JP3686070B2 - Program, information storage medium, and image generation system - Google Patents

Description

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

  Conventionally, an image generation system capable of virtually playing a ball game system game is known. Taking a baseball game as an example, a defensive player (including a computer player) operates a pitcher character to throw a ball (an object in a broad sense), and an attacking player operates a batter character to throw it. Hit the ball and enjoy the game.

  In such an image generation system, a game condition (game rule) input screen is displayed prior to the start of the game of the player. Then, the player inputs game conditions such as the desired number of innings and difficulty level on the game condition input screen.

  However, in conventional image generation systems, if, for example, “3” is input as the number of game innings on the game condition input screen, the game starts from the first inning and ends in three times. It was a composition. If the game ends in three times that is not the match end inning, there is a problem that the player feels unnatural and cannot provide a suitable interface environment for the player.

In recent years, with the aging of game users and the like, the time spent by users on games has become shorter. Therefore, there is a need to meet the demands of users who prefer to enjoy games efficiently in a short time.
JP 2001-187267 A

  The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a program, an information storage medium, and an image generation system capable of improving the interface environment of a player.

  The present invention is an image generation system that generates an image, and includes a display control unit that performs display control of a game condition input screen for a player to input game conditions, and the number of innings input by the player on the game condition input screen. The game start inning, the game start set, the game start round, or the game start that ends the game by the game play of the number of innings, the number of sets, the number of rounds, or the game time with reference to setting information of the number of sets, the number of rounds, or the game time A game condition setting unit for setting time as a game condition, and a game start unit for starting a game of the player from the game start inning, game start set, game start round or game start time set as game conditions A game progress unit that performs game processing for advancing the game according to the game conditions , An image generation unit that generates a game image according to the game process in the game progression unit, a sound generation unit that generates a game sound according to the game process in the game progression unit, a game end inning, a game end set, a game The present invention relates to an image generation system including a game end unit that ends a game when a game end condition is satisfied by reaching an end round or a game end time. The present invention also relates to a program that causes a computer to function as each of the above-described units. The present invention also relates to a computer-readable information storage medium that stores (records) a program that causes a computer to function as each unit.

  In the present invention, when setting information (information for determining the game period) of the number of innings, the number of sets, the number of rounds, or the game time is input on the game condition input screen, the game start inning and game start are performed based on this setting information. Set, game start round or game start time (game start point) is set. Then, the player's game starts from this game start inning, game start set, game start round, or game start time, and reaches the game end inning, game end set, game end round, or game end time (game end point). When the ending condition is satisfied, the game ends. In this way, even if any number of innings, sets, rounds or game time is input, the game will end at the game end inning, game end set, game end round or game end time, An interface environment in which the player does not feel unnaturalness can be provided.

  In the image generation system, the program, and the information storage medium according to the present invention, the game start unit starts the game according to the game start inning, the game start set, the game start round, or the game start time set as the game conditions. You may make it change at least one of the score condition in time, the ability parameter value of a character, character arrangement | positioning, and attack order.

  In this way, if game initial conditions such as character ability parameter values, character placement, and attack order (character attack order) are changed in accordance with the game start inning and the like, it is possible to increase the variety of game development. .

  Further, in the image generation system, the program, and the information storage medium according to the present invention, the game start unit includes the game start inning, the game start set, the game start round, or the game start time, the game end inning, the game end set, the game You may make it reduce the score difference between players at the time of a game start, so that it is an inning, a set, a round, or time close | similar to the end round or game end time.

  In this way, it is possible to realize close game development and reverse game development with a small game play time.

  Further, in the image generation system, the program, and the information storage medium according to the present invention, the game start unit includes the game start inning, the game start set, the game start round, or the game start time, the game end inning, the game end set, the game You may make it make the ability parameter value of the character at the time of a game start low, so that it is an inning, a set, a round, or time close | similar to an end round or a game end time.

  In this way, it is possible to improve the virtual reality that the player feels.

  Further, in the image generation system, the program, and the information storage medium according to the present invention, the game start unit includes the game start inning, the game start set, the game start round, or the game start time, the game end inning, the game end set, the game As the inning, set, round, or time closer to the end round or game end time, at least one of the character arrangement and attack order at the start of the game is set to a character arrangement and attack order that is advantageous to the attacking player. May be.

  In this way, various game developments can be realized.

  Further, in the image generation system, the program, and the information storage medium according to the present invention, the game start unit determines the score situation at the start of the game, the character ability parameter value, the character arrangement, and the character according to the difficulty set as the game condition. At least one of the attack orders may be changed.

  This makes it possible to change the game initial conditions in various ways according to the difficulty level of the game.

  In the image generation system, the program, and the information storage medium according to the present invention, the game progression unit may start the game inning, the game start set, the game start round, or the game start from the beginning inning, the beginning set, the beginning round, or the beginning time. Until the time is reached, the game is automatically progressed, and the game start unit starts the game of the player from the match start inning, match start set, match start round or match start time after the completion of the automatic progress process. You may make it do.

  In this way, the game initial conditions (scoring status, character ability parameter values, etc.) at the start of the game change according to the game result in the automatic progression process, and the diversity of game development can be increased. it can.

  In the image generation system, the program, and the information storage medium according to the present invention, when the game end unit does not satisfy the game end condition in the game end inning, the game end set, the game end round, or the game end time. May perform a game extension process, and when the game progression unit has performed the game extension process, the game progression unit may perform an automatic game progression process until the extension termination condition is satisfied.

  In this way, the extended game can be completed in a short time, for example, and an interface environment suitable for a player who desires a short game play can be provided.

  In the image generation system, the program, and the information storage medium according to the present invention, when the game extension process is performed, the sound generation unit selects and reproduces the live relay audio pattern prepared for the game extension process. You may make it do.

