable game apparatus 14. Referring to FIG. 5, RAM 20 d includes a program storage area 40 and a data storage area 42. The program storage area 40 stores a game program for an individual game. This game program includes an individual game progress program 40a, an individual ability value update program 40b, a turn notification interrupt processing program 40c, and the like.

  The personal game progress program 40a is a program for progressing the personal game, and progresses the personal game in response to the player's operation input (operation data 42a described later), generates a predetermined event, Update the personal game screen. The personal ability value update program 40b is a program for updating personal ability value data 42b described later in accordance with the progress of the personal game. When there is a turn notification from the stationary game apparatus 12, the turn notification interrupt processing program 40c is a program for interrupting the personal game and executing operation data transmission processing for the common game.

  Although illustration is omitted, the program storage area 40 also stores an image generation program, an image display program, a sound control program, and the like. The image generation program is a program for generating an image of a personal game map (background), an image of a player character or a non-player character, an image of an item character, and the like. The image display program is a program for displaying an image generated by the image generation program on the LCD 20b. The sound control program is a program for controlling the output of sound necessary for the personal game.

  Further, such a game program is included in the download data 32e described above, and is loaded from the stationary game apparatus 12 into the RAM 20d all at once or partially and sequentially.

  The data storage area 42 stores data such as operation data 42a, personal ability value data 42b, and various data 42c. The operation data 42a is operation data corresponding to the operation switch 20a operated by the player. The operation data 42a is used for game processing of the individual game during the play of the individual game, and is transmitted to the stationary game apparatus 12 during the play of the common game.

  The personal ability value data 42b is data on a personal ability value acquired by playing a personal game. The personal ability value is a parameter such as a player character level (experience value), attack power (HP), life (physical strength), or possession money (finance). The various data 42c is data necessary for processing a personal game such as image data and sound data, and the various data 42c is loaded from the stationary game apparatus 12.

  Although illustration is omitted, the data storage area 42c also stores flag data and the like necessary for the progress of the personal game.

  When the game system 10 starts a turn-based game (common game) such as a party game or a strategy simulation, the CPU 12a of the stationary game apparatus 12 executes the entire process (see FIG. 6) for the common game. In parallel, the CPU 20c of each portable game device 14 executes the entire process (see FIG. 7) for the personal game.

  Referring to FIG. 6, when stationary game apparatus 12a starts the entire process for the common game, initial setting is performed in step S1. For example, the number of participants (the number of players) is detected, and the download data 32e is downloaded to the portable game device 14. However, when the common game is started from the previous continuation, the game data stored in the memory card 24 is loaded. When the common game is started from the beginning, the turn management data 32b, operation data 32c, personal ability value data 32d, and flag data in the data storage area 32 are initialized.

  In the subsequent step S3, the player of the next turn is specified. Specifically, the player corresponding to the bit whose data value is set to “1” is identified with reference to the turn management data 32b. However, at the start of the common game, the data value of the most significant bit is set to “1” and 1P is specified.

  In the next step S5, a turn is notified to the player specified in step S3. That is, the portable game device 14 used by the identified player is identified with reference to the player management data 32a, and the identified portable game device 14 is notified of a turn. Subsequently, operation data is acquired in step S7, and common game processing is executed in step S9. That is, operation data transmitted (input) from the portable game device 14 is acquired, and the common game is advanced according to the operation data. For example, the common game screen is updated, the personal ability value for the player (player character) of the common game is updated, or a process according to a predetermined event is executed to advance the common game, and as necessary Back up your game data.

  In step S11, it is determined whether or not the game is over. That is, it is determined whether or not the game is over or the game end is instructed by the operation of the player. Here, if “YES”, that is, if the game is ended, the entire process for the common game is ended as it is. However, if “NO”, that is, if the game is not ended, it is determined whether or not a turn end condition is satisfied in step S13.

  If “NO” in the step S13, that is, if the turn end condition is not satisfied, the process returns to the step S7 as it is. On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S13, that is, if the turn end condition is satisfied, the portable game device 14 is notified of the end of the turn in a step S15. For example, a turn end command or data (message data) is transmitted. In subsequent step S17, the individual ability values of all the players are acquired. That is, the personal ability value transmission request is transmitted to all the portable game apparatuses 14, and the transmitted individual ability value data 42 b is acquired accordingly.

  In step S19, the personal ability value data 32d stored in the data storage area 32 is updated in accordance with the acquired individual ability value data 42b of all players. That is, the personal ability value data for each player is overwritten. Although illustration is omitted, at this time, the individual ability value of each player in the common game is also updated. In step S21, the turn management data 32b is updated, and the process returns to step S3. In step S21, the data value of the bit corresponding to the player to be played next is set to “1”, and the data value of the bit corresponding to the other player is set to “0”.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 7, when the CPU 20 c provided in each portable game device 14 starts the entire process for the personal game, the personal game is loaded in step S <b> 31. That is, the download data 32e downloaded from the stationary game apparatus 12 is stored in the RAM 20d. In a succeeding step S33, it is determined whether or not there is a capability value transmission request from the stationary game apparatus 12. If “NO”, that is, if there is no transmission request for capability value, the process proceeds directly to step S37. If “YES”, that is, if there is a transmission request for capability value, the personal capability value is determined in step S35. After the data 42b is transmitted to the stationary tem device 12, the process proceeds to step S37.

  In step S37, personal game processing is executed. Here, the personal game is advanced in accordance with the player's operation input (operation data 42a). For example, the personal game screen is updated, or a process according to a predetermined event is executed.

