JP2009066124A - Program, information storage medium and image generator - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a program capable of achieving image expression unlike before while using a touch panel display, and to provide an information storage medium and an image generator. <P>SOLUTION: The image generator includes: a contact position acquisition part for acquiring the contact position TP of a transparent object TOB when a contact event that the transparent object TOB comes in contact with the touch panel display 190 is generated; a character control part for performing the processing of generating a character CH in a display area corresponding to the acquired contact position TP when the contact event is generated; and an image generation part. The character control part performs such processing that the character CH whose size is set so that the image of the character CH visible through the transparent object TOB is displayed inside the contour area of the transparent object TOB in the case of plane vision of the touch panel display 190 and the transparent object TOB, is generated in the display area corresponding to the contact position. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a program, an information storage medium, and an image generation apparatus.

  Conventionally, an image generation device such as a portable game device having a touch panel display is known. In this image generation apparatus, the player can input operation information by a touch operation on the touch panel display. Specifically, various icons for performing operation instructions are displayed on the touch panel display. Then, the player touches these icons with a stylus pen or a finger to input operation information desired by the player.

However, in conventional touch panel display type image generation apparatuses, the touch operation is used only for inputting operation information, and the production of the video effect using the touch operation has not been considered. The touch operation is performed with a finger or a stylus pen, and touch operations with other objects are not assumed.
JP 2006-122164 A

  The present invention has been made in view of the problems as described above, and an object of the present invention is to provide a program, an information storage medium, and an image generation apparatus that can realize an unprecedented image expression using a touch panel display. There is to do.

  The present invention is an image generation device that generates an image displayed on a touch panel display, and acquires a contact position of the transparent object when a contact event occurs in which the transparent object contacts the touch panel display. A touch panel that generates an image including an image of the character, a character control unit that performs processing for generating a character in a display area corresponding to the acquired touch position when the touch event occurs, An image generation unit for displaying on the display, wherein the character control unit is an image of the character that is seen through the transparent object in an outline region of the transparent object when the touch panel display and the transparent object are viewed in plan. The character whose size is set so that It relates to an image generating apparatus which performs the process of generating the display region corresponding to the contact position. The present invention also relates to a program that causes a computer to function as each of the above-described units, or a computer-readable information storage medium that stores the program.

  According to the present invention, when a contact event of a transparent object occurs, the contact position is acquired, and a character is generated in a display area corresponding to the contact position. Then, an image including the generated character image is generated. Therefore, a character that did not exist before placing the transparent object appears by placing the transparent object, and an unprecedented image expression can be realized. In the present invention, the character size is set so that an image of the character seen through the transparent object is displayed in the outline region of the transparent object in plan view. Therefore, it is possible to realize an image expression that looks as if the character is projected inside the transparent object.

  In the image generation device, the program, and the information storage medium according to the present invention, the character control unit generates the character on an image of a main screen of the touch panel display when the touch event occurs, and the touch panel display When a separation event occurs that causes the transparent object to leave, a process of hiding the generated character may be performed.

  In this way, when the transparent object is removed, the character is hidden, so that it is possible to prevent a situation where the secret is immediately known.

  In the image generation device, the program, and the information storage medium according to the present invention, the character control unit generates the character in the display area after a given time lag period has elapsed after the contact event has occurred. May be performed.

  In this way, when a transparent object is not placed and the touch panel display is touched with a finger or the like and then released immediately, the character is not displayed, so that it is possible to prevent a situation where the secret is known.

  In the image generation device, the program, and the information storage medium according to the present invention, when the contact event occurs, the character control unit generates the character in the display area set at a place away from the contact position. Then, after the character is generated, a process of moving the character toward the contact position may be performed.

  In this way, when a transparent object is placed, it is possible to realize an image expression in which the character does not suddenly appear at the center of the transparent object but appears gradually moving, for example, toward the center.

  In the image generation device, the program, and the information storage medium according to the present invention, the character control unit may follow the moving contact position when the contact position moves after the contact event occurs. You may perform the process which moves the said character.

  In this way, the character image displayed in the outline area of the transparent object can also follow the movement of the transparent object.

  The present invention is also an image generation device that generates an image displayed on a touch panel display, and obtains a contact position of the transparent object when a contact event occurs in which the transparent object contacts the touch panel display. An acquisition unit, a character control unit that performs a process of generating a character in a display area corresponding to the acquired contact position when the contact event occurs, and an image including an image of the character, An image generation unit that displays on a touch panel display, and the character control unit moves the character so as to follow the moving contact position when the contact position moves after the contact event occurs. The present invention relates to an image generation apparatus that performs processing. The present invention also relates to a program that causes a computer to function as each of the above-described units, or a computer-readable information storage medium that stores the program.

  In the image generation device, the program, and the information storage medium according to the present invention, the character control unit may perform a process of moving the character with a movement distance shorter than the movement distance of the contact position.

  In this way, when the transparent object is moved in the first direction, for example, it is possible to realize an image expression in which the character image appears to move from the center of the transparent object toward the contour on the first direction side, for example. .

  In the image generation Sotsu, the program, and the information storage medium according to the present invention, the character control unit may perform a process of hiding the character as the contact position moves.

  In this way, it is possible to realize an image representation in which the character image that appears in the transparent object disappears naturally when the transparent object is moved greatly.

  In the image generation device, the program, and the information storage medium according to the present invention, the character control unit may perform a process of changing the character image after the contact event occurs.

  In this way, it is possible to realize an image representation in which after the character appears in the transparent object, the image of the appearing character changes.

  The present invention is also an image generation device that generates an image displayed on a touch panel display, and obtains a contact position of the transparent object when a contact event occurs in which the transparent object contacts the touch panel display. An acquisition unit, a character control unit that performs a process of generating a character in a display area corresponding to the acquired contact position when the contact event occurs, and an image including an image of the character, An image generation unit that displays on a touch panel display, and the character control unit relates to an image generation apparatus that performs a process of changing an image of the character after the contact event occurs. The present invention also relates to a program that causes a computer to function as each of the above-described units, or a computer-readable information storage medium that stores the program.

  In the image generation device, the program, and the information storage medium according to the present invention, the character control unit may perform animation processing of the character after the contact event occurs.

  In this way, it is possible to realize an effective image expression in which the character in the transparent object appears to move by animation.

  In the image generation device, the program, and the information storage medium according to the present invention, the character control unit may perform a process of gradually increasing the size of the character after the contact event occurs. Good.

  In the image generation device, the program, and the information storage medium according to the present invention, after the contact event occurs, the character may be changed from a state with high transparency to a state with low transparency.

  In the image generation device, the program, and the information storage medium according to the present invention, the character control unit may change the character according to the movement of the contact position when the contact position moves after the contact event occurs. You may perform the process which changes an image.

  In this way, the image of the character changes with the movement of the contact position, and an unprecedented image expression can be realized.

  Further, in the image generation device, the program, and the information storage medium according to the present invention, the character is configured by a three-dimensional object, and the image generation unit is configured to perform the operation when the contact position moves after the contact event occurs. You may produce | generate the image from which the viewpoint which sees the said character changes according to the movement of a contact position.

  In this way, the three-dimensional appearance of the character displayed in the transparent object changes.

  In the image generation device, the program, and the information storage medium according to the present invention, the image generation unit may generate an explanatory image of the character when the contact event occurs and the character is generated.

  If such an explanatory image is displayed, a pleasure such as a picture book of searching for a character and viewing the explanation can be provided.