  In this way, it is possible to improve the virtual reality that the player feels.

  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 shows an example of a functional block diagram of an image generation system (game system) of the present embodiment. Note that the image generation system of the present embodiment may have a configuration in which some of the components (each unit) in FIG. 1 are omitted.

  The operation unit 160 (game controller) is for a player to input operation data, and the function can be realized by a direction key, an analog stick, a button, a lever, a steering, a microphone, a touch panel display, or a housing. .

  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 or the like.

  The information storage medium 180 (computer-readable medium) stores programs, data, and the like, and functions as an optical disk (CD, DVD), magneto-optical disk (MO), magnetic disk, hard disk, and magnetic tape. Alternatively, 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, the information storage medium 180 stores a program for causing a computer to function as each unit of the present embodiment (a program for causing a computer to execute processing of each unit).

  The display unit 190 outputs an image generated according to the present embodiment, and its function can be realized by a CRT, LCD, touch panel display, HMD (head mounted display), or the like.

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

  The portable information storage device 194 stores player personal data, game save data, and the like. Examples of the portable information storage device 194 include a memory card and a portable game device. The communication unit 196 performs various controls for communicating with the outside (for example, a host device or other image generation system), and functions thereof are hardware such as various processors or communication ASICs, programs, and the like. It can be realized by.

  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 host device (server) to the information storage medium 180 (storage unit 170) via the network and 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, DSP, etc.), ASIC (gate array, etc.), a program, and the like.

  The processing unit 100 includes a game processing unit 110, an image generation unit 120, and a sound generation unit 130. Here, the game processing unit 110 performs game processing based on operation data, a program, and the like from the operation unit 160. This game process includes a process for starting a game when a game start condition is satisfied, a process for advancing the game, a process for placing objects such as characters and maps, a process for displaying objects, and a process for calculating game results. Alternatively, there is a process for ending the game when the game end condition is satisfied.

  The image generation 120 performs drawing processing based on the results of various processing (game processing) performed by the processing unit 100, thereby generating an image and outputting it to the display unit 190. In the case of generating a so-called three-dimensional game image, first, geometric processing such as coordinate transformation (world coordinate transformation, camera coordinate transformation), clipping processing, or perspective transformation is performed, and drawing data ( The position coordinates, texture coordinates, color data, normal vector, α value, etc.) of the vertexes of the primitive surface are created. Based on this drawing data (primitive surface data), the object (one or a plurality of primitive surfaces) after perspective transformation (after the geometry processing) is drawn in the drawing area 172 (frame buffer, work buffer). Thereby, an image that is visible from a given viewpoint (virtual camera) in the object space is generated.

  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.

  The game processing unit 110 includes a display control unit 112, a game condition setting unit 113, a game start unit 114, a game progress unit 115, and a game end unit 116. Note that some of these may be omitted.

  Here, the display control unit 112 performs various display control processes. For example, the display control unit 112 performs display control of a setting screen such as a game condition input screen. Here, the game condition input screen is a screen for the player to input desired game conditions (game rules, game environment settings). The display control unit 112 also performs display control for objects such as characters and balls (objects composed of primitive surfaces such as polygons, free-form surfaces or subdivision surfaces).

  The game condition setting unit 113 performs a game condition setting process prior to the start of the game of the player. Specifically, the game condition setting unit 113 sets game conditions based on setting information input by the player on the game condition input screen. Here, the game conditions are various conditions that need to be set in advance to advance the game. This game condition setting information includes setting information related to game time such as the number of innings, the number of sets, the number of rounds or game time, setting information related to difficulty, setting information related to handy, presence / absence of game extension and weather There is setting information about whether to reflect.

  In this embodiment, the game condition setting unit 113 refers to setting information (information for determining the game period) of the number of innings, the number of sets, the number of rounds, or the game time input by the player on the game condition input screen. And a game start inning, a game start set, a game start round, or a game start time (game start point) is set so that a game may be complete | finished by the game play of the number of innings, the number of sets, the number of rounds, or game time. The setting information such as the number of innings is sufficient as long as it is information that can specify the number of innings. For example, a game start inning, a game start set, a game start round, or a game start time may be directly input.

  Here, the game end inning, the game end set, the game end round or the game end time is expressed as K, the number of innings, the number of sets, the number of rounds or the game time is expressed as L, the game start inning, the game start set, the game start round Alternatively, the game start time is represented as M. Then, for example, a relationship of M = K−L + 1 or M = K−L is established. For example, in a baseball game, the match end inning is K = 9 (inning). Accordingly, if L = 3 is set as the number of innings, for example, the match start inning is M = K−L + 1 = 9−3 + 1 = 7. In the volleyball game, the match end set is, for example, K = 3 (set). Therefore, for example, when L = 2 is set as the number of sets, the game start set is M = K−L + 1 = 3−2 + 1 = 2. In the boxing game, the game end round is, for example, K = 15 (round). Therefore, for example, if L = 6 is set as the number of rounds, the game start round is M = K−L + 1 = 15−6 + 1 = 10. In the soccer game, the game end time is, for example, K = 90 (minutes). Therefore, for example, when L = 30 (minutes) is set as the game time, the game start time is M = KL = 90-30 = 60 (minutes).

  The game start unit 114 performs a game start process for the player. Specifically, after the game conditions are set by the game condition setting unit 113, for example, when the game is instructed by the player, or when the automatic start process is completed and the game start conditions are satisfied, the player's Start the game. In this case, in this embodiment, the game start unit 114 starts the game of the player from the game start inning, the game start set, the game start round, or the game start time (game start point) set as the game conditions. Process.