  In a succeeding step S39, it is determined whether or not there is a turn notification. That is, it is determined whether or not an event of turn interrupt processing has occurred. If “NO” in the step S39, that is, if there is no turn notification, it is determined that the event of the turn interruption process has not occurred, and in the step S41, the personal ability value (personal ability value data 42b) is updated, The process returns to step S33. On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S39, that is, if there is a turn notification, it is determined that an event of the turn interrupt process has occurred, and in a step S43, it is determined whether or not the turn is finished. That is, it is determined whether the turn end is notified.

  Although illustration is omitted, when there is a turn notification, a message screen indicating that is displayed on the LCD 20b. However, the turn notification may be notified by sound (music), or both the message screen and the notification sound may be presented.

  If “YES” in the step S43, that is, if the turn is finished, the process returns to the step S33 as it is. On the other hand, if “NO” in the step S43, that is, if the turn is not finished, it is determined whether or not the operation data 42a exists in a step S45. If “NO” in the step S45, that is, if the operation data 42a is not present, the process returns to the same step S45 to wait for the player's operation input. On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S45, that is, if there is the operation data 42a, the operation data 42a is transmitted (input) to the stationary game apparatus 12 in a step S47, and the process returns to the step S43.

According to the first embodiment, the personal game can be enjoyed during the waiting time of the common game, so the boredom of the waiting time can be eliminated and the taste of the game can be improved. Moreover, since the result of the personal game played in the waiting time can be reflected in the common game, the personal game and the common game can be enjoyed as one game.
<Second embodiment>
The game system 10 of the second embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment except that the computer player is set and the play time of the personal game is variably set when the number of players is less than the possible participation number. Since they are the same, redundant description is omitted.

  Briefly, the common game of the second embodiment is a game played with a predetermined number (for example, four players). At the start of the common game, the number of players (number of participants) is detected, and the number of players is a predetermined number. If it is less than this, computer players are set for the number of players that are insufficient. For example, when three players are detected, one computer player is set.

  Further, in such a common game, the computer player usually processes the common game for a moment, and thus the player cannot play the personal game during that time. Therefore, it is necessary to virtually set the time for the computer player to play the common game. The time for the computer player to play the common game, that is, the time for the player waiting for the common game to play the personal game during the time varies depending on, for example, the individual ability value and score of the personal game. For this reason, the player concentrates on the personal game in order to increase the personal game ability value by increasing the play time of the personal game and thus increasing the personal skill value of the common game.

  FIG. 8 is a memory map of the RAM 12d of the stationary game apparatus 12 in the second embodiment. Since this memory map partially overlaps the memory map shown in FIG. 4 of the first embodiment, the same reference numerals are assigned to the same programs and data. Detailed description of the same program and data will be omitted.

  Referring to FIG. 8, RAM 12 d includes a program storage area 30 and a data recording area 32. The program area 30 stores a game program for the common game. The game program of the common game includes a player number detection program 30a, a personal game download program 30b, a common game progress program 30c, a turn switching determination program 30d, a turn notification program 30e, an operation input acquisition program 30f, a personal ability value acquisition program 30g, A personal ability value acquisition program 30h, a computer player setting program 30i, a personal game play time acquisition program 30j, a personal game play time update program 30k, a personal play time count program 30m, a personal play time excess notification program 30n, and the like.

  Since the programs 30a to 30h are the same as those described in the first embodiment, the description thereof will be omitted here.

  The computer player setting program 30i is a program for setting as many computer players as there are not enough when the number of players detected according to the player number detection program 30a is less than a predetermined number. The personal game play time acquisition program 30j acquires (collects) a personal game play time (individual game play time data 42d: see FIG. 9) from the portable game device 14 connected to the stationary game device 12 for each turn. )

  The personal game play time update program 30k calculates the average value of the play time of the personal game acquired according to the personal game play time acquisition program 30j, writes it in a data storage area 32 (to be described later), and updates it. It is a program. The personal game play time counting program 30m is a program for counting the play time of the personal game. In other words, it is a program for counting the play time of the common game set in the computer player. The personal game play time excess notification program 30n is a program for notifying the portable game device 14 used by the player who should play the common game next to the computer player when the play time of the personal game is exceeded.

  Although illustration is omitted, the program storage 30 also stores programs such as an image generation program, an image display program, a sound control program, and a backup program, as in the first embodiment.

  The data storage area 32 stores data such as player management data 32a, turn management data 32b, operation data 32c, personal ability value data 32d, download data 32e, and personal game play time data 32f.

  Since the data 32a to 32e are the same as the contents described in the first embodiment, detailed description thereof will be omitted.

  The personal game play time data 32f is data about the play time (individual game play time) of the personal game. In this embodiment, the average value data of the personal game play time data 42d (see FIG. 9) acquired from the portable game device 14 used by all players is stored. However, in this embodiment, in order to count the personal game play time of the player who should play the common game next to the computer player, only the personal game play time data 42d for the player may be stored. When the personal game play time excess notification program 30h described above exceeds the personal game play time indicated by the personal game play time data 32f when the personal game play time counted according to the personal game play time count program 30m is exceeded, The player who should play the common game is notified that the play time has been exceeded.

  Although illustration is omitted, image data, sound data, and game data are stored as well as flag data necessary for the common game, as in the first embodiment.

  FIG. 9 shows a memory map of the RAM 20d provided in the portable game device 14 of the second embodiment. Since this memory map partially overlaps the memory map shown in FIG. 5 of the first embodiment, the same reference numerals are assigned to the same programs and data. Detailed description of the same program and data will be omitted.

  Referring to FIG. 9, RAM 20 d includes a program storage area 40 and a data storage area 42. The program recording area 40 stores a game program for a personal game. This personal game program includes a personal game progress program 40a, a personal ability value update program 40b, a turn notification interruption processing program 40c, a personal game play time calculation program 40d, a personal game play time update program 40e, and an individual game play time excess. It is configured by an interrupt processing program 40f and the like.