  In addition, the present invention is an image generation device that generates an image displayed on a touch panel display, and that acquires a contact position of the object when a contact event occurs in which the object contacts the touch panel display. A character control unit that performs a process of generating a character in a display area corresponding to the acquired touch position when the touch event occurs, and an image including the character image, and the touch panel display The image generation unit is related to an image generation device that generates an explanatory image of the character when the character is generated when the contact event occurs. The present invention also relates to a program that causes a computer to function as each of the above-described units, or a computer-readable information storage medium that stores the program.

  In the image generation device, the program, and the information storage medium according to the present invention, the image generation device includes a second display in addition to the touch panel display, and the image generation unit The explanation image of the character may be generated and displayed on the second display.

  In this way, it is possible to see the explanation image directly without passing through the transparent object.

  The image generation device, the program, and the information storage medium according to the present invention include a game score calculation unit that calculates a game score of a player (a computer is caused to function as the game score calculation unit), and the game score calculation unit includes the contact score calculation unit. When the player inputs given operation information using the operation unit after the event has occurred and the character has occurred, the game result of the player may be calculated based on the input operation information.

  In this way, the occurrence of a contact event not only causes a character to appear, but the player's game results are also calculated when the player performs a game operation.

  In addition, the image generation device, the program, and the information storage medium according to the present invention include a communication processing unit that performs processing for receiving game play information of another player who plays a game on another image generation device via a network (communication processing) The character control unit, when the contact event occurs, the character control unit, based on the received game play information of the other player, displays the other area in the display area corresponding to the contact position. Processing for generating a player character may be performed.

  In this way, an unprecedented game process can be realized by a combination with the communication process.

  In addition, the present invention is an image generation device that generates an image displayed on a touch panel display, and acquires a contact position of the object when a contact event occurs in which the object contacts the touch panel display. A character control unit that performs a process of generating a character in a display area corresponding to the acquired touch position when the touch event occurs, and an image including the character image, and the touch panel display An image generation unit to be displayed, and a communication processing unit that performs a process of receiving game play information of another player who plays a game on another image generation device via a network, and the character control unit includes the contact event Based on the received game play information of the other player. It said related to the image generating device performing a display region processing for generating character of the other player corresponding to the contact position. The present invention also relates to a program that causes a computer to function as each of the above-described units, or a computer-readable information storage medium that stores the program.

  In the image generation device, the program, and the information storage medium according to the present invention, the character control unit generates the character of the other player when the contact position matches the character position of the other player. Processing may be performed.

  Hereinafter, this embodiment will be described. In addition, this embodiment demonstrated below does not unduly limit the content of this invention described in the claim. In addition, all the configurations described in the present embodiment are not necessarily essential configuration requirements of the present invention.

1. Configuration FIG. 1 is an external view of an image generation apparatus according to this embodiment. Here, a portable game device is shown as an example of the image generation device. Note that the image generation apparatus to which the present embodiment is applied is not limited to such a portable game apparatus, but includes various touch panel displays such as game apparatuses other than the portable game apparatus, portable information terminals, and mobile phones. Applicable to electronic equipment.

  The image generation apparatus in FIG. 1 includes a touch panel display 190 that is a first display and a display 191 that is a second display. In addition, a direction instruction key (cross key) 300 that functions as an operation unit, an operation button 302, and speakers 304 and 306 that function as sound output units are provided. Further, it has a card slot 312 in which an IC card 310 (game card, game cartridge) functioning as an information storage medium is detachably mounted. The IC card 310 stores a game program (game data). The stylus pen 320 is used to perform a touch operation on the touch panel display 190 instead of a player (user) finger.

  Various images (game images, display objects) are displayed on the touch panel display 190 and the display 191. For example, a character, a sub screen, a background image, and the like are displayed. The touch panel display 190 and the display 191 can be configured by a color liquid crystal display such as a TFT. In the touch panel display 190, a touch panel is integrally formed on the upper surface (or lower surface) of the color liquid crystal display, thereby enabling operation input by a touch operation.

  FIG. 2 shows an example of a functional block diagram of the image generation apparatus of the present embodiment. Note that the image generation apparatus of the present embodiment may have a configuration in which some of the components (each unit) in FIG. 2 are omitted.

  The operation unit 160 is for a player to input operation data, and the function can be realized by a direction instruction key, an operation button, a joystick, or the like. The storage unit 170 serves as a work area for the processing unit 100, the communication unit 196, and the like, and its function can be realized by a RAM (DRAM, VRAM) or the like.

  The information storage medium 180 (a computer-readable medium) stores programs, data, and the like, and functions as an IC card (memory card), optical disk (CD, DVD), HDD (hard disk drive), or It can be realized by a memory (ROM). The processing unit 100 performs various processes of the present embodiment based on a program (data) stored in the information storage medium 180. That is, in the information storage medium 180, a program for causing a computer (an apparatus including an operation unit, a processing unit, a storage unit, and an output unit) to function as each unit of the present embodiment (a program for causing the computer to execute processing of each unit). Is memorized.

  The touch panel display 190 (first display) is for a player (user) to perform various operations and to display an image generated according to the present embodiment. For example, the touch panel display 190 is a display such as an LCD or an organic EL. It can be realized by a touch panel formed integrally therewith. Examples of the touch panel method include a resistive film method (4-wire type, 5-wire type), a capacitive coupling method, an ultrasonic surface acoustic wave method, and an infrared scanning method. Further, the touch panel display 190 includes a one-point detection type that can detect only one point of touch position (contact position) at the same time, and a multi-point detection type that can detect a plurality of points simultaneously.

  The display 191 (second display) is for displaying an image generated by the present embodiment, and can be realized by a display such as an LCD or an organic EL. Note that a touch panel display may be used as the display 191.

  The sound output unit 192 outputs the sound generated by the present embodiment, and its function can be realized by a speaker, a headphone terminal, or the like.

  The auxiliary storage device 194 (auxiliary memory, secondary memory) is a storage device used to supplement the capacity of the storage unit 170, and can be realized by a memory card such as an SD memory card or a multimedia card. The auxiliary storage device 194 is detachable, but may be built-in. The auxiliary storage device 194 is used to save save data such as the game midway results, personal image data and music data of the player (user), and the like.

  Note that a program (data) for causing a computer to function as each unit of this embodiment is distributed from the information storage medium of the server (host device) to the information storage medium 180 (storage unit 170) via the network and the communication unit 196. May be. Use of the information storage medium of such a host device (server) can also be included in the scope of the present invention.

  The processing unit 100 (processor) performs game processing, image generation processing, sound generation processing, and the like based on operation data from the operation unit 160, a program, and the like. The processing unit 100 performs various processes using the storage unit 170 as a work area. The functions of the processing unit 100 can be realized by hardware such as various processors (CPU, GPU, etc.), ASIC (gate array, etc.), and programs.

  The processing unit 100 includes a contact position acquisition unit 102, a character control unit 104, a game calculation unit 106, a game result calculation unit 108, a communication processing unit 110, an image generation unit 120, and a sound generation unit 130. In addition, it is good also as a structure which abbreviate | omits these (for example, a game calculating part, a game results calculating part).

  When an object (a transparent object, a finger, a stylus pen, or the like) contacts (touches) the touch panel display 190, the contact position acquisition unit 102 performs processing for acquiring the contact position (touch position). For example, in the present embodiment, when a contact event (touch event) in which a transparent object (transparent object) contacts the touch panel display 190 occurs, the contact position of the transparent object is acquired. Specifically, the contact position acquisition unit 102 polls and acquires contact position data (coordinate data) sent from the touch panel display 190 (touch panel) for each frame. The acquired contact position data is primarily stored in the contact position storage unit 171 until, for example, a given period elapses.