  In addition, the game start unit 114 determines the scoring situation at the start of the game, the character's ability parameter value, based on the game start inning, the game start set, the game start round or the game start time set as the game conditions, the difficulty level, etc. A process for changing game initial conditions such as character placement and attack order is performed. For example, the game start inning, the game start set, the game start round or the game start time, the game end inning, the game end set, the game end round or the inning, set, round or time close to the game end time, The difference in scores between players (human players or computer players) is reduced, the ability parameter value of the character is reduced at the start of the game, and the character arrangement and attack order are advantageous to the attacking player. .

  The scoring status is a score difference or a score ratio between players (between the first and second players), a score of each player, and the like. A character's ability parameter is a variable defined in advance in a program or the like as a quantitative or qualitative expression of the character's ability. The result of the battle between characters (between players) is calculated based on this ability parameter. The character arrangement is an initial arrangement position of the character at the start of the game. For example, in a baseball game, it is the heel arrangement of the character used as a runner. In a soccer game, it is a character placement position. The attack order is an attack order of characters or the like operated by the attacking player, such as a batting order in a baseball game or an order of characters performing a service in a volleyball game.

  The game progression unit 115 performs a game process for advancing the game according to various game conditions set by the game condition setting unit 113. Specifically, after the game is started by the game start unit 114, operation data input by the operation unit 160 is received. Then, based on the operation data, placement setting and movement control of an object such as a character or a ball are performed. For example, an object such as a character or a ball is set in the object space and the movement of the object is controlled. That is, the position and rotation angle (synonymous with direction and direction) of the object (model object) in the world coordinate system are determined, and the object is arranged at the position at the rotation angle. Also, based on operation data input by the player through the operation unit 160, a program (movement / motion algorithm), various data (motion data), etc., the object is moved in the object space, or the object is moved (motion, animation). ) Is controlled. More specifically, a simulation for sequentially obtaining object movement information (position, rotation angle, speed, or acceleration) and motion information (position or rotation angle of each part object) every frame (1/60 seconds). Process. A frame is a unit of time for performing object movement / motion processing (simulation processing) and image generation processing. In addition, when a game event occurs, the game progression unit 115 also performs various processes corresponding to the game event.

  The game end unit 116 performs a process for ending the game when the game end inning, the game end set, the game end round, or the game end time is reached and the game end condition is satisfied. Specifically, the game ends when there is never a victory or defeat between the players at the time of the match end inning, the match end set, the match end round, or the match end time (when the victory condition of any player is satisfied).

  In the present embodiment, the image generation unit 120 generates a game image according to the game processing in the game progression unit 115. The sound generation unit 130 also generates a game sound according to the game processing in the game progression unit 115. For example, when a game process for moving an object is performed, the image generation unit 120 performs a process of drawing the moved object in the drawing area 172 to generate a frame image. In addition, when a game event that outputs live broadcast audio occurs, the sound generation unit 130 performs processing for generating the live broadcast audio. Specifically, the live relay voice pattern (live relay voice data) corresponding to the game event is read from the live relay voice storage unit 176 and reproduced.

  In this embodiment, the game progression unit 115 also performs automatic game progression processing. Here, the automatic progression process (computer battle process) is a process in which a computer automatically battles or calculates a score or the like without a human player being involved, and advances the game. In this automatic progress processing, the computer performs processing based on, for example, data of characters appearing in the game, game data such as game environment, table data (probability data), random numbers, a predetermined algorithm, and the like. Specifically, various determination processes are performed based on character data, game data, table data (probability data), random numbers, a predetermined algorithm, and the like. Control the occurrence. The table data in this case is stored in the table storage unit 174.

  And in this embodiment, when starting a game from a game start inning, a game start set, a game start round, or a game start time in the middle, the game progression unit 115 starts from the head inning, the head set, the head round, or the head time. Until the game start inning, the game start set, the game start round, or the game start time is reached, automatic game progress processing is performed. And the game start part 114 is a game initial condition (score situation, character ability parameter value, or character arrangement | positioning etc.) set by the automatic progress process, and starts from a game start inning, a game start set, a game start round, or a game start time. The player's game is started.

  Moreover, in this embodiment, when the game end condition is not satisfied in the game end inning, the game end set, the game end round, or the game end time (when the win or loss is not settled), the game end unit 116 Perform game extension processing (processing to instruct game extension). When the game extension process is performed, the game progression unit 115 performs the game automatic progression process until the extension termination condition is satisfied. For example, when the extended inning, extended set, extended round, or extended time ends, or when the victory or defeat between the players is settled in the extended period, the extended end condition is satisfied, and the automatic progression process of the game is also ended.

  Note that the image generation system of the present embodiment may be a system dedicated to the single player mode in which only one player can play, or may be a system having a multiplayer mode in which a plurality of players can play. Further, when a plurality of players play, game images and game sounds to be provided to the plurality of players may be generated using one terminal, or connected via a network (transmission line, communication line) or the like. Alternatively, it may be generated by distributed processing using a plurality of terminals (game machine, mobile phone).

2. Next, the method of this embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In addition, although the case where this embodiment is applied to the baseball game which is one of the ball game system games is demonstrated below, this embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the method of this embodiment is applicable to other ball games such as volleyball games, tennis games, soccer games, and games other than ball games (for example, fighting games and mahjong games). included. When the method of the present embodiment is applied to a game other than a baseball game, the term “inning number” used in the following description is a term such as “number of sets”, “number of rounds”, “match time”, and the like. Replace it. The term “match start inning” may be replaced with terms such as “match start set”, “match start round”, and “match start time”. Further, the term “match end inning” may be replaced with terms such as “match end set”, “match end round”, and “match end time”.