  Since the programs 40a to 40c are the same as the contents described in the first embodiment, a duplicate description will be omitted.

  The personal game play time calculation program 40d is a program for calculating the personal game play time. That is, the personal game play time corresponding to the personal ability value and score updated each time the personal game is played is calculated. Therefore, for example, when the default play time (individual game play time) for the common game set in the computer player is 2 minutes (120 seconds), the personal game level (individual ability value) is 1. Every time the level increases, a predetermined time (for example, 10 seconds) can be added. Further, every time the score of the personal game exceeds 1000 points, it can be added for a predetermined time.

  The personal game play time update program 40e is a program for storing (overwriting) and updating the personal game play time calculated by the personal game play time calculation program 40d in the data storage area 42 as will be described later. When the personal game play time excess interruption processing program 40f is notified of the personal game play time excess from the stationary game apparatus 12, the game process of the personal game is interrupted and the operation process of the common game is forcibly shifted. It is a program for.

  Although not shown, the program storage area 40 also stores an image generation program, an image display program, a sound control program, and the like, as in the first embodiment.

  The data storage area 42 stores data such as operation data 42a, personal ability value data 42b, various data 42c, and personal play time data 42d. However, since the data 42a to 42c are the same as the contents described in the first embodiment, a duplicate description is omitted.

  The personal game play time data 42d is data (numerical data) about the personal game play time calculated according to the above-described personal game play time calculation program 40d and updated according to the personal game play time update program 42e.

  Although not shown, the data storage area 42 also stores flag data and the like necessary for the progress of the personal game, as in the first embodiment.

  The game program and various data 42c stored in the RAM 20d are download data 32e downloaded from the stationary game apparatus 12 as in the first embodiment.

  Also in the game system 10 of the second embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the CPU 12a of the stationary game apparatus 12 executes the entire process for the common game (see FIGS. 10 and 11), and in parallel therewith. The CPU 20c of each portable game device 14 executes the entire process for the personal game (see FIGS. 12 and 13). The processing of each CPU will be described below, but the processing having the same contents as in the first embodiment will be briefly described.

  Referring to FIG. 10, when CPU 12a of stationary game apparatus 12 starts the entire process for the common game, initial setting is executed in step S51. In this initial setting, the number of participants, that is, the number of players is detected, and the download data 32e is downloaded to the portable game device 14. In addition, computer players are set for the number of persons that is less than the predetermined number. At this time, in the player management data 32a, the identification information of the computer player and the order of playing the common game are assigned to the identification information.

  In a succeeding step S53, the player of the next turn is specified, and in a step S55, it is determined whether or not the turn is a computer player. If “YES” in the step S55, that is, if it is a turn of the computer player, a common game process is executed in a step S57, and the personal game play time is counted in a step S59. In step S57, the game processor, that is, the CPU 12a, as a computer player, inputs operation data, and the common game proceeds according to the operation data. In step S59, the personal game play time is counted. At the start of this process, a timer (not shown) provided in the stationary game 12 is reset and started. In addition, the timer continues counting until the set personal game play time (individual game play time data 32f) is exceeded.

  In a succeeding step S61, it is determined whether or not the personal game play time has been exceeded. That is, it is determined whether or not the personal game play time indicated by the timer exceeds the play time indicated by the personal game play time data 32f. If “NO” in the step S61, that is, if the personal game play time has not been exceeded, the process returns to the step S59 as it is. On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S61, that is, if the personal game play time is exceeded, the personal game play time is notified to the portable game device 14 used by the player of the current turn in a step S63. In step S63, the turn management data 32b is updated, and the process returns to step S53.

  If “NO” in the step S55, that is, if it is not a turn of the computer player, a turn notification is given to the portable game device 144 of the player who should play the common game in a step S67, and the operation data in a step S69. To get. In the next step S71, the common game process is executed in accordance with the acquired operation data, and in step S73, it is determined whether or not the game is over.

  If “YES” in the step S73, that is, if the game is ended, the entire process for the common game is ended as it is. On the other hand, if “NO” in the step S73, that is, if the game is not ended, it is determined whether or not a turn end condition is satisfied in a step S75. If “NO” in the step S75, that is, if the turn end condition is not satisfied, the process returns to the step S69 as it is. On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S75, that is, if the turn end condition is satisfied, the end of the turn is notified to the portable game apparatus 14 in a step S77 shown in FIG.

  Next, in step S79, the individual ability values of all players are acquired, and in step S81, the individual ability values of all players are updated. In the subsequent step S83, the personal game play time for all players is acquired (collected). Here, the CPU 12a requests all the portable game apparatuses 14 to transmit the personal game play time data 42d, and in response to this, collects the transmitted play time data 42d. In the next step S85, the player's personal play time data is updated. Here, all the acquired personal game play time data 42d are averaged, and the averaged play time data 32f is stored (overwritten) in the data storage area 32. In step S89, the turn management data is updated, and the process returns to step S53 shown in FIG.

  On the other hand, when the CPU 20c provided in the portable game device 14 starts the entire process for the personal game, the personal game is loaded in step S101. In the next step S103, it is determined whether or not there is a request for transmission of personal ability values. Here, if “NO”, that is, if there is no request for transmission of the personal ability value, the process directly proceeds to step S107. However, if “YES”, that is, if there is a request to send a personal ability value, the personal ability value data 42b is transmitted to the stationary game apparatus 12 in step S105, and then the process proceeds to step S107.

  In step S107, it is determined whether there is a request for transmission of the personal game play time. If there is no request for transmission of the personal game play time, “NO” is determined in the step S107, and the process directly proceeds to a step S111. However, if there is a request for transmission of the personal game play time, “YES” is determined in the step S107, and the personal game play time data 42d is transmitted to the stationary game apparatus 12 in a step S109, and then the process proceeds to the step S111.