  The character control unit 104 performs various control processes such as character (moving object) generation control, movement / motion control, and display control. For example, a character is generated when an event such as a contact event occurs, a character is extinguished when an event such as a separation event occurs, a character is moved or operated in a two-dimensional or three-dimensional object space, and a character is displayed or displayed A process of instructing the position to the image generation unit 120 is performed. That is, the generated character is registered in the character management list 173 (object list) of the character information storage unit 172, the character management list 173 is transferred to the image generation unit 120, and the disappeared character is stored in the character management list 173. Perform processing such as deleting. The character is, for example, a two-dimensional or three-dimensional object representing a creature such as an animal (human, insect) or a plant, a celestial body such as a planet or a star, a vehicle such as a car, an airplane, or a ship. A character can be represented by, for example, a dot image in the case of a two-dimensional object, and can be represented by, for example, a plurality of polygons (primitive surfaces) in the case of a three-dimensional object.

  The character control unit 104 performs processing for moving a character (two-dimensional or three-dimensional object) in a game field that is a two-dimensional or three-dimensional object space. That is, processing for moving the character is performed based on operation data input by the player using the touch panel display 190 or the operation unit 160, a program (movement algorithm), various data (object list), and the like. More specifically, a process of sequentially obtaining character movement information (position, rotation angle, speed, or acceleration) for each frame (1/60 second) is performed. The character control unit 104 can also perform processing for moving the character. That is, a process for moving a character (animation, motion) based on operation data input by the player using the touch panel display 190 or the operation unit 160, a program (motion algorithm), various data (animation data, motion data), or the like. I do. More specifically, a process of sequentially obtaining character motion information (animation information or the position and rotation angle of each part object) every frame (1/60 seconds) is performed. Note that a frame is a unit of time for performing object movement control processing, motion control processing, and image generation processing.

  Movement information such as the position, rotation angle, and speed of the character determined by the character control by the character control unit 104 is stored in the character movement information storage unit 174 of the character information storage unit 172. Character image information (dot image, polygon data, etc.) used in character display control is stored in the character image storage unit 175 of the character information storage unit 172.

  In the present embodiment, the character control unit 104 corresponds to the acquired touch position when a touch event (touch event) in which a transparent object (object in a broad sense) touches (touches) the touch panel display 190 occurs. A process of generating a character (a process of displaying) is performed in the display area (display area specified by the contact position, character generation area). For example, the character is registered in the character management list 173 as a character to be displayed, or the display flag of the character in the character management list 173 is turned on.

  Specifically, the character control unit 104 displays a character image (main part of the character image) that is visible through the transparent object (transparent object) in the outline region (outer shape region) of the transparent object. Then, a process of generating (displaying) the character having the set size (scale) in the display area corresponding to the contact position is performed. Here, the contour region is the contour (outer shape) of the transparent object when the touch panel display 190 and the transparent object (transparent object in contact with the touch panel display) are viewed in plan (when viewed from a line of sight perpendicular to the screen). It is an area specified by (shape).

  Further, the character control unit 104 performs processing (processing to display) a character on the image (background image) of the main screen of the touch panel display 190 when a contact event occurs. And when the separation event which a transparent object (object) leaves | separates from the touchscreen display 190 generate | occur | produces, the process (process to erase | eliminate) which does not display the produced | generated character is performed.

  Further, the character control unit 104 performs a process of moving the character so as to follow the moving contact position when the contact position moves after the contact event occurs. For example, the character is moved in a direction (same direction) corresponding to the moving direction of the contact position (touch position). In this case, it is desirable to move the character so as to follow the contact position with a movement distance (slow movement speed) shorter than the movement distance (movement speed) of the contact position. In addition, as the contact position moves, a process of hiding the character (a process of gradually hiding and a process of making it transparent) may be performed.

  In addition, the character control unit 104 performs a process of changing the character image (image changing process) after the contact event occurs. For example, after a touch event occurs, the character's animation processing (including motion processing) is performed, the character's size is gradually increased (scaling processing), or the state changes from a highly transparent state to a lowly transparent state. Or a process for making it gradually opaque.

  The game calculation unit 106 performs game calculation processing for generating game images and game sounds. The game calculation process includes a process for determining the content and game mode of the game, a process for starting the game when the game start condition is satisfied, a process for proceeding with the game, or a game when the game end condition is satisfied. There is a process to finish.

  The game score calculation unit 108 calculates the player's game score (scores, points, wins / losses). For example, when a contact event occurs and a character is generated (after the character is displayed), the player inputs given operation information using the operation unit 160 (for example, an operation button or a cross key) (game) When the operation is performed), the player's game score is calculated based on the input operation information. For example, when a player performs a shooting operation using the operation unit 160 after a contact event has occurred and a character has been generated, the player's game score for shooting with respect to the generated character is calculated.

  The communication processing unit 110 transmits game play information (character information, play operation information, operation history information, game result information, personal information, etc.) of other players who play a game on another image generation device (game device) over a network ( A process for receiving via the Internet or LAN is performed. Specifically, for example, game play information received by the communication unit 196 is acquired via the storage unit 170 or the like. Alternatively, a process for transmitting game play information of the player's own player to another image generation apparatus via the network is performed. Specifically, game play information to be transmitted is prepared, and the communication unit 196 is instructed to transmit.

  Then, when a contact event occurs, the character control unit 104 performs processing (processing for displaying) a character of another player based on the received game play information of the other player. Specifically, the contact position is compared with the positions of other player characters included in the game play information. If they match, a process for generating a character of another player in the display area corresponding to the contact position is performed. In this case, hit processing (destructive expression processing) or the like for characters of other players may be performed.

  The image generation unit 120 performs image drawing processing on the drawing buffer 176 based on the results of various processing (game processing) performed by the processing unit 100, thereby generating an image, and the touch panel display 190 and the display It outputs to 191. In this case, the image generated by the image generation unit 120 may be a so-called two-dimensional image or a three-dimensional image. When generating a three-dimensional image, first, geometric processing such as coordinate transformation (world coordinate transformation, camera coordinate transformation), clipping processing, or perspective transformation is performed, and based on the processing result, drawing data (primitive The position coordinates of the vertices of the surface, texture coordinates, color data, normal vectors or α values) are created. Based on the drawing data (primitive surface data), the perspective transformation (geometric processing) object (one or a plurality of primitive surfaces) is stored in the drawing buffer 176 (frame buffer, intermediate buffer, etc.) as pixel information. Can be drawn in a VRAM). Thereby, an image that can be seen from the virtual camera (given viewpoint) in the object space is generated.

  In this embodiment, the image generation unit 120 generates an image including a character image and displays the image on the touch panel display 190. For example, when the contact position moves after the contact event occurs, the image generation unit 120 generates an image in which the viewpoint (viewpoint position, line-of-sight direction) for viewing the character changes according to the movement of the contact position. Alternatively, when a contact event occurs and a character is generated, an explanation image of the character is generated. In this case, the explanation image may be displayed on the touch panel display 190 or may be displayed on the display 191 (second display).

  The sound generation unit 130 performs sound processing based on the results of various processes performed by the processing unit 100, generates game sounds such as BGM, sound effects, or sounds, and outputs the game sounds to the sound output unit 192.

2. 2. Technique of Present Embodiment 2.1 Hidden Picture Expression Using Transparent Object In conventional image generation apparatuses, the touch panel display 190 is generally used for inputting operation information by a touch operation. The touch operation is performed with a finger or a stylus pen, and touch operations with other objects are not assumed.

  In the present embodiment, the touch panel display 190 is used for a hidden picture expression in which, for example, when a spherical transparent object is placed on the touch panel display 190 and the inside of the transparent object is viewed, a character that should not have been seen until then can be seen.