2.1 Game Start from Halfway Game Start Inning by Setting Number of Innings FIG. 2 shows an example of a game condition input screen. In this embodiment, prior to starting the game of the player, a game condition input screen (game setting screen) as shown in FIG. 2 is displayed. Using this game condition input screen, the player can input various game conditions (such as game rules) desired by the player. Taking FIG. 2 as an example, the difficulty level, the number of innings, the number of extensions, the presence or absence of a cold game, the presence or absence of a character failure, the handy set for each player, the presence or absence of reflection of the character's tone, Whether the influence of the wind is reflected or whether the character error is permitted or not can be entered as game conditions.

  In this case, the game condition can be input using, for example, the operation unit shown in FIG. Specifically, in the present embodiment, the default game conditions are set as shown in FIG. For example, the difficulty level is set to “normal” and the number of innings is set to “9”. The player changes the default game condition using the operation unit shown in FIG. For example, the player uses the direction key 10 or the analog stick 20 in FIG. 3 to select an item for which the change is desired from among the game condition items displayed on the game condition input screen. Then, the buttons 30 and 32 are operated to change the game conditions set for the item. For example, to change the difficulty level, the difficulty level item is selected, and the difficulty level is changed from “Normal” to “Hard” or “Normal” to “Easy”. If the inning number is to be changed, the inning number item is selected, and the inning number is changed from “9” to “3” or “9” to “5”.

  When all the desired game condition items are set, the player selects the “OK” item on the game condition input screen and ends the game condition input. Thereafter, when the player gives an instruction to start the game on the game mode selection screen or the like, the game according to the set game conditions is started.

  Now, as shown in FIG. 2, when the number of innings is set to “9” which is the default value, the game starts from the first inning, and the game ends at the ninth inning of the match. To do. On the other hand, a player who does not have much time to play the game sets the number of innings to “3” as shown in FIG. 4A and tries to finish the game in a short time. However, in this case, the conventional image generation system has a configuration in which the game starts from one time and ends in three times. In this way, if the game is finished three times in the real world baseball, which is not the end of the match, the player feels unnatural.

  Therefore, in this embodiment, when the number of innings is set to “3” as shown in FIG. 4A, the game start inning becomes “7”, and from 7 times as shown in FIG. 5A. The game starts 9 times after the game starts. When the number of innings is set to “5” as shown in FIG. 4B, the game start inning becomes “5”, and the game starts from 5 times as shown in FIG. 5B. The game ends in 9 times. That is, if the match end inning is expressed as K, the number of innings is expressed as L, and the match start inning is expressed as M, the relationship M = K−L + 1 holds. For example, in the baseball game, the match end inning (final inning) is K = 9. Therefore, when the set number of innings is L = 3, the match start inning is M = K−L + 1 = 9−3 + 1 = 7. On the other hand, when the set number of innings is L = 5, the match start inning is M = K−L + 1 = 9−5 + 1 = 5. As the number of innings, not only L = 3 and 5, but also any number can be set.

  As described above, in this embodiment, the match start inning is set so that the match end inning is “9” regardless of the number of innings. Therefore, the player can always finish the game with the final inning nine times (except in the case of extension). Thereby, it is possible to provide a suitable interface environment in which the player does not feel much unnaturalness. Also, a player with extremely little game play time can set the number of innings to “1”, for example, and play the game only 9 times as the final inning. Therefore, a player who does not have enough time can enjoy only the climax part of the game, and an unprecedented game can be realized.

2.2 Setting of game initial conditions at the start of the game Now, in the method shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, the score is 0 to 0 at the start of the game (game start inning). And the ball count is also zero. Also, there are no runners on the base, and the batting order starts from the beginning as usual. That is, the score situation (score difference) is even, and the character arrangement (runner arrangement) and the attack order (batting order) are the same arrangement and order as when the game (game) is started from the top inning.

  This method has the advantage that fairness can be ensured because the initial condition of the game is even, but has the disadvantage that the variety and change of the game are scarce. Therefore, in order to eliminate such disadvantages, it is desirable to adopt a method as described below.

  That is, in accordance with the game start inning set as the game condition, a process of changing the game initial conditions such as the score status at the start of the game, the character ability parameter value, the character arrangement, and the character attack order is performed. Furthermore, processing for changing game initial conditions such as a scoring situation, character ability parameter values, character placement, and character attack order may be performed in accordance with the difficulty set as the game conditions. Such processing can be realized by using table data as shown in FIGS. 6A to 8B, for example.

2.2.1 Setting Scoring Status FIG. 6A is an example of table data for setting the scoring status when the difficulty level is “normal” (normal difficulty level), and FIG. This is an example of table data for setting a scoring situation when the difficulty level is “hard” (high difficulty level).

  In FIG. 6A, when the game start inning is “3”, the probabilities that the score difference is “0”, “1” “2” “3” “4” are 60, 20, 12, 5, 3, respectively. Set to percent. In addition, the probability that the score difference becomes “0”, “1”, “2”, “3”, “4” when the game start inning is “5” is set to 70, 15, 9, 4, 2 percent, respectively. . The setting of the probability when the game start inning is “7” “9” is also as shown in FIG. Also, the setting of the probability when the difficulty level is “hard” is as shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIGS. 6 (A) and 6 (B), in this embodiment, the game start inning is set so that the score difference between players at the start of the game decreases as the inning closer to the match end inning. . Taking FIG. 6A as an example, when the match start inning is “9” close to the match end inning, the probability that the score difference becomes “0” is 90%, which is very high. On the other hand, when the match start inning is “3” which is not close to the match end inning, the probability that the score difference becomes “0” is 60%, compared to the case where the match start inning is “9”. The probability is low.

  For example, when the game start inning is close to the game end inning and the game starts from the end of the game, if the score difference is large, the probability of reversal is extremely low, and the game is less interesting. On the other hand, in FIGS. 6A and 6B, when the match start inning is close to the match end inning, there is a high probability that the score difference will be small, so the game will be close and the fun of the game will increase. be able to.