  In step S111, a personal game process is executed. In a succeeding step S113, it is determined whether or not there is a turn notification. If “NO” in the step S113, that is, if there is no turn notification, the process proceeds to a step S119 shown in FIG. On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S113, that is, if there is a turn notification, it is determined whether or not it is a turn of the computer player in a step S115. Although illustration is omitted, here, the CPU 20c makes an inquiry to the stationary game apparatus 12 (CPU 12a) to determine whether or not it is a turn of the computer player.

  If “NO” in the step S115, that is, if it is not a turn of the computer player, the process proceeds to a step S125 shown in FIG. On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S115, that is, if it is a turn of the computer player, it is determined whether or not the personal game play time is exceeded in a step S117. That is, it is determined whether or not an interrupt process has occurred due to the personal game play time being exceeded. If “NO” in the step S117, that is, if it is not notified that the personal game play time has been exceeded, it is determined that the interrupt process has not occurred, and the process proceeds to a step S119. However, if “YES” in the step S117, that is, if it is notified that the personal game play time has been exceeded, it is determined that the interruption process has occurred, and the process proceeds to a step S125.

  As shown in FIG. 13, in step S119, the personal ability value data 42b of the personal game is updated. Subsequently, in step S121, the personal game play time is calculated according to the personal ability value of the personal game. In step S123, the personal game play time data 42d is updated, and the process returns to step S103 shown in FIG.

  In step S125, it is determined whether the turn is over. That is, it is determined whether there is a turn end notification. If there is a turn end notification, “YES” is determined in the step S125, and the process returns to the step S103 as it is. However, if there is no turn end notification, “NO” is determined in the step S125, and it is determined whether or not the operation data 42a exists in a step S127. That is, it is determined whether there is a common game operation input. If “NO” in the step S127, that is, if there is no operation data 42a, it is determined that there is no operation input of the common game, the process returns to the same step S127 and waits for the operation input. On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S127, that is, if there is the operation data 42a, the operation data 42a is transmitted to the stationary game apparatus 12 in a step S129, and the process returns to the step S125.

  According to the second embodiment, even when a computer player participates in a common game as an opponent, the waiting time of other players due to the turn of the computer player in the common game is virtually set. The common game can be enjoyed in the same manner as in the case of a battle.

  Further, as in the first embodiment, the result of the personal game played during the waiting time can be reflected in the personal ability value in the common game, so that the game preference can be improved.

Furthermore, in order to change the time for playing the personal game according to the personal ability value in the personal game, the goal is to extend the personal game play time and further increase the personal ability value of the personal game and the personal ability value of the common game To be. That is, the game preference can be further improved.
<Third embodiment>
In the game system 10 ′ of the third embodiment, a two-screen portable game device 100 as shown in FIG. 14 is used. The portable game apparatus 100 includes a first liquid crystal display (LCD) 112 and a second LCD 114. The LCD 112 and the LCD 114 are accommodated in the housing 1 16 so as to be in a predetermined arrangement position. In this embodiment, the housing 116 includes an upper housing 116a and a lower housing 116b. The LCD 112 is accommodated in the upper housing 116a, and the LCD 114 is accommodated in the lower housing 116b. Therefore, the LCD 112 and the LCD 114 are arranged close to each other so as to be aligned vertically (up and down).

  In this embodiment, an LCD is used as the display, but an EL (Electronic Luminescence) display or a plasma display may be used instead of the LCD.

  As can be seen from FIG. 14, the upper housing 116 a has a planar shape slightly larger than the planar shape of the LCD 112, and an opening is formed so as to expose the display surface of the LCD 112 from one main surface. On the other hand, the planar shape of the lower housing 116b is selected to be longer than that of the upper housing 116a, and an opening is formed so as to expose the display surface of the LCD 114 at a substantially central portion in the horizontal direction. The lower housing 116b is provided with a sound release hole 118 and an operation switch 120 (120a, 120b, 120c, 120d, 120e, 120L and 120R).

  Further, the upper housing 116a and the lower housing 116b are rotatably connected to the lower side (lower end) of the upper housing 116a and a part of the upper side (upper end) of the lower housing 116b. Therefore, for example, when the game is not played, if the upper housing 116a is rotated and folded so that the display surface of the LCD 112 faces the display surface of the LCD 114, the display surface of the LCD 112 and the display surface of the LCD 114 are displayed. Damage such as scratches can be prevented. However, the upper housing 116a and the lower housing 116b may not be rotatably connected but may form a housing 116 in which they are integrally (fixed).

  The operation switch 120 includes a direction indicating switch (cross switch) 120a, a start switch 120b, a select switch 120c, an operation switch (A button) 120d, an operation switch (B button) 120e, an operation switch (L button) 120L, and an operation switch (R Button) 120R. The switches 120a, 120b, and 120c are arranged on the left side of the LCD 114, which is one main surface of the lower housing 116b. The switches 120d and 120e are arranged on the right side of the LCD 114 on one main surface of the lower housing 116b. Furthermore, each of the switch 120L and the switch 120R is a part of the upper end (top surface) of the lower housing 116b, and is disposed on the left and right sides so as to sandwich the connecting portion other than the connecting portion with the upper housing 116a.

  The direction indicating switch 120a functions as a digital joystick, and operates one of the four pressing portions to instruct the moving direction of the player character (or player object) that can be operated by the player, or to change the moving direction of the cursor. It is used to give instructions. The start switch 120b includes a push button, and is used to start (resume) a game, pause (pause), and the like. The select switch 120c includes a push button and is used for selecting a game mode.