  That is, in FIG. 3A, for example, a background image (including a black image and a white image) is displayed on the touch panel display 190 as an image of the main screen. Then, as shown in FIG. 3 (B), when the transparent object TOB of the spherical shape imaged of a crystal ball is placed on the touch panel display 190 and the transparent object TOB contacts the touch panel display 190 at the contact position TP in FIG. 3 (B), An image is displayed in which the character CH, which is a hidden picture, appears to float inside the transparent object TOB. That is, since the character CH that did not exist in FIG. 3A suddenly appears when the transparent object TOB is placed, the player cannot understand why the character CH has appeared and feels surprise. As a result, an interactive video effect that is not available in the past can be provided.

  Next, the principle of the method of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 4, the transparent object TOB is placed on the touch panel display 190, and a touch event in which the transparent object TOB contacts the touch panel display 190 is generated. In this case, in the present embodiment, the contact position acquisition unit 102 acquires the contact position TP of the transparent object TOB. That is, the coordinates of the contact position TP on the touch panel display 190 are acquired.

  When the contact event occurs in this way, the character control unit 104 displays the display area corresponding to the acquired contact position TP (the area whose position is specified by the TP, the area including the TP, or the given distance from the TP. A character CH is generated in a remote area. For example, an image of the character CH is displayed in the display area including the contact position TP. Then, the image of the character CH is enlarged by the lens effect of the transparent object TOB and displayed on the player. For example, when the transparent object TOB is a sphere, it is enlarged and displayed about three times.

  In this case, in the present embodiment, a character CH having a small size that is hidden by a human finger is displayed on the touch panel display 190. For example, a character CH of about 16 × 16 pixels (or 1 cm × 1 cm or less) is displayed.

  Specifically, the outline area of the transparent object TOB when the touch panel display 190 and the transparent object TOB are viewed in plan as shown in FIG. When the transparent object TOB is a sphere, the contour area ER is a circular area. In this case, the character control unit 104 sets the character CH whose size is set so that an image of the character CH (at least an image of the main part of the character) seen through the transparent object TOB is displayed in the contour region ER. Is displayed at the contact position TP.

  In this way, as shown in FIG. 3B, the character CH is displayed without protruding from the outline region ER of the transparent object TOB, so that the illusion is as if the character CH was projected inside the transparent object TOB. Can be provided to the player. If the character CH is set to such a small size, a player who is wondering about the sudden occurrence of the character CH removes the transparent object TOB and touches the contact position TP in FIG. In addition, since the character CH is hidden behind the finger and cannot be seen, it is possible to prevent the situation where the secret is immediately known.

  In the present embodiment, when the player removes the transparent object TOB and a separation event in which the transparent object TOB leaves the touch panel display 190 occurs, the character control unit 104 hides (erases) the generated character CH. That is, as shown in FIG. 3A, the character CH is not displayed at the contact position TP. Accordingly, it is possible to realize a video effect that an image is displayed when the transparent object TOB is placed on the touch panel display 190 and disappears when the transparent object TOB is removed. In this way, when a player who is wondering about the sudden occurrence of the character CH removes the transparent object TOB, the character CH is not displayed as shown in FIG. It is possible to prevent situations that are immediately known.

  According to the method of the present embodiment described above, for example, a sphere is used as the transparent object TOB, so that an image (video) of a point where the transparent object TOB is placed can be enlarged and projected about three times. Further, by the contact between the spherical transparent object TOB and the touch panel display 190, the coordinates of the position where the transparent object TOB is placed can be easily obtained using the function of the touch panel display 190.

  Further, when an opaque object such as a finger or a stylus pen is touched, an image near the contact position TP is hidden by the finger or the stylus pen and cannot be seen. On the other hand, if the transparent object TOB is used as in this embodiment, the image near the contact position TP is not hidden, and a character image as shown in FIG. 3B can be shown to the player. .

  Further, since the transparent object TOB has a certain weight (for example, 80 g or more), the coordinates near the contact position TP can be obtained by simply placing the transparent object TOB on the touch panel display 190 without performing an aggressive operation of pressing. Can be obtained. If a spherical transparent object TOB is used, a trajectory due to rolling can also be acquired.

  Next, specific processing for realizing the method of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. The background image (main screen image) shown in A1 of FIG. 5 is IM1, and the character image shown in A2 is IM2. The background image IM1 is drawn in the first drawing buffer 177 in FIG. 2, and the character image IM2 is drawn in the second drawing buffer 178.

  Then, as shown in A3 of FIG. 5, the character image IM2 is arranged at a location (display area) centered on the coordinates of the contact position TP only when the transparent object TOB comes into contact with the touch panel display 190 and there is a touch panel input. And display. That is, the character image IM2 is drawn at a position corresponding to the contact position TP on the background image IM1.

  Then, as shown by A4 in FIG. 5, when viewed through the transparent object TOB, the image is enlarged about three times by the lens effect. In addition, the transparent object TOB is lifted and the touch panel input disappears, and at the same time, the character image IM2 is deleted.

  When the touch event occurs and the touch panel is input, the character image IM2 may be displayed instantaneously. However, the scale of the character image IM2 is gradually changed from 0.0 to 1.0, for example, By gradually changing the transparency of the character image IM2 from, for example, 0.0 (transparent) to 1.0 (opaque), it is possible to further enhance the effect.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining the processing of the method of this embodiment.

  First, a background image that is a main screen image of the touch panel display 190 is drawn (step S1). Then, it is determined whether or not the transparent object (crystal ball) TOB has touched the touch panel display 190 (whether or not a contact event has occurred) (step S2). If contact is made, a touch position (touch position) TP of the touch panel display 190 is acquired (step S3). That is, the coordinates of the contact position TP output from the touch panel display 190 are acquired.

  Next, it is determined whether or not a given time lag period has elapsed (step S4). When the time has elapsed, a character image is drawn in the display area corresponding to the contact position TP on the main screen image (background image) (step S5). Then, a character image change process (video effect process) is performed (step S6). That is, as will be described later, animation processing, enlargement processing, or transparency change processing of the character CH is performed.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the transparent object TOB has left the touch panel display 190 (whether or not a separation event has occurred) (step S7). If not, the process returns to step S6 to continue the character image change process. On the other hand, if it is away, the character image is hidden (erased) (step S8), and the process returns to step S2.

  In steps S4 and S5 in FIG. 6, after a contact event occurs, a character CH is generated in the display area after a given time lag period has elapsed. That is, the generation of the character CH is delayed by a certain time from the time when the contact event occurs.

  For example, it is assumed that a player who wonders that the character CH suddenly appears as shown in FIG. 3B removes the transparent object TOB and touches the contact position TP shown in FIG. In this case, as shown in FIG. 4, since the size of the character CH displayed on the touch panel display 190 is small, most of the character CH is hidden behind the player's finger. However, if the player releases his / her finger immediately, the character CH hidden behind the finger will be seen, and the secret will be immediately known.

  In this regard, if the character CH is displayed after the elapse of the time lag period as in step S4 in FIG. 6, even if the player touches the contact position TP with a finger and then releases it immediately, the character CH is not displayed yet. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a situation where the secret is known.

  Instead of the method of causing the character CH to appear after the lapse of the time lag period, a method of gradually increasing the character CH after the occurrence of the contact event or making the character CH from transparent to opaque may be employed.

2.2 Character Movement Processing The character CH display area may be an area centered on the contact position TP, but the character CH may be generated in a display area that is separated from the contact position by a given distance. .