  On the other hand, when the game start inning is not close to the game end inning and the game is started from the beginning of the game, if the score difference is small, the enjoyment of catching up with the opponent and reversing is diminished. On the other hand, in FIGS. 6A and 6B, when the match start inning is not close to the match end inning, the probability that the score difference becomes large increases, so that the player can enjoy reversing the inferiority. be able to.

  Further, in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the relationship between the game start inning and the score difference is changed according to the degree of difficulty. Specifically, the lower the difficulty level, the smaller the score difference at the start of the game. For example, in FIG. 6B where the difficulty level is “hard”, the probability that the score difference is “0” when the game start inning is “9” is 80%. On the other hand, in FIG. 6A where the difficulty level is “normal”, the probability that the score difference is “0” when the game start inning is “9” is 90%, and the difficulty level is “hard”. ", The probability that the score difference is" 0 "is higher.

  Therefore, a player who selects the “normal” difficulty level can start the game in an advantageous situation with a small score difference compared to a player who selects the “hard” difficulty level. On the other hand, a player who selects the “hard” difficulty level can start the game in a disadvantageous situation with a large score difference. Therefore, the game can be started with the optimal game initial conditions according to the skill of the player.

2.2.2 Setting Ability Parameter Value FIG. 7A is an example of table data for setting the ability parameter value of a character when the difficulty level is “normal”, and FIG. It is an example of the table data which sets the ability parameter value of the character when the degree is “hard”.

  In FIG. 7A, when the game start inning is “3”, the field parameter of the fielder character's meet, power, defense, and running ability decreases from 100% to 98, 94, 97, and 95%, respectively. . Also, the ability parameter values of the pitcher character's stamina, ball power, and ball control power are reduced from 100 percent to 90, 92, and 94 percent, respectively. When the game start inning is “5”, the field parameter values of the fielder's meet, power, defense, and running ability decrease from 100 percent to 96, 88, 94, and 89 percent, respectively. Also, the ability parameter values of the pitcher character's stamina, ball power, and ball control power are reduced from 100 percent to 80, 84, 88 percent, respectively. Even when the game start inning is “7” or “9”, the ability parameter value decreases as shown in FIG. Also, when the difficulty level is “hard”, the ability parameter value decreases as shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, in this embodiment, as the match start inning is closer to the match end inning, the ability parameter value of the character at the start of the game decreases. Taking the stamina value of the pitcher character in FIG. 7A as an example, when the match start inning is “9” close to the match end inning, the decrease rate of the stamina value is 68%, and the stamina value is It has greatly decreased. On the other hand, when the match start inning is “3” which is not close to the match end inning, the decrease rate of the stamina value is 92%, and the stamina value does not decrease so much.

  For example, when the game start inning is close to the game end inning and the game is started from the end of the game, if the character's ability parameter value has not decreased so much, it is not realistic. On the other hand, in FIGS. 7A and 7B, when the match start inning is close to the match end inning, the ability parameter value of the character is greatly reduced, so that it becomes close to an event in the real world, and the virtual reality of the player A feeling can be increased.

  Further, in FIGS. 7A and 7B, the relationship between the game start inning and the ability parameter value of the character is changed according to the degree of difficulty. Specifically, the lower the difficulty level, the smaller the decrease in the character's ability parameter value at the start of the game. For example, in FIG. 7B where the difficulty level is “hard”, the decrease rate of the stamina value of the pitcher character when the game start inning is “9” is 54%. On the other hand, in FIG. 7A where the difficulty level is “normal”, the rate of decrease in the stamina value of the pitcher character when the game start inning is “9” is 68%, and the difficulty level is “hard”. The decrease in the stamina value is smaller than when “

  Therefore, the player who selects the “normal” difficulty level can start the game in an advantageous situation in which the ability parameter value of the character is less decreased than the player who selects the “hard” difficulty level. On the other hand, the player who selects the “hard” difficulty level can start the game in a disadvantageous situation in which the decrease in the ability parameter value of the character is large. Therefore, the game can be started with the optimal game initial conditions according to the skill of the player.

2.2.3 Character Placement Setting FIG. 8A is an example of table data for setting the character (runner) placement when the game start inning is “9”, and FIG. It is an example of the table data which sets a character arrangement | positioning in case a start inning is "7".

  In FIG. 8A, when the difficulty level is “easy” (lowest difficulty level), the probability that the character (runner) placement at the start of the game is “full” is the highest. When the difficulty level is “normal”, the probability that the character arrangement at the start of the game is “3 cm” is the highest. When the difficulty level is “hard”, the probability that the character arrangement at the start of the game is “1「 ”is the highest. When the difficulty level is “super” (the highest difficulty level), the probability that the character arrangement at the start of the game is “no runner” is the highest.

  On the other hand, in FIG. 8B, when the difficulty level is “Easy”, the probability that the character arrangement at the start of the game is “3 塁” is the highest. When the difficulty level is “normal”, the probability that the character arrangement at the start of the game is “1「 ”is the highest. When the difficulty level is “hard” or “super”, the probability that the character arrangement at the start of the game is “no runner” is the highest.

  As shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, in this embodiment, the closer the game start inning is to the game end inning, the more advantageous is the character arrangement at the start of the game for the attacking player (batter side). Character placement is set. That is, taking the case where the difficulty level is “easy” as an example, when the game start inning is “9” as shown in FIG. 8 (A), the probability that the character arrangement is “full” is the highest. Yes. On the other hand, when the game start inning is “7” as shown in FIG. 8B, the probability that the character placement is “3 塁” is the highest. Therefore, when the match start inning is “9” close to the match end inning, the character arrangement is more advantageous to the attacking player.