  The operation switch 120d, that is, the A button is configured by a push button, and allows the player character to perform an arbitrary action such as hitting (punching), throwing, grabbing (acquiring), riding, jumping, etc. other than the direction instruction. it can. For example, in an action game, it is possible to instruct to jump, punch, move a weapon, and the like. In a role playing game (RPG) or a simulation RPG, acquisition of items, selection or determination of weapons or commands, and the like can be instructed. The operation switch 120e, that is, the B button is constituted by a push button, and is used for changing the game mode selected by the select switch 120c, canceling the action determined by the A button 120d, or the like.

  The operation switch (left push button) 120L and the operation switch (right push button) 120R are configured by push buttons, and the left push button (L button) 120L and the right push button (R button) 120R are the A button 120d and the B button. It can be used for the same operation as 120e, and can be used for an auxiliary operation of the A button 120d and the B button 120e.

  A touch panel 122 is mounted on the upper surface of the LCD 114. As the touch panel 122, for example, any of a resistive film type, an optical type (infrared type), and a capacitive coupling type can be used. The touch panel 122 is operated by pressing or stroking (touching) the upper surface thereof with a stick 124 or a pen (stylus pen) or a finger (hereinafter, these may be referred to as “sticks”). The coordinate position of the stick 124, etc. is detected and coordinate position data is output.

  In this embodiment, the resolution of the display surface of the LCD 114 (the LCD 112 is the same or substantially the same) is 256 dots × 192 dots, and the detection accuracy of the touch panel 122 is 256 dots × 192 dots corresponding to the display screen. The detection accuracy 122 may be lower or higher than the resolution of the display screen.

  In this embodiment, a common game screen is displayed on the LCD 112, and a personal game screen is displayed on the LCD 114. However, character information, icons, etc. may be displayed on the LCD 114. Therefore, for example, the player operates the touch panel 122 with the stick 24 or the like to select character information, an icon, or the like displayed on the display image of the LCD 114, and selects a common game operation input (command) or the LCD 112. It is possible to instruct a scroll (gradual movement display) direction of the common game screen (map) displayed on the screen. Depending on the type of game, it can also be used for various other input instructions, such as selection or operation of icons displayed on the LCD 114, coordinate input instructions, and the like.

  As described above, the portable game device 100 includes the LCD 112 and the LCD 114 serving as a display unit for two screens, and the touch panel 122 is provided on the upper surface of either one (in this embodiment, the LCD 114). The LCD 112, 114) and two operation units (120, 122) are provided.

  In this embodiment, the stick 124 can be stored in a storage portion (storage hole) 126 provided in the vicinity of the side surface (right side surface) of the upper housing 116a, for example, and taken out as necessary. However, when the stick 124 is not provided, it is not necessary to provide the storage portion 126.

  Further, the portable game apparatus 100 includes a memory card (or game cartridge) 128, which is detachable and inserted from an insertion slot 130 provided on the back surface or the lower end (bottom surface) of the lower housing 116b. . Although not shown in FIG. 1, a connector 146 (see FIG. 15) for joining to a connector (not shown) provided at the distal end of the memory card 128 in the insertion direction is provided at the back of the insertion slot 130. Therefore, when the memory card 128 is inserted into the insertion slot 130, the connectors are joined together, and the CPU core 142 (see FIG. 15) of the portable game apparatus 100 can access the memory card 128.

  Although not expressed in FIG. 14, the position corresponds to the sound release hole 118 of the lower housing 116b, and a speaker 132 (see FIG. 15) is provided inside the lower housing 116b.

  Although not shown in FIG. 14, for example, a battery housing box is provided on the back surface side of the lower housing 116b, and a power switch, a volume switch, and an external expansion connector 166 are provided on the bottom surface side of the lower housing 116b. (See FIG. 15) and earphone jacks are provided.

  FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of game device 100. Referring to FIG. 15, game device 100 includes an electronic circuit board 140 on which circuit components such as CPU core 142 are mounted. The CPU core 142 is connected to the connector 146 via the bus 144, and also includes a RAM 148, a first graphics processing unit (GPU) 150, a second GPU 152, an input / output interface circuit (hereinafter referred to as “I / F circuit”). 154), the LCD controller 160, and the transmission / reception buffer 164.

  As described above, the memory card 128 is detachably connected to the connector 146. The memory card 128 includes a ROM 128a and a RAM 128b. Although not shown, the ROM 128a and the RAM 128b are connected to each other via a bus and to a connector (not shown) joined to the connector 146. Therefore, the CPU core 142 can access the ROM 128a and the RAM 128b.

  The ROM 128a stores a game program for a game (virtual game) to be executed on the game apparatus 100, image (character image, background image, item image, icon (button) image, message image, etc.) data, and sound necessary for the game ( Music) data (sound data) and the like are stored in advance. The RAM (backup RAM) 128b stores (saves) mid-game data and game result data.

  The RAM 148 is used as a buffer memory or a working memory. That is, the CPU core 142 loads the game program and data (image data, sound data, etc.) stored in the ROM 128a of the memory card 128 into the RAM 148, and executes the loaded game program. Further, the CPU core 142 executes game processing while storing in the RAM 148 data (game data or flag data) that is temporarily generated in accordance with the progress of the game.

  Note that the game program, image data, sound data, and the like are read from the ROM 128a all at once or partially and sequentially and stored (loaded) in the RAM 148.

  Each of the GPU 150 and the GPU 152 forms part of a drawing unit, and is configured by, for example, a single chip ASIC, receives a graphics command (graphics command) from the CPU core 142, and game image data according to the graphics command. Is generated. However, the CPU core 142 gives each of the GPU 150 and the GPU 152 an image generation program (included in the game program) necessary for generating the game image data in addition to the graphics command.

  Note that data (image data) necessary for the GPU 150 and the GPU 152 to execute the drawing command is acquired by the GPU 150 and the GPU 152 accessing the RAM 148, respectively.