  For example, in FIG. 7A, the character control unit 104 causes the character CH to be generated in a display area set at a location away from the contact position TP when a contact event of the transparent object TOB to the contact position TP occurs. ing. Then, as shown in FIG. 7B, after the character CH is generated, a process of moving the character CH toward the contact position TP is performed.

  In this way, when the transparent object TOB is placed, the video effect that the character CH does not suddenly appear at the center of the TOB but appears while moving from the vicinity of the outline of the TOB toward the center can be realized. Further, since the character CH appears from a position different from the contact position TP of the transparent object TOB, the situation that the character CH is generated by the contact event to the contact position TP is not noticed by the player and the secret is known. Can be prevented.

  In FIG. 8A, the contact position TP is moved after the contact event occurs. In this case, the character control unit 104 performs a process of moving the character CH so as to follow the moving contact position TP. Specifically, after the character CH moves to the contact position TP as shown in FIG. 7B, when the player moves the transparent object TOB to the left side, for example, as shown in FIG. Move to.

  In this way, the character image displayed in the contour area ER of the transparent object TOB also moves following the movement of the transparent object TOB. Therefore, it appears as if the character CH exists in the transparent object TOB, and the character CH moves as the transparent object TOB moves, and a realistic video expression can be realized.

  In FIG. 8B, the character control unit 104 performs a process of hiding the character CH as the contact position TP moves. That is, when the contact position TP is moved a long distance from the position shown in FIG. 7B, the character CH is gradually hidden. For example, when the contact position TP moves to the left as shown in FIG. 7B, the character CH is gradually hidden from the right portion. Conversely, when the contact position TP moves to the right side, the character CH is gradually hidden from the left portion.

  In this way, when the transparent object TOB is moved greatly, the character image that appears in the TOB disappears. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 8A, when the transparent object TOB (contact position TP) is moved to the left, the character image moves to the right in the TOB. When the transparent object TOB is further moved to the left side, it is possible to realize an image expression in which the character image gradually disappears from the right side portion after reaching the right outline in the TOB.

  For example, when the transparent object TOB is moved to the left side and the character CH is also moved to the left side as shown in FIG. 8B and the method of hiding the character CH is not adopted, the transparent object TOB is moved largely to the left side. The character CH existing under the TOB appears and appears on the right side of the TOB, and the secret is known. In this regard, according to the method of FIG. 8B, the character CH is not displayed, and thus such a situation can be prevented.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, when a contact event occurs, the character CH is generated at a location away from the contact position TP as shown in FIG. Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 9B, the generated character CH is moved toward the contact position TP.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 9C, when the contact position TP is moved, the character CH is moved so as to follow TP. For example, when the contact position TP moves to the left, the character CH also moves to the left, and when the contact position TP moves to the right, the character CH also moves to the right.

  In this case, as shown in FIG. 9C, it is desirable to move the character CH at a movement distance L / N (N> 1) shorter than the movement distance L of the contact position TP. Alternatively, the character CH is moved at a moving speed slower than the moving speed of the contact position TP.

  In this way, when the transparent object TOB is moved to the left side, for example, it is possible to realize a video expression in which the character image appears to move from the center of the TOB toward the right outline. If the character CH is not displayed as shown in FIG. 9D when the transparent object TOB is further moved to the left side, the character CH appears from the right outline of the transparent object TOB as shown in FIG. 8B. It is possible to realize video expression that disappears gradually.

2.3 Image Change Process In step S6 of FIG. 6, after a contact event occurs (step S2), the character control unit 104 performs a process of changing the image of the character CH.

  For example, in FIG. 10A, when the transparent object TOB is placed on the touch panel display 190, an image of the character CH standing backward is displayed in the outline area ER of the TOB. After that, when time passes, an animation process is performed in which the character CH turns to the near side as shown in FIG. In this way, it is possible to realize an effective video expression in which the character CH in the transparent object TOB looks as if it is alive.

  In the animation processing in this case, when the character CH is expressed by a two-dimensional image, a plurality of character images (dot images) for realizing the animation of the character CH are sequentially displayed in the display area of the contact position TP. Can be realized. When the character CH is expressed by a three-dimensional image, the animation process can be realized by performing a motion process of the character CH composed of a plurality of polygons. Specifically, motion data including the position or rotation angle of each part object (bone constituting the skeleton) constituting the character CH is stored in a motion data storage unit (not shown), and the motion data is reproduced. What is necessary is just to process.

  Note that the image change processing of the character CH is not limited to the animation processing as shown in FIGS. 10 (A) and 10 (B). For example, as shown in FIG. 11A, the character control unit 104 may perform a process of gradually increasing the size of the character CH after the contact event occurs.

  Specifically, the character CH is changed from a very small size (for example, 1 × 1 pixel) to the size in FIG. 4 (for example, 16 × 16 pixels). In this way, it is possible to obtain the same effect as the method of generating the character CH after the time lag period has elapsed. That is, even if the player removes the transparent object TOB and touches the contact position TP with his / her finger and then releases it immediately, the character CH is displayed in a very small size (1 × 1 pixel), so the secret is known. Can be prevented.

  Note that after the character CH is displayed in the size of FIG. 4 when a contact event occurs, a process of further increasing the size of the character CH may be performed. In this way, it is possible to realize a video expression that the appearing character CH becomes larger in the transparent object TOB.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 11B, the character control unit 104 may perform a process of changing the character CH from a state with high transparency to a state with low transparency after a contact event occurs.

  Specifically, for example, the character CH is changed from a completely transparent state to an opaque state. In this way, it is possible to obtain the same effect as the method of generating the character CH after the time lag period has elapsed. That is, even if the player removes the transparent object TOB and touches the contact position TP with his / her finger and then releases it immediately, the character CH is displayed in a transparent state, so that it is possible to prevent a situation where the secret is known.

  Note that after the occurrence of the contact event (for example, after the time lag period elapses), the character CH may be displayed in a semi-transparent state, for example, and then the character CH may be gradually made opaque. In this way, it is possible to realize a video expression in which the appearing character CH gradually appears in the transparent object TOB.

  Further, the process of changing the transparent state (semi-transparent state) of the character CH can be realized by, for example, α blending using an α value. That is, when the character CH is changed from a state with high transparency to a state with low transparency, the α value of the character CH is changed from the α value with high transparency to the α value with low transparency, while the α value with the background image is changed. Blending may be performed.

  Note that the image change process of the character CH performed after the occurrence of the contact event is not limited to the animation process, the enlargement process, and the transparent state change process as shown in FIGS. 10A to 11B, and various processes can be assumed. For example, various image filtering processes for the character CH such as a pixel replacement process and a pixel averaging process may be performed.

  Alternatively, when the contact position TP moves after the contact event occurs, the image of the character CH may be changed according to the movement of the contact position TP. For example, the image of the character CH is changed based on the moving distance and moving speed of the contact position TP. Alternatively, when the contact position TP moves after the contact event occurs, an image is generated in which the viewpoint for viewing the character CH changes according to the movement of the contact position.

  For example, in FIG. 12A, an image of the cube character CH is projected via the transparent object TOB. That is, when the transparent object TOB comes into contact with the contact position TP in FIG. 12B, an image as shown in FIG. 12A is displayed by displaying the image of the character CH at the contact position TP.

  After that, when the player moves the transparent object TOB and the contact position TP moves, an image in which the viewpoint for viewing the character CH is changed is generated as shown in FIG. That is, as shown in FIG. 14, a character image that is visible from a viewpoint VP whose viewpoint position or line-of-sight direction changes according to the contact position TP is generated.