  That is, when the game start inning is close to the game end inning and the game is started from the end of the game, if the attacking player has a more advantageous character arrangement, the attacking player (human player) The probability of winning increases, and the fun of the game can be increased.

  Further, in FIGS. 8A and 8B, the relationship between the game start inning and the character arrangement is changed according to the degree of difficulty. Specifically, as the difficulty level becomes lower, the character arrangement at the start of the game is set to a character arrangement that is more advantageous to the attacking player. For example, in FIG. 8A, in the case of “super” having a high difficulty level, the probability that the character arrangement is “no runner” is the highest. On the other hand, when the difficulty level is “Easy”, the probability that the character arrangement is “full” is the highest, and the character that is more advantageous to the attacking player than when the difficulty level is “Super”. It is arranged.

  Therefore, a player who selects the “Easy” difficulty level can start the game in a situation where the character arrangement is advantageous compared to a player who selects the “Super” difficulty level. The game can be started with the initial game conditions.

  8A and 8B, the character arrangement setting has been described. However, the attack order of characters can also be set in the same manner as the character arrangement. For example, as the match start inning is closer to the match end inning, the attack order at the start of the game is set to an attack order that is more advantageous to the attacking player. Taking a baseball game as an example, if the game start inning is an inning close to the game end inning, the attack is started from the top batting order such as No. 4 batter. Further, as the difficulty level becomes lower, the attack order at the start of the game may be set to an attack order that is more advantageous to the attacking player. For example, when the player selects the difficulty level of “Easy”, the attack is started from the top hitting order such as No. 4 batter. On the other hand, when the player selects the difficulty level of “super”, the attack is started from the lower order of batting such as No. 9 batter.

2.3 Automatic Game Progression Processing Next, a technique using computer automatic game advancement processing will be described.

  For example, in FIGS. 9A and 9B, the number of innings is set to “4”. In this case, in this embodiment, the game start inning is “6”, and the game of the player starts from six times.

  In FIG. 9 (A), the game automatic progress process is performed from the first inning to the game start inning 6 times (until the 5th is finished). In other words, the game is automatically advanced by the computer without involvement of the player. Then, after the automatic progression process is completed, the game of the player is started from the sixth game start inning. Specifically, the player's game from the game start inning is started under the initial game conditions such as the scoring status, character ability parameter values, character placement, and attack order (batting order) at the end of the automatic progression process. In this way, the game initial condition at the start of the game changes according to the game result in the automatic progression process, and the player can enjoy various game developments.

  Further, in FIG. 9B, the game is extended because the game end inning is not settled at the 9th game end inning and the game end condition is not satisfied. When the game is extended in this way, in FIG. 9B, the automatic progress process (automatic continuation) of the game is performed until the extension end condition is satisfied. For example, when the maximum inning of the extension is set to “12” (see FIG. 2), the automatic progress process of the game is performed up to 12 times until the winning or losing is settled.

  That is, a player who sets the number of innings to “4” is a player who wants to finish the game in a short time. Therefore, it is not desirable to force such a player to play an extended game from 9 to 12. In FIG. 9B, even in such a case, the extended game from 9 to 12 times is performed by the automatic progression process. Therefore, the player's game can be ended at an early stage, and an optimal interface environment can be provided for a player who wants to end the game in a short time.

  In addition, when the game extension process is performed, it is desirable to perform live broadcasting prepared for the game extension process. FIG. 10A shows an example of such a live relay voice pattern. That is, in FIG. 10A, when the game is extended, the live broadcast voice pattern “Broadcast time has ended. The game result is sports news!” Is selected and reproduced. Further, the extended game result is notified to the player by displaying a screen as shown in FIG. 10B, for example. In this way, the virtual reality of the player can be improved, and a more realistic and interesting game can be provided.

  FIG. 11 shows a flowchart of an example of the automatic progress process performed in FIGS.

  First, based on table data (probability data) and random numbers, the pitch type, pitch target point, and ball speed of the pitcher character are set (step S1). Then, the pitcher character automatically throws the ball (step S2).

  Next, the batter character's meet point and meet timing are set based on the table data (probability data) and random numbers (step S3). Then, it is determined whether or not the bat is swung (step S4). If the bat is not swung, it is determined that the bat is missed (step S5). On the other hand, when the bat is swung, it is determined whether or not the ball hits the bat (step S6). This determination can be realized by performing a coincidence determination between the position of the ball landing point and the position of the meet point of the bat. If the bat is not hitting the ball, it is determined that the bat is not swung (step S7). On the other hand, when the ball hits the bat, a process of flying the ball in the hit direction is performed (step S8).

  Next, it is determined whether it is a hit (hits) or a home run (step S9). If it is not a hit or home run (when the catching is successful), it is determined that the hit is a hit (step S10). On the other hand, when it is a hit or home run (when catching fails), a process of advancing the runner is performed (step S11). Finally, score, outcount, strike count, and ball count calculation processes are performed (step S12).

  By performing the above processing for each inning while exchanging the attacking side and the defensive side, it is possible to realize automatic progress processing of the game by a computer.

  It is desirable to perform the automatic progress process by so-called fast-forwarding. That is, the selection time of the pitcher character's ball type, the interval between the pitcher character and the batter character, the run time of the runner, and the like are set to be shorter than usual. Then, the automatic progress processing of FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B is completed in a short time. In this way, a baseball game suitable for a player who wants to finish the game in a short time by setting a small number of innings can be realized. Note that only the score, outcount, strike count, and ball count are calculated based on table data (probability data) and random numbers without performing the pitching / hitting simulation processing of the pitcher / batter character as shown in FIG. Thus, automatic progress processing of the game may be realized.

3. Processing of this embodiment Next, a detailed processing example of this embodiment will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart in the case where the game automatic progress process is performed from the top inning to the match start inning as described with reference to FIG.