  The GPU 150 is connected to a first video RAM (hereinafter referred to as “VRAM”) 156, and the GPU 152 is connected to a second VRAM 158. The GPU 150 draws the created game image data in the VRAM 156, and the GPU 152 draws the created game image data in the VRAM 158.

  VRAM 156 and VRAM 158 are connected to LCD controller 160. The LCD controller 160 includes a register 162. The register 162 is composed of 1 bit, for example, and stores a value (data value) of “0” or “1” according to an instruction from the CPU core 142. When the data value of the register 162 is “0”, the LCD controller 160 outputs the game image data drawn in the VRAM 156 to the LCD 112, and outputs the game image data drawn in the VRAM 158 to the LCD 114. When the data value of the register 162 is “1”, the LCD controller 160 outputs the game image data drawn in the VRAM 156 to the LCD 114, and outputs the game image data drawn in the VRAM 158 to the LCD 112.

  The operation switch 120, the touch panel 122, and the speaker 132 are connected to the I / F circuit 154. Here, the operation switch 120 is the above-described switches 120a, 120b, 120c, 120d, 120e, 120L, and 120R. When the operation switch 120 is operated, a corresponding operation signal (operation data) is transmitted to the I / F circuit 154. To the CPU core 142. Also, coordinate position data from the touch panel 122 is input to the CPU core 142 via the I / F circuit 154. Further, the CPU core 142 reads out sound data necessary for the game, such as game music (BGM), sound effects or game character sound (pseudo-sound), from the RAM 148 and outputs the sound data from the speaker 132 via the I / F circuit 154. .

  The transmission / reception buffer 164 is for temporarily storing data (game data, commands, etc.) transmitted / received (communication) to / from other portable game devices 100. The transmission / reception buffer 164 includes An external expansion connector 166 is connected. When performing data communication with another portable game apparatus 100, the other portable game apparatus 100 is connected to the external expansion connector 166 via a communication cable 170 (see FIG. 16).

  However, it may be configured to be able to communicate with another portable game device 100 wirelessly without using a communication cable. In such a case, a transceiver for wireless communication may be provided in the portable game device 100 or detachably provided on the outside thereof.

  FIG. 16 shows the configuration of the game system 10 ′ of the third embodiment. Referring to FIG. 16, game system 10 ′ includes a plurality (four in this embodiment) of portable game devices 100, and each portable game device 100 uses communication cable 170 and expansion connector 172. , And are communicably connected to each other.

  However, when humans play against each other, at least two portable game apparatuses 100 may be connected. Further, when a human and a computer player battle each other, it is sufficient that at least one portable game apparatus 100 is prepared.

  For example, when two or more portable game devices 100 are connected, one of them is determined as a parent device, and the other is determined as a child device. In the example shown in FIG. 16, the portable game device 100 used by 1P is determined as the parent device, and the portable game device 100 used by 2P, 3P, and 4P is determined as the child device. The determination method of the parent device may be either an electrical method or a mechanical method.

  More specifically, when the parent device is electrically determined, after connecting two or more portable game devices 100 using the communication cable 170, the portable game device 100 that is first turned on is connected. It is possible to determine the parent device, or to determine the portable game device 100 that has operated one of the operation switches 120 first after the power is turned on as the parent device. When mechanically determining the parent device, the connection connector (not shown) provided at the end of the communication cable 170 is made different in shape between the parent device and the child device, and the inserted connection connector is inserted. The parent device or the child device can be determined according to the situation.

  When the parent machine is determined, in the game system 10 ′, a common game is executed and a personal game is executed. FIG. 17 is an illustrative view for explaining a state in which the common game and the personal game are executed in the game system 10 ′ shown in FIG. In FIG. 17, only the LCD 112 and the LCD 114 of the portable game apparatus 100 are shown for simplicity, and as described above, the common game screen is displayed on the LCD 112 and the personal game screen is displayed on the LCD 114. Is displayed. For example, in the common game, the turn is repeated in the order of 1P, 2P, 3P, 4P, 1P,.

  If it is assumed that the turn is 1P (master) in the common game, the 1P inputs a desired operation in consideration of the strategy for the common game. Then, in accordance with the operation input, the parent machine executes a common game progress process. On the other hand, in all the slave units, 2P, 3P and 4P play a personal game from the start to the end of the 1P turn. Then, in response to the end of the turn of 1P, all the child devices transmit personal game ability value data to the parent device. In response to this, the master unit updates the personal game ability value data for all the players.

  Thereafter, the parent device transmits the game data of the common game to all the child devices, and notifies the player of the next turn, that is, the 2P child device, of the turn of the common game. Accordingly, all the child devices receive the game data of the common game, and perform the common game update process according to the received game data. Specifically, the common game screen is updated, and the sound of the common game is output as necessary. Further, in the 2P child device, in response to the turn notification of the common game, a message image to that effect is displayed on the LCD 114, and in response to this, the 2P performs a desired operation input for the common game. Then, the 2P slave unit transmits an operation input (operation data) to the master unit.

  Then, the parent device receives the operation data transmitted from the 2P child device, and executes the progress process of the common game according to the operation data. In addition, in the parent device, the 3P child device, and the 4P child device, the 1P, 3P, and 4P play a personal game from the start to the end of the 2P turn. In response to the end of the 2P turn, all the child devices transmit personal game ability value data to the parent device. In response to this, the master unit updates the personal game ability value data for all the players. Thereafter, the parent device transmits game data of the common game to all the child devices, and notifies the player of the next turn, that is, the 3P child device, of the turn of the common game.

  In this way, the common game and the personal game are played on each portable game device 100.