  In this way, as the contact position TP moves, the three-dimensional appearance of the cube character CH projected in the transparent object TOB changes, and an unprecedented video expression can be realized.

2.4 Display of Description Image Next, a description image display method to which the present embodiment is applied will be described. For example, in FIG. 15A, a background image on which a forest inhabiting insects is drawn is displayed on the touch panel display 190.

  When the player places a transparent object TOB (or an object such as a finger or a stylus pen) on the touch panel display 190 and a contact event occurs in which the TOB touches the contact position TP, a butterfly character as shown in FIG. The image becomes visible through the TOB. That is, by generating a butterfly character CH at the contact position TP as shown in FIG. 16A, the image representation shown in FIG. 15B is realized.

  In this case, when the player touches the transparent object TOB (object in a broad sense) at a position different from that in FIG. 15A, different types of insect characters CH such as mantis and beetle, for example, according to the contact position. Will be displayed.

  In this way, it is possible to give the player the pleasure of searching the forest and finding various insects. In FIG. 15A, a character such as a butterfly is not displayed. For example, when a character such as a butterfly having a very small size is displayed in advance on the background image and the transparent object TOB comes into contact with the character, The effect may be such that an enlarged image of the character is displayed as shown in FIG. This makes it possible for the player to experience the insect collection in a simulated manner.

  In addition, when a contact event occurs and an insect character CH occurs, the image generation unit 120 may generate an explanatory image of the character CH (an image explaining the characteristics of the character). For example, in FIG. 16B, when the character CH is generated, the image generation unit 120 generates an explanatory image 193 of the generated character CH and displays it on the display 191 (second display). For example, instead of the display 191, a sub screen may be generated near the character CH displayed on the touch panel display 190, and an explanation image may be displayed on the sub screen.

  By displaying the explanation image 193 like this, it is possible to give the player an enjoyment like a picture book of looking for an insect and viewing the explanation. That is, the player can know not only the insect image as shown in FIG. 15B but also what kind of insect is the insect and what characteristics it has as shown in FIG. 16B. And can satisfy the player's intellectual curiosity. Further, when the explanation image 193 is displayed on the display 191 as shown in FIG. 16B, the player can directly see and read the explanation image without using the transparent object TOB. That is, since an easy-to-read explanation image can be displayed, the convenience of the player can be improved.

  The description image generation method is not limited to the method shown in FIGS. For example, when an image of a fish (character) swimming is generated and the swimming fish is touched with a transparent object (or object), an explanation image such as the name and size of the fish is displayed, or the internal organs of the fish A transmission expression image representing a bone or the like may be displayed as an explanation image.

  FIG. 17 shows a flowchart of processing for realizing the methods of FIGS. 15 (A) to 16 (B).

  First, a background image representing a forest as shown in FIG. 15A is drawn (step S11). Then, it is determined whether or not the transparent object TOB (object) has touched the touch panel display 190 (step S12). If contact is made, the touch position TP of the touch panel display 190 is acquired (step S13).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the character CH exists at the contact position TP (step S14). If it exists, the character CH is displayed at the contact position TP (step S15). That is, since the butterfly character CH exists at the contact position TP in FIG. 15A, the butterfly character CH is displayed via the transparent object TOB in FIG. 15B.

  Next, an explanatory image of the appearing character CH is displayed on the second display 191 (step S16). For example, in FIG. 16B, an explanatory image of a butterfly character CH is displayed.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the transparent object TOB has left the touch panel display 190 (step S17). If it is away, the character CH is hidden (step S18), and the process returns to step S12.

2.5 Game Score Calculation Next, a game score calculation method to which the present embodiment is applied will be described. For example, in FIG. 18A, when the player touches the touch panel display 190 with the transparent object TOB (or object) and a contact event occurs, a character CH is generated and displayed as shown in FIG. The

  Specifically, in FIG. 18A, the contact position TP is near the building window. In this case, as shown in FIG. 18B, an enlarged image near the contact position TP is generated. An image of the character CH beyond the window is displayed.

  Then, after the character CH is generated in this way, when the player inputs operation information using the operation unit, the game result of the player is calculated based on the input operation information. Specifically, in FIG. 18B, the player presses the operation button 302 to give an instruction to shoot the character CH with a gun or the like. When a shot (bullet) hits the character CH, a game score calculation is performed in which the player's score is added.

  As described above, according to the methods shown in FIGS. 18A and 18B, not only the character CH appears due to the occurrence of the contact event, but also the game performance of the player is improved by the player performing the game operation. Calculations can be made and interactive games can be realized.

  Note that the game score calculation method of the present embodiment is not limited to FIGS. 18 (A) and 18 (B). For example, after the appearance of the character CH due to the occurrence of a contact event, the game results may be calculated by answering a quiz issued by the character CH or playing (fighting) with the appearing character CH.

  FIG. 19 shows a flowchart of processing for realizing the method of FIGS. 18 (A) and 18 (B).

  First, a background image on which a building or the like as shown in FIG. 18A is drawn is drawn (step S21). Then, it is determined whether or not the transparent object TOB (object) is in contact with the touch panel display 190 (step S22). If the transparent object TOB (object) is in contact, the contact position TP of the touch panel display 190 is acquired (step S23).

  Next, as shown in FIG. 18B, an enlarged image of the contact position TP is generated and the character CH is displayed (step S24). Then, it is determined whether or not the player has performed a given operation such as shooting (step S25). If so, game results such as the player's score are calculated (step S26).

2.6 Communication Processing Next, a communication processing method to which the present embodiment is applied will be described. FIG. 20 shows a configuration example of a game system that realizes the communication processing method of the present embodiment. This game system is connected to a plurality of image generation devices (game device, game terminal, information terminal) 20-1 to 20-n and these image generation device devices 20-1 to 20-n via a network 12. Server 10 is included. Here, the network 12 (communication line) means a communication path through which data can be exchanged. That is, the network 12 includes a communication network such as a telephone communication network, a cable network, and the Internet in addition to a LAN using a dedicated line (dedicated cable) or Ethernet (registered trademark) for direct connection. The method is not limited to wired / wireless.

  The server (game server) 10 can be configured by a known server computer system having a processing unit that executes various processes, a storage unit that stores various programs and data, a communication unit for transmitting and receiving data via the network 12, and the like. . This server 10 is provided (installed) by, for example, an image generation device manufacturer or game software production manufacturer, and performs overall control of the game system, management of various data and network games, and the like.

  The image generation devices 20-1 to 20-n are devices (terminals) for the player to play a game. The image generation devices 20-1 to 20-n are a processing unit that executes various processes, a storage unit that stores various programs and data, and an operation input by the player. It can be configured by a known computer system having an operation unit for performing, a display unit for displaying a game screen, a sound output unit for outputting game sounds, a communication unit for transmitting and receiving data via the network 12, and the like. . For example, as the image generation devices 20-1 to 20-n, a home game device installed in a home, an arcade game device installed in a store, a portable game device, or a mobile terminal device such as a mobile phone, etc. realizable. Players playing with the image generation apparatuses 20-1 to 20-n can receive various services (online network services) provided by the server 10 by accessing the server 10 and logging in.

  With the game system as shown in FIG. 20, for example, the communication processing unit 110 included in the image generation device 20-1 receives game play information of another player who plays a game in the other image generation device 20-2 via the network 12. can do.

  Here, the game play information is information obtained by the game play of the player, such as character information, game play operation information and operation history information, player game result information, or player personal information. The character information includes movement information such as the character's position, rotation angle (direction) or speed, parameter information such as the character's physical strength, hit points or status, event information generated for the character, or character image information. The game play operation information and operation history information are operation information input by the player using the operation unit 160 and history information of the operation information. Further, the player's game result information is information such as the player's score, points, or win / loss, and the player's personal information is information such as the player's name, nickname, sex, or age.