  First, the game condition input screen described in FIGS. 2, 4A and 4B is displayed (step S21). Then, reference is made to setting information (such as the number of innings) input by the player on the game condition input screen (step S22). Then, a game start inning (game start point) is set based on the input number of innings (step S23).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the game start inning is the top inning (once) (step S24). If the game start inning is not the top inning, as described with reference to FIG. 9A, automatic progress processing of the game by the computer is performed from the top inning (step S25). This automatic progress process can be realized by the process described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the game start inning set in step S23 has been reached (step S26). When the game start inning is reached, the player's game is started (step S27). Then, a game progress process according to the game conditions is performed (step S28).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the game end inning has been reached (step S29). If the game end inning has been reached, it is determined whether or not the game end condition has been satisfied (whether or not winning or losing has been determined). (Step S30). When the game end condition is satisfied, the game is ended. On the other hand, if the game end condition is not satisfied, a game extension process is performed (step S31). Then, it is determined whether or not the extension end condition is satisfied (step S32). If the extension end condition is satisfied, the game is ended.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart in the case of performing the automatic progress process in the game extension process as described in FIG. 9B.

  First, a game condition input screen is displayed (step S41). Then, the setting information (inning number, difficulty level, etc.) input by the player on the game condition input screen is referred to (step S42). Then, based on the input number of innings, a game start inning (game start point) is set (step S43). Further, based on the number of innings, the degree of difficulty, and the table data, a scoring situation, a character ability parameter value, a runner arrangement, and a batting order are set (step S44). Then, the game of the player is started from the game start inning (step S45), and the game progress process according to the game conditions is performed (step S46).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the game end inning has been reached (step S47). If the game end inning has been reached, it is determined whether or not the game end condition has been satisfied (whether win or loss has been decided). (Step S48). When the game end condition is satisfied, the game is ended. On the other hand, if the game end condition is not satisfied, a game extension process is performed (step S49). Then, as described with reference to FIG. 10A, the live broadcast voice pattern prepared for the game extension process is selected and reproduced (step S50). Further, as described with reference to FIG. 9B, automatic progress processing of the game by the computer is performed (step S51). This automatic progress process can be realized by the process described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. Then, it is determined whether or not the extension end condition is satisfied (step S52). If the extension end condition is satisfied, the game is ended.

4). Hardware Configuration FIG. 14 shows an example of a hardware configuration capable of realizing this embodiment. The main processor 900 operates based on a program stored in a CD 982 (information storage medium), a program downloaded via the communication interface 990, a program stored in the ROM 950, or the like, and includes game processing, image processing, sound processing, and the like. Execute. The coprocessor 902 assists the processing of the main processor 900, and executes matrix operation (vector operation) at high speed. For example, when a matrix calculation process is required for a physical simulation for moving or moving an object, a program operating on the main processor 900 instructs (requests) the process to the coprocessor 902.

  The geometry processor 904 performs geometry processing such as coordinate conversion, perspective conversion, light source calculation, and curved surface generation based on an instruction from a program operating on the main processor 900, and executes matrix calculation at high speed. The data decompression processor 906 performs decoding processing of compressed image data and sound data, and accelerates the decoding processing of the main processor 900. Thereby, a moving image compressed by the MPEG method or the like can be displayed on the opening screen or the game screen.

  The drawing processor 910 executes drawing (rendering) processing of an object composed of primitive surfaces such as polygons and curved surfaces. When drawing an object, the main processor 900 uses the DMA controller 970 to pass the drawing data to the drawing processor 910 and, if necessary, transfers the texture to the texture storage unit 924. Then, the drawing processor 910 draws the object in the frame buffer 922 while performing hidden surface removal using a Z buffer or the like based on the drawing data and texture. The drawing processor 910 also performs α blending (translucent processing), depth cueing, mip mapping, fog processing, bilinear filtering, trilinear filtering, anti-aliasing, shading processing, and the like. When an image for one frame is written in the frame buffer 922, the image is displayed on the display 912.

  The sound processor 930 includes a multi-channel ADPCM sound source and the like, generates game sounds such as BGM, sound effects, and sounds, and outputs them through the speaker 932. Data from the game controller 942 and the memory card 944 is input via the serial interface 940.

  The ROM 950 stores system programs and the like. In the case of an arcade game system, the ROM 950 functions as an information storage medium, and various programs are stored in the ROM 950. A hard disk may be used instead of the ROM 950. The RAM 960 is a work area for various processors. The DMA controller 970 controls DMA transfer between the processor and the memory. The CD drive 980 accesses a CD 982 in which programs, image data, sound data, and the like are stored. The communication interface 990 performs data transfer with the outside via a network (communication line, high-speed serial bus).

  Note that the processing of each unit of the present embodiment may be realized entirely by hardware, or may be realized by a program stored in an information storage medium or a program distributed via a communication interface. Alternatively, it may be realized by both hardware and a program.

  When the processing of each part of this embodiment is realized by both hardware and a program, a program for causing the hardware (computer) to function as each part of this embodiment is stored in the information storage medium. More specifically, the program instructs the processors 902, 904, 906, 910, and 930, which are hardware, and passes data if necessary. Each processor 902, 904, 906, 910, 930 realizes the processing of each unit of the present invention based on the instruction and the passed data.

  The present invention is not limited to that described in the above embodiment, and various modifications can be made. For example, terms cited in the specification or drawings as broad or synonymous terms (game start point, game end point, game initial conditions, information for determining the game period, etc.) In the description, terms can be replaced with broad or synonymous terms.

  Further, the method for setting the score difference, the character ability parameter value, the character arrangement, the attack order, and the game automatic progress processing are not limited to the methods described in this embodiment, and methods equivalent to these are also within the scope of the present invention. included.