  That is, in the game system 10 ′ of the third embodiment, the parent machine also plays the role of the stationary game apparatus 12 shown in the first embodiment. For this reason, in the parent machine, the entire process for the common game is executed, and in parallel with this, the entire process for the individual game is executed. In addition, since the common game screen is displayed on the LCD 112 of each portable game apparatus 14, not only the entire process for the personal game is executed in all the child devices, but also the common game is displayed from the parent device. Upon receiving the game data, the common game update process is also executed.

  Although illustration is omitted, the RAM 148 of the master unit stores both the memory maps shown in FIGS. That is, the game program and data on the common game side are stored, and separately, the game program and data on the individual game side are stored. The game program in the download data 32e includes a program for updating the common game (common game update program), and the data stores image data and sound data for the common game. Accordingly, in addition to the memory map shown in FIG. 5, the common game update program is stored (loaded) in the program storage area 30 in the RAM 148 of the slave unit, and image data and sound for the common game data are stored in the data recording area 32. Data is stored (loaded).

  Hereinafter, processing of the parent device and the child device will be described with reference to a flowchart. The same processing as the processing shown in the first embodiment is denoted by the same reference numeral. Further, since the entire process for the personal game executed on both the parent device and the child device is the same as the flowchart shown in FIG. 7 of the first embodiment, the illustration is omitted.

  FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the overall processing of the common game of the CPU core 142 of the parent machine. As can be seen from FIG. 18, except for the addition of step S <b> 16, the process is the same as the overall process for the common game shown in FIG. 6.

  Referring to FIG. 18, when the CPU core 142 of the parent machine starts the entire process for the common game, initial setting is performed in step S1. For example, the number of participants (number of players) is detected, and the download data 32e is downloaded to the slave unit. Also, here, when the common game is started from the previous continuation, the game data stored in the memory card 128 is loaded. Further, when the common game is started from the beginning, the turn management data 32b, operation data 32c, personal ability value data 32d and flag data in the data storage area 32 are initialized.

  In the subsequent step S3, the player of the next turn is specified. Specifically, the player corresponding to the bit whose data value is set to “1” is identified with reference to the turn management data 32b. However, at the start of the common game, 1P (here, the parent machine itself) is specified.

  In the next step S5, a turn is notified to the player specified in step S3. That is, the portable game device 100 operated by the identified player is identified with reference to the player management data 32a, and the identified portable game device 100 is notified of a turn. However, when the portable game device 100 to be notified of the turn is the parent device itself, a message image of the turn notification is displayed on the LCD 114 here. Subsequently, operation data is acquired in step S7, and common game processing is executed in step S9. That is, operation data transmitted (input) from the child device is acquired, and the common game is advanced according to the operation data. However, in the turn of the parent machine itself, the common game is advanced according to the operation data input by the operation switch 120a. For example, the common game screen is updated, the personal ability value of the common game for the player is updated, or a process according to a predetermined event is performed to advance the common game. Back up your data.

  In step S11, it is determined whether or not the game is over. That is, it is determined whether or not the game is over or the game end is instructed by the operation of the player. Here, if “YES”, that is, if the game is ended, the entire process for the common game is ended as it is. However, if “NO”, that is, if the game is not ended, it is determined whether or not a turn end condition is satisfied in step S13.

  If “NO” in the step S13, that is, if the turn end condition is not satisfied, the process returns to the step S7 as it is. On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S13, that is, if the turn end condition is satisfied, the end of the turn is notified to the portable game apparatus 100 in a step S15. However, if the parent machine itself corresponds to the portable game apparatus 100, the process of step S15 is not executed and the process proceeds to step S17 as it is.

  Next, in step S16, game data of the common game is transmitted to all the slave units. That is, the latest game data updated as the common game progresses is transmitted to each child device. Subsequently, in step S17, the individual ability values of all players are acquired. That is, the personal capability value transmission request is transmitted to all the slave units, and the transmitted personal capability value data is acquired accordingly.

  In step S19, the personal ability value data 32d is updated according to the individual ability value data of all players. That is, the personal ability value data for each player is overwritten. In step S21, the turn management data 32b is updated, and the process returns to step S3.

  Further, the CPU core 142 of the child device executes the entire process for the personal game shown in FIG. 7, but when the game data for the common game is received from the parent device, the illustration is omitted accordingly. The common game update process is executed. In this process, as described above, the common game screen is updated, and a sound is output as necessary. At this time, the image data and sound data for the loaded common game are used.

  According to the third embodiment, even in a game system using a portable game device having two screens, a personal game can be played during the waiting time of the common game, and boredom due to the waiting time can be avoided. Further, since the result of the personal game can be reflected in the ability value of the common game, the common game and the personal game can be enjoyed as one game.

  Although illustration is omitted, in the game system 10 'as in the third embodiment, as described in the second embodiment, a computer player can participate in the common game. For example, when three players and one computer player are to fight each other, a specific portable game device 100 (for example, a parent device) may be set as a computer player. In this case, the memory map on the common game side shown in FIG. 8 is expanded in the RAM 148 of the portable game device 100 of the parent device, and the individual portable game device 100, that is, the personal computer shown in FIG. The game memory map is expanded. Then, the entire process (FIGS. 10 and 11) for the common game is executed in the parent machine, and the entire process (FIGS. 12 and 13) for the individual game is executed in the child machine.