  In the present embodiment, when a contact event occurs, the character control unit 104 generates a character of another player at a display position corresponding to the contact position based on the received game play information of the other player. I do. For example, based on the position information of the character of another player, the character of the other player is generated at a position on the game field corresponding to the position. Alternatively, the characters of other players are generated or moved based on the operation information and operation history information of other players. Alternatively, the other player's character is generated or disappeared based on the game result information of the other player.

  For example, FIG. 21 (A) and FIG. 21 (B) are examples when the method of the present embodiment is applied to a submarine battle game.

  A sea background image is displayed on the touch panel display 190 of the player. When the player's attack turn comes, the position information of the character CH of the submarine operated by another player is received via the network. Then, the player operates the transparent object TOB (or an object such as a finger or a stylus pen) to search for another player's submarine character CH under the sea.

  Specifically, when the transparent object TOB (object) operated by the player contacts the contact position TP, the contact position TP is compared with the position of the submarine character CH operated by another player obtained by reception. . When the contact position TP and the position of the submarine character CH coincide with each other, the character control unit 104 generates the submarine character CH of another player hidden on the sea surface as shown in FIG. More specifically, the player's torpedo hits the submarine character CH to generate an effect image that is destroyed. In this way, a so-called torpedo battle game with a submarine can be realized.

  FIG. 22 shows a flowchart of processing for realizing the method of FIGS. 21 (A) and 21 (B).

  First, a background image on which a sea or the like as shown in FIG. 21A is drawn is drawn (step S31). Further, the game play information (information of other players) of other players who play the game with other image generation devices is received via the network (step S32).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the transparent object TOB (object) has touched the touch panel display 190 (step S33). If the transparent object TOB (object) has touched, the contact position TP of the touch panel display 190 is acquired (step S34). Then, it is determined whether or not the contact position TP and the position of the character CH (submarine) of the other player coincide with each other (step S35). If they coincide, as shown in FIG. Is generated and displayed at the contact position TP (step S36).

2.7 Transparent Object Next, various examples of the transparent object (object) used in the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 23A shows an example of a spherical transparent object. As this transparent object, for example, a transparent acrylic sphere, glass sphere, rubber sphere or the like having a diameter of around 40 mm can be used. The transparent object may be colorless or colored. The transparent object does not need to be completely transparent, and may be translucent.

  FIG. 23B shows an example of a lens-shaped or hemispherical transparent object. As described above, the transparent object does not necessarily have to be a sphere, and at least a portion in contact with the touch panel display may be a curved surface.

  FIG. 23C is an example of a columnar transparent object. In FIG. 23C, the bottom surface, which is a portion that contacts the touch panel display, of the columnar transparent object has a lens shape. The column body may be a cylinder or a prism such as a triangular prism or a quadrangular prism.

  FIG. 23D shows an example of a cylindrical transparent object (object). In FIG. 23D, for example, a character image displayed on the touch panel display is displayed through a cylindrical hole in the middle. In this case, for example, if at least two protrusions are provided on the bottom surface portion of the cylinder, the midpoint of the two protrusions is acquired as the touch position (touch position) of the touch panel display.

  Further, when the transparent object has a columnar shape, for example, at least two protrusions are provided on the bottom surface thereof as shown in FIGS. Even in this way, the midpoint of the two protrusions is acquired as the contact position (touch position) of the touch panel display.

  For example, in FIGS. 24A and 24B, a figure (transparent object, object) imitating a character or the like is placed on the touch panel display 190. In this case, a projection as shown in FIG. 23 (E) is provided on the bottom of the figure in FIG. 24 (A), and a projection as shown in FIG. 23 (F) is provided on the bottom of the figure in FIG. 24 (B). Is provided. If the orientation when the figure is placed is fixed, even if the figure is placed in the same circle, the contact position when the figure of FIG. The contact position when the figure of FIG. 24 (B) having the protrusion of (F) is placed is different. Therefore, by determining the contact position, it is possible to determine what shape the figure is placed on. Further, by determining the contact position, for example, it is possible to perform control such as changing the type of character generated on the touch panel display 190 and the manner in which the character is generated. For example, when a figure imitating the robot of FIG. 24A is placed, a robot character corresponding to this figure is generated, or when a figure imitating the rabbit of FIG. 24B is placed, It is possible to generate a rabbit character corresponding to this figure.

  The present invention is not limited to that described in the above embodiment, and various modifications can be made. For example, terms (transparent objects, etc.) cited as broad or synonymous terms (objects, etc.) in the description in the specification or drawings are replaced with broad terms or synonyms in other descriptions in the specification or drawings. Can do.

  Further, the character generation method, the display method, the control method, the game result calculation method, the communication processing method, and the like are not limited to those described in this embodiment, and methods equivalent to these are also within the scope of the present invention. Can be included. For example, in the method described with reference to FIGS. 5 to 24B and the like, it is possible to perform a modification in which the character size setting is not performed as described with reference to FIG. It is also possible to adopt a method of acquiring a contact position using an object instead of a transparent object.

  Further, the present invention can be applied to various games other than the game described in the present embodiment. In addition, the present invention also provides various kinds of images such as a business game device, a home game device, a portable game device, a large attraction in which a large number of players participate, a simulator, a multimedia terminal, a system board for generating a game image, and a mobile phone. Applicable to generators.

The example of the external view of the image generation apparatus of this embodiment. The example of a functional block diagram of the image generation device of this embodiment. 3A and 3B show examples of images generated by this embodiment. The figure for demonstrating the principle of the method of this embodiment. The figure for demonstrating the specific process which implement | achieves the method of this embodiment. The flowchart of the specific process of this embodiment. 7A and 7B are explanatory diagrams of the character moving method. 8A and 8B are explanatory diagrams of the character moving method. 9A to 9D are explanatory diagrams of the character moving method. 10A and 10B are explanatory diagrams of the image change method. 11A and 11B are explanatory diagrams of the image change method. FIG. 12A and FIG. 12B are explanatory diagrams of an image change method based on a viewpoint change. Explanatory drawing of the image change method by a viewpoint change. Explanatory drawing of the image change method by a viewpoint change. FIG. 15A and FIG. 15B are explanatory diagrams of a description image generation method. FIGS. 16A and 16B are explanatory diagrams of an explanation image generation method. The flowchart of the process of a description image generation method. 18 (A) and 18 (B) are explanatory diagrams of the game result calculation method. The flowchart of the process of a game results calculation method. The structural example of the game system of this embodiment. 21A and 21B are explanatory diagrams of a communication processing method. The flowchart of the process of a communication processing method. 23A to 23F show various examples of transparent objects. FIG. 24A and FIG. 24B are application examples to the figure of this embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

100 processing unit, 102 contact position acquisition unit, 104 character control unit,
106 game calculation unit, 108 game result calculation unit, 110 communication processing unit,
120 image generators, 130 sound generators,
160 operation unit, 170 storage unit, 171 contact position storage unit,
172 character information storage unit, 173 character management list,
174 Character movement information storage unit, 175 character image storage unit,
176 drawing buffer, 177 first drawing buffer, 178 second drawing buffer,
190 touch panel display, 191 display, 192 sound output unit,
194 Auxiliary storage device, 196 communication unit

Claims (28)