  The present invention can be applied to various games. The present invention also provides various image generation such as a business game system, a home game system, a large attraction system in which a large number of players participate, a simulator, a multimedia terminal, a system board for generating a game image, a mobile terminal, a mobile phone, etc. Applicable to the system.

The example of a functional block diagram of the image generation system of this embodiment. An example of a game condition input screen. An example of the operation unit. 4A and 4B are also examples of game condition input screens. 5A and 5B show examples of game images at the start of the game of the player. 6A and 6B show examples of table data for setting the scoring status. 7A and 7B show examples of table data for setting capability parameter values. 8A and 8B show examples of table data for setting the character arrangement. FIGS. 9A and 9B are explanatory diagrams of a method using automatic progress processing. FIGS. 10A and 10B are explanatory diagrams of reproduction of live broadcast audio and the like. The flowchart of an example of an automatic progress process. The flowchart of the specific process of this embodiment. The flowchart of the specific process of this embodiment. Hardware configuration example.

Explanation of symbols

100 processing unit, 110 game processing unit, 112 display control unit,
113 game condition setting section, 114 hit start section, 115 game progress section,
116 game end unit, 120 image generation unit, 130 sound generation unit,
160 operation unit, 170 storage unit, 172 drawing area, 174 table storage unit,
176 Live relay voice storage unit, 180 information storage medium,
190 display unit, 192 sound output unit, 194 portable information storage device, 196 communication unit

Claims (11)

A program for generating an image,
A game starter that starts the game from the first inning, set, round or time;
A game progression unit for proceeding with a game of the first to Nth innings, sets, rounds or match times, and performing a game process for displaying the innings, sets, rounds or match times that the player is currently playing; ,
In accordance with the game processing in the game progression unit, an image generation unit that generates a game image;
A sound generation unit for generating a game sound in accordance with the game processing in the game progression unit;
A game end section for ending the game when the Nth inning, set, round or game time is reached and the game end condition is satisfied;
A display control unit that performs display control of a game condition input screen for a player to input game conditions;
The reference to the game condition input configuration information inputted by the player on the screen, innings of the first to N, set out round or game time, the game starts innings to start the game, game start set, game start Round Or as a game condition setting unit for setting the game start time as a game condition,
Make the computer work ,
The game starter
Based on the set game conditions, the game starts from the Mth (1 <M ≦ N) inning, set, round, or match time,
The game progression unit is
Based on the set game conditions, the game from the Mth inning, set, round or game time is advanced, and the inning, set, round or game time that the player is currently playing is displayed. A program characterized by performing game processing . In claim 1,
Memory storing table data associating game start inning, game start set, game start round or game start time with at least one of the score situation, character ability parameter value, character arrangement, and attack order at the start of the game of the player Further comprising
The game starter
Referring to the table data, according to the game start inning, game start set, game start round, or game start time set as game conditions, the player's score status at the start of the game, character ability parameter values, character placement And a program for changing at least one of the attack order. In claim 1,
The game progression unit is
From the first inning, set, round or time until the Mth inning, set, round or match time is reached, the game automatically proceeds.
The game starter
Based on the result of the automatic progress process, at least one of the score situation at the start of the game of the player, the ability parameter value of the character, the character arrangement, and the attack order is changed . A program characterized by starting a player's game from a set, round or game time . In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 3 ,
The game starter
As the game start inning, game start set, game start round, or game start time is closer to the Nth inning, set, round, or match time , the score between players at the start of the game is greater A program characterized by reducing the difference. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 4 ,
The game starter
As the game start inning, game start set, game start round or game start time is closer to the Nth inning, set, round or match time , the character's ability parameter at the start of the game A program characterized by lowering the value. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 5 ,
The game starter
Character placement and attack at the start of the game the closer the game start inning, game start set, game start round or game start time is to the Nth inning, set, round or game time , the closer the inning, set, round or time. A program characterized in that at least one of the orders is set to a character arrangement and attack order that are advantageous to an attacking player. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 6 .
The game starter
A program characterized by changing at least one of a scoring situation at the start of a game, a character's ability parameter value, a character arrangement, and an attack order according to the difficulty set as a game condition. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 7,
The game end portion is
In the Nth inning, set, round or game time , if the game end condition is not satisfied, the game is extended,
The game progression unit is
A program characterized in that, when a game extension process is performed, an automatic game progress process is performed until an extension end condition is satisfied. In claim 8,
The sound generator is
A program characterized in that, when a game extension process is performed, a live broadcast voice pattern prepared for the game extension process is selected and reproduced.   A computer-readable information storage medium, wherein the program according to any one of claims 1 to 9 is stored. An image generation system for generating an image,
A game starter that starts the game from the first inning, set, round or time;
A game progression unit for proceeding with a game of the first to Nth innings, sets, rounds or match times, and performing a game process for displaying the innings, sets, rounds or match times that the player is currently playing; ,
In accordance with the game processing in the game progression unit, an image generation unit that generates a game image;
A sound generation unit for generating a game sound in accordance with the game processing in the game progression unit;
A game end section for ending the game when the Nth inning, set, round or game time is reached and the game end condition is satisfied;
A display control unit that performs display control of a game condition input screen for a player to input game conditions;
The reference to the game condition input configuration information inputted by the player on the screen, innings of the first to N, set out round or game time, the game starts innings to start the game, game start set, game start Round Or a game condition setting unit for setting a game start time as a game condition;
Including
The game starter
Based on the set game conditions, the game starts from the Mth (1 <M ≦ N) inning, set, round, or match time,
The game progression unit is
Based on the set game conditions, the game from the Mth inning, set, round or game time is advanced, and the inning, set, round or game time that the player is currently playing is displayed. An image generation system characterized by performing game processing .

Images