FIG. 1 is an illustrative view showing one example of a game system of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the game system shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is an illustrative view for explaining the relationship between the common game and the personal game executed in the game system shown in FIG. FIG. 4 is a RAM memory map provided in the stationary game apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 5 is a memory map of a RAM provided in the portable game device shown in FIG. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the overall processing of a common game of CPUs provided in the stationary game apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the overall processing of the personal game of the CPU provided in the portable game device shown in FIG. FIG. 8 is a RAM memory map provided in the stationary game apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a memory map of a RAM provided in the portable game apparatus in the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a part of the entire process for the common game of the CPU provided in the stationary game apparatus in the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing another part of the overall processing for the common game of the CPU provided in the stationary game apparatus in the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a part of the entire process for the personal game of the CPU provided in the portable game apparatus in the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing another part of the entire process for the personal game of the CPU provided in the portable game apparatus in the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 is an illustrative view showing one example of a two-screen portable game device used in the game system of the third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the two-screen portable game device shown in FIG. FIG. 16 is an illustrative view showing a configuration of a game system using the two-screen portable game device shown in FIG. FIG. 17 is an illustrative view for explaining the operation of the two-screen portable game device (parent device, child device) when the common game and the personal game are played in the game system shown in FIG. FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing an overall process for a common game of a two-screen portable game device serving as a master in the third embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Game system 12 ... Stationary game device 12a, 20c ... CPU
12b, 20d ... RAM
12c, 20e ... Image processing unit 12d ... Video encoder 12f ... Disc drive 14 ... Portable game device 16 ... Monitor 18 ... Disc 20a ... Operation switch 20b ... LCD
20f ... VRAM
20 g ... LCD driver 100 ... Two-screen portable game device 112, 114 ... LCD
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 120 ... Operation switch 122 ... Touch panel 128 ... Memory card 142 ... CPU core 148 ... RAM
150, 152 ... GPU
154 ... I / F circuit 156, 158 ... VRAM
160 ... LCD controller

Claims (6)

A game system for executing a turn-based game in which each of a predetermined number of players plays when their turn is turned,
First display means for displaying a first game screen of the turn-based game;
A second display means provided separately from the first display means for displaying a second game screen of a personal game played by each of the predetermined number of players;
Operation means for performing an operation input by the player;
A turn switching notification means for notifying the next player of the turn of the turn-based game and switching the turn if the turn end condition is met when the turn-based game is progressing based on a predetermined operation by a certain player;
A personal game progression means for advancing the personal game in response to an operation input from the player until the next turn is announced after the turn of the turn-based game is completed;
Personal ability value storage means for storing a player's ability value that is increased or decreased according to the play result of the personal game;
All personal ability value storage means provided separately from the individual ability value storage means for storing ability values of all players,
When the turn is switched by the turn switching notification means, the ability values of all the players stored in the all personal ability value storage means and the operation input from the player in which the turn for playing the turn-based game is set. When the turn is switched by the turn-based game progress means for proceeding with the turn-based game in response to the turn switching notification means, the ability value of each player stored in the personal ability value storage means is acquired, and the full ability A game system comprising ability value acquisition means for overwriting value storage means. Participation number detection means for detecting the number of players participating in the turn-based game;
Computer player setting means for setting an insufficient player as a computer player when the number of players detected by the participant number detection means is less than the predetermined number;
When the computer player set by the computer player setting means plays the turn-based game, the personal ability value storage means stores a personal game play time in which a player other than the computer player plays the personal game. Personal game play time calculating means for calculating based on the value,
Personal game play time storage means for storing the individual game play time calculated by the personal game play time calculation means for each player, and when the computer player plays the turn-based game, the personal game play time storage means Further comprising personal game play time setting means for setting the personal game play time stored in
When the computer player plays the turn-based game, the turn switching notification means notifies the next player of the turn-based game turn when the personal game play time set by the personal game play time setting means has elapsed. The game system according to claim 1, wherein:   The game system according to claim 2, further comprising personal ability value updating means for updating the ability value of each player stored in the personal ability value storage means while the computer player plays the turn-based game. The predetermined number of players are provided separately from the first display means and the first display means for displaying a first game screen of a turn-based game that is played when each player turns his or her turn. A game program for a game system that includes a second display means for displaying a second game screen of a personal game played by each of them, an operation means for performing an operation input by a player, and a storage means, and for executing the turn-based game. ,
In the computer of the game system,
A turn switching notification step of notifying the next player of the turn of the turn-based game and switching the turn if the turn end condition is met while the turn-based game is progressing based on a predetermined operation by a certain player;
A personal game progression step for advancing the personal game in response to an operation input from the player after the turn of the turn-based game is completed and until the next turn is announced;
A personal ability value storage step of storing in the storage means the ability value of the player that is increased or decreased according to the play result of the personal game;
All personal ability value storage step for storing the ability values of all players in an area different from the ability value stored by the individual ability value storage step;
When the turn is switched by the turn switching notification step, the ability values of all the players stored in the all personal ability value storage step and the operation input from the player in which the turn for playing the turn-based game is set. When the turn is switched by the turn-based game progression step for proceeding with the turn-based game and the turn switching notification step, the ability value of each player stored by the individual ability value storage step is acquired, and the storage means A game program that causes an ability value acquisition step to be overwritten to be executed. A participant number detecting step for detecting the number of players participating in the turn-based game;
A computer player setting step of setting an insufficient player as a computer player when the number of players detected by the participant number detection step is less than the predetermined number;
When the computer player set in the computer player setting step plays the turn-based game, the personal game play time in which a player other than the computer player plays the personal game is stored in the personal ability value storage step A personal game play time calculating step for calculating based on the value;
A personal game play time storage step of storing the personal game play time calculated in the personal game play time calculation step for each player in the storage means; and when the computer player plays the turn-based game, the personal game A personal game play time setting step for setting the personal game play time stored in the play time storage step is further executed,
In the turn switching notification step, when the computer player plays the turn-based game, when the personal game play time set by the personal game play time setting step elapses, the turn player makes a turn of the turn-based game. The game program according to claim 4, wherein the game program is announced.   The game program according to claim 5, further executing a personal ability value update step of updating the ability value of each player stored in the personal ability value storage step while the computer player plays the turn-based game.

Images