A program for an image generation device that generates an image displayed on a touch panel display,
A contact position acquisition unit that acquires a contact position of the transparent object when a contact event occurs in contact with the transparent object on the touch panel display;
A character control unit that performs processing for generating a character in a display area corresponding to the acquired contact position when the contact event occurs;
As an image generation unit that generates an image including the image of the character and displays the image on the touch panel display,
Make the computer work,
The character control unit
In the outline area of the transparent object when the touch panel display and the transparent object are viewed in plan, the character whose size is set so that the image of the character seen through the transparent object is displayed, The program which performs the process generated in the said display area corresponding to the said contact position. In claim 1,
The character control unit
When the touch event occurs, the character is generated on the image of the main screen of the touch panel display, and the generated character is hidden when a separation event occurs in which the transparent object is separated from the touch panel display. A program characterized by performing processing. In claim 1 or 2,
The character control unit
A program for generating the character in the display area after a given time lag period has elapsed after the contact event has occurred. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 3,
The character control unit
When the contact event occurs, the character is generated in the display area set at a location away from the contact position, and the character is moved toward the contact position after the character is generated. A program characterized by being performed. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 4,
The character control unit
A program for performing a process of moving the character so as to follow the moving contact position when the contact position moves after the contact event occurs. A program for an image generation device that generates an image displayed on a touch panel display,
A contact position acquisition unit that acquires a contact position of the transparent object when a contact event occurs in contact with the transparent object on the touch panel display;
A character control unit that performs processing for generating a character in a display area corresponding to the acquired contact position when the contact event occurs;
As an image generation unit that generates an image including the image of the character and displays the image on the touch panel display,
Make the computer work,
The character control unit
A program for performing a process of moving the character so as to follow the moving contact position when the contact position moves after the contact event occurs. In claim 5 or 6,
The character control unit
The program which performs the process which moves the said character by the movement distance shorter than the movement distance of the said contact position. In any of claims 5 to 7,
The character control unit
The program which performs the process which hides the said character as the said contact position moves. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 8.
The character control unit
A program for performing a process of changing an image of the character after the contact event occurs. A program for an image generation device that generates an image displayed on a touch panel display,
A contact position acquisition unit that acquires a contact position of the transparent object when a contact event occurs in contact with the transparent object on the touch panel display;
A character control unit that performs processing for generating a character in a display area corresponding to the acquired contact position when the contact event occurs;
As an image generation unit that generates an image including the image of the character and displays the image on the touch panel display,
Make the computer work,
The character control unit
A program for performing a process of changing an image of the character after the contact event occurs. In claim 9 or 10,
The character control unit
A program for performing animation processing of the character after the contact event has occurred. In any of claims 9 to 11,
The character control unit
The character control unit
A program for gradually increasing the size of the character after the contact event has occurred. In any of claims 9 to 12,
A program for performing a process of changing the character from a high transparency state to a low transparency state after the contact event has occurred. In any of claims 9 to 13,
The character control unit
A program for performing a process of changing an image of the character in accordance with movement of the contact position when the contact position moves after the contact event occurs. In claim 14,
The character is composed of a three-dimensional object,
The image generation unit
A program for generating an image in which a viewpoint for viewing the character changes according to movement of the contact position when the contact position moves after the contact event occurs. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 15,
The image generation unit
A program for generating an explanation image of the character when the character is generated when the contact event occurs. A program for an image generation device that generates an image displayed on a touch panel display,
A contact position acquisition unit that acquires a contact position of the object when a contact event occurs in which the object contacts the touch panel display;
A character control unit that performs processing for generating a character in a display area corresponding to the acquired contact position when the contact event occurs;
As an image generation unit that generates an image including the image of the character and displays the image on the touch panel display,
Make the computer work,
The image generation unit
A program for generating an explanation image of the character when the character is generated when the contact event occurs. In claim 16 or 17,
The image generation apparatus has a second display in addition to the touch panel display,
The image generation unit
When the character is generated, the explanation image of the character is generated and displayed on the second display. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 18.
As a game score calculator that calculates the player's game score,
Make the computer work,
The game score calculation unit
When the player inputs given operation information using the operation unit after the contact event has occurred and the character has occurred, the game result of the player is calculated based on the input operation information. A featured program. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 19.
As a communication processing unit that performs processing for receiving game play information of another player who plays a game on another image generation device via a network,
Make the computer work,
The character control unit
When the contact event occurs, processing for generating a character of the other player in the display area corresponding to the contact position is performed based on the received game play information of the other player. program. A program for an image generation device that generates an image displayed on a touch panel display,
A contact position acquisition unit that acquires a contact position of the object when a contact event occurs in which the object contacts the touch panel display;
A character control unit that performs processing for generating a character in a display area corresponding to the acquired contact position when the contact event occurs;
An image generation unit that generates an image including an image of the character and displays the image on the touch panel display;
As a communication processing unit that performs processing for receiving game play information of another player who plays a game on another image generation device via a network,
Make the computer work,
The character control unit
When the contact event occurs, processing for generating a character of the other player in the display area corresponding to the contact position is performed based on the received game play information of the other player. program. In claim 21,
The character control unit
A program for performing a process of generating a character of the other player when the contact position matches the character position of the other player.   A computer-readable information storage medium storing the program according to any one of claims 1 to 22. An image generation device that generates an image displayed on a touch panel display,
A contact position acquisition unit that acquires a contact position of the transparent object when a contact event occurs in contact with the transparent object on the touch panel display;
A character control unit that performs processing for generating a character in a display area corresponding to the acquired contact position when the contact event occurs;
An image generating unit that generates an image including an image of the character and displays the image on the touch panel display;
The character control unit
In the outline area of the transparent object when the touch panel display and the transparent object are viewed in plan, the character whose size is set so that the image of the character seen through the transparent object is displayed, An image generating apparatus that performs processing to be generated in the display area corresponding to the contact position. An image generation device that generates an image displayed on a touch panel display,
A contact position acquisition unit that acquires a contact position of the transparent object when a contact event occurs in contact with the transparent object on the touch panel display;
A character control unit that performs processing for generating a character in a display area corresponding to the acquired contact position when the contact event occurs;
An image generating unit that generates an image including an image of the character and displays the image on the touch panel display;
The character control unit
An image generating apparatus that performs a process of moving the character so as to follow the moving contact position when the contact position moves after the contact event occurs. An image generation device that generates an image displayed on a touch panel display,
A contact position acquisition unit that acquires a contact position of the transparent object when a contact event occurs in contact with the transparent object on the touch panel display;
A character control unit that performs processing for generating a character in a display area corresponding to the acquired contact position when the contact event occurs;
An image generating unit that generates an image including an image of the character and displays the image on the touch panel display;
The character control unit
An image generating apparatus that performs a process of changing an image of the character after the contact event occurs. An image generation device that generates an image displayed on a touch panel display,
A contact position acquisition unit that acquires a contact position of the object when a contact event occurs in which the object contacts the touch panel display;
A character control unit that performs processing for generating a character in a display area corresponding to the acquired contact position when the contact event occurs;
An image generating unit that generates an image including an image of the character and displays the image on the touch panel display;
The image generation unit
An image generating apparatus that generates an explanatory image of the character when the character is generated when the contact event occurs. An image generation device that generates an image displayed on a touch panel display,
A contact position acquisition unit that acquires a contact position of the object when a contact event occurs in which the object contacts the touch panel display;
A character control unit that performs processing for generating a character in a display area corresponding to the acquired contact position when the contact event occurs;
An image generation unit that generates an image including an image of the character and displays the image on the touch panel display;
A communication processing unit that performs processing for receiving game play information of another player playing a game on another image generation device via a network,
The character control unit
When the contact event occurs, processing for generating a character of the other player in the display area corresponding to the contact position is performed based on the received game play information of the other player. Image generation device.

Images